Chipping vs. Pitching: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters in Golf
When improving your short game, understanding the difference between chipping and pitching is essential for better control and lower scores. Both techniques are crucial for approaching the green, but they’re applied in different scenarios and require distinct skills. Misunderstanding their purpose can lead to poor shot selection and missed opportunities.
Let’s break down the differences between chipping and pitching, including when to use each and how to execute these shots effectively.
What is Chipping in Golf?
Chipping is a low, controlled shot meant to roll the ball toward the hole after minimal airtime.
Key Characteristics of a Chip Shot:
- Trajectory: Low flight with significant roll.
- Distance: Typically used for short distances near the green (usually within 10–15 yards).
- Club Selection: Often played with wedges (sand wedge, pitching wedge) or short irons.
- Technique:
- Hands ahead of the ball.
- A narrow stance with minimal wrist action.
- Controlled, pendulum-like swing focused on precision.
Chipping is ideal for situations where the ball is just off the green, and you need it to roll smoothly toward the hole.
What is Pitching in Golf?
Pitching involves a higher, lofted shot designed to carry the ball further with a softer landing.
Key Characteristics of a Pitch Shot:
- Trajectory: High flight with minimal roll after landing.
- Distance: Used for longer distances than a chip, typically 20–50 yards or more.
- Club Selection: Higher-lofted clubs like lob wedges or pitching wedges.
- Technique:
- Wider stance compared to chipping.
- More wrist hinge and a longer backswing.
- Open clubface for added loft.
Pitching is perfect for clearing hazards, such as bunkers or thick rough, when you need to stop the ball quickly on the green.
Chipping vs. Pitching: Key Differences
| Aspect | Chipping | Pitching |
|---|---|---|
| Trajectory | Low and rolling | High and soft-landing |
| Distance | Short (near green) | Medium to long (20–50+ yards) |
| Club Used | Wedges, short irons | Higher-lofted clubs |
| Purpose | Precision roll to hole | Carry hazards, land softly |
| Technique | Minimal wrist action, short swing | Wrist hinge, longer backswing |
When to Use Chipping vs. Pitching
- Chipping: When the path to the hole is clear, and you can rely on roll. Ideal for smooth, even terrain.
- Pitching: When obstacles, such as bunkers or slopes, block the ball’s path. It’s also a go-to shot for soft landings on fast greens.
Tips to Master Both Techniques
Chipping Tips:
- Focus on maintaining steady hands and minimal wrist action.
- Choose a landing spot and visualize the ball rolling toward the hole.
- Use the club’s natural loft rather than adding lift with your swing.
Pitching Tips:
- Practice your wrist hinge to generate loft and distance.
- Open the clubface slightly for softer landings.
- Focus on a smooth, consistent follow-through.
Conclusion: Which Should You Practice More?
Both chipping and pitching are indispensable for a strong short game. While chipping is all about precision and control, pitching allows you to navigate more challenging situations. The key is to understand their differences, practice regularly, and apply the right technique for each shot.
Master these skills, and you’ll see an immediate improvement in your approach game, reducing strokes and building confidence around the greens.
