Why Do My Golf Shots Go So High?

Ever find yourself staring at the sky as your golf ball soars higher than a bird in flight, wondering if it’s ever coming down? Welcome to the high-flyer club! Many golfers face this challenge, and while the ball getting a great view of the course might seem like a bonus, it can be a real problem for your game. Let's chat about why your shots might be making friends with the clouds and how to bring them back down to earth.

The Loft of Your Clubs

First things first: your clubs might be the culprits. Every golf club has a loft, which is the angle of the clubface that controls trajectory and affects distance. If your shots are going too high, you might be using clubs with too much loft. Picture a shovel scooping up dirt—more angle means more lift. If you're using a sand wedge when a pitching wedge would do, you're asking for trouble. Consider checking the lofts of your clubs to see if they’re contributing to your soaring shots.

But how do you know if it’s your club's fault? Try borrowing a club with less loft from a fellow golfer or the pro shop. Hit a few balls and compare the flight. If you notice a significant difference, your clubs might need adjusting.

Your Swing Path and Angle of Attack

Now, let's talk about your swing. Your swing path and angle of attack can make a big difference in how high your ball flies. Imagine you're a plane trying to take off. If you pull up too steeply, you'll stall. Similarly, if your club approaches the ball at too steep of an angle, it adds more loft to the shot than needed.

Focus on swinging more level to the ground. This might take a bit of practice, but it’s well worth it. Try this: on the range, place a towel a few inches behind your ball. Your goal is to hit the ball without touching the towel, encouraging a shallower swing. This can help reduce the height of your shots and improve your distance.

Ball Position: Location, Location, Location!

Where you position the ball in your stance can also affect the height of your shots. If the ball is too far forward, you’re likely to hit it on the upswing, giving it more lift. Conversely, if it’s too far back, you might drive it into the ground.

For a quick fix, experiment with inching the ball back in your stance. Start by moving it just slightly back and hit a few shots. You might be surprised at how this small adjustment can change your ball flight. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where your strikes become more consistent.

Your Grip: It’s All in the Hands

Your grip can also play a role in launching those sky-high shots. A weak grip, where your hands are turned too far to the left (for right-handed golfers), can open the clubface and add unwanted loft. This means more ballooning shots and less distance.

Try strengthening your grip. Turn your hands slightly to the right so you can see two to three knuckles on your left hand. This adjustment can help you square the clubface at impact and lower your shot trajectory. Remember, minor changes in grip can lead to major improvements in control.

Clubface Position at Impact

Speaking of the clubface, its position at impact matters more than you might think. If the clubface is too open, it acts like a ramp, sending the ball skyward. It’s like trying to throw a frisbee with the front edge pointed up—up it goes, but not very far.

Focus on squaring the clubface at impact. One way to work on this is by using alignment sticks during practice. Place a stick parallel to your target line, and another perpendicular to it, forming a "T". Use this to visualize and ensure your clubface stays square to the target through impact. It might feel awkward at first, but with practice, you’ll see a difference.

Spin: The Ball’s Rotational Magic

Spin is like magic for golfers—it can be your best friend or your worst enemy. Too much backspin can cause your ball to climb higher and higher, while too little spin means a lack of distance and control. If your shots are too high, excessive backspin might be the culprit.

Check your golf ball. Some balls are designed for more spin, which can be great around the greens but not so much off the tee. Try using a ball with less spin and see if it helps. Also, consider your clubface interaction with the ball. A clean strike with a squared clubface minimizes excess spin.

And speaking of keeping things clean, don't forget about your clubs. A dirty clubface can affect spin and control. This is where The Club Washer comes in handy. Keeping your clubs clean ensures optimal contact with the ball, helping manage unwanted spin.

Shaft Flex: The Unsung Hero

The shaft of your club is often overlooked, but its flexibility can greatly influence your shot height. A shaft that’s too flexible might cause the clubhead to lag too much, adding loft at impact and increasing shot height. Conversely, a shaft that’s too stiff won’t load properly, leading to lower trajectories but potentially less control.

Assess your swing speed and consult with a club fitter to find the right shaft flex for you. They can recommend whether you need a regular, stiff, or extra stiff shaft based on your swing dynamics. A properly fitted shaft can bring your shots down to a more manageable height.

Weather and Course Conditions

Sometimes, it’s not you—it’s the environment. Wind can take your ball for a ride, and high humidity can affect how it travels through the air. If you’re playing on a windy day, it’s natural for your shots to go higher. Adapt by using a punch shot or knockdown shot to keep the ball low and controlled.

Course conditions also matter. Wet ground can mean less roll, and firm greens might require a higher trajectory for soft landings. Be ready to adjust your game based on the day’s conditions. A bit of mindfulness about the weather and course can save you strokes.

And for those wet days, keeping your clubs dry and clean is essential. That’s another spot where The Club Washer can be a game-changer, helping keep your equipment in top shape.

Practice Makes Perfect: Drills to Lower Your Shots

Lastly, practice is your best ally. Drills focused on controlling trajectory can make a world of difference. Try this simple one: set up a low-hanging object, like a string tied between two tees, a few feet in front of you at chest height. The goal is to hit shots under the string to keep them low. This encourages a more level swing and better control over your ball flight.

Consistency is key. Make practice sessions focused, and incorporate these drills regularly. You’ll not only lower your shots but also improve overall ball control.

Remember, practice is not just about hitting balls aimlessly but about purposeful, focused work. And don’t forget to keep your clubs clean and ready for action. A quick clean with The Club Washer can ensure your clubs perform at their best, shot after shot.

Final Thoughts

Understanding why your golf shots go so high is the first step in bringing them back down to earth. With a few adjustments—whether it’s tweaking your stance, grip, or club selection—you can gain better control over your ball flight. Keeping your clubs clean with The Club Washer ensures they perform optimally, giving you the confidence to tackle any course. Here's to lower shots and even lower scores!