If you’ve ever found yourself just off the green, staring down a tricky chip shot, you know how important the short game is in golf. A few strokes saved around the green can make a massive difference in your final score. Enter the golf chipper: a specialized club designed to help you navigate those tricky situations and get up-and-down with ease. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about golf chippers, from our top recommendations, to how to use them effectively.
Square Strike Wedge
One of the big advantages of the Square Strike Wedge is its anti-rotational weighting, so you can swing it more steadily and keep it level as you’re coming through the striking zone. The heavy and solid feel promotes better confidence that you’ll strike the ball properly.
- Extremely forgiving
- Only needs a compact swing
- Simple but effective design
- Great price
- Not the best for longer approach shots
When you’re looking at chippers, you’ll notice that not all of them are legal to be used in tournament play. Some are specially designed and will allow you more leeway around the green. Unfortunately, tournaments tend not to allow that. But the Square Strike Wedge is a legal tournament club, so you can always keep it in your bag. This has an extra-wide sole and a beveled leading edge that will prevent the club from digging. This allows you to hit it more cleanly and not bring up chunks of the turf on your swing.
One of the big advantages of the Square Strike Wedge is its anti-rotational weighting, so you can swing it more steadily and keep it level as you’re coming through the striking zone. The heavy and solid feel promotes better confidence that you’ll strike the ball properly.
It is the length of a putter, so it’s a bit shorter, giving you more control. The club head is 330 grams, helping to minimize overactive hands and wrists. This has more loft than a 7- and 8-iron to help you with a variety of shots. You can bump and run and hit a lofted chip with this. You’ll be able to choose if you want it in left-handed or right-handed orientation, as well as which degree works best for you.
Intech Golf Approach Two-Way Chipper
While you likely won’t be able to use this in a tournament, you’re sure able to get out of some tough jams with it. This has a two-way club head, as people who are left-handed or are right-handed can use it.
While you likely won’t be able to use this in a tournament, you’re sure able to get out of some tough jams with it. This has a two-way club head, as people who are left-handed or are right-handed can use it. It’s great for a couple who may be learning the game together and can share this club.
It’s a unique design that also can be used if you have a ball leaning oddly against the lip of a bunker or near a tree, and you can swing it the other way. This is the length of a putter with the loft of a 7-iron, providing you with so much versatility in a single club.
You don’t have to be lined up in the perfect stance to make this work for yourself. It’ll help you save strokes on a hole and get you closer to the green. It also won’t put a huge dent in your wallet, as it’s a cost-effective choice. You’ll love the steel shaft and just how much room you have to play with on the club face. This is a solid choice for men, women, or children.
MAZEL Golf Pitching & Chipper Wedge
Specially designed for those golfers who struggle with their short games, effectively eliminating thin and fat chip shots from the fringe and around the green compared with traditional irons. It gives you more confidence and improves your short game instantly.
- Heavy head with a wide sole
- Legal for tournament play
- Four loft options
- High-performance grip
- Takes some getting used to
With a heavy head and a wide sole, you’ll have a hard time hitting this fat. Ideal for those who are known to struggle with chunking chips, this chipper works great on the fringe of the green. You can eliminate hitting it from just off the green on one side to just off the green on the other side. The head is 330 grams, and the shallow grooves of the sole help reduce the friction, giving you more accuracy. This is legal for tournament play and doesn’t break any rules.
It measures 35 inches and can be purchased in both left-or right-handed orientations. The head is offered in both a green or black color, allowing it to stick out and become more easily recognizable in your bag. You can choose four different lofts, depending on what area you tend to struggle with. It comes in 35°, 45°, 55°, and 60° lofts, all of which include better control and a high-performance rubber grip.
Tour Edge Golf Hot Launch 4 Mallet Chipper
If you’re constantly worried about blading it when near the green, this is a solid option for your game. This features a heavy, super-wide sole that cuts through rough easily.
- Heavy, super-wide sole
- Works well up to 50 yards
- Good quality
- Two length options
- Only one loft choice
If you’re constantly worried about blading it when near the green, this is a solid option for your game. This features a heavy, super-wide sole that cuts through rough easily. Whether you’re on the fringe of the green or in the rough 50 yards out, you’ll be able to use this.
It has the loft of an 8-iron, and it is made from 431 stainless steel, so it is built to last through plenty of chips. You’ll be able to control your shots more easily to give yourself better approaches. This features an extended length that allows you to choke down on the club to give yourself even more accuracy and control over your swing.
Wilson Men’s Harmonized Golf Chipper
- Chipper perfect for those tough spots around the green
- Alignment aid makes it easier to line up puts more accurately
You may think you’re looking at a putter when you’re looking at this, but it is much more helpful off the green. This has a loft of 32°, giving you a revolutionary head shape. This is meant to be swung like a putter, and you’ll be able to bump the ball and run it up and onto the green.
You won’t be swinging this incredibly hard, but it’s difficult to dig this club into the turf, so you should be able to pick it clean almost every time you hit it. The club face is not inserted, and it has an alignment aid that makes lining up your shot that much simpler. You’re not likely to duff chips any longer if you’re using this kind of club.
PowerBilt TPS Bump & Run Chipper
This is an extremely affordable club that you’ll get plenty of use out of if you’re someone who gets near the green but struggles around it.
Similar to the previous iteration, this is meant to get you from near the green to the green. You won’t have to take a full swing when using this club, as it has a 32° loft angle. You’ll be able to play bump and run with this from under 100 yards and in, gliding yourself up and onto the green for chances at more pars and birdies. Striking it properly will get the ball rolling, as you’re not going to get it up in the air too much. But that’s the point, as this is meant for a specific kind of shot and approach.
This won’t help you get out of a hazard, but it will help you avoid those annoying times when you chunk a chip and don’t reach the green you’re close to. The head material is alloy steel, and the shaft is PowerBilt custom steel. The grip is PowerBilt custom velvet, so it’s soft in your hands as you’re moving them back and forward. This is an extremely affordable club that you’ll get plenty of use out of if you’re someone who gets near the green but struggles around it.
Intech EZ Roll Chipper
Provides better performance around the green for better stroke saving capabilities
Provide yourself with the best way to minimize your errors by utilizing this around the green. This gives you better performance and control as you’re heading in from the fringe. An alignment aide on the top of the club head allows you to line up your ball.
The head is back-weighted to prevent it from digging into the turf. It features a gooseneck hosel that all but guarantees that you won’t shank your shot. Measuring 35° in loft, this gives you more flexibility for hitting the ball in the air than the previous two options. But it still is preferred for a more bump and run style. The club is 35” in length, similar to your putter. This will help prohibit you from overswinging around the green too. You’ll love how well you’re able to keep it balanced during your swing.
What is a Golf Chipper?
A golf chipper is a specialty club designed to help golfers with their short game, specifically for shots around the green. Chippers typically have a loft angle somewhere between a putter and a pitching wedge, making them ideal for getting the ball up and over obstacles without generating excessive spin or height. They’re particularly useful for players who struggle with traditional wedges or have difficulty executing consistent chip shots.
In terms of club design, chippers typically feature a wide sole and low center of gravity. This design allows for smoother turf interaction and helps to minimize the risk of hitting fat or thin shots. Some chippers also incorporate a putter-style grip and shaft length for added control and consistency during the chipping motion.
Pros and Cons of Using a Chipper Over a Wedge
Benefits of Using a Golf Chipper
- Simplicity: Chippers are designed to simplify the chipping motion, making it easier for players to execute consistent and accurate chip shots. This can be particularly beneficial for high-handicap golfers or those who struggle with the complexities of using a traditional wedge around the green.
- Forgiveness: The wide sole and low center of gravity found in most chippers help to minimize the risk of fat or thin shots. This added forgiveness can lead to improved consistency and better results around the green.
- Control: Many chippers incorporate a putter-style grip and shaft length, providing golfers with a greater sense of control during the chipping motion. This can lead to improved accuracy and a better feel for distance control.
Drawbacks of Using a Golf Chipper
- Limited versatility: While chippers can be highly effective for certain types of chip shots, they may not be as versatile as a traditional wedge. Golfers who rely heavily on a chipper may find themselves limited in their ability to execute a wide range of short game shots.
- Adjustment period: Some golfers may require time to adjust to the unique feel and design of a chipper. This could result in an initial drop in performance as they become accustomed to the new club.
- Perception: Golf chippers have been somewhat stigmatized as “game improvement” clubs, which may deter some players from using them. However, this should not be a deciding factor when considering the benefits that a chipper can provide.
Ultimately, the decision between using a chipper or a wedge will depend on your individual preferences and the specific requirements of your short game. It’s essential to experiment with both types of clubs to determine which works best for you.
Features to Consider When Choosing a Golf Chipper
Loft Angle
The loft angle of a golf chipper is an important factor to consider when choosing the right club for your game. Chippers generally have a loft angle between 30 and 50 degrees, with the most common lofts being around 37-45 degrees. The ideal loft for your chipper will depend on your personal preferences and the types of shots you typically encounter around the green. If you’re looking for a chipper to replace a specific wedge in your bag, be sure to select a loft that closely matches that wedge.
Clubhead Design
Golf chippers come in various clubhead designs, with some featuring a more traditional look, while others have a more hybrid or putter-style appearance. The design you choose will largely depend on your personal preferences and what you find most comfortable and visually appealing. It’s essential to try out different clubhead designs to determine which one instills the most confidence in your short game.
Shaft Length
Shaft length is another important consideration when choosing a golf chipper. Many chippers feature a putter-length shaft, which can provide added control and consistency during the chipping motion. However, some golfers may prefer a more traditional wedge-length shaft for a more familiar feel. As with clubhead design, it’s crucial to experiment with different shaft lengths to find the one that works best for you.
Grip Size and Type
The grip size and type on your golf chipper can significantly impact your overall feel and control during the chipping motion. Some chippers come with a putter-style grip, while others may have a more traditional wedge-style grip. Your ideal grip size will depend on your hand size and personal preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different grip sizes and types to find the one that provides the most comfort and control.
Right-Handed or Left-Handed Clubs
Finally, be sure to choose a golf chipper that is designed for your dominant hand. Most chippers are available in both right-handed and left-handed options, so be sure to select the correct one for your needs.
How to Use a Golf Chipper Effectively
Proper Stance and Grip
When using a golf chipper, it’s essential to adopt a proper stance and grip. Many golfers find success using a putting-style stance and grip when chipping with a chipper. This involves standing closer to the ball, with your feet slightly closer together than a standard chipping stance. Your weight should be slightly forward, with your hands positioned ahead of the ball. This setup encourages a slightly descending strike, promoting clean contact and consistent results.
Ball Position
Ball position is another crucial factor when chipping with a golf chipper. A good rule of thumb is to position the ball slightly back in your stance, usually around the middle or just behind the middle. This ball position helps promote a slightly downward strike, ensuring solid contact and minimizing the risk of fat or thin shots.
Swing Technique and Tempo
When swinging a golf chipper, it’s essential to maintain a smooth and controlled tempo. Many golfers find success using a pendulum-style motion, with minimal wrist hinge and a focus on maintaining a steady rhythm. This technique can help promote consistency and accuracy in your chip shots.
Tips for Practicing with a Golf Chipper
To get the most out of your golf chipper, it’s essential to practice regularly. Here are some tips for practicing effectively with your chipper:
- Focus on maintaining a smooth and controlled tempo during your chipping motion.
- Experiment with different ball positions to find the one that produces the best results for you.
- Practice from various lies and situations around the green to develop a better understanding of how your chipper performs in different scenarios.
- Work on your distance control by chipping to targets at varying distances, focusing on developing a consistent swing length and tempo for each shot.
- Don’t neglect your other short game clubs. While a chipper can be a valuable addition to your bag, it’s essential to continue practicing with your wedges and putter to maintain a well-rounded short game.
Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Chippers
Are golf chippers legal for tournament play?
Yes, golf chippers are legal for tournament play as long as they conform to the rules and regulations set forth by the governing bodies of golf, such as the USGA and R&A. Be sure to check the specific rules for the tournament or event you’re participating in to ensure that your chipper is allowed.
Can I replace my wedges with a golf chipper?
While a golf chipper can be a valuable addition to your bag, it should not completely replace your wedges. Chippers are designed for specific short game situations and may not offer the same versatility and shot-making options as a traditional wedge. It’s essential to maintain a well-rounded short game by practicing with both chippers and wedges.
Can beginners benefit from using a golf chipper?
Absolutely! Golf chippers can be particularly beneficial for beginners and high-handicap golfers who struggle with their short game. Chippers are designed to simplify the chipping motion, making it easier for players to achieve consistent and accurate chip shots.
What is the difference between a chipper and a wedge?
A chipper is a specialty club designed for short game shots around the green, with a loft angle between a putter and a pitching wedge. Chippers typically have a wide sole and low center of gravity, making them more forgiving on fat or thin shots. In contrast, a wedge is a more versatile club with a higher loft angle, allowing golfers to execute a wider range of short game shots.
Conclusion
Selecting the right golf chipper can have a significant impact on your short game performance and overall scores. By understanding the unique features and benefits of golf chippers and considering the various factors discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision when choosing the perfect chipper for your game.
Remember that practice and refinement are crucial to unlocking the full potential of your golf chipper. By dedicating time to working on your chipping skills and developing a better understanding of how your chipper performs in different scenarios, you’ll be well on your way to lowering your scores and improving your overall golf game.
