Should you hit hybrid off tee or ground?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

When it comes to deciding whether to hit your hybrid off the tee or off the ground, it’s important to consider the specific situation and the desired outcome of your shot. While hitting the ball high on a tee may seem appealing, it may not always be the best option.

Firstly, let’s talk about hitting the hybrid off the tee. This can be a good choice when you need maximum distance and want to take advantage of the hybrid’s design, which is similar to a fairway wood. The larger clubhead and lower center of gravity can help you get the ball airborne and achieve more distance off the tee. This can be particularly useful on longer par 3s or when you need to hit a long tee shot on a par 4 or par 5 hole.

However, there are situations where hitting the hybrid off the ground can be a better option. If you find yourself in the fairway with a good lie, setting the ball low to the ground and hitting the hybrid like an iron can provide more control and accuracy. The hybrid’s design allows for a higher launch angle and more forgiveness on off-center hits, making it a versatile club for approach shots from the fairway.

It’s worth noting that hitting the hybrid off the ground can also be a good choice when facing a tight fairway or a narrow landing area. The lower trajectory and more controlled shot shape can help you navigate through obstacles and keep the ball in play.

In my personal experience, I have found that hitting the hybrid off the ground can be particularly effective when playing on firm and fast fairways. The lower ball flight helps to reduce the effects of wind and roll out more, allowing for better distance control.

To summarize, while hitting the hybrid off the tee can provide maximum distance, hitting it off the ground can offer more control and accuracy. It’s important to assess the specific situation and consider the desired outcome before deciding which approach to take. Experimenting with both options during practice rounds can help you determine which method works best for your game.