When you look at modern-day beginner golf sets, you’ll notice that an increasing quantity offers hybrids well into the mid-irons.

The wider sole provides improved turf interaction, and the low CG prompts a towering launch. In this post, I weigh up the differences between a 6 iron vs 6 hybrid to help you find the correct club for your golf swing.

Superior golfers and traditionalists, such as myself, will not appreciate the chunky construction of a hybrid over an iron. However, the hybrid consistency and forgiveness are why high handicappers opt for these clubs over compact irons.

Before I dig into the features and benefits of these golf clubs, you should bookmark our review on a 4 iron vs 4 hybrid. This gives valuable insight into the features, benefits, and differences between the hybrid club and long iron.

Overview of a Hybrid and 6 Iron

A 6-iron and 6-hybrid are golf clubs employed predominantly for approach shots into par 4 greens. In addition, These clubs fit into your middle-distance game and bridge the gap between your short and long irons.

A 6-iron features a compact construction and provides excellent feel and acoustics on strikes out of the sweet spot. On the contrary, a 6-hybrid features a wider sole to offer superior turf interaction, a lower center of gravity, and maximum forgiveness.

Differences Between a Hybrid and 6 Iron

Clubhead Construction

The first difference you will notice between these golf clubs is the construction of the club head.

A 6 iron features a compact blade design and an undercut cavity back if it is a game improvement club. A 6-iron players club contains a muscle back structure designed to offer superior feel and acoustics with minimal forgiveness.

A 6-hybrid, on the other hand, sports the standard fairway wood-iron design that results in an oversized clubhead with a wide sole. Although this look is off-putting for superior golfers, it improves turf interaction for beginners to promote clean strikes from any lie.

In addition, the oversized hybrid clubhead allows engineers to position weight low and deep in the clubface for a high, consistent launch.

Loft

The next difference that I noticed was the average loft angle. Typically, 6-irons carried an average loft of 26.5-degrees versus the 28 degrees of the 6-hybrid golf club. As you would expect, the weaker lofted hybrid generated aggressive spin, leading to higher launch angles and soft landing.

I discovered that a crisp 6-iron strike produces sufficient spin to stop rapidly on approach. However, if you catch it thin, you deliver a lower trajectory, which can cause it to roll excessively and run off the green.

The higher launching hybrid club fitted with superb turf interaction, encourages consistent, towering flight for a controlled landing. This is advantageous to high-handicappers with rusty ball striking skills.

Shaft Length

Next up was shaft length, although, in a game of inches, the differences impact your clubhead speed and the quality of your strike.

The average golfer finds that additional shaft length accelerates their club speed, which is a positive. However, the longer a golf shaft is, the harder it becomes for the average golfer to control the club.

A loss of control leads to a weak smash factor and reduced coefficient of restitution (COR). As a result, you sacrifice yards on approach.

With this in mind, a 6-iron carries a shorter shaft, averaging 37.5-inches for steel and 38 for graphite. Conversely, a steel 6-hybrid shaft averages 38.50-inches, while the graphite tops 39. Although the hybrid shafts are longer, the exceptional forgiveness offsets the reduced control.

Offset

Offset is another glaringly obvious difference between these golf clubs. The hybrid features an exaggerated offset level, while it is muted in the 6-iron.

A high degree of offset helps golfers square their clubface at impact to combat slice sidespin. Therefore, your golf club resists slicing to the right and alternatively promotes straight golf ball flight for improved accuracy.

The enhanced offset of hybrids makes it easier for beginners to deliver accurate results. However, hybrids reduce the feel and impact acoustics compared to a 6-iron. Furthermore, you are more likely to produce a draw or fade shape when operating with less offset 6-iron. This is a trait mid and low handicappers may approve of.

Forgiveness

Game improvement golf irons offer spectacular forgiveness across the clubface for consistent results. However, a technologically advanced 6-iron still produces less forgiveness than a 6-hybrid.

The hybrid features low and deep CG, a wide sole, and an expanded sweet spot. This combination ensures you produce a clean strike, a high-flying ball, and greater carry distance in your mid-length game.

Besides the distance and high trajectory, amateur golfers find the added offset helps produce straight shots for improved accuracy on the golf course.

Ball Flight

The final difference I noticed between these golf clubs was the ball flight they produced. I found that I created a workable flight with a 6-iron, enabling me to shape the ball on approach. Conversely, the 6-hybrid limited the curve and sent my ball high and straight.

The workable nature of the 6-iron is more appealing to superior golfers looking for added control on approach. On the contrary, the hybrid’s straight, flight, and optimal accuracy is built for high handicappers.

Pros and Cons of a Hybrid Iron

Pros

• Exceptional turf interaction for a clean strike from any lie
• Produces higher trajectories
• Promotes straight shots
• Optimal forgiveness
• Prompts rapid clubhead speed

Cons

• These golf clubs limit your ability to shape shots
• They produced fewer yards than a 6-iron

Pros and Cons of a 6 Iron

Pros

• Controlled ball flight
• Superior feel
• Crisp acoustics
• The shorter shaft is easier to control
• Produce further distance

Cons

• The ability to shape your shots can worsen hooks and slices on mishits
• The lower ball flight can cause the ball to roll further than a hybrid, and run off the green

When to Use Each Club

6-iron

Par 3 Tee Shot

Besides approach shots, I use a 6-iron on mid-length par 3 holes. As I mentioned earlier, a crisp mid-iron strike causes your golf ball to land gradually and stop in good time.

However, if I catch the ball in the teeth the ball flies along a lower trajectory and rolls excessively upon landing. This can see your ball roll off the green and leave you having to make an up and down for par.

Approach Shot

Approach shots on mid-length par 4 holes are where the 6-iron earns its place in my golf bag. I typically swing it when I am 160 to 170-yards out. A crisp, full swing produces adequate height and flight to get the ball in the middle of the green.

When I am this far from my target, I have no business attacking the flag and opt for a safer approach. Obviously, if the green is unprotected and the pin is open, then you can have a crack.

Lay Up

When a par 5 green is protected by water or bunkers, I will employ a 6-iron for my second shot to lay up. This leaves me within striking distance to pull out one of my wedges and attack the flag for my third.

Punch

The 6 iron club has served me well over the years and in adverse circumstances. Whenever I find myself in the woods or blocked by trees it is the first club I call on. If I need a lower degree of loft, I may opt for a 4 or 5-iron. However, where possible, the 6 is my preferred option.

The moderate loft gives me an element of launch to fly rough and debris, while the shorter shaft makes it easy to catch the ball in the sweet spot.

6-Hybrid

Par 3 Tee Shot

Like a 6-iron, the 6-hybrid is ideal for tee shots on mid-range par 3 holes. The low and deep CG prompts a high launch and a soft landing, while the enlarged sweet spot produces consistent ball speed for optimal distance. This benefits slower swing speed golfers who need the extra yards.

On top of the flight, landing, and distance golfers, use hybrid clubs for accuracy. The offset design helps keep your clubface square at impact to deliver straight shots. This is vital on par 3’s where you have minimal room for error.

Approach Shot

The reason for using a 6-hybrid on approach is the same as off the tee box. Your ball flies high, straight, and long to improve your greens in regulation record. In addition, the wide sole improves turf interaction to produce a clean strike from any turf.

Based on these qualities, your golf ball is more likely to stay on target and land softly on the dancefloor.

Layup

If you cannot reach the green in two on a par 5, your only option is to lay up. I suggest hitting a pitching wedge, as it is generally too short to land you in trouble. But, it also contains a short shaft and is easier to control.

However, when you find yourself way back and have yards to make up, think about striking your 6-hybrid. It gives you the distance required for a favorable position and lands softly to limit the risk of excess roll.

Bump and Run

The final shot you can play with a 6-hybrid is the old-fashioned bump and run. Since the club carries a stronger loft than a wedge, it delivers a low flight and possesses the oomph to propel the ball up to the cup.

In addition, the oversized hybrid head contains an enlarged sweet spot and high MOI to minimize the impact of off-center strikes. As a result, you produce consistent results for a successful up and down record.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years. Current Handicap: 8

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A hybrid vs utility iron. Which club should you add to your golf bag?

In this post, my mission is to unveil the features and benefits of these golf clubs to help you decide which is best for your game.

In addition to assessing their pros and cons, I will explain how the clubs differ in design, launch angle, spin rate, apex, and distance. Plus, I provide tips on when it is suitable to swing each of the clubs on the golf course.

Overview of a Hybrid and Utility Iron

A hybrid golf club and utility iron are versatile golf clubs used in your long game. They aim to optimize your distance off the tee and on approach. Their oversized heads provide elevated moment of inertia (MOI) to generate straighter shots for improved accuracy.

Furthermore, both clubs are fitted with wider soles to produce optimal turf interaction in any lie. As a result, the sole glides across the turf, minimizing friction and inducing a clean strike.

Besides their work from the deck, golfers may employ them off the tee, substituting your driver or fairway woods. That is why these clubs also carry the pseudonym, driving irons. Although hybrid clubs and utility irons contain varying lofts, they are generally on par with each other.

The final similarity between these golf clubs is perimeter weighting. Engineers distribute weight in the heel and toe of the club to expand their sweet spots for elevated forgiveness.

Added to loft, my experience with these clubs revealed similar ball and clubhead speed. Now that you understand their reason for existing, let’s dive into their differences.

Differences Between a Hybrid and Utility Iron

Head Shape

The first difference you will notice is the shape of their heads. The hybrid resembles the standard fairway wood-iron combination with a compact crown. Its oversize profile enables engineers to position the center of gravity (CG) low for a high launch and ball flight.

On the contrary, the front of the utility club looks like other long irons, except for the lower back. This part is generally fitted with tungsten weight to stabilize the clubhead at impact for consistent ball speed and a square clubface. I found this helps you produce piercing trajectory and distance on all shots.

Shaft Length

If you place a similar lofted hybrid and utility iron alongside each other, you notice that the hybrids are longer. For example, I compared the 19-degree Stealth Rescue club to the Stealth UDI, realizing that the former was approximately an inch longer.

I checked the specs from TaylorMade, which confirmed my thoughts about the Rescue clubs. The stock Aldila Scent Black shaft on the 18-degree Stealth UDI measures 39.75-inches. However, the 19-degree hybrid contains a 40.75-inch shaft.

The hybrid features a graphite shaft. This design is generally an inch longer than its steel counterparts. A longer golf shaft helps you accelerate swing speed to produce a powerful launch. Unfortunately, a longer shaft is sometimes difficult to control and reduces your smash factor.

In my case, my smash factor lowered by 0.1 when I swung with a hybrid compared to a utility iron. To put it into perspective, Trackman suggests that a 0.1 extra smash factor increases ball speed by 1 mph and reduces your spin rate.

An optimal smash factor is 1.5, but most amateurs are reaching the 1.42 mark.

Launch Angle

The next difference I encountered was the launch angle, and I want to point you to a video by Michael Newton below to highlight my point. In his test, Michael shows how a 19-degree Stealth hybrid launches 4-degrees higher than a utility iron, making it easier to get airborne for high-handicappers and the average golfer.

If you need launch assistance, a hybrid is the better option, as it helps maximize your carry distance. The downside of a high launch angle is that it exposes your golf ball to wind, which can take it off line and rob you of yards.

Spin Rate

I was surprised by the spin rate differences between these clubs because I expected the hybrid to produce higher revolutions.

However, I found the utility iron generated 400 rpm less spin than the hybrid. Despite this, the rescue club delivered a higher launch, sharper landing angle, and stopped faster than the driving iron.

As you can imagine, a golf ball that launches high and spins low produces farther carry and total distance.

Apex

Your apex reveals how high your golf ball reached before it began its descent to earth.

Despite lower spin levels, hybrids manage to fly higher than utility irons, which advantages you in two ways. The first is that these clubs are easy to launch and produce optimal carry distance. Secondly, they induce a steep landing angle to stop rapidly.

When I tested these two clubs, I generated 21 feet over the low-flying utility iron, which showed its easy launch.

Landing Angle

The landing angle is the angle at which your golf ball falls from its apex to the ground.

The higher this figure is, the sharper your golf ball falls from the sky. This requires optimal balance because an excessively steep landing angle costs you the distance. However, a gradual approach continues to roll upon landing.

Given its increased apex and launch angle, it is no surprise that the hybrid induces a faster journey back to earth. In my case, shots with the hybrid elevated the landing angle of 5 degrees over the hybrid.

When it comes to distance, the controlled angle produced by a utility iron is preferred. I delivered an average of 5 yards extra roll compared to the hybrid. Therefore, I would prefer this performance on links courses and in the wind, where low flight and roll are valued assets.

Carry Distance

We have covered the performance aspects of these clubs. Now, let’s review the distance results.

Since the hybrid generated less spin but a higher launch and flight, it managed to trump the utility iron on overall distance. Although it is marginal, the hybrid club won by a single yard, but a win is a win.

Roll

The lower flight and gradual landing angle created by the utility iron help it deliver increased roll upon landing. This feature is beneficial in the wind or on links courses where you must fly it low and let your ball run on the firm turf.

The reduced level of roll provided by the hybrid is better suited to well-manicured courses that require precise distance control. In those instances, you can get the ball up high and stop it faster than a utility iron.

Pros and Cons of a Hybrid Iron

Pros

• High launch
• Increased offset for straighter shots
• Exceptional turf interaction
• Maximum forgiveness
• Longer carry distance

Cons

• They restrict your workability
• The higher flight can cause your golf ball to get caught in the wind and lose distance

Pros and Cons of a Utility Iron

Pros

• Lower, controlled ball flight
• Produces increased roll
• Encourages workability
• Ideal for windy conditions and firm golf courses
• Forgiving

Cons

• Produces fewer yards than the hybrid
• The lower flight makes it difficult for beginners and high handicappers to launch.

When to Use Each Club

Hybrid

1. Tee Shots

The easy launching nature of hybrids makes them a safe option for high handicappers to employ on par 3 and 4 tee shots. I recommend them on long par 3’s instead of a utility iron because of their shot-stopping power.

The high flight and sharp landing angle give you a better chance of stopping your ball on the green. In addition, a hybrid is an excellent option on narrow par 4 holes, where you are left with minimal room for error.

While nothing stops you from using a hybrid on par 5s, remember you will leave yourself well back for your second. This could put you out of contention for making a necessary birdie before the hole has begun.

2. Approach Shots

A hybrid is a trusty partner for approach shots on par 5’s and 4’s. If you have the length and a par 5 is reachable, you can induce an easy swing and launch the hybrid to oblivion. This leads to maximum carry and total distance.

On par 4 approach shots, a hybrid offers the added assurance of escalated shot-stopping power. Although your ball will not stop dead, it rolls less than a utility iron, helping you stay on the green in regulation.

3. Bump and Run

In previous articles, I explained that hybrids and fairway woods are excellent tools for a bump and run shot, and I stand by that. The high MOI head of a hybrid, and lower loft, helped me deliver an accurate low shot that generates sufficient speed to run up to the cup.

I found the wider sole on a hybrid provides exceptional turf interaction to ensure I get clubface on the ball. The nature of this shot and the hybrid’s forgiveness improves your chances of getting up and down.

Utility Iron

1. Par 4 Tee Shots

Given the performance of a utility iron, it best suits tee shots on par 4 holes. That is because you produce low flight and optimal roll, ensuring your ball gains yards even after landing. You can also use a utility iron on par 5s, but you may find yourself too far back for your second shot ruling out your chance of a birdie.

Furthermore, I find the lower flight impractical for par 3’s as this club does not provide the shot-stopping power of a hybrid. Therefore, you may find your golf ball rolling off the green, leaving you with the pressure of a chip and a putt for par.

2. Approach Shots

The exceptional turf interaction provided by a driving iron makes it a suitable club to use on approach shots. Whether on the fairway or in the rough, the wide sole on this club helps you strike your golf ball cleanly for a controlled trajectory and ample yardage.

A utility iron is useful on firmer courses, where you can count on an added roll to boost your total distance. I am referring to the likes of links courses, where run can be rewarded and high flight punished by the wind.

3. Windy Conditions

If you live in a windy city like I once did, it might be wise to add it to your bag permanently. As I have explained, its stunted flight is a dream for golfers aiming to replicate Tiger and produce a stinger for controlled results in the breeze.

Related Reading: If you understand the basics of these golf clubs, you are ready to level up. Head over to our 4 iron vs 4 hybrid review to find out which is longer, straighter, and more accurate.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years. Current Handicap: 8

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The very first time that I dabbled with the different stances was as a competitive junior golfer, trying to eliminate the natural fade resulting in numerous lost golf balls. Needless to say, my father wasn’t thrilled.

But after some tinkering, I figured out the right stance to improve my game.

So if you’re looking to add another setup to your repertoire, I detail the must-know pros and cons of a closed stance in this post.

I always suggest operating with a neutral stance for optimal posture, balance, and swing mechanics. However, a closed or open stance has its merits, as you will learn in this guide. First, we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of the closed setup before comparing the results to an open or square golf stance.

What is a Closed Stance in Golf?

In simple terms, a closed stance refers to a right-handed golfer who aims to the right of their target line. Naturally, the opposite applies to lefties. You will notice that this is the same stance you employ when setting up for a draw.

Your golf stance is similar to the one you adopt in baseball. It is the foundation with which a player finds balance, comfort, and efficiency in their swing. I learned about golf stances the hard way as a competitive junior.

I used to operate with the grip of death and produced an outside-in swing path on most shots. Sometimes, I got away with it, but when my left foot, hips, and knees opened up more, it aggravated the result.

Since my swing mechanics were too complex to tinker with on the golf course, I would close my stance slightly to compensate for the shape. This was not a permanent fix, but it did mitigate the effects and help me straighten out my ball flight.

The bottom line is that you can benefit from a closed stance in certain scenarios. However, you should not adopt this as your permanent setup because of the risk of erratic shots.

Pros of a Closed Stance

Corrects Fades and Slices

An extreme fade or slice is generally caused by a golfer swinging over the top and cutting across the ball. Just like a tennis player who uses that drop shot with a cut so that the ball stops rapidly.

Operating with a closed stance can encourage maximum rotation, prompting you to clear your waist and shoulders through impact. You’ll notice that this boosts power and helps you square your clubface at impact for straighter results.

My one buddy leads a “tough” life coaching in Phuket, Thailand, where all his students are beginners. He teaches them to hold the golf club the other way around and induce a baseball swing. His students find this awakens the rotation motion and helps them understand its importance in the swing.

You grab the clubhead and channel your inner Ted Williams, and feel how your hips and shoulders rotate.

 Encourages a Draw

A closed stance is required when you set up for a draw. This aligns you to the right of your target, anticipating the curve to the left.

A draw is handy for right-to-left doglegs for right-handers and left-to-right holes for lefties. Following the lay of the land shortens the hole and helps you position yourself optimally for a hassle-free approach.

Lowers Ball Flight

Closing your stance sets you up to produce a draw and strike the ball with a delofted clubface. You will find that this approach lowers your trajectory to restrict the impact of the elements. The uninterrupted flight leads to consistent distance and accuracy.

Low flight is highly beneficial when playing into the wind or when you are stuck under a canopy of trees. You will find that reduced flight in these conditions allows you to deliver ample yardage, despite the struggle.

Escape Trouble

We have all been there. The middle of a bush, behind a tree, and my latest achievement, behind a lamp post.

Closing the stance and clubface generated an in-to-out swing for a low hook when I was right behind a tree stump. The results were not always perfect. However, when my handicap dropped to single figures, and I practiced frequently, I had a successful record of escaping trouble.

Cons of a Closed Stance

Snap Hook

Unless you’re stuck behind a tree or bush, you only have to open or close your stance slightly. When players start to hook their shots, they aim further right of the target for a closed setup.

Increased Roll

The downside of the increased roll is the inability to control your distance. The low trajectory causes your golf ball to hit the ground hot and run like Usain Bolt, making it difficult to hold the green. As a result, you consistently sweat to get up and down. Instead of reading the line of a birdie putt.

Excessive Side Spin

I used to play with an excellent player in high school with a gentle draw that made me jealous. The only problem was that the bad days were terrible.

One day, I watched him miss every fairway because of the intense sidespin that sent his ball careering into the left rough. Luckily, he could escape trouble. Nevertheless, he lost so much confidence, and this specific round of golf traumatized his next ten games.

Other Types of Stances

Open Stance

An open stance is the opposite setup of a closed golf stance. In other words, your toeline will aim to the left of the target while the clubface is still square to the target.

Advantages of an open stance

Prompts A Natural Fade

As a youngster, I watched my older brother on the range. He could work the ball almost any way he wanted, and I wanted to do that. I thought I needed to change my grip or swing path, among other things. How naive I was.

All I had to do was open my stance and make a normal swing without changing much, and I noticed a slight fade. When you can work the ball any way you want, you have more in your artillery to achieve the best possible outcome for each shot.

A higher ball flight 

Every golf hole poses different challenges. I experienced this first hand at my home course littered with tall trees, water, and perplexing undulation. A higher ball flight helped me hit the ball over the trees hundreds of times.

Furthermore, the higher ball flight allows us to land the ball much softer, which is necessary for long par 3 tee shots and par 4 approach shots.

Disadvantages of an open stance

Loss of distance

The open stance encourages a left-to-right ball shape with a higher ball flight. Unfortunately, this can lead to a loss of distance, something exceptional players like Rory Mcilroy may disagree with. But, we are not him and must play to our strengths and abilities.

The more you open the stance and the larger the fade becomes, the more distance we will lose. This sets you up for tricky approach shots requiring hybrids or long irons, which reduces your chances of attacking the flag.

Heavy wind conditions 

I spent most of the last decade living in Cape Town, where wind is a permanent feature, and I am well versed in its torturous tactics. When I first set up shop in the Mother City, I played with a natural fade and got smashed all over the place by the breeze.

In addition, my open stance and clubface increased my apex, and the wind took hold of my ball and killed my yardage. I corrected this by closing my stance slightly and operating with a forward press setup.

Square stance

The square stance is when the left front foot is parallel to the back right foot and aimed at the target line. Your feet need to be shoulder-width apart, and the clubface has to be square to pull off this most common stance.

For example, you can have a neutral stance, perfect back position, hips, and knees in line, but when you play your shot, you have the ball in the center of your stance. This will make you push the ball to the right, even with the perfect swing.

Advantages of a Square Stance

Promotes Straight Flight

The greatest advantage of a neutral stance is that it prompts straight ball flight to boost your accuracy around the golf course. You will find that this balanced position encourages a fluid swing line with minimal deviation for a square clubface leading into impact.

Disadvantages of a Square stance

No Shape

The downside of constantly operating with a square stance is that it prohibits your ability to shape golf shots. This is particularly annoying on dog leg holes, where a draw or fade can nip you around the curve and give a short, direct approach to the dancefloor.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years. Current Handicap: 8

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For some golfers, the fact that the driver is so long can lead to trouble with control of the ball and ensuring that the shots stay in play.

This is why some players start choking down on their driver, and they almost immediately notice the impact it has on their game.

I’ve tried this concept, especially when I was younger (and even shorter). The results are… interesting and not necessary for everyone. Some amateurs can do well with choking down on the driver, while others should think twice before using this strategy.

Let’s take a look at what choking down on your driver will do for your game.

The Pros of Choking Down on Your Driver

There are a few reasons that golfers will choke down on a driver. The first and most obvious is that the club is long, and this can be hard for some players to adjust to. However, the main reason why golfers choke down is to establish control with the club.

Better Contact with The Center of The Club Head

If you want to make consistent contact with the center of the club head, it’s easiest to do it with a shorter club.

Have you ever noticed that you can hit your pitching wedge more consistently than you can hit your 4 iron? The main reason behind this is that the 4 iron is considerably longer, and it makes it more difficult to find the sweet spot.

When something is further away, it’s harder to be accurate; when it’s closer, you have more control. If you find that you make contact with the heel, toe, upper face, or bottom of the club head, it may be time to consider choking down on the driver to see if you can hit the sweet spot.

Lower Trajectory

Interestingly I put lower trajectory as both a pro and a con.

Sometimes hitting the ball lower is a great thing. If the wind is in your face and you are playing in the colder weather and want just to get the ball to advance down the fairway, this lower trajectory makes a big difference.

A lower trajectory won’t necessarily make you hit the ball further, but it does play well to the accuracy of the shot, and you should be able to hit it a bit straighter. Choking down on the club makes the club a little stiffer and therefore lowers the trajectory.

Less Spin

For some players, spin can be hard to keep in check with the driver in the hands. If you want to try and create a little less backspin or side spin on your golf driver, then choking down can help. Some golfers find that they get a bit more forward roll and spin when swinging with a driver they have choked down on.

Drivers today are lower in spin than they ever have been. So the technology will already be on your side here; it’s just a matter of combining it with the correct swing and setup.

Better Control of The Club

Control is the name of the game from the tee box. I have played with so many great players that can hit the ball a mile, but if you can’t keep it in play, what is the point of hitting it straight?

If you can learn to control the golf club, there is so much you can do on the golf course. For those trying to hit a fade or a draw, I highly recommend choking down as you learn. You will find it much easier to complete the process with a club in your hands that is slightly shorter in length.

The Cons of Choking Down on Your Driver

Unfortunately, choking down on a driver is not a perfect solution. There are issues with total distance, tempo, and lower ball flight that can be a problem for some players. Let’s face the facts here if this was a perfect solution, all golfers would do it, but that is not the case.

Less Distance

When you choke down on your driver, expect to get a little less distance. The difference in distance should be astronomical, but nobody really likes to lose distance on their drives. Expect about 5 to 15 years of loss on a driver.

The total length of most standard drivers is around 45 or 46 inches. When you choke down, you are effectively shortening the club, making it more difficult to get distance from the shots you are trying to hit.

It’s almost like hitting a 3 wood with a driver’s head on it. On an easy hole with no trouble in front of you, don’t worry about choking down on the driver. Get all the distance you can and play the wider fairway.

Slower Club Head Speed

Another problem with choking down on the driver is that it can slow down your club head speed. Of course, you may think that choking up on the club makes it shorter and easier to swing faster, but this isn’t the case.

Since the club swing weight is a bit higher and the shaft is stiffer from choking down, some players will actually lose some speed. This won’t be the case for all golfers, but it’s something to consider and think about when deciding if this is a good method for you to use on the course.

Lower Ball Flight

As I mentioned, lower ball flight is both positive and negative.

Keeping the ball in the air for a long time is good. You will get tremendous carry and the best possible results. However, a lower trajectory and a lower launch lead to less total distance.

If you want that big high, flying driver that heads down the center of the fairway, choking up is not the way to get it done.

Stiffer Shaft

If you have ever thought of cutting down an old golf driver shaft to make it a good choice for a younger player, you are doing them quite a disservice. When you adjust the shaft length like this by cutting it down, you make the club considerably stiffer.

The stiffer shaft will be hard for slower swing speed players to deal with. Professional golfers don’t seem too affected by this, as this minor adjustment doesn’t counteract their fast speeds.

Tempo Concerns

Sometimes the tempo of your golf swing can get thrown off when you choke down on your driver. Players will inadvertently increase grip pressure, forget to make a complete backswing, and sometimes lose balance when trying to choke down on the golf club.

Of course, you can improve your golf tempo by practicing on the driving range and learning how not to change your swing when you choke down on the club. Just keep this one in mind in case you choke down and feel like your swing is not the same.

How to Decide If You Should Choke Down on Your Driver

Sometimes the playing conditions on the course or some features of our golf swing will help you decide if it makes sense to choke down on your driver. Here are the factors that you should be thinking about.

Weather Conditions

When it is cold, windy, and wet, you will want to keep your dispersion rates down. The golf course is hard enough. Make sure you are hitting these accurate drives that get plenty of roll and can penetrate through the rough conditions.

On nice weather days when your swing feels fluid, and you aren’t as concerned with control and a lower launch, choking down on the driver is likely not necessary.

Trouble on The Hole

Golfers who are good at golf course management can accurately assess a hole and decide if it’s wise to swing away or keep things a bit more under control. Of course, when there is less trouble on a hole, you can look for increased clubhead speed and more distance.

When the golf hole has water hazards, sand traps, or even out-of-bounds, it could pay to choke down on your driver and get the ball in play. Some golfers will also consider using a 3 wood for a hole like this.

Player Height

The player’s height is another important consideration. If you are a taller golfer, it makes sense to hold your club at the very top. For shorter golfers, sometimes a longer driver feels challenging to control. If this is the case, simply hold the club a bit further down.

If you find yourself doing this continually, it may make sense to consider a shorter driver. Purchase this type of golf driver direct from the manufacturer instead of having it custom-fitted after the fact.

When you purchase direct, the club weighting and stiffness of the shaft can be double-checked before it’s put into your hands.

How Far You Should Choke Down

Golfers are often unsure of exactly how far down the shaft they should be choking down on a driver. You will have to play around with this based on what feels comfortable and what produces the proper results.

Generally speaking, choking down about one inch from the top of the driver is the perfect amount for most players. This small amount still has a great impact on the overall length of the shot and the ability to get the ball in the center of the fairway.

Remember that most golf grips have a taper to them. This means that the further you choke down, the smaller the club is going to feel in your hands. This can impact your ability to turn the club over, and some players hit the ball left because of it.

The next time you’re at the driving range, try a few swings choking down on your driver and see how it works out.

Brittany Olizarowicz

Britt O has been playing golf since the age of 7. Almost 30 years later, she still loves the game, has played competitively on every level, and spent a good portion of her life as a Class A PGA Professional. Britt currently resides in Savannah, GA, with her husband and two young children. Current Handicap: 1

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The putter is one of the last clubs in the bag that you can still get a great deal on. Finding a driver or a fairway wood under $100 is a bit of a challenge, but there are still some great putters out there that can help you improve your scoring and become a better player.

One of the most important keys to finding a great putter is paying attention to the type of putting stroke you have and the parts of the game that matter the most to you. If you’re good at alignment but struggle with feel, keep that in mind as you shop for the best inexpensive putters.

Here are the top 10 best putters under $100.

For golfers that just need a quick recommendation, here are our top choices:

Pinemeadow Golf PGX MB

Pros

• Has good distance control
• Easy alignment
• Soft grip that stays steady in the hands

Cons

• Use headcover as paint from the club head is known to chip

Pinemeadow is known for helping golfers get started in the game because of its low pricing and ease of use. What I love about the Pinemeadow Golf PGX MB putter is the fact that it has plenty of weight in the head. A heavy headed putter is great for fast greens and added control.

Each of the Pinemeadow Golf PGX MB putters comes with a Pindemadow Spider grip which is a little thicker than standard, has a soft feel, and will have good durability.

The black putter head makes it easier to see even on sunny days, or if you struggle to see whether or not it’s aligned properly, the Pinemeadow PGX MB is a perfect choice.

Mazel Tour GS

Pros

• Does not skip off the clubface, smooth roll
• Low center of gravity
• More consistent speed coming off the face of the club

Cons

• Only comes in one length
• The bat and blade style putters are not as good as the Tour GS Black Upgraded

Mazel Golf has started to put some great options on the market for golfers that are interested in a fairly priced upgrade to their game. The Mazel Tour GS putter is a mallet type golf club with a low center of gravity, high performance grip, and an impressive feel for the pricing.

One of the things that helps this putter stand out is the easy alignment. There are top lines that make it very easy to square up the club head and have it positioned towards your target.

In addition, the club has a high MOI, so it will work for mid to high handicappers as well as beginners. The Mazel Tour GS does come with a headcover, and it’s standard at 34 inches.

Pinemeadow Golf Site 4

Pros

• Offset hosel
• Site Plate technology for better alignment
• Smooth and consistent face

Cons

• Has a bit of a “ting” noise when you putt, not as smooth as PGX MB

The Pinemeadow Golf Site 4 is a very easy-to-use mallet putter with an offset hosel and fair pricing. Don’t be surprised to see the Pinemeadow name on our list more than once. The technology from this brand is perfect for the budget putter shopper.

With the offset hosel found in the Golf Site 4, the putter head is quite forgiving and allows for a good option for straight back and straight through putting strokes. In addition, the putter face was made to be smooth and minimize skipping or jumping off the face.

Whether you are new to the game or need to change up the equipment this year, the Golf Site 4 should be on the list for mallet putter golfers.

Powerbilt RS X

Pros

• More forgiveness on off enter hits
• Plumbers neck hosel
• Face insert with a soft feel

Cons

• Headcover does not come with it

The Powerbilt RS X is a mallet putter with impressive forgiveness and alignment. With the Powerbilt RS X, you will get considerable stability at impact and be able to keep the ball on a straight and true line.

Some putters that look really similar to the Powerbilt RS X retail for hundreds of dollars. This club has a plumbers neck hosel making it a little easier to get your hands into the correct position.

One thing to be sure of when purchasing a lower priced golf putter is that the weighting is a good fit for your golf game. Keep in mind that if the weight is not the right fit for your putting stroke, you can always add a bit of lead tape.

However, for those with some erratic putts, the Powerbilt RS X is an excellent option to consider.

Ray Cook Silver Ray Select SR 595

Pros

• A unique looking putter head
• Typically available in a few colors
• Heavy enough for faster greens

Cons

• Only comes standard in 35 inches

So far, almost all of the putters I’ve recommended are from manufacturers with a good history in the game. For the best cheap putters, it’s best to choose a brand that has a few successful models. The history of the Ray Cook putters stands out as being quite impressive.

With a few professional wins and plenty of professional appearances over the years, the mallet putters from Ray Cook stand out as some of the best. This is a high MOI putter that looks quite like the TaylorMade Spider.

With this face-balanced putter design, a straight back and straight through golf putter will find that the precision and accuracy are quite impressive. In addition, the feel is stable and solid with the SR 595 in your hands.

Tour Edge Golf Bazooka Pro 7

Pros

• Effortless alignment
• Face insert with micro grooves
• High MOI design
• A thick grip keeps wrists from breaking

Cons

• Larger club head can take some time to get used to

One of the first companies I recommend to golfers on a budget is Tour Edge. This brand does such an excellent job of making clubs perform and react like high end golf clubs for a price that is considerably more fair than average.

This club has seven different head styles, but the Pro 7 stands out as one of the best. The high MOI design helps golfers create a more pure and fluid putting stroke. Keeping the ball on the proper line will be considerably easier to do.

In addition, the thick jumbo putting grip will keep your hands out of the putting stroke and allow the larger muscles to handle the majority of the putting stroke. Expect very little head rotation with this putter and a softer touch.

Wilson Harmonized M1

Pros

• Semi mallet head shape is not too large
• Balanced feel for forgiveness
• Midsize golf grip
• Easy alignment design

Cons

• Some golfers say it feels a little soft

Wilson Harmonized wedges have always been one of our favorite choices for a value-priced wedge. It turns out that the Harmonized M1 putters also offer some really great performance for the higher handicap players and beginners.

If you are looking for a semi-mallet head shape, stability at impact, and impressive consistency, the Harmonize M1 could be a good option for you.

This putter does have a face insert to help improve the soft feel at impact. And the balanced feel will make off center hits much less noticeable. I like this option best for high handicappers and beginners looking for a more classic style putter.

MacGregor Golf MacPutt 003

Pros

• High MOI design
• Easy alignment technology
• Good options for mid handicappers
• Impressive technology to provide better alignment and feel

Cons

• Not the softest option on the market

The MacGregor Golf MacPutt 003 is an extended mallet head design that falls well below the $100 price limit. This particular model has more technology built in than quite a few of our other choices on this list.

The top of the club has a long alignment aid to make it easier to set up and ensure you are heading directly to your target. In addition, the model comes in both a left handed and right handed version.

I was impressed with the distance control of the MacPutt 003 for the price that it is offered. If you have some idea of what it takes to hit a putt solidly, the MacGregor putter could help round things out with consistency and an overall impressive feel.

Possot Golf Putter

Pros

• High MOI
• Classic blade style look
• Black finish for a modern appearance
• Lightweight and comfortable grip

Cons

• Brand name is not as well established for warranty-related issues

The Possot Golf Putter is one of the best blade style putters on the market. These blade style putters have an impressive feel and sound and come standard in a 34 inch shaft. Each one also has a lightweight pistol grip that is easy to hold and will keep your hands in place as you putt.

What I like best about this putter is how it looks from the top down. It has modern coloring and feel but all the classic shaping of a true blade. Your alignment lines won’t be as impressive with a putter like this, but that is to be expected when you switch from a mallet to a blade.

For a golfer with an arc style putting stroke looking for something that improves overall consistency in the game for a very fair price, the Possot is an excellent option to consider.

GoSports GS1 Blade Style Putter

Pros

• Good looking classic blade
• Fat grip to help with consistency
• Comes with headcover

Cons

• They are not as stable at impact as some other putters are

The GoSports GS1 Blade Style Putter is a new release to the market, but at first glance, I was impressed with the classic design and modern features. The stainless steel head actually has a milled face, something that is quite hard to find in the sub-$100 range.

With the GoSports GS1 Blade Style Putter, expect a fat grip with a 1.3” diameter that will take your hands out of it and allow the larger muscles to do what they need to do.

In addition, the club comes with a cover to ensure it stays as shiny and new as it is right now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few of the most commonly asked questions about the best putters under $100.

What are good affordable putters?

Some of the best affordable putters on the market are those made by Pinemeadow, Wilson, and Ray Cook. This brand seems to always keep budget in mind without sacrificing performance.

What is the proper putter length for my height?

The proper length of a putter for your height can be determined by a putter fitting or by using a fitting club chart. The standard putter size is 34” for those with average height. If you are 6’1” or taller, the 35 inch putter is likely a good idea. Those shorter than 5’6” may want to look at 33 inch putters.

What is the easiest putter to putt with?

Most golfers find the face-balanced mallet-style putter to be the easiest putter style to work with. This putter can stay square to the target on the backswing and follow through to ensure that the ball rolls toward the hole on the proper line.

Is it worth spending money on a putter?

The putter is the only club in the bag that gets the golf ball into the hole. It’s more fun to spend money on a new driver, but it’s more important to spend money on a new putter. Think about how many putts you take in a round and why the putter you play with is so important.

Brittany Olizarowicz

Britt O has been playing golf since the age of 7. Almost 30 years later, she still loves the game, has played competitively on every level, and spent a good portion of her life as a Class A PGA Professional. Britt currently resides in Savannah, GA, with her husband and two young children. Current Handicap: 1

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