The Importance of Lie Angles

The lie angle of golf clubs is one the most misunderstood and yet most important factors in proper fitting of golf equipment.  Incorrect lie angles can affect the players swing, ball flight, and ball direction.  Many factors determine the correct lie angle such as shaft flex, swing plane, length of the club and posture, physical strength and condition of the golfer.  Physical laws for a right hander (the opposite for a lefty) dictate that a lie angle too upright will cause the ball to go left; too flat, the ball will go right.

In measuring lie, it is imperative to determine where the ball is contacting the club.  Impact tape discloses what length of club will deliver the ball to the center of the clubface consistently.  Next, the flex of the shaft should be determined by swing speed, tempo and transition.  Lie angle can now be established.

Most companies tend to make their long irons very upright causing the ball to go left to accommodate the over the top swing common to most high handicap players.  This typically is a disservice to the player as they now have to make different swings with different clubs, as the shorter irons are usually standard in lie progression.  A proper fitting with a professional will select the proper angle to establish the optimum ball flight using a ball launch monitor or visually at a range.   It is extremely important that the player being fitted hit shots to an exact target.   The professional fitter realizes that lie angles have as much to do with the length of the club as the angle created between the shaft and the sole of the club.

Once the player has been professionally fit and clubs built to his or her specifications, it is highly suggested that they play for around 30 days to establish a consistent pattern to adjust to the new equipment.  The golfer may notice that his swing has now changed to suit the properly fit equipment for a more natural swing. 
Always look to find a fitter that will revisit and tweak the equipment as part of the fitting and sale process between 30 and 45 days.