Announcement

**kalcormier** · 03-26-2018, 11:53 PM

I'll give it a go. I'm a Skytrak owner and the unit is AMAZING for the price.

1. This has been the biggest benefit to my game. I now know how far a I carry each club and was able to incorporate a clock system with my wedges. You will also be able to work on Launch angles, spin, and so forth.

2. I used a CCE which I am able to stick real tees in. But I've recently went to a tee claw and Birtees. I've read some people use Tomahawk tees as well. Definitely look into these.

3. It is not recommended to use the two red dots to align the unit. I think what a lot of people do is hit a few chips that are "straight" and turn the unit until it is reading "straight".

It's not impossible to play lefty/righty at the same time. But it is a huge pain.

I think the most frustrating thing about the Skytrak is No reads you tend to get from time to time. Usually on a well struck shot.

Full disclosure: I would love to move up to a GC2. But if it's not in the budget, Skytrak is the next best thing.

**jdgould** · 03-27-2018, 12:01 AM

Lombo

Here's a response from my perspective:
1. For distance, spin, etc... I think the SkyTrak is extremely accurate. I've used the bag mapping and I was a bit surprised to realize my carry was not as far as I thought for a lot of my irons. Now I know why I typically come up short on the real golf course, my mental yardage for my clubs was off.

2. It's extremely easy to use. You won't need to use a permanent rubber tee, you can use tomahawk tees instead https://www.amazon.com/Tomahawk-Golf.../dp/B00JWULW9C

3. I bought a cheap laser level type of thing and use that along with alignment sticks to calibrate the unit. I measure the distance from the red dot to the Skytrak case (~10 inches) and make sure the laser on the screen is also ~10 inches from the center line. Once it's calibrated I use blue tape around my skytrak metal case so that I know exactly where it should always go. BTW, I don't think Skytrak even includes the red dots anymore as they weren't very accurate. Once you think you are aligned, you can hit a few shots with a wedge or 7 iron, see where on the screen the ball is hitting in relation to the center line on the driving range and get a quick feel for whether the unit is fully calibrated. After that, you're set for hour... days... months of fun!

I've only been using my Skytrak for a couple of months, but I've never had so much fun and been so sore

I hope that helps.

Jeff

**simmb** · 03-27-2018, 09:42 AM

I was in a similar position a few years ago. I delayed buying a Skytrak because of the initial issues people seemed to be having and the biggy, the shot delay. Finally pulled the trigger and have never looked back, think I got used to the delay within about 10 minutes, I don't even notice it now. Also you can see over a relatively short amount of time how much the Skytrak team have improved and added to the app, they do listen and for me this is a massive plus point.

To answer your questions :

1. Get your setup correct and get over the indoor swing thingy and I find it's very accurate. You will have the odd shot that makes you scratch your head but I am yet to use a Launch monitor that hasn't had a funny at some point.

2. As others mention don't use permanent tees or get a matt you can stick real tees in. Also I find you don't have to be bang on with placing the ball on the laser. I just place the ball near it and it's fine, the further you deviate though you do increase your chances of a no read.

3. The laser alignment is still in place but is's moved to the device level screen, it's not recommended to use this method though , so use alignment sticks or a laser level and you will be fine.

**skytrakali** · 03-27-2018, 09:59 AM

Go for it. My ST is great and I love using it. It's particularly helpful for dialling in pitch shots - I now KNOW how far I carry my 9 o/clock 8I, 9I, PW, GW and SW shots and it's saving me shots all the time.

Re accuracy - I am convinced of the accuracy. You will see many threads that say things like "I normally carry my 7I 145 yds - but ST shows I am only carrying it an average of 140 - it must be wrong". But for me this is probably saying "when I hit my BEST shot it carries 145" (but most of the time you don't).

Many threads also will tell you that there is an aiming bias - I had one originally but it was totally due to "indoor swing" and is not there any more.

Tees are not a problem - you may have to experiment a bit to find optimal ball placement. I use winter rubber tees and these are fine.

I predict that if you pull the trigger you won't regret it.

**Clevited** · 03-27-2018, 02:15 PM

1. Accuracy - First off, if you haven't hit golf shots indoors, you will hit the hurdle most all of us had and that is shorter shots than you see out on the course. This is due to the indoor swing mental block issue. What I am about to say comes from someone that has had his Skytrak for over a year now and is comfortable with most all clubs hitting indoors.

So Skytrak, I find it accurate enough, but I do know that for me, I get short changed on most of my iron carries by 5-10 yards. Mind you, I am comparing only carry distance to what I see on the course and also, what is calculated using other flight algorithms like trajectory optimizer. I have tested over and over and over again to eliminate errors on my end, but time and time again, I get short distances. I have screen shot after screen shot of a certain iron for example that barely goes 155 yards carry on Skytrak, when I know with the ball speed, launch angle and spin it shows will go 160-165 easily, and I see that plus some on the course. To be clear, I think this really only effects the high spin, high ball speed players. Now getting to the driver. If you are a high ball speed guy (upper 160s on up I would say), there has been some frequent discussion about ball speed accuracy issues. Personally, I find I get short changed between 2-8 mph ball speed, and that, along with the flight algorithm issues, makes for some much shorter than expected carries. Numbers that would normally carry the ball 305 in my altitude, carry 280 at times. It can be mind boggling. Other times it seems to match up very well with other flight algorithms and what people see on Trackman.

Many of those more technically minded about this sort of thing feel these distance descrepancies that happen for some, has to do with how they model the decay of ball spin during its flight. This would explain why it effects some more than others. Totally depends on your launch numbers.

2. Ease of use - It is very easy to use. I just bring it out to my garage, open up ap on my phone or laptop turn on the Skytrak and I am up and running the practice range.

3. Calibration- I will consider setting it up in line to your target part of calibration along with leveling it. If you want as accurate of numbers as you can get, take the time to do this part well. Use a bubble level, and get it in line using the method of chipping as stated above.

**Mandragora** · 03-27-2018, 02:51 PM

I agree this is a great tool. I used it to measure chipping and pitching using clock potions as others have said.

1. Accuracy - I think it is accurate but along with the inside swing issue, be aware that you will see a shorter distance as well if you hit the mat before the ball. That is slowing down club head speed which results is slower ball speed. If you hit slightly behind the ball in real live the grass will not cause the same result so you may hit it slight farther outside. (Now that I know this I have worked on it and I can not hit the same distances when I make good contact.) Remember, only trust carry distance, not roll-out.

2.Ease of Use - Once you get set up the first time there should be no issues. People have had some issues but it has mostly been network problems (i intermittently had network problems but put a repeater in for my router and that cleared them up. You can also plug the Skytrak directly into your USB port. The delay is not an issue for me. Three seconds seems fine. Every now and then though it will take 8 seconds but I think it is my laptop and not the skytrak. There is also the issue of mishits that happen every now and then (usually when you feel like you hit the best shot ever) which can be irritating.

3.Calibration - IN my room I have my rug cut square (i,.e. parallel to the screen) and I have a platform I hit on which is up against the screen. For me all I have to do it put the skytrak against the platform (I have the Full Metal Jacket case) and it is aligned. Make sure the bottom of the skytrak is level with the hitting surface and level. Also don't forget you can adjust the alignment on the screen if you are using a projector to where you are hitting.

**triplebogeysrbetter** · 03-27-2018, 03:20 PM

Lombo I was in the same boat as you (I am sure all of us). I wanted one since last November. I went from CG2 > ES14 > Mevo > SwingCaddie (not in that order). Finally ordered it March 2. :-)

I had a hitting station already in my garage. Problem was this was great for contact, but no idea as to the flight of the ball.

Accuracy - Honestly, I thought no way it will be that accurate. Its spot on. Skytrak tells me my PW is 135. I'm on the fairway and 135 yards away I pull out PW. There are the 1 out of 30 shots that are like whatever (misreads).
Ease of use - I've had no real problems. Sometimes you might need to close the app and restart it. I've had more issues with Netflix that ST. All of my stuff is portable. I setup my projector, IPAD and ST. All in all takes me about 5 minutes.
You will develop new issues. Symptoms include loss of interest in your marriage, loss of interest in friendships, loss of interest in your job. Stiffness in your back.

Calibration - I am still struggling with this myself. I have a B&D laser using the two dots. I go into practice mode first > then shoot the laser to find the line on the mat > exit out of practice mode and into level device > from there I go into alignment mode. I put the two dots on the laser line. I would say its accurate 80% of the time. My son can hit a dead straight 60 wedge. So most times I use him.

Not sure where you are located, but maybe see if there is a dealer in your area. I live near DC. I lookup the dealer option on skytrak's website. I contacted him. He gave me a demo of the product. After the demo I was convinced it was the right decision. The demo was basically me using the ST. :-)

**cmckelvmi** · 03-27-2018, 04:33 PM

I was lucky enough to get my ST for Christmas and it has been AWESOME! My only regret is not following the warnings on here regarding not over-doing it. I developed tendinitis twice and needed to force my self to take some time off. Most recently I took 18 days off and it was torture staying away from the ST. I am sure part of my problem is being such a poor ball striker and hitting the mat too fat. I have seen a tremendous increase in my skill level with my wedges due to being able to use the Skills Assessment mode. Just need to figure out my longer irons and woods. Also, this Spring will obviously be my first comparison to indoor training on the ST.

Accuracy: I believe the ST is very accurate, I have hit on a Trackman, GC2, and AboutGolf simulators and all have been similar to my ST numbers. The problem isn't the sims, it is me.

Ease of use: My first attempt to use my ST I was confused on how to get it going, direct connect vs USB vs network connection. However, once I got it going it has been very easy to use. I have my ST in a FMJ case and just carry it along with my iPad to the garage and it sets up within minutes. Similar to what triplebogeysrbetter mentioned above, sometimes I have to close the apps. It seems to happen going in and out of WGT to play simulation rounds. As far as tees, I use Tomahawk tees, and I think they're great. Just need to know where to put the tee in relation to the red laser dot. Plus, the Tomahawk tees are bright neon colors and easy to find after you hit your shot.

Calibration: I haven't had any issues with alignment. I have a FiberBuilt Flight deck in a cut out (oval) portion of a carpeted/padded 4' x 8' sheet of flooring. I have read on here that some have had their Lefty friends play with the ST in right handed mode and just swing over top of the ST. However, I don't have any experience with trying that myself.

I am sure you will not regret it.

**triplebogeysrbetter** · 03-27-2018, 05:26 PM

If you do go ST. I would highly recommend a projector and impact screen. People might laugh, but to get start I have a Uhappy U80. I got it for 80 dollars. I purchased the standard Carls screen on clearance for a 100. I have the projector on a shelf. I am telling you its a game changer.

**DannyMRICS** · 03-27-2018, 05:29 PM

Got mine at Christmas.

1) Accuracy. Excellent. At first my ball speed and carry distances were much lower than I expected. It was me. In Adam Young’s book, he explains how far behind the ball amateurs hit. I’m a 5 handicap golfer and the quality of my strike has increased dramatically.

Ball speed, launch and back spin seem very accurate indeed, with some anecdotal evidence that ball speeds over about 150mph are undermeasured (as described by Clevetid above). It is accurate enough to see differences of only one degree launch angle changes (say by changing ball).

Horizontal launch angle and side spin are probably less accurate. If you look carefully on the SkyTrak website and look at the comparison with Trackman (and see anecdotal evidence on here), you will see that bad shots seem to be exaggerated somewhat. Still accurate enough to learn from.

Carry distances are obviously based on an algorithm. For some people and some shots it will be spot on; for others a little off; pretty much like all ball flight algorithms. For me, it has improved my clubbing dramatically.

Shots struck off a mat will be slightly different to those hit off grass. I have a Trustrike mat which is excellent (if expensive).

2) Ease of use. Very easy. I need to set mine up each time I use it including a net, mat and SkyTrak. It takes about 5-7 minutes (far less time than driving to the driving range). I use a rubber tee placed on top of the strike mat so the unit doesn’t need to be moved between shots.

Every now and then (1/20 uses maybe), it seems to be unhappy with the light ( I only use mine outdoors), and won’t read shots.

3) Calibration. Well, yes, it needs to be set up correctly. I do use the red dots, which seems to get in ball park, then as others have suggested hit a few 30 yard chips to make sure I’m happy with the alignment.

In summary, I was unsure, but have absolutely no regrets. I enjoy practicing now more than I have ever done, and I’m already noticing improvements throughout the bag. I love it. My dad’s thinking of getting one too. Get one.

Dan

**JJ62** · 03-30-2018, 05:35 PM

Lombo - I'll just say that if you pull the trigger and buy one - you will be very upset you waited this long. It will most definitely improve your golf game.

**Adkins** · 04-01-2018, 04:51 PM

Originally posted by Lombo

First off I want to say I've found this forum to be a wonderful place to gain insight and information on what is out in the simulator world. Back in 2016 I was one of the people that placed their deposit on an ES16, only to cancel my order before it shipped because of everything I had read on this site and the problems they had (and still have I am gathering). I'm sure there are people very satisfied with that purchase, but I for one am glad that I backed away before it shipped to me. At that time I had eliminated the SkyTrak from consideration because I was reading about a lot of the growing pains that system had during that time and eliminated the GC2 as it was out of the budget. I basically drifted away from the simulator world until January this year to review the current options. To my surprise, I don't see anything new in terms of players except a possible ES20/20, but until I see a working model that does what it says it does, I have my doubts - I've been down that road and don't wish to go back. The GC2 is still over budget and I want to give the SkyTrak a much closer look this time around. I just read through the beta 3.1 testing incorporating the club data of the skypro and other improvements. It seems like the SkyTrak has really worked out a lot of the bugs from a few years ago and is now trying to incorporate calculated club data.
If SkyTrak users could chime in and answer some of the questions I have I would greatly appreciate it in helping pull this trigger finally.
1. Accuracy - This is what it is all about in the end if I plan on using this as a tool to help me become a better golfer. Not a training aid per say, but something that will allow me to accurately bag map my clubs and gain confidence in knowing my distances with each club in my bag using several swings. For example, I'd like to have 2 or 3 solid carry numbers for most clubs in my bag using different swings or ball positions. It's amazing how many times during my round I find myself with a carry number that I don't have a club for in the bag. Would be nice to say I can hit an 8i with a 9 to 3 swing 127 yards. Right now I just take an easy swing with a 9i and pray it's the number. Another thing would be to make a swing change here or there in hoping to promote shot shapes - It's great to have a tool that would give me instant feedback that is accurate.
2. Ease of use - I never really liked the idea of the red laser dot and caused me to have too many questions such as - If I use a stationary rubber tee, do I have to move the unit (red dot) to hit my irons away from the rubber/plastic tee and then move it back again to hit off the tee? This seems like a nightmare to always have to line up the unit perfectly - which brings me to my 3rd point.
3. Calibration. It seems that some people have noticed a right/left bias with the unit even if it is perfectly aligned with the tool included to align it where both red dots are on. This seems to me like a major issue that I have not seen addressed/corrected in other posts. I saw one photo where the unit had to be offset several degrees for it to read correctly (even though the two dots were pointing crooked) and if you have to move the unit for tee shots vs iron shots constantly, I can see this as being a potential real huge problem with accuracy (see #1).

I'm hoping my reservations are not legitimate and hoping to hear from people that absolutely love their skytrak and that my hesitation is not worth worrying about. That all the bugs have been worked out now and the unit is everything as advertised. As I said, I did read the post from Seth at Skytrak and upcoming update release that will include club data from the skypro in an effort to get accurate club data merged with the calculated skytrak data - this seems to be a perfect marriage and I can only imagine it will get better and better. I guess I should also mention that I am lefthanded and want to make sure that doesn't cause any issues that I may not know about other than it's impossible to play with others that are righthanded at the same time.

Thanks for everyone's help here and I look forward to answers to these questions and hopefully my reservations are unfounded.

I am in the same boat. I currently have a garage setup with an optishot and a proswing cage setup I got from sports authority. I feel like almost every read is off. I’m trying to use it to get better, since I just joined the local am tour. The gc2 seems nice, but can’t say I want to spend the money on it. Reading everyone’s replies makes me want to order the ST now.

**Lombo** · 04-03-2018, 05:21 AM

First off, thank for all of the replies and I'm really looking forward to getting this started. With the $300 discount this week on the skytrak, it seems like the perfect time to jump in.
I now have just one last thought and hopefully I can get the same expert advice here when it comes to my decision on aspect ratio.

It's already been recommended to me in terms of a projector of the OptomaT1080Darbee. I've been to the projector calculator site and the numbers seem to work in terms of distance from screen that I can manage. I can place it in front of me and it won't be a problem in terms of hanging and being out of the way of my seeing as you can see in the photo. I'll be hitting from about 11-12 from the screen and I'll be offset due to me being lefthanded. The projector will be in the center of the room so I'm confident it won't be hit.

My question now comes down to the aspect ratio. If I go 16:9 - my screen image looks to be about 11ft wide by 6 ft high. If I go to a 4:3 ratio, I can get about the same width but increase the height to about 8 ft. With the 4:3 I can utilize more of the screen. The question I have is will the image still appear to be "normal" looking? Will the 4:3 ratio squeeze the image and make it appear "skinny". I'm going to either use TGC or JNPG (have not decided 100% yet). Also, as you can see, I have a TV hanging on the wall that I plan to utilize as well - Can I project a 4:3 ratio on the projector but still use the 16:9 ratio on the TV (using as a monitor)?

Much appreciated for anyone's help here in the 4:3 ratio decision vs 16:9.
Thanks

**triplebogeysrbetter** · 04-04-2018, 01:50 PM

Morini will depend on the screen. I did my research and felt like Carl's screen was the best for me. I am about a month into mine. I can see where I hit the screen and that's about it.

All of them warn you about hitting with dirty balls or balls that are marked up. When using the ball hits and spins. Any little spurs on the ball can act like sandpaper on your screen.

Personally, when my son and I hitting in the garage. One of us hold a towel to wipe down the balls. It might seem excessive, but I want it to last as long as possible,

Announcement

Been lurking for a while andI'm ready to pull the trigger on a Skytrak - I think

Been lurking for a while andI'm ready to pull the trigger on a Skytrak - I think

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