How Is Pitching Different From Chipping In Golf?
Chipping: Getting the ball on the green as fast as possible and then allowing it to roll out.
Pitching: Uses more air and backspin to stick the ball closer to the hole and eliminate rollout.
In golf, chip shots and pitch shots are two of the most important shots, especially around the green. These shots use two different techniques to get a similar job done. There are many factors that go into choosing between the two techniques. These include the skill level of the golfer, potential obstacles, and the conditions of the grass the ball will be traveling across.
Chip Shots
Chip shots are lower shots used to get the ball onto the green fast and then allow the ball to roll towards the hole. Chip shots are used when there is a clear path to the hole and a flat green that can allow the ball to roll straight. When hitting a chip shot, it is important to try to alleviate as much spin as possible. As a result, the ball will travel flatter and roll forward quicker.
Pitch Shots
Pitch shots use a higher trajectory and try to remove movement when the ball lands. The best pitch shots “stick” when they land on the green. This means the ball barely rolls in one direction or the other. Pitch shots may be used if a player is extremely accurate or if there is an obstacle that needs to be avoided. Players will attempt to loft the ball up and create backspin. The backspin will cause the ball to move minimally when it lands.
Chipping vs Pitching
While chipping and pitching are both types of shots used around the green, there are specific differences that cater to certain situations. For example, if you need to clear a bunker and have the ball stop quickly, a pitch shot will make sure you have ample loft to get over the bunker and enough spin to stop the ball quickly. Conversely, if you are simply near the edge of the green with no obstacles in front of you, a chip shot should be the shot of choice.
Another main difference between chipping and pitching is the strike point on the ball. The strike point refers to the place on the ball where the clubhead first makes impact. On a pitch shot, the strike point should be where the bottom part of the ball touches the ground. For a chip shot, the strike point should be slightly higher on the ball, as this will result in less spin and more rollout.