Spin Rate

The total rotation rate of the ball in flight, measured in revolutions per minute (rpm). Spin rate combines backspin and side spin into a single number that, along with launch angle and ball speed, determines carry distance and trajectory shape.

Optimal driver spin is 2,200–2,800 rpm for most players; 7-iron spin runs 5,500–7,500 rpm; wedge spin can exceed 11,000 rpm. Too much spin balloons shots and shortens carry; too little spin produces low, falling trajectories that lose distance and don't hold greens.

Direct spin measurement (versus algorithmic estimation) is one of the biggest accuracy differences between premium and budget launch monitors. Photometric multi-camera systems generally measure spin directly; many radar and budget photometric units estimate it.