LAST month we looked at launch monitors (such as FlightScope) and their benefits while fitting drivers. This month, I’ll look at fitting irons and explain the terminology most frequently used.
The five primary terms are: angle of attack, smash factor, dynamic loft, spin loft and spin rate. We’ve already looked at angle of attack and smash factor so here are the definitions for the other three.
Dynamic loft is represented as an angle from zero degrees to 60 degrees and higher for, say, a lob wedge. Dynamic loft is affected by path yet it’s generally a number like 10 degrees for a driver. If you push your hands forward, this will de-loft the club therefore creating less dynamic loft. A driver’s static loft could be 10.5 degrees, as written on the club; dynamic is what loft is represented at the point of impact.
Spin loft is the approximate angle between the dynamic loft and angle of attack. It is the three-dimensional angle between the direction the clubhead is moving and the direction the clubface is pointing.
Spin rate is the amount of spin on the ball immediately after impact. It has a major influence on the height and distance of a golf shot.
The difference between a driver fitting and an iron fitting is that you hit an iron with a descending blow, which can change your distance, flight and shot shape.
When fitting an iron, you should try shafts with different weights in steel (85 to 130 grams) and graphite (45 to 80 grams). Your smash factor and clubhead speed will change for each shaft and your PGA professional will find the correct shaft and weight for you. For example, when hitting a 6-iron, the dynamic loft should be 20 degrees, the spin rate at 6,000rpm (basically, the club number multiplied by 1,000rpm), your angle of attack negative 4 to 5 degrees and the smash factor 1.36 to 1.38.
When you are being fitted for your next set of irons, ensure you test different lie angles and shaft lengths to maximise your shot shape and distance. Your PGA professional will be able to fit you with the correct equipment for your swing.
If you have any questions, e-mail me at [email protected]
