What does lip out mean in golf?

From Golf FAQ

"Lip out" is a term used in golf to describe a shot that hits the edge of the cup, but fails to drop in. [1] It is a frustrating experience for golfers, as the ball appears to be very close to going in, but ultimately misses the target.

Causes of a Lip Out[edit | edit source]

There are several reasons why a golf ball might lip out:

  • Poor Aim: If the ball is not aimed correctly, it may hit the lip of the cup at an angle, causing it to bounce out.
  • Excessive Speed: A ball that is hit too hard may have too much momentum and bounce out of the cup.
  • Incorrect Spin: The amount of spin on the ball can affect its trajectory and how it rolls around the cup.
  • Bad Break: Sometimes, the ball may hit the lip and then roll in a direction that takes it away from the cup.

Impact on the Game[edit | edit source]

A lip out can have a significant impact on a golfer's score. It can be the difference between a birdie and a par, or even a bogey. It can also be a demoralizing experience, especially if it happens on a crucial shot.

Strategies to Avoid Lip Outs[edit | edit source]

While there is no foolproof way to avoid lip outs, golfers can take several steps to reduce the chances of it happening:

  • Practice Aiming: Spend time practicing your aim to ensure you are hitting the ball towards the center of the cup.
  • Control Speed: Learn to hit the ball with the right amount of speed to avoid it going too fast.
  • Master Spin: Work on your putting stroke to develop the right amount of spin to get the ball to roll into the cup.
  • Read the Green: Pay attention to the slope of the green and the direction of the grain to predict the ball's path.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Lip outs are a common occurrence in golf, and they can be frustrating for golfers. However, by understanding the causes of lip outs and implementing strategies to avoid them, golfers can improve their putting and reduce the number of times they see their ball roll out of the cup.

References[edit | edit source]