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Back Spin in Golf: What It Is & Why It Matters

What Is Back Spin?

Back spin is the rotation of the ball around a horizontal axis perpendicular to the flight direction. It creates lift and affects trajectory and stopping power.

Units: rpm

Why It Matters

Back spin controls trajectory height and how much the ball stops on the green. Too little: ball runs out, hard to hold greens. Too much: ballooning, loss of distance, wind vulnerability.

Typical Ranges

Driver: 2,000-3,000 rpm. 7-iron: 6,000-7,500 rpm. Wedges: 8,000-10,000+ rpm.

Common Issues

Excess back spin: steep attack, high dynamic loft, or thin contact. Low back spin: shallow path, delofted face, or fat contact.

Related Metrics

Side Spin, Launch Angle, Descent Angle

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