How to Hit a Chip Shot

Chipping is a critical skill in golf that bridges the delicate gap between putting and full-swing shots. Effective chipping can drastically lower your golf scores by allowing you to navigate short distances around the green more proficiently. This guide aims to equip beginner golfers with a solid understanding of the chip shot, providing a strong foundation for improving your overall game.

Understanding the Chip Shot

A chip shot is typically used when you are just off the green and need to loft the ball into the air briefly, expecting it to roll out towards the hole. Unlike a pitch shot, which covers longer distances and spends more time in the air, a chip is more about finesse and control, requiring less power but more precision.

When to Use a Chip Shot

Chipping becomes the preferred option when you are close enough to the green that making a full swing would be excessive. Ideal situations include:

• When the ball is too far from the green for a putt to be effective.
• When there are obstacles such as fringe grass or uneven surfaces between your ball and the hole.

Choosing the Right Club

Selecting the correct club is paramount in executing a successful chip shot. While a variety of clubs can be used depending on the distance and desired roll, a general rule is to use:

• A wedge for shorter, softer shots where the ball needs to stop quickly.
• An 8 or 9 iron for longer chips, where more roll is required.

Club Characteristics to Consider

Understanding the loft and bounce of your club can greatly enhance your chipping:

• Loft: A higher lofted club, like a sand wedge, will get the ball in the air quicker and is preferable for shots over obstacles.
• Bounce: Clubs with more bounce are better suited for soft lies where you need to avoid digging into the ground.

Mastering the Technique

The technique for a chip shot differs notably from a full swing. Precision and control are the keystones of a good chipping technique.

Stance and Posture

Begin with a stance narrower than that used for a full shot. Place your feet closer together, slightly open to the target, which promotes a better range of motion for the upper body.

Ball Position and Weight Distribution

Position the ball back in your stance, closer to your rear foot. This setup helps in striking the ball with a descending blow, which is essential for a good chip. Keep about 60-70% of your weight on your front foot to ensure a consistent, downward strike.

The Chipping Motion

Your hands should lead the club into the ball, ensuring that the loft of the club does the work to lift the ball and not your hands. The swing itself should be dominated by the movement of the shoulders, minimizing wrist hinge to increase consistency.

Chipping Training Aids to Improve Your Technique

Incorporating training aids into your practice routine can accelerate your learning curve and help solidify your chipping technique. Here are some of the most effective training aids for chipping:

The Connector by Sure Golf

"The Connector" by Sure Golf is a versatile training aid designed to improve the alignment and connection between your arms during the golf swing. This device attaches to your golf clubs and positions your arms in a way that promotes a unified, compact swing. By using "The Connector," golfers can ensure their arms and body work in harmony, which is crucial for executing effective chip shots.

FLYT Chipping Sleeve

The FLYT Chipping Sleeve is an innovative training aid designed to improve arm positioning and enhance the body mechanics involved in chipping. This device slips onto your leading arm (for right-handed golfers, the left arm), ensuring that it remains connected to your body throughout the swing. The sleeve helps maintain the proper alignment of the arms with the torso, which is crucial for achieving consistent and controlled chip shots.

eGolf Rings

eGolf Rings are a practical and versatile training aid designed to enhance your chipping accuracy and consistency. These colorful rings serve as visual targets on the green or practice area, allowing golfers to focus on landing the ball within specific zones. Each set typically includes rings of various diameters, enabling you to practice chipping from different distances and angles.