Lofted Chips In Golf

Chip shots, which stay low to the ground, are preferable in many situations but there are times when such safe shots are not an option. For example, when the pin is cut close to the front edge and there is a lot of rough to carry, a high, floating shot may offer the only chance of getting the ball close to the hole.

The first thing you must do when playing a lofted shot is to check the lie. If the ground is dry or bare, you should forget it, as the leading edge of the club face will bounce off the ground and into the back of the ball.

The result will be a shot that races across the green. You should attempt to play this shot only if you can get the club face under the ball. You can get extra loft by opening the club face a little.

Do this by turning the club out as you grip. Do not do it by turning your hands. The ball will fly to the right of the target line, so aim a little left of the target.

Keep Your Balance

It is a natural instinct to fight the slope. Your body wants to shift your weight uphill. Take several practice strokes, keeping your weight consistently on the front foot, with your head still and your shoulders parallel with the slope. Reproduce the same feelings as you play the shot for real.

Check and double check

Aim the club face at your intended target. Do not let the club move off line as you move your feet and body.

Constantly refer to the target as you aim the club face and position your upper body. Check and double check that the club face is aiming where you want the ball to go.

Position your feet; visualize the shot you are about to make and check, again that the club face is aiming at the target.