Total Side
How far left or right of the target line the ball finishes after rolling.
Full Definition
Total side measures the lateral distance from the target line to where the ball comes to rest after rolling out. This includes both the carry side deviation and any additional lateral movement during roll. Ground slope and spin can cause the ball to move sideways during roll, making total side different from carry side.
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.
Varies by club and skill level. Low handicappers aim for less than 20 yards with drivers and less than 5-10 yards with irons.
Why It Matters
Total side is your final accuracy result—where the ball actually stops. For fairway shots, this determines whether you're in the short grass or the rough. Understanding the difference between carry side and total side reveals how much lateral movement happens during roll.
Related Terms
Total Distance
The complete distance from impact to where the ball stops rolling.
Carry Side
How far left or right of the target line the ball lands at carry.
Curvature
The amount the ball curves in flight from start line to finish.
Roll
The distance the ball travels on the ground after landing.
Total Deviation Angle
The angle between the target line and where the ball comes to rest.
How SimSights Helps
SimSights automatically tracks your total side across all your shots, showing you trends over time and comparing your numbers to tour benchmarks. Our AI analysis explains what your total side means for your specific swing.
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