Hitting that Flop Shot

When Hitting that Flop Shot

Flop shots are more common than most golfers put to mind. It is always best to try and avoid it, but like any other shot in golf, it is one that should be practiced every time you hit the range. We always recommend like 20 or 30 shots at least to make sure that you are prepared the next time you run into those situations.

When to Hit the Flop Shot

The flop shot is one of the most difficult shots for most golfers. It is always best to try and avoid the flop shot (especially if you do not have much experience).

Are You Using the Right Club?

Flops should be hit with a high-lofted wedge. Most of us here use one in the low to mid 60’s. Chances are that you don’t carry one in your bag. This could possibly be part of the problem you might be having when it comes to your flop shots.

Take a Look at Your Surroundings

When you have to do a flop shot, it is best practice to study your surroundings. There still could be other options. Remember that the shot could land you up way past the cup, on the beach or even worse, in the drink.

Greens are getting faster and faster as time goes on. There are very good chances that if your trajectory is off, you could shoot way past the hole and into a hazard. The shot is not about spin, more about control.

Controlling Your Shot

A good shot will have you end up with the ball flop down and land as close as possible near the hole. The reason it called a flop shot is that you want the ball to have a soft landing with very little roll (the less the better). If you get too much under the ball, chances are you will just swing under it and it stays right where it was. Hitting the ball even and putting the club parallel with the ground is always the best option. Like any other shot, let the club do the work for you.

Setting Up for the Shot

Like we said, try to use your most lofted wedge for the shot. You are going for height, not distance or spin. Anything 60 and over should be the club that you use.

The ball should be forward in your stance as you approach the shot. This way you hit the ball more towards the upswing. The clubface should also have the face open at all times. It should be nearly pointing straight up.

Take an almost full backswing when you are setting up. Getting under the ball and lifting it up is the main goal. If you don’t take an almost full backswing, chances are that your upswing will not be complete either.

The flop shot is a tough one to master. Like any other shot in golf, it takes practice to get it down pat. The best flop shot is the one you don’t have to take. Hopefully, this will help you prepare for the next time out. Enjoy your next round.