SkyTrak distance issue with wedges

[Kaymergolf88]

I recently purchased a SkyTrak and while the distances in my longer irons seem accurate, the distances I’m getting with my wedges seems way off. That is strange because it seems like most have the opposite problem. I my 7i about 170 IRL and on the SkyTrak. With my 56 degree, I typically hit it 107-113, but in the SkyTrak I can barely get it more than 90 yards. The device is perfectly level. I’m using the NetReturns home mat if that matters. Any ideas as to what could cause this?

[GungHoGolf]

Do you have a steep angle of attack and take big divots on the course with your wedges? Hard to do that off a regular mat. Most folks, myself included, find the wedge distances on Skytrak one of its strongest points. Maybe look into getting a mat that allows going down thru the ball better, like Divot action, TrueStrike, FiberBuilt, or MagStrike.

[Morini]

I have found wedges to be accurate for the most part. I love using the random function for 30 to 100 yard shots. This has helped my kids tremendously in tournament golf, resulting in a decent amount of birdies.

First a couple of assumptions:

• You are talking about carry, not total (it won't make a huge difference on a receptive green, but still)
• Your 107-113 is accurately measured.
• Elevation is similar to actual.

Here are some thoughts:

• All mats will have less friction than fairway, and the ball will roll up the face. This results in higher launch angle and less spin. These may offset each other to a degree. It really depends on the swing (AoA etc) and the particular mat.
• As GungHo Golf alludes to, some mats may slow down the club and reduce ball speed (especially if hit fat).

Here are some troubleshooting ideas:

• Take the mat outside on a windless day and measure actual carry vs ST. I did this, and it was close, but about two yards short for most shots over 40 yards, so I juiced the ST by increasing elevation to make up the difference.
• Alternatively, bring the ST to the course and try to get a read hitting off fairway and compare. Ideally in the evening to avoid direct sunlight.