Understanding Chip and Pitch Shots in Golf
As Riley "The Rotator," I specialize in unleashing power through explosive body rotation, but mastering the short game is crucial for scoring—and that starts with knowing your chip from your pitch. These are essential shots around the green, each designed for specific situations to control distance, trajectory, and spin. Let's break it down with precision.
What is a Chip Shot?
A chip shot, often called a chip and run, is a low-trajectory shot played around the greens. The ball spends more time rolling on the ground than in the air, making it ideal for tight lies with plenty of green to work with.
- Club choice: Typically a pitching wedge, 9-iron, or even lower-lofted club for minimal air time.
- Swing mechanics: Short, putting-like stroke with minimal wrist hinge—focus on a descending blow for clean contact.
- Ball flight: Low launch, lots of forward roll (e.g., 1:3 carry-to-roll ratio).
- Example: She saved par with a beautiful chip and run that ended inches from the hole.
What is a Pitch Shot?
A pitch shot is a higher, softer shot hit with a high-lofted club to carry the ball onto the green, where it lands with some spin and minimal roll. It's your go-to for carrying obstacles like bunkers or rough.
- Club choice: Wedge (e.g., sand wedge, lob wedge) with high loft to elevate the ball quickly.
- Swing mechanics: Smooth, accelerating swing with wrist hinge for loft and spin—open the face if needed for extra height.
- Ball flight: Medium-to-high trajectory, more carry than roll (e.g., 3:1 carry-to-roll ratio).
- Example: He hit a pitch over the bunker, carrying it softly to the green.
Key Differences: Chip vs. Pitch
| Aspect | Chip Shot | Pitch Shot |
|---|---|---|
| Trajectory | Low, running | High, carrying |
| Carry-to-Roll Ratio | Low carry, high roll | High carry, low roll |
| Club Loft | Lower (PW, 9-iron) | Higher (SW, LW) |
| Swing Style | Putting stroke, arms & shoulders | Wristy, body rotation |
| Ideal Situation | Large green, no obstacles | Bunkers, rough, carry needed |
Common Mistakes and Tips for Mastery
- Chips: Avoid chunking (hitting fat behind the ball) by playing the ball back in stance and keeping weight forward. Practice half swings for distance control.
- Pitches: Decelerating causes thin shots (striking too high on the ball)—commit to acceleration through impact for soft landings.
- Pro Tip: Visualize the landing spot: chips roll out from there; pitches check up quickly. Use these to get up and down—chip for speed on fast greens, pitch for precision over trouble.
Key Takeaway
The chip prioritizes roll for simplicity and control on open greens, while the pitch emphasizes carry and stopping power for challenging lies. Master both to shave strokes off your score—choose based on available green space and obstacles. Practice these distinctions religiously, and watch your short game transform into a weapon.