When you're teeing it up in Scotland, Ireland, or anywhere the wind loves to blow, hitting high, towering shots can spell trouble. That’s why learning how to hit low golf shots is such a valuable skill — especially for golfers on tour with GHW Golf Tours, where courses like Royal Dornoch or Tralee Golf Club demand precision in the elements.
Whether you're a scratch golfer or a weekend warrior, this guide will teach you how to master low shots to beat the breeze and elevate your performance on windy days.
Why Low Shots Matter in Windy Conditions
Wind is one of golf’s biggest variables, and one of the hardest to control. High ball flights get pushed off course, while low shots stay closer to the ground and resist the gusts.
If you're heading to St Andrews or Northwest Ireland, where wind is part of the experience, controlling trajectory isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. A well-executed low shot improves accuracy, helps avoid hazards, and gives you a competitive edge when others are struggling.
Set Up for Success: Adjusting Stance & Ball Position
To flight the ball lower, start with your setup:
Narrow your stance – keeps your balance centered and makes for a more controlled swing
Play the ball back in your stance – encourages a downward strike
Align your shoulders slightly left (for right-handed players) – helps keep the clubface square through impact
These setup adjustments help you compress the ball and keep it down in the wind.
Modify Your Swing for Lower Ball Flight
Once your setup is dialled in, make these swing adjustments:
Shorten your backswing – a compact swing reduces loft and improves control
Control your follow-through – avoid over-swinging to keep the ball flight low and strong
Keep your head steady – less movement leads to a cleaner, more centred strike
Compact, controlled swings are key on windswept links courses like those along Scotland’s west coast.
Club Selection & Grip Pressure
Two quick adjustments can make a huge difference:
Use a lower-lofted club – for example, swing easier with a 5-iron instead of forcing a 7
Lighten your grip pressure – a tight grip adds tension and spin; stay relaxed and fluid
You might also consider low-spin golf balls, which perform better in gusty conditions — perfect for windy courses like Belek, Turkey or the Canary Islands.
Practice with Purpose
The best way to get better at low shots? Practice in tough conditions:
Simulate different wind directions and lies at the range
Use video analysis to track your swing path and ball flight
Hit from uneven lies to build adaptability
On a GHW golf tour, you'll have the chance to test your skills in real links conditions. The wind won’t wait — and with enough reps, neither will your progress.
Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls when trying to hit low shots:
Over-swinging – adds unwanted spin and height
Choosing the wrong club – too much loft ruins your trajectory
Gripping too tightly – adds tension and increases launch angle
Fix these, and you’re halfway to hitting wind-defying low shots.
Strategic Course Play
Before every shot, assess the wind: check flags, trees, or the surf if you're by the coast. Choose the right club and shot shape based on the conditions.
Adding low shots to your game gives you more options for navigating tough holes — especially on world-class links courses featured in our Old Course Guaranteed Packages: https://www.ghwgolftours.com/old-course-guaranteed-packages
Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Game in the Wind
Mastering low shots can transform the way you play in the wind. With the right setup, swing control, and club selection, you’ll gain a reliable, go-to shot that shines in difficult conditions.
And the best place to put it to the test? On a bucket-list golf trip with GHW Golf Tours — playing some of the most breathtaking (and blustery) courses the world has to offer.
Book your next golf adventure today: https://www.ghwgolftours.com