Descent Angle

Descent angle measures how steeply the ball is coming down when it lands.

It’s important because it affects how well the ball holds the green. A higher descent angle helps the ball stop quickly, which is especially valuable on long approach shots. A lower descent angle leads to more rollout, which can be helpful with drivers but less ideal with irons if the ball can’t stop near the target.

Fitters use descent angle alongside carry distance, spin rate, and launch angle to evaluate how well each club is performing. If the descent angle is too shallow with irons, the golfer may struggle to hold greens. Too steep, and the shot may lose distance.

Adjustments to loft, shaft profile, or ball choice can fine-tune descent angle so the golfer gets predictable stopping power throughout the bag.