What club fitting data is most important?

Club Fitting FAQs

At its core, club fitting is about translating swing data into equipment decisions. Today’s launch monitors collect dozens of data points with every swing, but not all numbers are created equal.

Here are the key metrics your fitter will focus on, and what they mean for your game.

Ball Speed

The speed of the ball immediately after impact.
Directly influenced by how efficiently you strike the ball.
Higher ball speed = more distance (if launch and spin are optimized).

What to look for: Consistent, high ball speed across multiple club options.

Clubhead Speed

How fast the clubhead is moving at the moment of impact.
Affects how much potential distance you can generate.
Paired with smash factor to measure efficiency.

What to look for: Even small gains in clubhead speed (1–2 mph) can mean 3–5 extra yards.

Smash Factor

Ball speed ÷ clubhead speed = Smash Factor
Measures how efficiently you’re transferring energy to the ball.
Ideal with driver = 1.45–1.50; irons are lower.

What to look for: If your smash factor is low, it’s usually a sign your current club setup isn’t maximizing your potential.

Launch Angle

The initial vertical angle the ball leaves the clubface.
Too low = ball dives; too high = ballooning and lost distance.
Ideal range depends on club and swing speed.

What to look for: Fitting helps dial this in by adjusting loft, shaft flex, or tee height.

Spin Rate

How fast the ball is spinning backward (backspin).
Low spin = more roll, but less control.
High spin = more stopping power, but can cost distance.

What to look for: A properly fit driver keeps spin between 2,000–2,800 rpm for most amateurs.

Carry Distance vs. Total Distance

Carry: How far the ball flies in the air.
Total: Carry + roll
Fitters prioritize carry distance, especially for carry hazards or approach shots.

What to look for: A club that gives you more total distance may not be better if it produces low, hard-to-stop shots.

Shot Dispersion

The grouping of your shots left/right and short/long.
A tighter dispersion means more consistency and predictability.
Fitting can drastically tighten shot patterns by matching you to the right specs.

Shot grouping with optimized shaft and lie angles can dramatically improve your accuracy and lower your scores and handicap.

Quick Takeaway
Data doesn’t lie, and when you’re working with a knowledgeable fitter, it becomes your biggest advantage. Understanding your numbers helps you stop guessing and start playing with confidence.