Total Distance

Total distance is the full yardage a shot travels, combining both carry distance and roll after the ball lands. While carry distance shows how far the ball flies through the air, total distance reflects the real outcome on the course. Fairway firmness, slope, spin, and descent angle all influence how much roll a player gets after landing.

Fitters track total distance to understand how a club performs in real playing conditions. If total distance is inconsistent, it may point to issues with spin, launch angle, or strike location.

For drivers and fairway woods, total distance helps reveal whether the player is getting the right blend of carry and rollout. For irons, the goal is usually predictable carry more than maximum total distance.

Balancing both helps the golfer make smarter decisions and choose the right club for each situation.