Fairway woods are an essential club in any golfer’s bag, but they can be notoriously difficult to hit. One of the biggest challenges is getting the ball to launch high enough to carry over obstacles and land on the green. However, recent robot trials have shown that fairway woods can actually offer remarkably low launch, making them a more versatile option than many golfers realize.
The Tests
The tests were conducted using a robot that was programmed to swing a fairway wood at a consistent speed and angle. The ball was hit into a net, and the launch angle and other data were recorded. The results showed that the fairway woods produced an average launch angle of only 12 degrees. This is significantly lower than the launch angles of drivers (typically around 15-18 degrees) and even hybrids (around 14-16 degrees).
The Causes
There are several reasons why fairway woods produce such a low launch angle. First, the clubhead is designed to be less lofted than a driver or hybrid. This means that the ball comes off the club with less backspin, which reduces lift and lowers the launch angle.
Second, the shaft of a fairway wood is typically longer than the shaft of a driver or hybrid. This makes it more difficult to generate clubhead speed, which also reduces launch angle.
The Benefits
The low launch angle of fairway woods can be a benefit in many situations. For example, it can be helpful when playing in windy conditions, as the ball will be less likely to be blown off course. It can also be helpful when playing on courses with tight fairways, as the ball will be less likely to land in the rough.
Of course, there are also some situations where a higher launch angle is desirable. For example, when playing on a course with long par 5s, a higher launch angle can help the ball carry farther. However, for most golfers, the benefits of a low launch angle fairway wood outweigh the drawbacks.
Conclusion
The robot trials have shown that fairway woods can offer remarkably low launch, making them a more versatile option than many golfers realize. If you are looking for a club that can help you hit the ball low and straight, a fairway wood may be the perfect choice for you.
A. Fleming.