Golf ball spin is just something that makes people dizzy. Yes, getting all headache and dizzy by trying to execute it, play it, deliver it, understand it or maybe even stop it. In fact, it might be one of the most difficult techniques to properly execute. When you want it, you do not get it. When you find it unwanted and want that silly natural slice or hook off, you find plenty of it coming out. You might even find yourself doing something ridiculous like a topspin off your tee shot when you do not know how.
The two common types of spin are the back spin and the top spin. A general term that you will normally come across is the spin rate of the golf ball. Are these terms important? Yes, if you want to understand how to execute them properly and when to execute them, they will be an asset to you.
A general term would be Spin Rate and it is measured in revolutions per minute. It refers to the speed at which the golf ball spins per minute when the golf ball is in flight.
Trying to control your flight trajectory off your golf ball? Some golfers naturally have slices or hooks due to their golf grip and though you need time to cure and fix your grip, you can also play a straighter and more forgiving golf ball. If not, a golf swing with your driver will naturally cause a little back spin if done correctly due to the stroke and action of the swing.
Some golfers do experience a low spiraling shot that goes down real fast off the driver. That is a natural top spin that is imparted to the golf ball. Can it be done on purpose? Yes you can but why on earth would you want to do that? A top spin is done by hitting the spot that is slightly above the equator of the golf ball. But using a driver to hit that kind of shots have no benefits in trajectory or distance to your game.
A back spin will be more difficult to execute off your wedges and that needs a little amount of skill. Ever seen your partner’s golf ball go dancing around the greens? That is back spin in action. To do that correctly, you need a good soft covered golf ball with a nice cleaned sand wedge. That is the best equipment for you to execute a good back spin. For steps on how to execute them, you can check out my other articles on it.
When do you need a back spin? Off the driver, it is best to minimize your back spin as back spin will magnify your hooks or slices. To do that, it is best to use a golf ball that is easy to compress and reduce spin off the driver. A soft covered golf ball is best for that. You will want more back spin in your short game especially your short irons and wedges where distance is lacking and you need to control them too to prevent it from running too far out.
Back spin is a good way to act as grips and brakes to stop where you would like to stop. You can have fun with it and enjoy your game just by imparting back spin whenever you need them to your advantage.