The Clubs

When to use your woods in golf

Wood golf clubs, including the driver and fairway woods, are typically used for long shots when distance is the primary goal. Here are common situations when wood clubs are used:

Off the Tee: The driver (1-wood) is most commonly used for tee shots on par 4 and par 5 holes. Its low loft and long shaft are designed to maximize distance off the tee, allowing golfers to achieve maximum yardage to start the hole.

Long Approach Shots: Fairway woods, such as the 3-wood, 5-wood, and 7-wood, are used for long approach shots from the fairway or rough when the ball is far from the green. These clubs provide distance and loft to help golfers reach the green or position the ball closer to the hole.

Par 5 Second Shots: On par 5 holes, golfers often use fairway woods for their second shots to reach the green in two shots (known as "going for the green in two"). Fairway woods are ideal for these shots because they offer the distance needed to reach the green from long distances while still providing enough loft for accuracy.

Recovery Shots: In some situations where the ball is lying in the rough or in a challenging lie, golfers may choose to use a fairway wood for recovery shots. Fairway woods can help golfers advance the ball a significant distance while still providing enough loft to clear obstacles and reach the fairway or green.

Par 3 Tee Shots: While not as common as irons or hybrids, some golfers may choose to use a fairway wood for tee shots on longer par 3 holes where distance is required to reach the green.

Overall, wood golf clubs are best suited for long shots where distance is the primary consideration. Whether off the tee or from the fairway, wood clubs can help golfers achieve maximum distance while still providing enough loft for accuracy and control.