How do I generate spin on the golf ball around the edge of the green?

Updated: Apr 20

One of the most challenging and rewarding shots in golf is the one that requires you to generate spin on the ball around the edge of the green. Whether you need to stop the ball quickly on a tight pin position, or curve it around an obstacle, or simply impress your playing partners, having the ability to spin the ball can give you an edge over your competitors.

But how do you generate spin on the ball? What are the factors that affect how much spin you can impart on your shots? And what are some tips and drills to help you master this skill? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and more, so that you can take your short game to the next level.

The first thing to understand is that spin is created by friction between the clubface and the ball. The more friction there is, the more spin you can generate. Friction is influenced by several factors, such as:

The type of ball you use. Generally speaking, softer balls with more layers and dimples will spin more than harder balls with fewer layers and dimples. This is because softer balls deform more on impact, creating more contact area and friction with the clubface. Also, dimples help reduce air resistance and increase lift, which enhances spin.
The type of club you use. Generally speaking, wedges with more loft and grooves will spin more than irons with less loft and grooves. This is because loft increases the angle of attack and reduces the effective bounce of the club, creating more friction and spin. Also, grooves help channel away moisture and debris from the clubface, improving contact quality and friction.
The type of swing you make. Generally speaking, a faster swing speed with a steeper angle of attack and a downward strike will spin more than a slower swing speed with a shallower angle of attack and an upward strike. This is because a faster swing speed generates more force and friction on impact, while a steeper angle of attack and a downward strike create more compression and backspin on the ball.

Now that you know what factors affect spin, here are some tips and drills to help you generate more spin on your shots around the green:

Use a clean ball and club. This may seem obvious, but it is essential to have a clean ball and club before every shot. Any dirt or grass on the ball or clubface will reduce friction and spin. You can use a towel or a brush to wipe off any debris before each shot.
Use a high-quality ball and club. As mentioned earlier, softer balls with more layers and dimples will spin more than harder balls with fewer layers and dimples. Similarly, wedges with more loft and grooves will spin more than irons with less loft and grooves. If you want to maximize your spin potential, invest in a high-quality ball and club that suit your game and preferences.
Use a proper grip and stance. To generate more spin on your shots, you need to have a proper grip and stance that allow you to swing freely and confidently. A good grip should be firm but relaxed, with your hands slightly ahead of the ball at address. A good stance should be balanced and stable, with your feet shoulder-width apart and your weight slightly favoring your front foot.
Use a proper technique. To generate more spin on your shots, you need to have a proper technique that creates optimal contact and friction between the clubface and the ball.

A good technique involves:

- Taking a small backswing with your arms and wrists hinging slightly.

- Accelerating through the ball with your arms and wrists unhinging fully.

- Striking down on the ball with a crisp contact and a slight divot.

- Following through with your arms and wrists fully extended towards your target.

Practice different shots. To generate more spin on your shots, you need to practice different shots that require different amounts and types of spin. For example, you can practice: