How much difference will a 10.5 vs. 9.5 degree driver actually make?

Question

I recently upgraded my driver to a taylor made r7 superquad.

When I'm playing well, I tend to hit a high fade. When I'm playing poorly, the fade becomes a slice. I went with a 10.5 degree using the logic that it would be more forgiving to my slice than a 9.5.

I'm just wondering how much difference 1 degree makes. Is it really more forgiving? How much distance will I lose by playing a 10.5 vs. a 9.5?

Answer 1

More loft, less side spin.    Just see which one is straighter, your 5 iron or your 9 iron??

Answer 2

You would be suprised how much of a difference it can make..

But its depends on your swing and what that gives your ball flight.

I have a pretty low shot compared to Mr Average, so I use a 10degree to get the ball up in the air. Golf clubs also have kickpoints, at the bottom of the shaft, depending how low or high the kickpoint is, this can help to get the ball up faster if you need the extra height.

Go to a machine and hit different degress to see which may suit you more

Answer 3

Professionals who teach golf will tell you that the overwhelming majority of amateur players do not use enough loft on their driver. Players watch tour players hitting 8.5 or 9.0 degree drivers and want to hit the same club... but most amateurs will get more distance with additional loft.

The one degree of loft will make more difference than you might think in terms of forgiveness, but if you really need forgiveness, try using a 12 degree. Nearly all drivers come in a 12 and I can hit a 12 as far or further than I can my 10.5. My three-wood is a 13 degree and I can hit it off the tee almost as far as my driver and much straighter. The slower your swing speed, the more loft you need to get maximum carry; that's why women's drivers are often 13 or 14 degrees.

As for distance lost, wouldn't you rather have a 250 yd. drive in the fairway than a 260 yarder in the woods?

Answer 4

The answer to this is in your swing and game....you are the only one who can supply the answers you seek.......I would advise hitting both on a launch monitor to see which one actually suits your particular swing

Answer 5

none u gain distance