Carry Side
How far left or right of the target line the ball lands at carry.
Full Definition
Carry side measures the lateral distance from the target line to where the ball first lands, before any roll. A negative value typically indicates the ball landed left of target; positive indicates right. This metric captures the combined effect of launch direction and curvature at the moment of landing.
Optimal RangeGeneral guidance based on tour averages. Your optimal range depends on swing speed, physical attributes, and individual technique. Many golfers succeed with metrics outside these ranges.
Within 15 yards for recreational golfers; within 8 yards for low handicappers
Why It Matters
Carry side tells you where your ball actually lands in the air, which is critical for clearing hazards and landing on greens. Understanding your typical carry side pattern helps you aim correctly and manage risk on approach shots.
Related Terms
Carry Distance
How far the ball flies through the air before first landing.
Total Side
How far left or right of the target line the ball finishes after rolling.
Curvature
The amount the ball curves in flight from start line to finish.
Launch Direction
The horizontal direction the ball starts relative to the target line.
Carry Deviation Angle
The angle between the target line and where the ball lands at carry.
How SimSights Helps
SimSights automatically tracks your carry side across all your shots, showing you trends over time and comparing your numbers to tour benchmarks. Our AI analysis explains what your carry side means for your specific swing.
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