Creativity around the greens is a key skill for lowering your golf scores.  Other than nailing all my key putts, nothing is more important than chipping, pitch-shots, lobs, and bump and runs, to give me the best chance to save par, or avoid the dreaded double bogey.  I practice my chipping probably more than any other aspect of my game — and have done so for years.  You can practice in your backyard, at an old baseball field, nearby your favorite fishing hole, or directly at your next door neighbor’s 6:30 a.m. lawn crew.   Heck, you and your kids can even practice in your own home (when your other half is out and about.)  Here are some golf short game tips for developing and applying creativity in chipping, and some products that will help improve your skills and feed your pastime.  

1.  Vary Your Club Selection: Use different clubs for different lies and distances. A lob wedge might be ideal for a high flop shot, while a 7-iron or 8-iron might be better for a lower, running chip.
2. Experiment with Stance and Grip: Change your stance (narrow or wide) and grip pressure to control the ball’s trajectory and spin. A lighter grip can help with finesse shots, while a firmer grip can give you more control.
3. Play with Trajectories: Practice hitting chips with various trajectories. High, soft chips can stop quickly, while lower chips might roll out more. Adjust the ball position in your stance to control this.
4. Use the Bounce: Learn to use the bounce of your wedge to your advantage. Open the clubface and use the bounce to slide under the ball, which can help with fluffy lies or tight lies.
5. Visualize Your Shots: Before you make your shot, visualize the ball’s path and how it will react on the green. Imagine the roll and how it will break, and then execute with confidence.
6. Practice Different Lies: Spend time practicing from various lies, like uphill, downhill, and sidehill lies. Each situation will require a slightly different technique and adjustment.
7. Work on Your Touch: Develop your feel for distance control. Practice with different distances and scenarios to build a sense of how hard to hit the ball.
8. Incorporate Imagination: Don’t be afraid to try unconventional shots. If you see a potential shot that others might shy away from, give it a try. Sometimes, the most creative shots can be the most effective.
9. Learn from Others: Watch professional golfers and see how they handle tricky chips. Notice their technique and approach, and try to incorporate some of their strategies into your own game.
10. Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become with various techniques and situations. Regular practice will help you become more versatile and creative around the greens.

Incorporating these tips into your practice routine can help you become a more creative and effective chipper around the greens.  Here are some cool products to help you work on your game, to pass a little relaxation time, or just for some fun with the kids.

OH OH OH- and don’t forget to check out the new wedges from Callaway!

Recommended Products to Improve Your Chipping Game:

1. Chipping Nets: Portable chipping nets are great for practicing accuracy and distance control. Set them up in your backyard or any open space.
2. Golf Alignment Sticks: These sticks can help you work on your stance and alignment, ensuring you’re set up correctly for each shot.
3. Practice Golf Balls: Use foam or plastic practice balls if you’re practicing in a confined space. They’re safe for indoor use and still provide a realistic feel.
4. Golf Mat: A durable golf mat allows you to practice chipping indoors or outdoors without damaging your lawn or carpet.
5. Pitching Targets: These targets can be placed at various distances to simulate different chipping scenarios, helping you improve your accuracy and distance control.
6. Kids Golf Chipping Game– Battle Royale Golf FUN!

Here’s to a better mood! Happy practicing!