Difference Between Chipping and Pitching: Mastering Your Golf Short Game
In golf, understanding the difference between chipping and pitching is essential for improving your short game and lowering your score. Both techniques are crucial for different scenarios, but they require unique approaches and skill sets. Let’s break them down so you can apply the right shot at the right time.
What is Chipping in Golf?
Definition and Purpose
Chipping is a short, low-trajectory shot used to move the ball onto the green and roll it toward the hole. Typically executed from close to the green, the primary goal is precision, as the ball spends minimal time in the air and rolls for most of its distance.
Key Characteristics of Chipping:
- Low loft: The ball travels in a low arc.
- Roll-focused: Minimal airtime with an emphasis on ground roll.
- Clubs used: Often performed with a pitching wedge, 9-iron, or 7-iron, depending on distance and green speed.
When to Use a Chip Shot:
- When you’re near the green, but not on it.
- The ball has a clear path to roll toward the hole.
- You want more control over distance by focusing on roll instead of airtime.
What is Pitching in Golf?
Definition and Purpose
Pitching is a higher-lofted shot designed to carry the ball over obstacles, such as bunkers or rough, with less focus on roll. It’s used when you’re farther from the green and need to stop the ball quickly upon landing.
Key Characteristics of Pitching:
- High loft: The ball travels in a steep arc.
- Air-focused: Emphasis on carrying the ball over hazards.
- Clubs used: Usually performed with a sand wedge, lob wedge, or pitching wedge.
When to Use a Pitch Shot:
- When you’re farther from the green, typically 20–50 yards away.
- You need to clear hazards like bunkers, water, or thick rough.
- A soft landing is required to minimize roll after impact.
Comparing Chipping vs. Pitching
| Aspect | Chipping | Pitching |
|---|---|---|
| Trajectory | Low and rolling | High and soft landing |
| Distance | Shorter distance, near the green | Longer distance, up to 50 yards |
| Primary Focus | Rolling the ball toward the hole | Clearing hazards with airtime |
| Clubs Used | 7-iron, 9-iron, pitching wedge | Sand wedge, lob wedge, pitching wedge |
| Skill Needed | Precision and control | Loft and spin management |
Tips for Perfecting Both Techniques
For Chipping:
- Focus on a simple, pendulum-like motion with your arms and shoulders.
- Keep your wrists firm to ensure consistent contact.
- Use a narrow stance and lean slightly toward your lead foot for stability.
For Pitching:
- Open your stance slightly for more loft and control.
- Use your wrists to create a steeper angle of attack.
- Practice controlling the ball’s spin to stop it faster on the green.
Master Both for a Complete Short Game
Understanding the difference between chipping and pitching helps you select the best shot for any situation, improving your confidence and performance on the course. Practice both techniques regularly to develop the touch and precision needed to handle a variety of short-game challenges.
