Metrics

What each metric means, how it's measured, the ideal numbers to aim for and how to change them.

Ball Data

Metrics about the ball's flight and performance.13 metrics

Ball Data

Ball Speed

The speed of the golf ball immediately after impact.

How it's measured

Collected using high-speed cameras or radar technology that track the ball from impact through its initial flight.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Driver

Men160-180 mphWomen140-155 mph

7 Iron

Men120-130 mphWomen95-105 mph

Swing Technique

Faster clubhead speed and solid contact increase ball speed.

What it does to your shot

DistanceHigher ball speed generally leads to longer carry and total distance.

Spin RateHigher ball speed typically increases spin rate, especially if the impact is centred.

Launch AngleWith higher ball speed, a higher launch angle can result in greater carry distance.

Apex HeightIncreased ball speed often leads to a higher apex, contributing to a longer flight.

How to change it

Club SelectionTo maximize ball speed, use a driver or low-lofted club for distance. Adjust swing speed and focus on clean contact.

Swing TechniqueFocus on increasing clubhead speed through better mechanics and timing while ensuring solid, centred impact.

Related Metrics

Carry Distance Spin Rate Launch Angle

Ball Data

Smash Factor

Ratio of ball speed to clubhead speed, indicating the efficiency of energy transfer.

How it's measured

Calculated as Ball Speed divided by Clubhead Speed.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Driver

Men1.50Women1.50

Swing Technique

Maximized by hitting the ball on the club's sweet spot.

What it does to your shot

EfficiencyA higher smash factor indicates better energy transfer, leading to more distance without necessarily increasing swing speed.

ConsistencyHigher smash factors contribute to more predictable shot distances.

How to change it

ImpactFocus on striking the ball in the centre of the clubface to maximize smash factor.

Swing PathEnsure a consistent swing path and tempo to improve impact location.

Related Metrics

Ball Speed Club Speed

Ball Data

Carry Distance

The distance the ball travels through the air before hitting the ground.

How it's measured

Calculated based on the ball's launch conditions (speed, angle, and spin) and tracked using radar or cameras until it lands.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Driver

Men260-300 yardsWomen210-240 yards

7 Iron

Men160-180 yardsWomen140-160 yards

Swing Technique

Affected by launch angle, ball speed, spin rate, and impact location.

What it does to your shot

Course StrategyLong carry distance helps in clearing hazards and reaching the green in fewer strokes.

Spin And RollThe balance between carry and roll is crucial, especially in varying weather and course conditions.

How to change it

Club SelectionChoose clubs that optimize carry for the specific hole or shot requirement.

Swing TechniqueAdjust your swing to produce the desired launch angle and spin rate for optimal carry.

Related Metrics

Total Distance Spin Rate Launch Angle

Ball Data

Roll Distance

The distance the ball rolls on the ground after landing.

How it's measured

Measured by tracking the ball from landing until it stops.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Varies by ground conditions and descent angle; typically 20-30 yards for drivers and less for shorter clubs.

Swing Technique

Influenced by spin rate, launch angle, and ground conditions.

What it does to your shot

Total DistanceHigher roll distance increases total distance, especially on firm fairways.

Spin RateLower spin rates typically result in greater roll after landing.

How to change it

Launch AngleLower launch angles generally produce more roll.

Spin ManagementFocus on reducing backspin to maximize roll, especially off the tee.

Related Metrics

Carry Distance Total Distance Spin Rate

Ball Data

Total Distance

The total distance the ball travels, including carry and roll.

How it's measured

Measured by tracking the ball from launch until it stops rolling.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Driver

Men275-325 yardsWomen225-285 yards

7 Iron

Men165-185 yardsWomen145-165 yards

Swing Technique

Influenced by carry distance, spin rate, launch angle, and ground conditions.

What it does to your shot

Hole ManagementLonger total distances can shorten approach shots, giving you better opportunities to score.

ControlHigh total distance with low accuracy can lead to more hazards or off-target shots.

How to change it

Shot PlanningConsider the full shot length, including roll, and plan for the landing area to maximize effectiveness.

Spin ControlLower spin can increase total distance, particularly with drivers.

Related Metrics

Carry Distance Roll Distance Spin Rate

Ball Data

Spin Rate

The rate of spin on the ball immediately after impact, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM).

How it's measured

Measured using high-speed cameras or radar that track the ball's rotation as it leaves the clubface.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Driver

Men2,000-2,500 rpmWomen2,400-2,800 rpm

7 Iron

Men6,500-7,500 rpmWomen7,000-8,000 rpm

Swing Technique

Affected by clubface angle, impact location, and swing path.

What it does to your shot

Stopping PowerHigher spin rates help stop the ball quickly on the green, while lower spin rates increase roll.

ControlExcessive spin can cause the ball to balloon, losing distance, while too little spin may reduce carry.

How to change it

Swing PathAltering your swing path (more inside-out or outside-in) can change the spin rate.

Impact LocationHitting higher or lower on the clubface affects spin rate.

Related Metrics

Carry Distance Roll Distance

Ball Data

Spin Axis

The tilt of the ball's spin axis, determining the direction of the ball's curve in flight.

How it's measured

Measured by tracking the ball's rotational behaviour immediately after impact using high-speed cameras or radar.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Ideal Values

A neutral spin axis (0°) is ideal for straight shots. A negative tilt produces a draw, and a positive tilt produces a fade.

Swing Technique

Adjusted by changing swing path, face angle, and impact location.

What it does to your shot

Shot ShapeThe tilt of the spin axis determines whether the ball curves left (draw/hook) or right (fade/slice).

ControlManaging the spin axis is key to controlling shot shape and avoiding sidespin-related issues.

How to change it

Grip And Face AngleAdjusting grip strength or the face angle at impact can help manage spin axis.

Swing PathAltering your swing path relative to the target line influences spin axis.

Related Metrics

Curve Shot Type

Ball Data

Horizontal Launch Angle

The direction in which the ball initially travels relative to the target line, measured in degrees.

How it's measured

Measured by tracking the ball's initial direction after impact.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Ideal Values

0° for a straight shot

Swing Technique

Adjusted by changing swing path, face angle, and ball position.

What it does to your shot

AccuracyA more accurate horizontal launch angle reduces the need for corrections mid-flight, leading to straighter shots.

Shot ShapeDetermines the initial direction, setting up for either a draw or fade depending on the spin axis.

How to change it

AlignmentEnsure proper body and clubface alignment at address to control the horizontal launch angle.

Swing PathA consistent swing path helps produce a predictable horizontal launch angle.

Related Metrics

Shot TypeAccuracy

Ball Data

Vertical Descent Angle

The angle at which the ball descends towards the ground, affecting how quickly it stops after landing.

How it's measured

Measured by tracking the ball's descent during flight.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Wedges40-50°

Swing Technique

Influenced by spin rate, apex height, and launch angle.

What it does to your shot

Stopping PowerA steeper vertical descent angle helps the ball stop more quickly upon landing, crucial for approach shots.

ControlA steeper descent angle reduces roll, offering better control on firm greens.

How to change it

Apex Height And Spin RateAdjust these to control the descent angle for better stopping power.

Trajectory PlanningFocus on achieving the desired descent angle to match the green and pin position.

Related Metrics

Carry Distance Roll Distance Spin Rate

Ball Data

Apex Height

The maximum height the ball reaches during its flight.

How it's measured

Measured by tracking the ball's vertical position during its trajectory.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Driver30-40 yards

Swing Technique

Affected by launch angle, spin rate, and ball speed.

What it does to your shot

Carry DistanceHigher apex heights can contribute to longer carry distances but may also lead to higher wind sensitivity.

TrajectoryA higher apex often equates to a steeper descent angle, aiding in stopping power.

How to change it

Launch AngleAdjust your launch angle to influence apex height.

Spin RateManaging spin rate can control how high the ball climbs in its flight.

Related Metrics

Carry Distance Spin Rate Launch Angle

Ball Data

Lateral Landing

The side-to-side distance between the ball's landing point and the intended target line.

How it's measured

Measured by tracking the ball's landing position relative to the target line.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

0 yards for a perfect shot

Swing Technique

Affected by swing path, face angle, and spin axis.

What it does to your shot

AccuracyMinimizing lateral landing distance from the target line is key to hitting more greens and fairways.

ConsistencyReducing variability in lateral landing distance improves overall shot accuracy.

How to change it

Swing Path And Face AngleWork on synchronizing swing path and face angle to reduce lateral errors.

Shot ShapeAim to control shot shape to minimize unintended curvature.

Related Metrics

Spin Axis Shot TypeShot Accuracy

Ball Data

Curve

The difference between a shot’s initial horizontal launch angle and the shot’s final position.

How it's measured

Measured by high-speed cameras or radar tracking systems, often calculated from spin axis and side spin.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Ideal Values

Varies by shot type; minimal for straight shots, moderate for intentional draws or fades

Swing Technique

Adjust face angle, swing path, and grip strength.

What it does to your shot

AccuracyExcessive curve can lead to offline shots, potentially missing fairways or greens.

Shot ShapeCurve is integral to controlling shot shape, allowing golfers to navigate obstacles or shape shots to fit the course.

Spin AxisA more tilted spin axis increases curve, affecting where the ball lands relative to the target line.

How to change it

Face Angle And Swing PathWork on aligning face angle and swing path to control the curve.

Grip StrengthAdjusting grip strength can help manage the clubface at impact, influencing the curve.

Related Metrics

Spin Axis Face to Path Shot Type

Ball Data

Shot Dispersion

The spread of shots around the target area, measuring consistency and accuracy.

How it's measured

Analysed by tracking multiple shots and calculating the area or radius around the target.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Ideal Values

Smaller dispersion indicates better consistency and accuracy

Swing Technique

Improved by refining swing mechanics, alignment, and consistency in impact location.

What it does to your shot

ConsistencyTighter shot dispersion means more consistent performance, leading to better scoring.

AccuracyImproved shot dispersion helps in consistently hitting the desired target area.

How to change it

PracticeFocus on repetition and consistency in practice to reduce dispersion.

Equipment FitEnsure clubs are fitted to your swing to help maintain tighter dispersion.

Related Metrics

Spin Axis Face to PathShot Accuracy

Club Data

Metrics about your swing and the club at impact.10 metrics

Club Data

Club Speed

The speed of the clubhead at the moment of impact with the ball.

How it's measured

Measured using radar or optical sensors that track the club's movement through the swing.

Launch Monitors

Where you'll see it

Driver

Men110-125 mphWomen90-105 mph

7 Iron

Men85-95 mphWomen75-85 mph

Swing Technique

Increased by improving swing mechanics, fitness, and timing.

What it does to your shot

DistanceHigher clubhead speed generally increases distance through higher ball speed.

Spin RateIncreased clubhead speed can raise spin rates, especially with more lofted clubs.

Launch AngleWhile clubhead speed itself doesn't directly affect launch angle, higher speeds can exaggerate the effects of swing path and face angle.

How to change it

Swing TechniqueWork on physical conditioning to increase speed. Improve swing efficiency by focusing on body rotation and proper sequencing.

EquipmentLighter shafts and optimized club weighting can help increase clubhead speed.

Related Metrics

Ball SpeedDistance

Club Data

Launch Angle

The angle at which the ball leaves the clubface relative to the ground.

How it's measured

Determined by tracking the initial trajectory of the ball using high-speed cameras or radar.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Driver

Men12°-15°Women14°-16°

7 Iron

Men16°-18°Women17°-19°

Swing Technique

Adjusted by changing ball position in stance, tee height, and swing path.

What it does to your shot

TrajectoryA higher launch angle creates a higher trajectory, which can be beneficial or detrimental depending on wind and course conditions.

Spin And DistanceThe ideal launch angle optimizes both spin and distance for any given club.

How to change it

Ball PositionMoving the ball forward or backward in your stance can alter launch angle.

Tee HeightFor drivers, adjusting the tee height influences the launch angle.

Related Metrics

Carry Distance Spin Rate

Club Data

Angle of Attack

The angle at which the clubhead is moving up or down at impact relative to the ground.

How it's measured

Measured by tracking the club's path through impact with radar or optical sensors.

Launch Monitors

Where you'll see it

Driver

Men+3° to +5°Women+2° to +4°

7 Iron

Men-3° to -5°Women-2° to -4°

Swing Technique

Altered by changing ball position, swing plane, and body positioning.

What it does to your shot

Ball FlightA steeper (negative) attack angle with irons helps compress the ball for better spin and control. A positive angle with a driver promotes higher launch and lower spin for more distance.

DistancePositive attack angles with drivers typically result in more distance.

How to change it

Stance And Ball PositionAdjusting your stance and ball position can modify the attack angle.

Swing PathA more upward or downward swing path at impact changes the attack angle.

Related Metrics

Carry Distance Spin Rate Launch Angle

Club Data

Dynamic Loft

The loft of the clubface at impact, including the effect of shaft lean and angle of attack.

How it's measured

Measured by tracking the clubface orientation and angle of attack at impact.

Launch Monitors

Where you'll see it

Driver

Men16°-20°Women17°-22°

7 Iron

Men21°-25°Women22°-26°

Swing Technique

Adjusted by changing the angle of attack, ball position, and shaft lean.

What it does to your shot

TrajectoryHigher dynamic loft results in a higher trajectory, useful for stopping the ball quickly on the green.

Spin RateHigher dynamic loft typically increases spin, which can aid in control but reduce distance.

How to change it

Shaft LeanAdjusting the forward or backward lean of the shaft at impact alters dynamic loft.

Angle Of AttackModifying your attack angle influences dynamic loft and, subsequently, ball flight.

Related Metrics

Carry Distance Spin Rate Launch Angle

Club Data

Spin Loft

The difference between dynamic loft and attack angle, indicating the angle of the ball's spin relative to the clubface.

How it's measured

Calculated by subtracting the attack angle from the dynamic loft.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Driver8-12°

Wedges30-40°

Swing Technique

Affected by changing attack angle, shaft lean, and clubface angle.

What it does to your shot

Spin RateHigher spin loft results in higher spin rates, which can aid in control but may reduce distance.

Ball FlightThe combination of spin loft and launch angle determines the ball's flight characteristics.

How to change it

Dynamic Loft And Attack AngleAdjust these factors to fine-tune spin loft for the desired ball flight.

Impact LocationConsistently striking the ball at the same point on the clubface helps manage spin loft.

Club Data

Club Path

The direction of the clubhead's movement relative to the target line at impact, measured in degrees.

How it's measured

Measured by tracking the clubhead's movement as it approaches impact.

Launch Monitors

Where you'll see it

Ideal Values

0° for a neutral path (straight shot)

Swing Technique

Adjusted by changing stance, grip, and swing mechanics.

What it does to your shot

Shot DirectionAn in-to-out club path tends to produce draws/hooks, while an out-to-in path produces fades/slices.

Spin AxisClub path in relation to face angle largely determines the spin axis, affecting shot shape.

How to change it

Swing PlaneWorking on a consistent swing plane can help control club path.

Foot AlignmentAdjust your stance to guide the desired club path direction.

Related Metrics

Spin Axis Face to Path Shot Type

Club Data

Face to Path

The angle difference between the clubface angle and the club path direction at impact.

How it's measured

Calculated by comparing clubface angle and club path measurements.

Launch Monitors

Where you'll see it

Ideal Values

0° for straight shots, slightly closed (negative) for draw, slightly open (positive) for fade

Swing Technique

Controlled by adjusting grip, wrist action, and swing path.

What it does to your shot

Shot ShapeThe difference between face angle and club path determines if the shot is a draw, fade, slice, or hook.

AccuracyManaging face-to-path consistency improves accuracy and shot predictability.

How to change it

Grip And Face ControlFine-tune your grip and focus on keeping the clubface square to the path.

Swing PathA consistent swing path helps manage the face-to-path relationship.

Club Data

Face to Target

The angle of the clubface relative to the target line at impact.

How it's measured

Measured by tracking the clubface's orientation at the moment of impact.

Launch Monitors

Where you'll see it

Ideal Values

Square to target (0°) for straight shots, slightly open/closed for intentional shot shapes

Swing Technique

Changed by adjusting grip, stance, and wrist position at impact.

What it does to your shot

Shot DirectionThe face angle at impact is the primary factor determining the starting direction of the ball.

Spin AxisWhen combined with club path, face angle affects the ball's spin axis, influencing curvature.

How to change it

Grip And Wrist ActionAdjusting grip strength and wrist movement at impact can control face angle.

SetupEnsure proper alignment at address to help maintain a square face at impact.

Club Data

Low Point

The lowest point of the swing arc relative to the ground, typically occurring just before or at ball impact.

How it's measured

Measured by radar or camera systems that track the clubhead through the swing.

Launch Monitors

Where you'll see it

Ideal Values

Slightly ahead of the ball for irons and wedges, at or slightly behind for drivers

Swing Technique

Adjust swing arc, body position, and weight transfer.

What it does to your shot

Ball StrikingAchieving the correct low point ensures solid contact, especially with irons and wedges.

Distance And SpinProper low point control maximizes distance and spin by ensuring clean contact.

How to change it

Swing ArcFocus on maintaining a consistent swing arc and low point by ensuring proper weight transfer and balance.

Body PositionEnsure that your body stays ahead of the ball through impact.

Related Metrics

Carry Distance Spin Rate Angle of Attack Dynamic LoftBall Contact Quality

Club Data

Face Impact Location

The exact position on the clubface where the ball makes contact at impact, measured horizontally (heel-toe) and vertically (high-low).

How it's measured

Measured using high-speed cameras, radar with impact algorithms, or impact stickers/decals that detect the contact point.

Launch Monitors

Where you'll see it

Ideal Values

Center of the clubface ("sweet spot") for maximum energy transfer and consistency; slightly high-center on drivers can optimize launch and spin.

Swing Technique

Influenced by swing path, clubface control, posture, balance, and ball position; off-center hits can be caused by early extension, poor weight transfer, or inconsistent swing arc.

What it does to your shot

Distance And Energy TransferCenter strikes maximize smash factor and ball speed; off-center strikes reduce energy transfer and overall distance.

Spin And Launch VariationHigh or low contact changes launch angle and spin rate due to gear effect (high = lower spin, low = higher spin).

Directional ControlHeel or toe strikes cause gear effect curvature (heel = fade/slice, toe = draw/hook), affecting shot accuracy.

ConsistencyInconsistent impact points lead to unpredictable ball flights, making distance and direction control harder.

How to change it

Setup And Ball PositionPosition the ball to match the club and desired swing arc (slightly forward for driver, more central for irons).

Balance And PostureMaintain steady posture and proper weight transfer to keep strike pattern centred.

Swing Path And Low Point ControlDeliver the clubhead consistently through the ball at the optimal point in the arc.

DrillsUse face tape, foot spray, or impact decals to track strike patterns and make small swing adjustments to centre contact.

Equipment FitShaft length, lie angle, and head design can influence strike location; custom fitting can improve centred contact rates.

Other

Metrics that don't fit anywhere else.2 metrics

Other

Shot Type

Categorization of the shot shape, such as draw, fade, slice, or hook, based on ball flight characteristics.

How it's measured

Determined by analysing the ball's flight path, spin axis, and launch angle.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Ideal Values

Ideal shot type varies by golfer's intention, e.g., a slight draw or fade may be preferred

Swing Technique

Altered by swing path, face angle, and grip.

What it does to your shot

Course ManagementDifferent shot types (e.g., draw, fade) are useful for navigating specific course layouts or avoiding hazards.

ControlBeing able to intentionally produce various shot types increases overall shot control.

How to change it

Swing Path And Face AngleWork on adjusting these elements to produce the desired shot shape.

PracticeRegularly practice different shot types to improve versatility and confidence on the course.

Related Metrics

Spin Axis Club Path Face to Path

Other

Altitude

The height above sea level at which the golf shot is played, typically measured in feet or meters.

How it's measured

Measured using GPS or local altitude data, often input manually into launch monitors for accurate calculations.

Launch Monitors

All launch monitors

Where you'll see it

Ideal Values

Not specific; lower altitudes (sea level) reduce carry distance, higher altitudes (e.g., 5,000 ft.) increase it

Swing Technique

Not directly influenced by swing technique but affects club and shot selection; higher altitudes require adjustments in club selection and strategy due to longer carry distances.

What it does to your shot

Ball SpeedBall speed tends to remain similar at different altitudes, but reduced air density at higher altitudes slightly reduces drag on the ball.

Carry DistanceHigher altitudes result in longer carry distances (5-10% farther at 5,000 feet) due to less air resistance.

Spin RateSpin rates might slightly decrease at higher altitudes due to reduced friction between the ball and the air.

Apex HeightThe ball may reach a higher apex at higher altitudes because of less drag.

Total DistanceTotal distance increases at higher altitudes due to reduced drag and lower spin rates.

Launch AngleAltitude does not significantly affect launch angle directly, but the ball's overall flight may be higher due to reduced air resistance.

How to change it

Club SelectionAt higher altitudes, golfers might choose a club with less loft to control distance or opt for more controlled swing speeds.

StrategyAdjusting the intended landing area, anticipating more roll after landing, and being cautious with approach shots to avoid overshooting greens.