Chipping
The Fundamentals of Chipping
Build a simple chipping motion that produces clean contact and predictable roll.
Think landing spot first
A chip is not just a small swing. It’s a plan for where the ball lands and how it rolls. Before choosing a club, look at the lie, the green between you and the hole, and the slope after landing.
Set up for crisp contact
Use a narrow stance, slightly favor your lead foot, and keep the handle gently forward. The motion should feel like your chest, arms, and club move together. You don’t need a big wrist hinge for a basic chip.
Good basics:
- Weight forward and steady.
- Ball slightly back to middle for a lower chip.
- Quiet wrists through impact.
- Chest turning toward the target.
Match club to roll
A pitching wedge or 9-iron can be perfect when there’s plenty of green. A sand wedge or lob wedge helps when you must carry rough, a ridge, or a bunker. The mistake is using one club for every situation without looking at the landing zone.
Contact over cleverness
A chip that finishes 10 feet away is fine if it gives you a putt. The chunk that moves three feet and the blade across the green are the real scorecard killers.
Quick recap
Reliable chipping comes from a clear landing spot, simple setup, steady chest turn, and club choice that fits the shot. Keep the motion small and the decision smart.