What is a Ping black dot?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

A Ping black dot is a reference to the lie angle of a golf club. The lie angle refers to the angle between the shaft of the club and the sole, or bottom, of the club when the club is resting on the ground in its normal playing position. The lie angle can have a significant impact on the direction and flight of the golf ball when struck.

Ping, a well-known golf club manufacturer, has developed a color code system to indicate different lie angles for their clubs. The black dot is considered the standard lie angle for Ping clubs. It is important to note that the color code system is specific to Ping and may not correspond to the lie angle specifications of other golf club brands.

In the Ping color code system, each color represents a 1° variation in lie angle from the standard black dot. The color codes are as follows:

– Blue: 0.75° upright
– Green: 0.5° upright
– White: 0.25° upright
– Black: Standard lie angle (no adjustment)
– Red: 0.75° flat
– Orange: 1.5° flat

These color codes allow golfers to customize the lie angle of their Ping clubs to better suit their swing characteristics and address any tendency to consistently miss shots in a particular direction.

It is important to understand that the Ping color code system is unique to Ping’s factory specifications. Other golf club manufacturers may have their own variations of lie angles and color codes. For example, a club labeled as 1° upright in Ping’s color code system may be considered standard or even slightly flat by another brand’s standards.

When fitting golf clubs, it is crucial to take into account the individual golfer’s swing characteristics, body posture, and ball flight tendencies. A professional club fitter can help determine the appropriate lie angle for an individual golfer through various fitting techniques, such as using lie boards or analyzing ball flight data.

While the Ping color code system is widely recognized and used by golfers, it is essential to note that a specific color code (e.g., black dot) may not translate directly to the lie angle specifications of other golf club brands. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult with a club fitting expert or refer to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the proper lie angle for your golf clubs.

In my personal experience, I have found that the lie angle of my golf clubs has a significant impact on my ball flight. I once had a set of clubs that were too upright for my swing, causing the ball to consistently veer to the left. After being properly fitted and adjusting the lie angle, my shots became much straighter and more accurate.

Understanding the concept of a Ping black dot lie angle and the color code system is important for golfers who use Ping clubs. However, it is crucial to remember that each golf club brand may have its own specifications, and fitting should be done based on individual swing characteristics and ball flight tendencies.