The Importance of Yardage Gap Management

You only get to carry 14 clubs in your golf bag. Get the most out of each one by making sure they're properly gapped.

When it comes to navigating the golf course, choosing which club to use shouldn’t be a guessing game. That’s why it’s important to make sure your set is properly gapped.

“Every club in your bag is designed to perform a specific duty,” golf professional Matt Trimbur says. “[Gap management] has a direct impact on the number of clubs you want to have in your set.”

Yardage gap management can help you to hit the club that’s required for each shot. You’ll no longer have to worry about adjusting your swing to fit the circumstances. Most importantly, gap management is something that every player can benefit from. Use these Pro Tips to help make sure you’re getting the most out of your clubs.

WHAT IS YARDAGE GAP MANAGEMENT?

Gap management refers to the difference in yardage between each club. Large or uneven distances between clubs can indicate improper gapping. You should strive to have equal gaps of roughly 10 to 15 yards.

For example, your irons make up the body of your bag. So, having them properly gapped is essential to playing your best. “Hitting your 6-iron 150 yards and your 7-iron 140 yards would be a sign of good gapping," DICK’S Sporting Goods Associate Nick Jendrejeski says.

GAPPING YOUR WEDGES

A popular way to improve gap management involves your wedges. There can be a definite difference in yardage between your pitching and sand wedges. To make up some of this distance, some golfers prefer to add a gap wedge to their bag.

For example, if you average 110 yards with a pitching wedge and 85 with your sand wedge, that leaves a gap of 25 yards between clubs.

“That’s where a gap wedge can come in handy when you find yourself 100 yards out from the pin,” Jendrejeski says. “By properly gapping your wedges, you’ll be in better position to improve your short game and score low.”

If you routinely find yourself between clubs, then you’re likely costing yourself strokes. Take the guesswork out of your game by scheduling a custom gap analysis with the Certified Fitters at your local DICK’S Sporting Goods or Golf Galaxy.

By closing the gaps in your game, you’ll be ready to play with renewed confidence. Know which club to reach for on your next shot and score low with these Pro Tips.

Now that you’re more familiar with your golf club yardage, learn why custom golf clubs are important to playing your best.