Soft, powdery bunkers around the greens may look inviting, but they can be deceptively tricky without a few key adjustments.
As GOLF Teacher to Watch Parker McLachlin explains, the soft sand creates extra resistance against your clubhead, and if your technique is off, it can lead to poor, chunky contact—causing the ball to fall short of the green or, even worse, land in the lip of the bunker.
However, with two set up keys from McLachlin, you can hit these shots like a pro.
Use less loft
According to McLachlin, using less loft—or clubbing up—allows you to combat the resistance of the softer sand without having to increase your speed or chang your swing.
“I’m taking my 52-degree versus usually taking my 60-degree,” McLachlin says, “That’s going to help me hit the ball with basically the same swing as I would my 60-degree.”
Keep your weight back
The second set-up adjustment you need to make from soft sandy lies is to put more weight in your trail foot. By setting your weight slightly back, McLachlin explains that you’ll find it easier to cut through the sand easier without manipulating your swing.
“This is going to allow me to shallow out my swing so that I don’t get steep and stuck in this really thick sand,” McLachlin says.
With these two keys, you can maintain a smooth swing and create clean contact on these shots every time.
You’ll find more of McLachlin’s advice at ShortGameChef.com, which provides golfers with a comprehensive resource to improve their short games. Through personalized tips, drills and expert insights, McLachlin helps players of all levels gain more confidence and a deeper understanding of their short game to lower their scores. You can browse membership options here.
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