What is carry in golf?

From Golf FAQ

In golf, carry refers to the horizontal distance a golf ball travels through the air after being struck by a club. It is an important concept in understanding how far a golf ball will travel, especially when hitting shots that require the ball to fly over obstacles or water hazards. [1]

Factors Affecting Carry[edit | edit source]

Several factors influence the carry of a golf shot, including:

  • Club Selection: Different clubs are designed to produce different launch angles and ball speeds, which directly affect carry distance. [2]
  • Swing Speed: The faster the swing speed, the greater the ball speed and the longer the carry. [3]
  • Launch Angle: The angle at which the ball leaves the clubface significantly impacts carry. A higher launch angle generally results in a longer carry. [4]
  • Ball Type: Different golf balls have varying levels of spin and aerodynamics, which can affect carry distance. [5]
  • Wind Conditions: A headwind will reduce carry distance, while a tailwind will increase it. [6]
  • Terrain: Uphill shots tend to have shorter carry distances than downhill shots. [7]

Carry vs. Total Distance[edit | edit source]

Carry is not the same as total distance. Total distance is the overall horizontal distance the ball travels, including both the carry and the roll. Roll refers to the distance the ball travels on the ground after landing. [8]

Importance of Carry in Golf[edit | edit source]

Understanding carry is crucial for golfers of all skill levels. It allows players to:

  • Choose the right club: By knowing the carry distance of each club, golfers can select the appropriate club for the shot. [9]
  • Hit shots over obstacles: Carry is essential for hitting shots over water hazards, bunkers, and other obstacles on the course. [10]
  • Control ball flight: By understanding the factors that affect carry, golfers can adjust their swing to achieve the desired carry distance. [11]

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Carry is a fundamental concept in golf that plays a significant role in shot selection, strategy, and overall performance. By understanding the factors that influence carry and how to control it, golfers can improve their accuracy, distance, and overall game. [12]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/carry-vs-total-distance-golf-ball-flight
  2. ↑ https://www.golfdigest.com/story/how-to-hit-a-golf-ball-farther
  3. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/carry-vs-total-distance-golf-ball-flight
  4. ↑ https://www.golfdigest.com/story/how-to-hit-a-golf-ball-farther
  5. ↑ https://www.golf.com/equipment/golf-balls/best-golf-balls-for-distance
  6. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/how-to-play-golf-in-the-wind
  7. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/how-to-hit-a-golf-ball-farther
  8. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/carry-vs-total-distance-golf-ball-flight
  9. ↑ https://www.golfdigest.com/story/how-to-hit-a-golf-ball-farther
  10. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/how-to-hit-a-golf-ball-farther
  11. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/how-to-hit-a-golf-ball-farther
  12. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/carry-vs-total-distance-golf-ball-flight
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