Custom-Fitting Manual - Taylor Made Golf
Custom-Fitting Manual - Taylor Made Golf Custom-Fitting Manual - Taylor Made Golf
Custom-Fitting Manual
- Page 2 and 3: Introduction CONTENTS Section 1 - G
- Page 4 and 5: Glossary In/Out Path Defi nition: T
- Page 6 and 7: angle. With all clubs, a higher lau
- Page 8 and 9: An example of inconsistent impact l
- Page 10 and 11: Consistent hand rotation allows for
- Page 12 and 13: Drivers When fi tting a player into
- Page 14 and 15: DYNAMIC If ball fl ight is too high
- Page 16 and 17: Selecting the Proper Shaft Flex and
- Page 18 and 19: Feel “Feel” pertains to a playe
- Page 20 and 21: Fairway Woods When fi tting for fai
- Page 22 and 23: Rescue® Clubs Rescue clubs are des
- Page 24 and 25: Category FABs for Iron Head Design
- Page 26 and 27: Steel Feature Advantage Benefi t He
- Page 28 and 29: If the player doesn’t know the le
- Page 30 and 31: - 30 - Correct Lie Angle Sole is fl
- Page 32 and 33: Wedges Because wedges are used to h
- Page 34 and 35: DYNAMIC Down Path/Angle of Approach
- Page 36 and 37: Putters SECTION 8 Many players don
- Page 38 and 39: Face-Balanced vs. Toe-Down A putter
- Page 40 and 41: Length To fi t the player for corre
- Page 42: Irons Get to know the player’s pr
<strong>Custom</strong>-<strong>Fitting</strong> <strong>Manual</strong>
Introduction<br />
CONTENTS<br />
Section 1 – Glossary ............................................................................................ 4<br />
Section 2 – Player Types ...................................................................................... 7<br />
Improving ............................................................................................... 7<br />
Skilled ..................................................................................................... 9<br />
Tour-Caliber .......................................................................................... 10<br />
Section 3 – Drivers ............................................................................................. 12<br />
Clubhead Design .................................................................................. 12<br />
Loft and CG Location ........................................................................... 14<br />
Shaft Flex and Model ........................................................................... 16<br />
Shaft Length ......................................................................................... 18<br />
Grip Selection ....................................................................................... 19<br />
Section 4 – Fairway Woods ............................................................................... 20<br />
Clubhead Design .................................................................................. 20<br />
Loft ........................................................................................................ 20<br />
Shaft ...................................................................................................... 21<br />
Gapping ................................................................................................ 21<br />
Section 5 – Rescue Clubs ................................................................................... 22<br />
Gapping ................................................................................................ 22<br />
Section 6 – Irons ................................................................................................. 23<br />
Clubhead Design .................................................................................. 23<br />
Shaft Material ...................................................................................... 25<br />
Shaft Flex .............................................................................................. 26<br />
Shaft Length ......................................................................................... 27<br />
Lie Angle ............................................................................................... 29<br />
Section 7 – Wedges ............................................................................................ 32<br />
Clubhead Design .................................................................................. 32<br />
Effective Bounce .................................................................................. 33<br />
Lie Angle ............................................................................................... 34<br />
Distance Gapping ................................................................................. 35<br />
Section 8 – Putters ............................................................................................. 36<br />
Section 9 – <strong>Fitting</strong> Protocol Summary ............................................................... 41
<strong>Taylor</strong><strong>Made</strong> <strong>Golf</strong> <strong>Custom</strong>-<strong>Fitting</strong> Guide<br />
Welcome to the <strong>Taylor</strong><strong>Made</strong> <strong>Golf</strong> <strong>Custom</strong>-<strong>Fitting</strong> Guide, which details our simple, effi cient and effective<br />
system for fi tting your clients into the fi nest golf equipment available.<br />
We’ll refer frequently to <strong>Taylor</strong><strong>Made</strong>’s MATT system (Motion Analysis Technology by <strong>Taylor</strong><strong>Made</strong>)<br />
throughout this manual, which is a revolutionary motion-capture system engineered to “place” a golfer<br />
into an animated, three-dimensional space. The MATT system allows us to measure a golfer’s body and<br />
club movements accurately to within tenths of a degree. The MATT system was originally designed for<br />
research and development purposes, as well as to provide the highest level of clubfi tting for <strong>Taylor</strong><strong>Made</strong>’s<br />
Tour Staff professionals. However, it was recently made available to the public for both fi tting and<br />
instruction. Data gathered from MATT helped us to establish and validate our method of clubfi tting, which<br />
we believe is the most advanced in the industry.<br />
To achieve the most accurate recommendations, clubfi tters must use both static and dynamic<br />
measurements. This manual defi nes and describes the static and dynamic measuring keys <strong>Taylor</strong><strong>Made</strong> uses<br />
to ensure a successful fi t.<br />
To fi t players more precisely, we’ve categorized them into three types:<br />
1 > Improving<br />
A high handicapper who needs help<br />
getting the ball in the air, down<br />
the fairway and on the green, and<br />
who wants the most forgiving<br />
equipment he can fi nd.<br />
2 > Skilled<br />
A middle handicapper who needs<br />
forgiving equipment to help make<br />
up for his occasional inconsistencies<br />
and to enhance his distance and<br />
accuracy.<br />
– 3 –<br />
3 > Tour-Caliber<br />
A low handicapper seeking<br />
premium equipment that enhances<br />
his performance while providing<br />
the kind of keen feedback and<br />
workability he prefers.
Glossary<br />
In/Out Path<br />
Defi nition: The angle of the clubhead path at impact relative to the<br />
target-line.<br />
Infl uence on Shot Performance: An inside-out path promotes a draw.<br />
An outside-in path leads to a fade or slice.<br />
Typical Values: Tour players tend to swing on an inside-out path;<br />
amateurs tend to swing on an outside-in path.<br />
Clubface Angle<br />
Defi nition: The angle at which the clubface points at impact, defi ned<br />
as either square, open or closed.<br />
Infl uence on Shot Performance: A square clubface angle promotes a<br />
straight shot; an open clubface angle promotes a shot to the right; a<br />
closed clubface angle promotes a shot to the left. Clubface angle has<br />
a stronger infl uence on shot direction than an in-to-out swing path.<br />
Typical Values: Tour players tend to deliver the clubface to the ball<br />
in a square position at impact in relation to their swing path, while<br />
amateurs have a tendency to leave the clubface open.<br />
Up-Path/Down-Path<br />
SECTION 1<br />
Defi nition: The path the clubhead travels on in relation to the ground<br />
just prior to and after impact. An up-path is when the clubhead<br />
moves upward and away from the ground (a positive number), while<br />
a down-path is when the clubhead moves downward and toward the<br />
ground (a negative number).<br />
Infl uence on Shot Performance: Up-path promotes a high launch<br />
angle with low spin.<br />
Typical Values: Tour players demonstrate a slight up-path when using<br />
a driver.<br />
– 4 –
Impact Location<br />
Defi nition: The precise location on the clubface where impact with<br />
the ball was made.<br />
Infl uence on Shot Performance: When the impact location is away<br />
from the center of the clubface, initial ball speed will be slower and<br />
shot distance will be shorter. With metalwoods, when the impact<br />
location is higher on the face the ball will launch at a higher angle<br />
and at a lower spin-rate; when the impact location is lower on the<br />
face the ball will launch lower and at a higher spin rate. When the<br />
impact location is toward the toe the shot will start slightly to the<br />
right (for right-handed players); when the impact location is toward<br />
the heel the shot will start slightly to the left. With metalwoods,<br />
when the impact location is toward the toe the ball will start to the<br />
right but draw-spin will be imparted. When the impact location is<br />
toward the heel the ball will start to the left but fade-spin will be<br />
imparted.<br />
Typical Values: A tour player’s impact location tends to be at the<br />
clubface center or very close to it, while the average amateur’s<br />
impact location varies signifi cantly.<br />
Ball Speed<br />
Defi nition: The speed of the ball immediately after impact, measured<br />
in miles per hour.<br />
Infl uence on Shot Performance: Higher ball speed usually results in<br />
greater distance.<br />
Typical Values: Ball speed depends on variables including clubhead<br />
speed, impact location and face angle, and varies from player to<br />
player.<br />
Ideal Values: Use the player’s maximum achievable speed as their<br />
ideal ball speed.<br />
Launch Angle<br />
Defi nition: The angle of the path on which the ball leaves the<br />
clubface, measured in degrees in relation to horizontal.<br />
Infl uence on Shot Performance: A higher launch angle equals higher<br />
initial ball fl ight, and vice versa.<br />
Typical Values: Launch angle varies from player to player and from<br />
club to club.<br />
Ideal Values: The ideal launch angle varies depending upon the ball<br />
speed and the spin-rate generated by a given club confi guration.<br />
With a driver, the slower the ball speed, the higher the ideal launch<br />
– 5 –
angle. With all clubs, a higher launch angle combined with the right<br />
amount of backspin will generally generate maximum distance.<br />
Backspin<br />
Defi nition: The rate at which the ball spins backward (the bottom of<br />
the ball moves toward the target and the top of the ball moves away<br />
from the target) immediately after impact, measured in revolutions<br />
per minute.<br />
Infl uence on Shot Performance: Backspin works with the ball’s<br />
dimples to create lift, which helps keep the ball in the air. A higher<br />
rate of backspin creates more lift.<br />
Typical Values: Backspin rates vary from player to player, from club<br />
to club, and from ball to ball.<br />
Ideal Values: With a driver, the ideal backspin for maximizing<br />
distance varies according to ball speed and launch angle.<br />
– 6 –
Defi ning the Player<br />
Studying the swings of thousands of players using the <strong>Taylor</strong><strong>Made</strong> MATT System led us to divide golfers<br />
into three categories — Improving, Skilled and Tour-Caliber — based on their ability and consistency. This<br />
section explores the different characteristics of each player category.<br />
Improving<br />
Improving golfers are generally beginners. Often, they don’t play regularly. They typically suffer from a<br />
variety of swing fl aws that detract from their distance and accuracy. The most common is an outside-in<br />
swing path. When combined with an open clubface at impact, the result is a distance-stealing slice.<br />
6-IRON<br />
DRIVER<br />
Clubhead<br />
Speed<br />
60-80<br />
70-95<br />
SECTION 2<br />
Ball<br />
Speed<br />
77 to 107<br />
100-135<br />
Distance<br />
100-130<br />
160-230<br />
Greens In<br />
Regulation<br />
0-to-3<br />
Fairways<br />
Hit/Round<br />
0-to-5<br />
– 7 –<br />
Up/Down<br />
Path<br />
10° down to<br />
3° up<br />
1° up to 3°<br />
down<br />
In/Out<br />
Path<br />
Outside-In<br />
Outside-In<br />
Clubface<br />
Angle at Impact<br />
Open/Closed<br />
Open/Closed<br />
Average outside-in path ranges from 3° to 6°. Diffi culty squaring the clubface at impact.<br />
Impact<br />
Consistency<br />
Inconsistent<br />
Inconsistent
An example of inconsistent impact locations. A too-steep down-path, which causes fat shots and large divots.<br />
Positive up-path with irons promotes thin shots and little<br />
or no divots.<br />
Slower, less consistent hand rotation through impact tends to add<br />
loft to the club. In this case, a 6-iron’s loft has been effectively<br />
increased from 31° to 34°.<br />
– 8 –<br />
With driver, a slight down-path through impact yields a low<br />
launch angle and high rate of backspin.
Skilled<br />
Compared to the Improving player, the Skilled player’s swing mechanics are generally better and his ballstriking<br />
is more consistent. His swing usually has fl aws, but he compensates for them well, and his mis-hits<br />
are less severe. His swing path generally ranges from slightly inside-out to slightly outside-in.<br />
6-IRON<br />
DRIVER<br />
Clubhead<br />
Speed<br />
70-80<br />
80-95<br />
Ball<br />
Speed<br />
92-107<br />
115-135<br />
Distance<br />
130-155<br />
190-230<br />
Greens In<br />
Regulation/<br />
Round<br />
4 to 9<br />
A skilled player generally has a more consistent and<br />
target-oriented swing path.<br />
Impact location pattern is usually tighter and toward the<br />
heel or toe.<br />
Fairways<br />
Hit/Round<br />
5 to 10<br />
– 9 –<br />
Up/Down<br />
Path<br />
0° to 6°<br />
down<br />
1° up to 3°<br />
down<br />
In/Out<br />
Path<br />
4° Outside-In to<br />
4° Inside-Out<br />
4° Outside-In to<br />
4° Inside-Out<br />
Clubface<br />
Angle at Impact<br />
Open-to-Square<br />
Open-to-Square<br />
Impact<br />
Consistency<br />
Moderately<br />
Consistent<br />
Moderately<br />
Consistent<br />
Generally achieves a square or slightly open clubface position<br />
at impact.<br />
Indicates a horizontal driver path through impact.<br />
Creating up-path through impact will promote a higher trajectory<br />
and longer carry.
Consistent hand rotation allows for more consistent<br />
distance control.<br />
Tour-Caliber<br />
The Tour-Caliber player has little or no fl aws in his swing path or clubface angle, and his swing is very<br />
consistent. He is usually the most knowledgeable of the three player types about equipment and what<br />
he needs.<br />
6-IRON<br />
DRIVER<br />
Clubhead<br />
Speed<br />
80-90+<br />
95-110+<br />
Ball<br />
Speed<br />
101-122<br />
135-160+<br />
Distance<br />
155-175+<br />
230-275+<br />
Greens In<br />
Regulation/<br />
Round<br />
10+<br />
Fairways<br />
Hit/Round<br />
10+<br />
– 10 –<br />
Up/Down<br />
Path<br />
3° down to<br />
6° down<br />
1° up to<br />
5° up<br />
In/Out<br />
Path<br />
0° to 4°<br />
Inside-Out<br />
2° Inside-Out to<br />
2° Outside-In<br />
Clubface<br />
Angle at Impact<br />
Open-to-Square<br />
Open-to-Square<br />
Impact<br />
Consistency<br />
Very<br />
Consistent<br />
Very<br />
Consistent<br />
Generates power effectively and effi ciently through impact. Impact location near the center of the clubface promotes<br />
tighter shot dispersion.
A Tour-Caliber player’s down-path with a 6-iron typically<br />
ranges from 3º to 6º.<br />
Hand position at impact is slightly ahead of the ball,<br />
de-lofting the 6-iron to approximately 28º, allowing<br />
maximum distance and control.<br />
– 11 –<br />
A Tour-Caliber player’s up-path with a driver typically ranges from<br />
1º to 5º, promoting optimum distance.
Drivers<br />
When fi tting a player into a driver you must recommend the proper:<br />
> Clubhead Design<br />
> Loft & CG Location<br />
> Shaft Flex & Model<br />
> Shaft Length<br />
> Grip<br />
Choosing a Clubhead Design<br />
STATIC<br />
When it comes to drivers, it’s critical to determine the type of head design that will benefi t the player<br />
most. Following are questions that will help you make the right determination;<br />
In general, the better the player, the more fairways he hits, so the fi rst and most important question to<br />
ask is:<br />
About how many fairways do you hit per round?<br />
Fairways Hit/Round<br />
SECTION 3<br />
0-5 Improving<br />
5-10 Skilled<br />
Driver Head Design<br />
10+ Tour-Caliber<br />
Be prepared that you’ll encounter exceptions. For example, a senior with a slower swing speed and higher<br />
handicap who nonetheless hits 8 to 12 fairways per round. Such a player will no doubt benefi t much more<br />
from a larger, distance-enhancing clubhead design.<br />
Which is more important to you: Forgiveness or Workability?<br />
In general, Improving players seek a large and stable clubhead with a low center of gravity (CG) that’s easy<br />
to launch and which forgives their mis-hits; Tour-Caliber players typically seek a smaller head with a higher<br />
CG that makes it easier to draw and fade the ball, and Skilled players seek a head that combines excellent<br />
forgiveness with a good degree of workability.<br />
– 12 –
Preference<br />
Forgiveness Improving<br />
Combination of Forgiveness and Workability Skilled<br />
Driver Head Type<br />
Workability Tour-Caliber<br />
Category FABs for Metalwood Head Design<br />
Driver clubhead features engineered for the Improving player<br />
Feature<br />
Lowest and Deepest CG Location Higher Launch Angle Easy to Launch High and Long<br />
Softens a Slice; Promotes a<br />
Heel-Weighted Makes it Easier to Square the Face Distance-Enhancing Draw<br />
Optimize Launch Conditions Promotes Maximum Distance<br />
Movable Weight Technology and CG Location and Control<br />
Driver clubhead features engineered for the Skilled player<br />
Feature<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Higher CG Location Lower and More Controllable Ball Flight Increased Control<br />
Neutral Weighting Choose Their Flight Pattern Increased Shot -Shaping<br />
Optimize Launch Conditions Promotes Maximum Distance<br />
Movable Weight Technology and CG Location and Control<br />
Driver clubhead features engineered for the Tour-Caliber player<br />
Feature<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Highest CG Location Lowest Ball Flight Optimal Control<br />
Square-to-Open Face Alignment Visually Appealing Increased Confi dence and Accuracy<br />
Optimize Launch Conditions Promotes Maximum Distance<br />
Movable Weight Technology and CG Location and Control<br />
– 13 –
DYNAMIC<br />
If ball fl ight is too high:<br />
> Try a lower loft<br />
> Try a clubhead with a higher CG<br />
> Reconfi gure the Movable Weight Technology (MWT) cartridges so that more weight is in the front<br />
If ball fl ight is too high and spin-rate is too low:<br />
> Check if impact location is too high, if so lower tee height<br />
If ball fl ight is too low and spin-rate is too low:<br />
> Try a higher loft<br />
> Try a clubhead with a lower CG<br />
> Reconfi gure the MWT cartridges so that more weight is in the back<br />
If ball fl ight is too low and spin-rate is too high:<br />
> Check if impact location is too low, if so increase tee height<br />
If ball fl ight is too far left:<br />
> Reconfi gure the MWT cartridges so that more weight is on the toe<br />
If ball fl ight is too far right:<br />
> Reconfi gure the MWT cartridges so that more weight is on the heel<br />
Choosing the Proper Loft and CG Location<br />
DYNAMIC<br />
Launch angle is the angle at which the ball leaves the clubface. Launch angle is critical to maximizing<br />
distance, thus it’s vital that you fi t the player with a driver loft that delivers the optimal launch angle.<br />
What is optimum launch angle? It ranges between 12 and 15 degrees, depending on the player’s clubhead<br />
speed.<br />
Besides launch angle, spin-rate is also a crucial variable that must be managed.<br />
Players that generate high initial ball speed need to combine a higher launch angle with a lower spin-rate,<br />
while players that produce lower initial ball speeds need to combine a higher launch angle with a higher<br />
spin-rate, which keeps the ball in the air longer to promote greater carry and distance.<br />
In general, players with slower swing speeds or higher swing speeds will maximize their distance with a<br />
higher launch angle.<br />
Guidelines for choosing driver loft based on swing speed:<br />
• 60 to 70 mph = 12-14 degrees loft<br />
• 70 to 80 mph = 11-13 degrees loft<br />
• 80 to 90 mph = 10-12 degrees loft<br />
• 90 to 100 mph = 9-11 degrees loft<br />
• 100 mph + = 8-10 degrees loft<br />
Remember, the above fi gures should be used as a starting point and won’t apply to every player.<br />
– 14 –
Ball speed can help you determine a player’s proper launch angle:<br />
Typical Values Ball Speed (mph) Launch Angle (deg) Spin-Rate (rpm)<br />
Driver<br />
tour pro 170 12 2700<br />
skilled 155 12 2800<br />
avid player 140 12 3000<br />
recreational 120 13 3000<br />
senior/lady 100 15 3000<br />
<strong>Taylor</strong><strong>Made</strong> drivers with Movable Weight Technology (MWT) enable golfers to adjust the launch angle.<br />
Confi guring the MWT cartridges so that more weight is toward the rear of the clubhead moves the CG<br />
location rearward, which increases the effective launch angle. On the other hand, confi guring the MWT<br />
cartridges so that more weight is toward the front of the clubhead will move the CG forward, promoting a<br />
lower, more penetrating ball fl ight.<br />
Additionally, <strong>Taylor</strong><strong>Made</strong> drivers with MWT also allow you to position more weight on the toe to move the<br />
CG away from the shaft, which promotes a fade; or to position more weight on the heel to move the CG<br />
toward the shaft, which promotes a draw.<br />
– 15 –
Selecting the Proper Shaft Flex and Model<br />
STATIC<br />
The fi rst step to fi tting a metalwood’s shaft fl ex is to start with the player’s clubhead speed. If you don’t<br />
have a tool to measure it, ask him about how far he hits his driver and refer to the chart below:<br />
How far do you normally hit your driver?<br />
Average Driver Distance 160 yards or less 160- 190 190- 230 230- 275 275+<br />
Flex L M R S X<br />
Clubhead Speed 70 mph or less 70 - 80 80 - 95 95 - 110 110+<br />
Ball Speed 100 mph or less 100 - 115 115 - 135 135 - 160 160+<br />
Category FABs for Driver Shafts<br />
Shaft features that typically benefi t Improving players<br />
Feature<br />
Softest Tip Increases Load and Unload Easier to Launch<br />
Square Face at Impact<br />
Most Torque Promotes Clubhead Rotation for Straighter Shots<br />
Higher Trajectory for<br />
Lowest Flex Point Increases Launch Angle Longer Carry and Distance<br />
Lightest Weight Increases Clubhead Speed Faster Ball Speed for Longer Distance<br />
Shaft features that typically benefi t Skilled players<br />
Feature<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Medium Tip Moderate Stability Increased Control<br />
Medium Torque Moderate Twisting Consistent Ball Flight<br />
Mid Flex Point Medium Launch Angle Improved Launch Control<br />
Strong Combination of<br />
Mid Weight Increased Clubhead Speed; Enhanced Feel Distance and Control<br />
Shaft features that typically benefi t Tour-Caliber players<br />
Feature<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Stiffest Tip Maximum Stability Maximum Control<br />
Lowest Torque Low Twisting Maximum Consistency<br />
Highest Flex Point Lower Launch Angle Lower Trajectory<br />
Heaviest Weight Enhanced Feel; Reduces Spin Maximum Control<br />
– 16 –
DYNAMIC<br />
It’s vital that the player’s shaft fl ex be correct, otherwise it will be diffi cult for him to square the clubface<br />
at impact. If the shaft is too stiff the clubface will tend to be open at impact, resulting in shots that fl y<br />
to the right. If the shaft is too soft, the clubface will tend to be closed through impact, resulting in shots<br />
that fl y to the left. Swing tempo plays a critical role in determining shaft fl ex. A player with a faster, more<br />
aggressive tempo may require a fi rmer shaft fl ex, while a player with a slower and smoother tempo may<br />
benefi t from a softer shaft fl ex.<br />
Bear in mind that fl ex designations aren’t always consistent from one shaft brand to the next. In other<br />
words, one brand’s R-fl ex may be softer or stiffer than another brand’s R-fl ex.<br />
Kick Point<br />
“Kick point” (also known as the fl ex point or bend point) refers to the point in the shaft where it bends<br />
during the forwardswing. To optimize a player’s launch angle you have to fi t him with the proper fl ex<br />
point. A shaft with a low kick point usually features a fl exible tip that promotes a higher launch angle<br />
and higher trajectory. A shaft with a high kick point generally features a stiffer tip that promotes a lower<br />
launch angle for a lower trajectory.<br />
Players with slower clubhead speeds typically benefi t from a lower kick point, which helps them get the<br />
ball in the air more easily, resulting in a higher trajectory, longer carry and greater distance. Players with<br />
higher clubhead speeds typically benefi t most from shafts with a higher kick point, which promote a lower<br />
launch angle for a lower, more controllable trajectory.<br />
Torque<br />
“Torque” refers to the shaft’s resistance to twisting. Torque is measured in degrees; a higher degree of<br />
torque means that the shaft twists more during the swing. Proper torque helps ensure that the clubface<br />
is square at impact. Generally, golfers with higher clubhead speeds require shafts with less torque, while<br />
golfers with slower clubhead speeds require shafts with more torque. However, other factors — clubhead<br />
size, total weight and CG location — play a role in determining proper torque.<br />
– 17 –
Feel<br />
“Feel” pertains to a player’s sensation, or awareness, of the club and its position throughout the swing,<br />
and must also be considered when fi tting for a shaft. If the player achieves the desired ball fl ight, he will<br />
typically be comfortable with the way the shaft feels. Feel is critical — if a player is comfortable with the<br />
way a club feels he’s more likely to swing with confi dence and control.<br />
Be aware that players sometimes confuse the feeling of stiffness with weight, often believing that a softer<br />
shaft feels heavy and that a stiffer shaft feels lighter.<br />
If ball fl ight is too high and spin-rate is too high:<br />
> Try a heavier shaft<br />
> Try a shaft with a stiffer tip<br />
If ball fl ight is too high and spin-rate is too low:<br />
> Try a lighter shaft<br />
> Try a shaft with higher torque<br />
If ball fl ight is too low and spin-rate is too low:<br />
> Try a shaft with a lower kick point<br />
> Try a lighter shaft<br />
If ball fl ight is too low and spin-rate is too high:<br />
> Try a heavier shaft<br />
Choosing Length<br />
DYNAMIC<br />
MATT research has proven that a longer shaft widens the swing arc, equaling more clubhead speed. In<br />
some cases that comes at the expense of clubhead control. Less clubhead control leads to inconsistent<br />
impact location, equaling slower average ball speed. Often, however, added length will help the player<br />
achieve higher ball speed and increased distances.<br />
<strong>Taylor</strong><strong>Made</strong>’s Inverted Cone Technology (ICT) expands the size of the COR zone on the driver’s face to<br />
reduce ball-speed loss on off-center hits, proving extremely benefi cial to players that opt to increase the<br />
length of their driver in quest of added yardage.<br />
– 18 –
Grip Selection<br />
STATIC<br />
The grip has to feel good in the player’s hands to instill confi dence and prevent distraction. Comfort<br />
is critical.<br />
Proper Grip Size Grip Too Small Grip Too Large<br />
<strong>Fitting</strong> Grip Size<br />
1. Have the golfer hold a standard-size grip.<br />
2. Check the fi ngertips of the two middle fi ngers of the left hand for right-handed swingers and vice<br />
versa for left-handed players. They should rest lightly against the pad beneath the thumb.<br />
3. If the fi ngertips are pressed fi rmly against the pad, or the fi ngernails dig into the pad, try the next<br />
larger grip size.<br />
4. If the fi ngertips aren’t touching the pad, try the next smaller grip.<br />
Arthritis, joint problems, carpal tunnel syndrome and long fi nger nails may affect the choice of grip size.<br />
DYNAMIC<br />
Recommending a Larger Grip<br />
> Players who chronically release the club early, shutting the face before impact and producing right-toleft<br />
shots, may benefi t from a larger grip. A larger grip can quiet hand action, which slows the release<br />
to make it easier to square the face to the ball.<br />
> Players with physical limitations such as arthritis may fi nd a thicker grip easier and less painful to<br />
hold securely.<br />
> Players with long fi ngernails may fi nd it impossible to hold a standard-sized grip comfortably, making a<br />
larger grip necessary.<br />
Recommending a Smaller Grip<br />
> Players who chronically release the club late, leaving the face open at impact and producing<br />
left-to-right shots, may benefi t from a smaller grip. A smaller grip puts the club more in the player’s<br />
fi ngers, stimulating hand action to help square the face to the ball.<br />
– 19 –
Fairway Woods<br />
When fi tting for fairway woods, fi rst fi nd out what type of head design will benefi t the player most by<br />
asking whether they want a fairway wood that’s easier to launch or easier to control. Improving players<br />
generally need something that’s easier to get in the air; Tour-Caliber players typically want a club that they<br />
can shape shots with in order to hit more fairways and greens; and Skilled players usually seek fairway<br />
woods that offer a good combination of distance and accuracy.<br />
Category FABs for Fairway Wood Head Design<br />
Titanium Fairways<br />
Feature<br />
Larger Head Size Increased MOI More Forgiving<br />
CG farther back Higher Flight Greater Distance<br />
Steel Fairways<br />
Feature<br />
SECTION 4<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Smallest Head Design Compact Look and Great Workability Increased Confi dence and Shot-Shaping<br />
Higher CG Flattest, Lowest Ball Flight Optimal Ball Flight<br />
Head Design<br />
The three key variables to consider when choosing a fairway wood head are face-depth, clubhead material<br />
and CG location.<br />
Face-depth pertains to whether the face is shallow or deep. Shallow-faced fairway woods are better suited<br />
for players who generate more up-path through impact, while players who swing down through impact<br />
will benefi t more from a deeper face. Clubhead material refers to steel or titanium. Steel fairway woods<br />
are typically smaller, with higher CG locations; ideal for better players who want a more workable club and<br />
a lower, more controllable ball fl ight. In contrast titanium heads are typically larger, more forgiving, and<br />
feature a lower CG location; elements that make them easier to launch and easier to hit straight.<br />
– 20 –
Loft<br />
Players with lower swing speeds typically require more loft to get the ball high enough in the air and<br />
with enough spin to generate adequate carry and distance. Although it might seem counterintuitive, you<br />
should be prepared to weaken lofts beyond standard. For example, weakening the standard 15° loft of<br />
a 3-wood to 17° will help some players get more distance by giving them more carry. On the other hand,<br />
exceptionally fast swingers who generate a naturally high spin-rate may benefi t from a stronger loft, such<br />
as 13° or 14°, to keep the ball on a lower and more easily controlled fl ight.<br />
Shaft<br />
Tour-Caliber players with high swing speeds generally benefi t from a heavier fairway wood shaft, which<br />
increases control and helps reduce the spin-rate.<br />
A good rule of thumb is to start the player with a shaft weighing ten grams more than their driver shaft.<br />
Ball fl ight should resemble that of the driver: high launch angle followed by a leveling off at the pinnacle.<br />
You can also try a shaft with a higher kick-point than their driver shaft.<br />
Improving players with slower swing speeds will benefi t from a lighter shaft with a lower kick point, which<br />
will help them generate more clubhead speed, a higher launch angle and a higher spin-rate, all of which<br />
contribute to greater carry and distance.<br />
Gapping<br />
Pay attention to “gapping” between fairway woods, meaning the yardage gaps that exist from one to<br />
the next. Fairway woods produce higher launch angles and spin-rates than Rescues ® , and Rescues produce<br />
higher launch angles and spin-rates than long-irons. This is why you may see Tour-Caliber players change<br />
their set makeup depending on the course conditions.<br />
If ball fl ight is too high and spin-rate is too low:<br />
> Try a titanium clubhead<br />
> Try a softer shaft<br />
If ball fl ight is too low and spin-rate is too low:<br />
> Try a higher loft<br />
> Try a titanium head<br />
> Try a softer shaft<br />
If ball fl ight is too low and spin-rate is too high:<br />
> Try a titanium head with a heavier shaft and a higher kickpoint<br />
If ball fl ight is too far left:<br />
> Confi gure MWT cartridges so that more weight is in the toe and less weight is in the heel<br />
> Try a stiffer shaft<br />
If ball fl ight is too far right:<br />
> Confi gure MWT cartridges so that more weight is in the heel and less weight is in the toe<br />
> Try a softer shaft<br />
– 21 –
Rescue® Clubs<br />
Rescue clubs are designed to replace long-irons. The Rescue’s lower CG makes it easier to launch, and its<br />
broad, smooth sole design slides through tall grass, making this club great for hitting from the rough.<br />
A Rescue’s ball fl ight is higher than the fl ight of the iron it replaces, but is lower than a comparable<br />
fairway wood.<br />
When fi tting for a Rescue club, fi rst fi nd out which long-iron the player is most comfortable hitting, and<br />
which long-iron they’re the most uncomfortable hitting. For example, if he’s most comfortable using his<br />
4-iron but rarely uses his 3-iron, start with a Rescue that’s equivalent to his 3-iron.<br />
If ball fl ight is too high and spin-rate is too low:<br />
> Try a lighter-weight shaft with a lower kickpoint<br />
If ball fl ight is too low and spin-rate is too low:<br />
> Try a higher loft<br />
> Try a lighter-weight shaft with a lower kickpoint<br />
If ball fl ight is too low and spin-rate is too high:<br />
> Try a higher loft with a heavier shaft<br />
If ball fl ight is too far left:<br />
> Confi gure more MWT cartridge weight in the toe and less in the heel<br />
> Try the Rescue TP<br />
> Try a shaft with a stiffer tip<br />
If ball fl ight is too far right:<br />
> Confi gure more MWT cartridge weight in the heel and less in the toe<br />
> Try the standard Rescue<br />
> Try a shaft with a softer tip<br />
Gapping<br />
SECTION 5<br />
Don’t assume that the player will average the same distance with a Rescue that he averages with the<br />
corresponding iron, for example a Rescue 3 versus a 3-iron. Generally (but not always), Rescue clubs deliver<br />
greater average distance because they’re more forgiving and their lower CG location promotes higher<br />
fl ight and longer carry. To manage distance gaps, try the following:<br />
1. Increase or decrease the club’s length. The player should gain about 5 yards for every additional halfinch,<br />
and lose about 5 yards for every half-inch you subtract.<br />
2. Switch shaft material and/or shaft weight. Lighter equals more swing speed for more distance, and<br />
vice versa.<br />
– 22 –
Irons<br />
When fi tting a player into irons you must recommend the proper:<br />
> Clubhead Design<br />
> Shaft Material<br />
> Shaft Flex<br />
> Shaft Length<br />
> Lie Angle<br />
> Grip<br />
Clubhead Design<br />
STATIC<br />
The fi rst step to choosing the proper clubhead design is to identify the player’s individual needs. Ask him<br />
the following questions:<br />
How many greens do you normally hit in regulation per 18 holes?<br />
Based on his feedback, place him in the category that best describes his ability level:<br />
G.I.R.<br />
0-3 Improving<br />
4-9 Skilled<br />
Clubhead Design Type<br />
10+ Tour-Caliber<br />
Which is more important to you, forgiveness or workability?<br />
Based on his feedback, place him in the category that best describes his preference:<br />
Preference<br />
SECTION 6<br />
Forgiveness Improving<br />
Combination of Forgiveness and Workability Skilled<br />
Clubhead Design Type<br />
Workability Tour-Caliber<br />
Is there a particular clubhead design feature that you prefer?<br />
One of the most important outcomes of a good club-fi tting is that the golfer is comfortable with the<br />
fi tter’s recommendation. It’s crucial that the fi tter recommends a clubhead design that the player fi nds<br />
visually appealing.<br />
– 23 –
Category FABs for Iron Head Design<br />
The second step to choosing the proper clubhead design is to present the features, advantages and<br />
benefi ts of each design type, then decide which best serves the golfer’s preferences and needs.<br />
Iron features engineered for the Improving player<br />
Feature<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Largest Clubhead Size/<br />
Most Perimeter Weighting Highest MOI Most Forgiving on Off-Center Hits<br />
Thickest Top line Forgiving Look Inspires Confi dence<br />
Widest Sole/Lowest CG Increased Launch Angle Easy to Launch / Great Distance<br />
Highest Degree of Offset Easiest Face to Square at Impact Straighter Shots<br />
* Exception: A high-handicapper with a severe hook or pronounced draw may benefi t more from a slightly smaller clubhead design with less offset.<br />
Iron features engineered for the Skilled player<br />
Feature<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Moderate Clubhead Size With Unites Look and Feel of a Tour-Caliber<br />
Shallow Cavityback Iron with Increased MOI Combines Workability and Forgiveness<br />
Moderate Top Line Visually Appealing Inspires Confi dence<br />
Higher CG Position Reduced Spin/Lower Ball Flight Increased Control and Workability<br />
Conservative Offset Slight Draw Bias Straighter Shots<br />
* Tour-Caliber players (including tour professionals) may also prefer this clubhead design if they’ve played it in the past and are accustomed to the look<br />
and feel.<br />
Iron features engineered for the Tour-Caliber player<br />
Feature<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Compact Clubhead Size/Minimal or Tour-Proven Look, Feel and<br />
no Cavityback Playability Great Feel and Feedback<br />
Thinnest Top Line Visually Pleasing to Better Players Inspires Confi dence<br />
Highest CG Lowest Spin-Rate and Ball Flight Enhanced Control<br />
Minimal Offset Minimal Directional Bias Tour Look and Maximum Workability<br />
DYNAMIC<br />
The fi nal step to determining the proper clubhead design is ball fl ight. If your initial recommendation fails<br />
to deliver the player’s preferred ball fl ight, refer to the chart below.<br />
If ball fl ight is too high:<br />
> switch to a clubhead design with a higher CG<br />
> try stronger lofts<br />
If ball fl ight is too low:<br />
> switch to a clubhead design with a lower CG<br />
> try weaker lofts (be cautious of the affect on overall distance)<br />
– 24 –
If the shot is too far left:<br />
> switch to a clubhead design with less offset<br />
> try a fl atter lie angle<br />
If the shot is too far right:<br />
> switch to a clubhead design with more offset<br />
> try a more upright lie angle<br />
Iron Shaft Material<br />
STATIC<br />
Steel or Graphite? Find out what the player plays and if he’s open to switching materials. The key<br />
difference between the two is weight — graphite is lighter, steel is heavier. Shaft weight signifi cantly<br />
affects the swing. A player loses swing speed if his shaft is too heavy, costing him distance. On the other<br />
hand, a player will sacrifi ce club control if the shaft is too light, which hurts accuracy.<br />
A good rule of thumb is to narrow the selection down to the lightest shaft that the player can control,<br />
be it steel or graphite. That shaft will help him maintain swing balance, allowing him to hit the ball<br />
consistently solid and long. If he enjoys the feel of steel, but could benefi t from a lighter weight shaft,<br />
explore lightweight steel. Most lightweight steel shafts feature low kick points, play “softer” overall and<br />
produce a higher ball fl ight than heavier steel.<br />
Remember that graphite also dampens vibration signifi cantly, making it a good choice for players with<br />
chronically sore wrists, elbows or shoulders. Heavier weight graphite is available for players that want<br />
vibration absorption in a heavier club.<br />
Shaft Material Comparison<br />
Graphite<br />
Feature<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Lighter Weight Increased Clubhead Speed More Distance<br />
Lower Kick Point Higher Launch Angle Higher Ball Flight<br />
Material Dampens Vibration Reduces Physical Stress and Fatigue<br />
*Improving golfers generally require graphite shafts to promote increased clubhead speed, a higher launch angle and longer distance.<br />
Lightweight Steel<br />
Feature<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Moderate Weight Moderately Increased Clubhead Speed Moderate Increase in Distance<br />
Mid Kick Point Medium Launch Angle Higher Launch than Steel,<br />
Lower than Graphite<br />
Material Moderate Feedback Good Combination of Feel and Control<br />
– 25 –
Steel<br />
Feature<br />
Advantage Benefi t<br />
Heavier Weight Increased Control Excellent Feel for Club Position<br />
During the Swing<br />
Higher Kick Point Lower Launch Angle Lower and More Controllable Trajectory<br />
Material Increased Feedback Keen Sense of Feel at Impact<br />
* Skilled golfers generally exhibit strong opinions about steel and graphite, and have a clear preference for one or the other.<br />
* Tour-Caliber golfers nearly always choose steel for its increased feel and control.<br />
DYNAMIC<br />
If ball fl ight is too high and/or spin-rate is too high:<br />
> Try a heavier shaft<br />
If ball fl ight is too low and/or spin-rate is too low:<br />
> Try a lighter shaft<br />
Feel<br />
> If the player has little feel for club position during the swing, try a heavier shaft<br />
> If impact feels too harsh, try graphite<br />
> If impact feels too harsh with graphite, try a softer fl ex<br />
Selecting Shaft Flex<br />
STATIC<br />
“Flex” refers to the shaft’s degree of fl exibility. The dynamic forces of the golf swing cause a shaft to fl ex<br />
and twist in various directions. Shafts are engineered to fl ex and twist in specifi c locations, to specifi c<br />
degrees, and at specifi c swing speeds. A shaft’s characteristics have to complement the player’s swing<br />
characteristics for him to easily and consistently square the clubface at impact.<br />
Different shaft models are designed for different types of players. A shaft designed to fl ex and twist<br />
according to the force generated by a player with a fast tempo will not behave the same way for a golfer<br />
with a slower tempo, and vice-versa. In general, stiffer (less-fl exible) shafts work better for faster swingers<br />
while softer, more fl exible shafts work better for slower swingers.<br />
Using clubs with an incorrect shaft fl ex forces the player to make compensations to square the clubface at<br />
impact, which is why it’s absolutely vital to fi t the player with the proper shaft fl ex.<br />
The fi rst step to fi tting shaft fl ex is to ask what kind of shaft the player currently uses, including fl ex; what<br />
his ball fl ight tendencies are; and if he wants to change his ball fl ight.<br />
Next, gauge his clubhead speed. If you don’t have a tool to accurately measure it, ask how far his average<br />
6-iron shots carry and refer to the chart below.<br />
– 26 –
How far does your average 6-iron carry?<br />
6-Iron Distance 100 yards or less 100-130 130-155 155-175 175+<br />
Flex L M R S X<br />
Clubhead Speed 60 mph & below 60-70 70-80 80-90 90+<br />
Ball Speed 77 mph & below 77-92 92-107 107-122 122+<br />
DYNAMIC<br />
The fi nal steps to choosing the proper shaft fl ex is to:<br />
1. Examine the player’s ball fl ight pattern<br />
> If the fl ex is too stiff, the player will tend to leave the clubface open at impact, causing shots to<br />
fl y right.<br />
> If the fl ex is too soft, the player will tend to close the clubface at impact, causing shots to fl y left.<br />
> If the shaft is too soft, the player’s shot dispersion rate will tend to be signifi cantly wider.<br />
2. Evaluate feel<br />
> Ask if the shaft feels too soft and “whippy,” or too stiff and “board-y,” and adjust accordingly.<br />
Choosing Length<br />
STATIC<br />
The goal of fi tting players for proper club length is to allow them to assume an athletic address position.<br />
A very tall player will stoop too much with a standard-length club, while a very short player will stand too<br />
upright. You’ll perform a great service for uncommonly taller and shorter players by custom-fi tting them<br />
with club lengths that fi t.<br />
Good athletic posture.<br />
The fi rst step to choosing the proper club length is to ask the player about his current club length — is it<br />
standard, shorter than standard, or longer than standard? Regardless of his height, start him in the length<br />
of his current clubs — otherwise the club will feel extremely uncomfortable. After taking into account<br />
his address position, swing mechanics, ball-striking and shot pattern, decide whether to try a longer or<br />
shorter length.<br />
– 27 –
If the player doesn’t know the length of his clubs, refer to the chart below.<br />
Height Wrist-to-Floor Recommended<br />
Measurement Club Length<br />
> 6’ 8” > 42” + 2”<br />
6’ 6” - 6’ 8” 41” - 42” + 1.5”<br />
6’ 4” - 6’ 6” 40” - 41” + 1”<br />
6’ 2” - 6’ 4” 38.5” - 40” +.5”<br />
6’1 - 6’2” 37” - 38.5” +.25”<br />
5’ 7” - 6’ 1” 34” - 37” standard<br />
5’ 4” - 5’ 7” 32” - 34” - .25”<br />
5’ 2” - 5’ 4” 29” - 32” - .5”<br />
5’ - 5’ 2” 27” - 29” - 1”<br />
4’ 10” - 5’ 25” - 27” - 1.5”<br />
< 4’ 10” < 25” - 2”<br />
DYNAMIC<br />
It’s crucial that you verify the accuracy of the player’s height and wrist-to-fl oor measurement, as both<br />
are key to determining proper club length. Additionally, you may want to take into account the player’s<br />
clubface impact pattern. Determine the impact pattern by positioning iron impact tape on the face of the<br />
6-iron and having the player hit fi ve or six shots. Observe the impact locations and refer to the chart below<br />
for recommendations.<br />
Consider a shorter length; consider<br />
replacing long irons with Rescue<br />
clubs.<br />
Try shorter length irons; have the<br />
player stand farther from the ball.<br />
No change necessary.<br />
Try longer length irons; have the<br />
player stand closer to the ball.<br />
NOTE: If the player demonstrates consistent impact toward either the toe or heel, it could be the effect of<br />
playing irons with an improper lie angle for a long period.<br />
– 28 –
Final step in choosing length:<br />
Keep in mind during the rest of the fi tting process how club length affects ball fl ight, and be prepared to<br />
make adjustments. Longer length clubs typically generate a higher spin-rate and higher ball fl ight, while<br />
shorter length clubs typically generate a lower spin-rate and lower ball fl ight.<br />
Lie Angle<br />
STATIC<br />
Research indicates that lie angle is most effectively measured dynamically. However, it can be generalized<br />
that taller players require a more upright lie angle and shorter players a fl atter lie angle.<br />
DYNAMIC<br />
Lie angle at address doesn’t typically match lie angle at impact. That’s because the shaft normally<br />
“droops” at impact, bent by the forces of the downswing. Therefore the club’s lie angle at address can be<br />
misleading, and must be assessed at impact with a full swing.<br />
The Objective of Achieving Proper Lie Angle with Irons<br />
When fi tting for proper lie angle with irons, your objective is to ensure that the iron’s sole is fl ush with<br />
the ground at impact. If the lie angle is too upright or too fl at, accuracy and distance will suffer. If the<br />
clubhead is toe-up at impact — an indication that the lie angle is too upright — the heel will contact the<br />
ground fi rst. That makes it diffi cult, if not impossible, to achieve an impact location high enough on the<br />
center of the clubface to achieve maximum ball speed and spin-rate. Additionally, on fat shots the clubface<br />
will close before impact and the shot will go left.<br />
– 29 –<br />
Lie Angle Too Upright<br />
Heel portion of the sole<br />
contacts the ground<br />
Tilted (draw) spin axis<br />
Promotes shots to the left<br />
Promotes thin shots<br />
Calls for a fl atter lie angle<br />
If the clubhead is toe-up at impact it indicates that the lie angle is too upright. The tilt of the clubhead<br />
creates a left-bias that promotes shots that go left. The heel will contact the ground fi rst, making it<br />
diffi cult, if not impossible, to achieve solid impact and to achieve maximum ball speed and spin-rate.
– 30 –<br />
Correct Lie Angle<br />
Sole is fl ush to the ground at impact<br />
Promotes solid impact<br />
Level (straight) spin axis<br />
No lie angle adjustment necessary<br />
If the clubhead is consistently fl ush to the ground at impact, the lie angle is correct. A correct lie angle<br />
promotes a straight and accurate ball fl ight, as well as better results on off-center hits and thin and<br />
fat shots.<br />
Lie Angle Too Flat<br />
Toe portion of the sole contacts the<br />
ground<br />
Tilted (fade) spin axis<br />
Promotes pushed shots<br />
Calls for a more upright lie angle<br />
If the clubhead is toe-down at impact it indicates that the lie angle is too fl at. The tilt of the clubhead<br />
creates a right-bias that promote shots that go right. The toe will contact the ground fi rst, making it<br />
diffi cult, if not impossible to achieve solid impact and to achieve maximum ball speed and spin-rate.<br />
Additionally, on fat shots the clubface will open before impact.
HEEL<br />
TOE<br />
HEEL<br />
The traditional method of assessing lie angle is to apply lie tape to the club’s sole and have the<br />
player hit several shots off a lie board. Marks on the lie tape near the heel indicate that the lie is<br />
Additionally, on fat shots the clubface will close before impact.<br />
too upright; marks near the toe indicate that the lie is too fl at. Typically, for each quarter-inch the<br />
impact mark on the sole tape is away from the sole’s center, the lie angle should be adjusted one<br />
degree. If toward the toe, more upright; if toward the heel, fl atter.<br />
The Relationship Between Club Length and Lie Angle<br />
As mentioned earlier, taller players typically require a more upright lie angle than normal in their irons,<br />
and shorter players require a fl atter lie angle. However, other variables affect impact lie angle such as<br />
the player’s address posture and how his hands are positioned at address and impact, either high or low.<br />
Because of that, a suitable lie angle cannot always be properly prescribed based on the player’s height and<br />
wrist-to-fl oor measurement.<br />
It’s important that you understand that club length affects an iron’s effective lie angle. For every half-inch<br />
you add or subtract, the lie angle will be affected by one degree. For example, if you take a standardlength<br />
iron with a standard loft angle and increase the length by a half-inch, the lie angle effectively<br />
becomes one degree upright. Decrease the length by a half inch and the lie angle effectively becomes one<br />
degree fl at.<br />
In rare cases when the extreme lie angles of 4° upright or 4° fl at don’t allow the player to achieve level<br />
impact, try adjusting the shaft length.<br />
– 31 –<br />
TOE<br />
HEEL<br />
TOE
Wedges<br />
Because wedges are used to hit a wide variety of shots from a wide variety of lies, fi tting wedges is<br />
arguably the most diffi cult part of custom fi tting. We have broken down wedge-fi tting into a simple but<br />
effective process.<br />
Choosing Head Design<br />
STATIC<br />
Suggest a head design based on the player’s response to the following questions. In most cases, the choice<br />
of wedge design will be consistent with the design chosen for their irons.<br />
1. Which circle do you most often put the ball on a typical wedge shot?<br />
2. Which head design features are most important to you?<br />
Clubhead Design<br />
SECTION 7<br />
Player Type<br />
Distance / Forgiveness Improving<br />
Forgiveness / Spin Skilled<br />
Spin / Versatility Tour-Caliber<br />
– 32 –
Wedge features benefi cial to Improving players:<br />
> Larger head size<br />
> Wider Sole<br />
> Lower CG<br />
> Perimeter Weighting<br />
> Offset<br />
> Minimum to Moderate Bounce<br />
Wedge features benefi cial to Skilled players:<br />
> Moderate Head Size<br />
> Moderate Sole Width<br />
> Slight Perimeter Weighting<br />
> Slight Offset<br />
> Moderate Bounce<br />
Wedge features benefi cial to Tour-Caliber players:<br />
> Smaller Head Size<br />
> Narrow Sole<br />
> Softened Leading and/or Trailing Edges<br />
> Raised CG<br />
> Little to No Offset<br />
> Increased Loft Options<br />
> Moderate Bounce<br />
Effective Bounce<br />
Effective Bounce is a combination of the following design elements:<br />
> Bounce<br />
> Sole Width<br />
> Sole Camber<br />
> Leading and Trailing Edge Grinds<br />
Sole Camber: Camber is an important feature. The more camber a wedge has, the more effective bounce<br />
the wedge will have in the standard address position. The opposite is true when you open the wedge for<br />
a lofted shot. A cambered wedge will prevent the leading edge from sitting high off the ground when the<br />
face is opened.<br />
– 33 –
DYNAMIC<br />
Down Path/Angle of Approach<br />
The angle at which the player’s clubhead approaches the ball, also known as the angle of approach, is<br />
critical to fi tting him with the right wedge.<br />
Shallow Angle of Approach<br />
Improving players generally exhibit a shallow angle of approach,<br />
producing short and shallow divots, and sometimes no divot at all.<br />
Medium Angle of Approach<br />
Skilled players generally exhibit a medium angle of approach,<br />
producing divots of average size and depth.<br />
Steep Angle of Approach<br />
Tour-Caliber players generally exhibit a steep angle of approach,<br />
producing longer and signifi cantly deeper divots for shots that fl y<br />
lower with a higher degree of backspin.<br />
Lie Angle<br />
The lie of a player’s wedges should generally mirror that of his irons. Since the wedges are the most lofted<br />
clubs and produce the highest degree of spin — in the 10,000 rpm range — the correct lie angle is vital. For<br />
Tour-Caliber players, consider choosing the lie angle for each wedge based upon the most common shot he<br />
hits with that wedge.<br />
Club Length: Generally, the length of a player’s wedges should be consistent with the rest of his irons, i.e.,<br />
if his irons are a half-inch longer than standard, his wedges should be, too. However, some players prefer<br />
all of their wedges to be the same length. Other players prefer their wedges signifi cantly shorter in length<br />
to promote added clubhead control and accuracy.<br />
– 34 –
Shaft Flex: Generally, the wedges’ fl ex should be consistent with that of the rest of the irons. However,<br />
many tour pros favor the feel of a slightly softer fl ex in their wedges. For players who prefer to make<br />
short, abrupt wedge swings, a stiffer fl ex promotes increased control and accuracy.<br />
Distance Gapping<br />
<strong>Fitting</strong> a set of wedges based on loft gaps is often effective, however the ideal way to fi t a wedge is to ask<br />
the player what kind of distance he wants to achieve with his wedges. Then have him try different lofts<br />
until you fi nd the ones that deliver his desired distances.<br />
According to the chart below, a player whose clubhead speed with driver is 100 mph hits his pitching<br />
wedge 120 yards. Suppose he wants one wedge that delivers 100 yards on a full swing and another that<br />
delivers 85 yards on a full swing. The chart indicates a 58° and 54° should fulfi ll his needs.<br />
– 35 –
Putters<br />
SECTION 8<br />
Many players don’t think it’s important to be fi t for a putter, yet when you consider that putts account for<br />
up to one-third of the strokes taken in a given round, it becomes clear that a well-fi t putter can make a<br />
signifi cant impact on a player’s scorecard.<br />
The objective when putter-fi tting is to recommend a club that 1) satisfi es the player in terms of look and<br />
feel; 2) that they have confi dence in aiming; 3) that feels right in terms of length and swing weight;<br />
4) whose sole lies fl ush against the putting surface at address; 5) that feels and sounds pleasing at impact;<br />
and 6) that launches the ball with forwardspin or minimal backspin to promote a smooth and accurate roll.<br />
Achieving all of the above means taking into careful account the putter’s head style, hosel confi guration,<br />
lie, loft, length and grip.<br />
Head style and hosel confi guration<br />
The most common putterhead styles include:<br />
> Blade<br />
> Mallet<br />
> High MOI<br />
Blade<br />
Blade-style putters generally feature a rectangular head shape that is<br />
fairly thin and incorporates a straight leading- and trailing-edge. The<br />
blade is the most common type of putter.<br />
Mallet<br />
Mallet putters generally feature a rounded rear edge that creates a<br />
half-moon shape when viewed at address.<br />
– 36 –
High MOI<br />
High MOI putters come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Most are engineered to deliver high MOI (moment<br />
of inertia), which promotes excellent stability and forgiveness on mis-hits.<br />
The CG of a High MOI putter is typically far back in the head, which promotes a high launch angle and<br />
lower spin-rate for a smoother roll. Be aware, however, that for that reason these types of putters are<br />
typically engineered with less loft than traditional putters in order to reduce the launch angle and<br />
promote forward roll. (As with all golf clubs, when loft is decreased, launch angle and backspin rate are<br />
reduced. A 7° driver delivers a lower launch angle and lower spin-rate compared to a 12° driver.)<br />
Hosels<br />
> The way the hosel is designed can help certain players square the clubface to the ball at impact.<br />
> The size and shape of the hosel contributes to the putter’s overall look.<br />
– 37 –
Face-Balanced vs. Toe-Down<br />
A putter is either “Face-Balanced” or “Toe-Down.” You can tell by balancing the putter on its shaft at its<br />
CG, then checking the orientation of the putterface. If the face is parallel to the ground, the putter is Face-<br />
Balanced. If the toe droops below the heel, the putter is Toe-Down. The hosel, depending on its shape, size<br />
and position, often affects whether the putter is face-balanced or toe-down. In general, the longer the<br />
hosel, the closer to balanced the face will be. As the hosel length increases, the shaft’s axis moves closer to<br />
the putterhead’s CG.<br />
<br />
Performance of Face-Balanced vs. Toe-Down<br />
> It’s easier to open and close the face of a Face-Balanced putter during the stroke because the shaft<br />
axis is closer to the center, or CG, of the putterhead. That’s an advantage for players who try to keep<br />
the putterface square to the target as they swing back and through. Conversely, it’s a disadvantage to<br />
players who open the putterface going back and release the putterface going through.<br />
> The farther the shaft axis is away from the CG of the putterhead, the more Toe-Down the putter will<br />
be. Toe-Down putters are harder to rotate open and closed during the stroke. That’s an advantage to<br />
players who open and close the putterface as they swing, and a disadvantage to players who keep the<br />
face square.<br />
– 38 –
Face Angle at Impact<br />
One of the most important goals of putter-fi tting is to help the player choose a putter with which he can<br />
consistently achieve a square face at impact. Rossa ® research indicates that face angle at impact plays a<br />
bigger role in determining the direction the putt rolls than swing path does.<br />
Players who leave the putterface open at impact (more then one degree) should try a Face-Balanced<br />
putter, the dynamics of which will help them rotate the face back to square.<br />
NOTE: Some players won’t be sensitive to whether the putter is Face-Balanced or Toe-Down.<br />
Swing Path<br />
The most important variable of putting is that the clubface must be square at impact. That’s more<br />
important than path. Path can be fl awed, but it’s critical that the putter you fi t the player into is one that<br />
he can square to the ball at impact consistently.<br />
Lie Angle<br />
The objective of fi tting for the proper lie angle is to get the putter’s<br />
sole into a fl ush position in relation to the ground, so that neither the<br />
toe nor the heel is raised off the ground.<br />
> Toe Up — If the toe of the putter points up at address, the lie<br />
angle is too upright, which can promote missing to the left.<br />
> Toe Down — If the heel is off the ground at address, the lie angle<br />
is too fl at, which can promote missing to the right.<br />
Loft<br />
The putter’s shaft angle at impact is critical to achieving favorable<br />
loft at impact. The more that a player forward presses with his hands<br />
(moves his hands ahead of the ball before starting the backswing),<br />
the more the putter is de-lofted at impact. Conversely, the<br />
farther a player positions his hands behind the ball (backward press),<br />
the more loft is added before impact. Both situations affect the way<br />
the ball comes off the putterface. The player who forward presses<br />
may require more loft. Conversely, the farther behind the ball the<br />
player’s hands are at impact, the less putter-loft he may require.<br />
– 39 –
Length<br />
To fi t the player for correct putter length, have him assume his address position without a club, with his<br />
eyes over the ball and his arms hanging naturally, in a position where he can move his shoulders and<br />
his arms in a connected and pendulum-like motion. The correct length is whatever fi ts naturally into<br />
this stance. Standard putter lengths vary from 33 to 35 inches, however some players may crouch more,<br />
dictating a shorter shaft, or stand taller, dictating a longer shaft.<br />
Remember that putting set-ups and styles vary greatly from player to player. It’s up to you to recommend<br />
whether he will benefi t from a length similar to what he’s been using, or whether he’ll make a better<br />
stroke and improve his putting by switching to something longer or shorter.<br />
Grip<br />
The style of the putter grip is mostly a matter of player preference. However, grip size can affect stroke<br />
mechanics. Players interested in minimizing their wrist action should try a thicker grip. Players who tend to<br />
block the release of the putterhead, leaving the face open at impact, can activate their wrist action with a<br />
smaller grip diameter.<br />
– 40 –
SECTION 9<br />
<strong>Fitting</strong> Protocol Summary<br />
Driver<br />
Determine the golfer’s skill level and investigate his current driver.<br />
> Note the model, loft, shaft, shaft fl ex and length.<br />
> Find out how it performs for him to determine what type of driver will improve the quality<br />
of his shots.<br />
Choose the <strong>Taylor</strong><strong>Made</strong> driver that’s closest to his gamer.<br />
Determine whether the loft is correct.<br />
Optimum launch angle is between 12º and 15º, depending on his ball speed. The slower the ball speed, the<br />
more spin is needed to keep the ball in the air. The faster the ball speed, the less spin is needed.<br />
Choose the correct shaft fl ex and dynamics.<br />
> Flex can be determined by the distance the player hits his driver.<br />
> Dynamics consist of the weight, kick point and torque. Refer to the corrective ball fl ight chart below.<br />
Change the MWT cartridge confi guration to adjust the launch angle, spin-rate and<br />
shot direction.<br />
Choose the proper length according to the player’s preference, height and wrist-to-fl oor<br />
measurement.<br />
Corrective Ball Flight Chart<br />
Too High/Too Much Spin<br />
Lower Loft<br />
Heavier shaft<br />
Stiffer tip less torque<br />
Too High/Not Enough Spin<br />
Lower loft<br />
Lighter shaft<br />
Softer shaft fl ex<br />
Too Far Right<br />
More MWT cartridge weight in the heel<br />
Softer shaft fl ex<br />
Too Low/ Too Much Spin<br />
Higher loft<br />
Heavier shaft<br />
Adjust tee height<br />
Too Low/Not Enough Spin<br />
Higher loft<br />
Lighter shaft<br />
Softer shaft fl ex<br />
Lower kick point more torque<br />
Too Far Left<br />
More MWT cartridge weight in the toe<br />
Softer shaft fl ex<br />
– 41 –
Irons<br />
Get to know the player’s preferences and handicap level.<br />
> Does he want to hit the ball high or low? Draw, fade or straight?<br />
> Let him choose a clubhead design that he likes looking at, then guide him into a clubhead design<br />
that will help him hit the type of shot he prefers.<br />
Allow him to choose the shaft material.<br />
Explain the features and benefi ts of graphite and steel, emphasizing which material will allow him to<br />
accomplish his desired objectives, including ball fl ight.<br />
Choose a shaft fl ex based on how far he hits his irons.<br />
> Watch his ball fl ight to make sure he’s in the proper fl ex.<br />
> Right-to-left ball fl ight means the fl ex is too soft, while left-to-right means the fl ex is too stiff.<br />
> If his ball fl ight is too high and spin-rate is too high then the shaft is too soft; if his ball fl ight is<br />
too low and spin-rate is too low then the shaft is too stiff.<br />
Determine the proper club length according to what the player is accustomed to and/or refer to<br />
the wrist-to-fl oor ruler on the cart.<br />
> For every ½" added to the shaft, the club will play 1 degree more upright; for every ½"<br />
subtracted from the shaft, the club will play 1 degree fl atter.<br />
Determine the proper lie angle by using the lie board.<br />
> If the mark is toward the toe, the lie angle needs to be more upright (ball fl ight will move right).<br />
> If the mark is toward the heel, then the lie angle needs to be fl atter (ball fl ight will move left).<br />
Choose the proper grip size by having a player grip a standard grip.<br />
> The fi ngertips of his top hand should lightly touch the pad at the base of his thumb. A gap indicates<br />
that the grip is too large; if the fi ngertips rest too snugly against the pad, the grip is too small.<br />
> Watch his ball fl ight — a grip that’s too large promotes a slice, while a grip that’s too small<br />
promotes a hook.<br />
– 42 –
<strong>Taylor</strong><strong>Made</strong> <strong>Golf</strong> Company, Inc.<br />
5545 Fermi Court<br />
Carlsbad, California 92008