As a beginner, hitting the golf ball straight down the line can feel like a major victory. With the passage of time, you may also develop a go-to shot, but what would you do if your go-to shot didn’t work? Would you not like to have a shot shaping strategy to get you out of trouble?

 

The technique behind shaping a golf shot requires a lot of precision and power. And that’s probably the reason why shape shots golf is a widely looked-up golf topic on search engines. 

 

There is no age limit for learning golf and a testament to it is Steppenwolf’s song “It’s Never Too Late.”

 

Regardless of whether you are an experienced golfer trying to improve your game or a budding player eager to conquer the course, this article will be like a personalised all-you-can-eat buffet because it’s got everything you need!

 

Imagine yourself in the middle of a lush green fairway, holding the club of your choice, a golf ball on the tee waiting to take a flight in the air, which of these shots would you pick?

Different types of shot shapes in golf

A majority of golf players, newcomers, and experts hit the golf ball at a specific angle and height which is known as their natural shot shape. The variations in golf shots are subject to weather conditions, the expertise of the player, obstacles, and the location of the targets. 

 

One golfer’s go-to shot might not work well for a different golfer. That’s the attraction of this prestigious sport. It moulds itself according to each player’s capability and preference. On one hand, some players may spend years before they get the hang of the shot that works for them. But on the other hand, some players find their go-to shot like it’s their cup of tea. 

We don’t know which category you fall in, but one thing we know for sure is that learning about the extensive range of shape shots in golf will surely help you in future. So, in this article, as we dig deep and examine each style in detail, visualise yourself on the course, adjusting your grip and contemplating - which of these could be your trademark move? 

How to hit a draw shot?

A draw shot is one of the most popular golf shots. 

 

In this shot, the player initially hits the ball outside the target line. The ball then curves, moves into the line going straight toward the target, and lands at the desired spot. 

 

In the case of right-handed players, the ball moves to the right instantly after impact. After covering half of its flight, it changes its direction and lands perfectly in the hole. 

 

For left-handed golfers, the ball initially travels in the left direction but later moves to the right. 

 

Shaping a draw shot requires a lot of precision and sound technique. 

 

• The first step is to close your position by slightly turning your feet to the target’s right side rather than keeping them parallel relative to the direction of the target. 

 

• Now place your clubface in such a manner that it is looking down on the line going towards the target or is slightly left to it. 

 

• The line and direction in which the clubface moves are the two most important factors which determine the initial direction of the ball. 

 

• Last but not least, swing your club in a manner that goes from inside to outside. 

 

• There’s no need to twist or turn your feet while swinging the club. 

How to hit the fade?

Hitting a fade, also known as the amateur golfer’s saving grace, is quite different from hitting a draw. It also requires accuracy and prowess. Surprisingly, a majority of amateur golfers are naturally good at hitting a fade. 

 

Contrary to hitting a draw, you need to increase the distance between your feet when you are aiming to hit a fade. 

 

• It is recommended to whirl your stance so that it is open relative to the target. 

 

• Open your clubface so that it is aiming down at the target line or is slightly right to it. 

 

• It’s pertinent to remember that the goal of a fade is to produce a precise counter-clockwise rotation that creates a ball path that extends from left to right.

 

• To conclude, swing your club in a manner that goes from outside to inside, unlike the draw shot. 

How to hit a golf ball low?

A low shot is also known as a stinger, a punch shot, or a knockdown. The first step in hitting a stinger is to pick a club that has less loft. Unlike draws and fades, the type of club being used has a great impact when hitting a stinger. 

 

• Use a small stance (feet more close than how they are when hitting other types of shots) to help you in reducing swing force, decrease shot distance, and expand your power on the ball.

 

• Hitting a stinger requires more focus on the ball as compared to power. We recommend you place the ball a bit back of the centre in your stance to encourage a punch shot/knockdown. 

 

• Your hands should press forward on the club in an attempt to gain more control of the ball. 

 

• After getting everything else right, increase the space between your feet a little, transfer your force to your front foot, and hit the ball with utmost control. 

How to hit a high shot?

Just like life, sometimes, golf requires one to take the high road. 

 

Hitting a high shot is comparatively easier and a favourite of all budding golfers. 

 

• Unlike a stinger, position the golf ball behind your anterior foot, but slightly ahead in your stance. If you are aiming to hit the first shot on a hole i.e., the tee shot, use a lengthy or taller-than-normal tee. 

 

• Open up your stance by moving your back foot further back and place your head at the back of the ball. 

 

• At the time of impact, keep your head, club shaft, and anterior leg in an undeviating line. This aids in maximising distance, achieving a higher launch angle, and minimising spin. 

Shaping a golf shot: Four basic rules

Carving golf shots is not as easy as it looks. A number of factors contribute to the execution of a perfect golf shot. 

 

Let’s take a closer look at the four most important rules of hitting a phenomenal golf shot. 

Practise makes you better

We know it is impossible to practise every shot in the range, but when it comes to hitting shots that are not part of your everyday game, it’s important to practise them on the range at least once. 

Be consistent with your swing 

When looking to shape a different type of shot, it’s better to change one’s setup than swing. It takes years or even decades to get a complete hold of a suitable swing. 

Commit to the shot

A heart and mind that is committed to executing the perfect shot has a higher chance of getting it right as compared to one who has a lack of commitment and determination.

 

Your body language and outfit should portray your dedication and what better way to do that other than dressing up in a Druids Ambassador pack?

Prepare yourself mentally

Before you hit the ball, think about all the possible outcomes of your shot. How far will the ball go, how high will it go, will it deviate from its original path, or will it go straight toward the target?

 

Having a thorough knowledge of all the possible outcomes makes it easier to plan and execute a shot to perfection. 

 

Are you one of those who follows rules obediently or the one who thinks that rules are made to be broken?

Shot Shapes Golf: Which shot is the best?

Expecting a golfer to choose a single shot is a lot like asking a restaurant’s chef to pick out his favourite dish from the restaurant's menu. He just can’t pick one!

 

Each type of shot has its pros and cons, and no specific shot is good enough to be called everyone’s favourite. 

 

Most people tend to think that a fade is easier to hit as it doesn’t get the golfer in much trouble. Although that is true, this shot also doesn’t travel as far as a draw, lessening the probability of reaching the target. 

 

That being said, a draw has its downsides as well. Draws can land you in a lot more trouble if you over-rotate your wrists. This shot has a tendency to roll out further which means that the ball could land in a hazard, bunker, etc. 

 

To conclude, there is no best shot in golf and to look for the perfect shot is a waste of time. So we recommend you not to rely on one but find the shot that aligns the most with your game. 

Final thoughts

Shaping shots in golf is a phenomenon where skill, strategy, and practice work together to bring out the best outcome. But like a wise man once said, too many cooks spoil the broth-overthinking and trying to incorporate a bit too many techniques can negate the final outcome of your shot. Sports are meant to be fun and that’s something you must not forget even during a fierce match.

So next time you step onto the course, equipped with all this newly found knowledge about shot shaping, let each swing be a testament to your growth and passion for this remarkable sport.

Remember, perfecting your shot shape is almost like burning the candle at both ends. It requires patience, commitment, and precision. So don’t forget to have fun when learning a new shot shape and don’t even think about giving up!

Druids, also known as the best discount golf store in the UK, would love to see you succeed because helping this prestigious sport grow is our passion, and offering budget-friendly golf apparel to our customers is our ambition.