How to Get More Spin on Your Chips (Even with Budget Wedges)

Spin around the greens is a must. If you aren’t generating spin, you’re not going to lower your scores or get the ball consistently close to the hole. One of the easiest ways to increase spin is to play with top-of-the-line wedges and premium golf balls. However, not everyone has the budget for that.

The good news? You don’t need $200 wedges to get some spin around the greens. With the right techniques, you can still get plenty of spin. 

Keep Your Equipment Clean

Even a small amount of dirt or sand between the clubface and the ball can destroy your chances of generating spin. Those grooves are there to create friction so the ball can spin.

Before a chip, wipe down the face of your wedge and, if possible, your golf ball too. Use a brush or tee to clean the grooves when they start to fill with grass. 

It may seem small, but this one habit can instantly improve your spin rates, especially on short-sided shots.

Use the Full Loft of the Clubface

Too many golfers ruin their spin potential by leaning the shaft too far forward at address. This exaggerated forward press delofts the club, taking away the height and friction needed to stop the ball.

Instead, let the clubface feel a little open at setup. Don’t push your hands too far forward. 

Through impact, try to hold that loft rather than dragging the handle ahead of the clubhead. This will launch the ball a bit higher, allowing the grooves to grip the ball properly. 

Maintain Lead Wrist Extension

One of the subtle secrets to higher-spin chips is extending the lead wrist through impact. Most players unknowingly flip their wrists or break down the angle too early. This eliminates face control and results in a low, running shot.

Instead, keep a little extension in the lead wrist (left wrist for right-handed players) through impact. Wrist extension can also be thought of as cupping the lead wrist. 

Be Aggressive Through Impact

You’ve probably heard someone say, “You’ve got to hit it hard to spin it.” While that’s only partially true, the idea is this: you need to be confident and assertive through the ball.

Soft, tentative chip shots rarely spin. A little extra speed creates more friction between the face and the ball. That doesn’t mean swinging out of your shoes but a more compact and aggressive action can help. 

Play with a Urethane Golf Ball

Not all golf balls are built for spin. Many budget-friendly models are designed for distance, with a firmer, ionomer cover that simply doesn’t grab the face. If you want more spin you have to compromise a little distance sometimes. 

Choose a urethane-covered ball. Even if it’s not the most premium offering, the better cover will improve spin rates. Options like the Maxfli Tour, Vice Pro, and even the older generation of premium balls can often be found for less than the premium golf ball pricing. 

Analyze the Lie

Sometimes spin has less to do with swing technique and more to do with where you’re hitting from. To generate noticeable spin, you need clean contact from a tight or closely mown lie. Thick rough grabs the ball before it reaches the clubface and robs you of friction. Set yourself up for more spin from a great lie. 

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a tour-level wedge or a $50 box of golf balls to create spin. What you do need is good technique, a clean clubface, and confidence through the strike. With a few simple changes, you’ll start seeing your chips grab more and run out less.