Golf clubs come in many shapes and sizes, but one of the most important things to understand about your clubs is loft. Loft plays a big role in how high, far, and accurately you hit the ball. If you’ve ever wondered why some shots soar high and others stay low, loft is a big part of the answer. At Haywood Golf, we make sure every club’s loft is designed to help you play your best—no matter your experience level.
What Is Loft? Loft is the angle of the clubface relative to the ground when the club is resting in a neutral position.
This angle determines how high the ball launches, how much spin it has, and how far it goes. Simply put, more loft equals higher shots with more spin, while less loft creates lower, more penetrating ball flights.
How Loft Impacts Different Clubs
Drivers and Woods: Drivers usually have the least loft in the bag, typically ranging from 8° to 12°. Less loft means more distance for those long tee shots. But here’s the thing: if you have a slower swing speed, a driver with slightly more loft can help you launch the ball higher and get the most distance possible.
Irons: Irons have more loft as the numbers get higher—so your 4-iron has less loft than your 9-iron. For example, our SV.2 Game Improvement Irons are built with lofts that make it easier for newer or mid- to high-handicap players to get the ball up in the air and add distance to their shots. Explore the SV.2 irons here.
Wedges: Wedges are your highest-lofted clubs, with lofts ranging from 46° all the way up to 64°. These clubs are your go-to for short shots that require precision and control—think pitching onto the green or escaping a tricky bunker. Our wedge lineup has you covered for every type of shot you’ll face. Learn more about Haywood wedges here.
Driving Irons: Driving irons, like our SDI.2, sit in a sweet spot with lofts around 18° to 21°. They’re perfect when you need a low, controlled ball flight for long shots—especially when you’re hitting into the wind or need accuracy off the tee. Check out the SDI.2 driving iron here.
Custom Loft Adjustments: At Haywood Golf, we believe your clubs should work for you. That’s why we offer free loft adjustments on all our irons, wedges, and driving irons. Whether you want a little extra loft for a higher ball flight, or you’re fine-tuning your set to get the perfect yardage gaps, our in-house builders can make it happen—at no extra cost.
Here’s the best part: we build every club to order, right here in-house. Unlike some other brands that rely on dropshipping, we personally handle every adjustment and build your clubs to your exact specifications. That means you get a set of clubs that fits your game perfectly, down to the smallest detail.
Choosing the Right Loft for Your Game
Swing Speed: If you have a slower swing speed, higher lofted clubs can help you get the ball in the air and add more carry distance. On the other hand, golfers with faster swing speeds can benefit from lower lofts for optimal launch and spin.
Playing Style: Do you like hitting high, soft shots that land gently? Or do you prefer a lower, more controlled ball flight that rolls out a bit? Your playing style will help determine the loft you need. For example, our CB Forged Irons feature traditional lofts that give players more control and the ability to shape shots. Explore the CB Forged Irons here.
Course Conditions: Windy day? Lower-lofted clubs can help you keep the ball under control. On the flip side, if you’re playing on soft greens, higher lofts will help your shots stop quickly where you want them.
Gap Management: Making sure there’s a consistent distance gap between your clubs is super important. If two clubs go the same distance, or if there’s a big gap in yardage, it’s time to check your lofts and fine-tune your set.
Loft Adjustability: Some modern clubs—like drivers and hybrids—let you adjust the loft to tweak your launch and spin. While irons and wedges don’t typically offer this, Haywood Golf’s custom fitting ensures your lofts are dialed in perfectly for your game.
Why Haywood Golf Prioritizes Loft Design: At Haywood Golf, we know how important loft is to your performance. That’s why every club we design—from the towering SV.2 irons to the precision SDI.2 driving iron—is optimized to help you get the results you want. And with free loft adjustments available, you can fine-tune your clubs to suit your swing and your goals.
The Bottom Line: Loft is one of the key ingredients in your golf clubs, influencing how high, far, and accurately you hit the ball. Knowing how loft works—and making sure your clubs are set up just right—can make a huge difference in your game.
Ready to take the guesswork out of your equipment? Check out Haywood Golf’s lineup of expertly crafted clubs, built to your exact specs, and see how the right loft can transform your performance. Shop now to find the perfect fit for your swing.