When I was younger, my favorite shot to practice in the backyard was the flop shot. There’s something fun about launching the ball high into the air, watching it travel a short distance and stopping it exactly where you want. As I got more confident, I’d open the clubface more and more.
But as much as I practiced flop shots, I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve hit a true, full-on flop shot in a competitive round. The conditions must be just right for the risk to be worth it.
So when should you attempt a golf flop shot and when should you play it safe? I’ve broken it down, along with some tips from the best in the game to help you execute it properly when the situation calls for it.
When you can consider a golf flop shot
The ideal conditions for a flop shot are when you have a ball sitting up in some rough and you have short-sided yourself with an obstacle like a bunker between you and the pin. You need to clear the obstacle but don’t have much room to work with.
Short-sided with an obstacle (bunker, rough, etc.) – If you need to clear an obstacle and have confidence in your technique.
Fluffy lie in deep rough – Ball sits up, allowing the club to slide under it.
Soft ground with plenty of grass – More margin for error, making it easier to use the club’s bounce effectively.
Casual round with no consequences – A great time to practice the shot without pressure.
If you’re confident in your execution – This is not a shot to attempt if you are worried about your ability.
