Launch Monitor Data, What Does it Mean?

Launch Monitor Data Points Explained

In the ever-evolving world of golf, technology has become a game-changer. Launch monitors, the latest revolution in golf equipment, have taken center stage, offering players and coaches unparalleled insights into the intricacies of ball flight and club path. These remarkable devices go beyond mere swing analysis, capturing critical data points that shape the trajectory of a golf ball.

By delving into the world of launch monitors, we can unravel the mystery behind the data points they measure, shedding light on the vital elements that affect every golfer's game. From spin rates and launch angles to club path and attack angles, understanding these data points paves the way for optimizing performance, refining technique, and ultimately achieving golfing excellence.

Join us as we dive into the depths of this technology, exploring the fascinating world of ball flight and club path data points measured by launch monitors and golf simulators.

Ball Flight Data Metrics

Ball Speed

• Velocity of the golf ball just after impact
• Commonly measured in MPH
• PGA Tour driver average: 168mph

Launch Angle

• Angle of ascent of the ball from the ground

Back Spin Rate

• Rate at which the ball is spinning backwards
• Measured in RPMs

Side Spin Rate

• Rate at which the ball is spinning horizontally
• Measured in RPMs

Carry Distance

• Distance traveled in the air
• VERY important to know this with each of your clubs

Apex Height

• Maximum height the ball reaches during flight

Spin Axis

• Axis of the balls rotation
• Combines back spin and side spin

Flight Time

• Amount of time elapsed during ballflight
• Sometimes referred to as hangtime

Club Path Data Metrics

Clubhead Speed

• Velocity of the club at impact
• Commonly measured in MPH

Smash Factor

• Club Speed divided by Ball Speed
• 1.5 is known to be optimal
• Measures the efficiency of the strike

Impact Location

• Location of the club face that the ball was struck

Club Face Angle

• Angle the club face is pointing at impact relative to target
• Indicates where the ball would start

Club Path

• Swing path of the club immediately before and after impact

Dynamic Loft

• Delivered loft of the clubface at impact
• This is often less than the loft of the club

Angle of Attack

• Upward or downward path of the club at impact
• Often downward with irons
• Sometimes upward with longer clubs