Launch Monitor Metrics Explained: What the Numbers Mean (and How to Use Them to Improve)
May 2026 • FlexTee
If you've ever finished a simulator session and thought, “Great… but what do all these numbers actually mean?”—this guide is for you.
Whether you're new to indoor golf, returning to the game, or you're already practising regularly and want more structured improvement, understanding a few key launch monitor metrics can make your sessions far more productive.
At FlexTee, our bays use a ProTee VX launch monitor with GSPro course software, so you'll see a detailed set of data after each shot. This article explains the most useful numbers in plain English, and how to turn them into simple practice goals.
The 6 launch monitor metrics that matter most
Ball speed
What it is: How fast the ball leaves the clubface.
Why it matters: Ball speed is one of the biggest drivers of distance.
How to use it in practice:
- Track ball speed across 10 shots with the same club.
- Aim for consistency first (tight range), then gradual improvement.
Common mistake: Chasing ball speed by swinging harder and losing strike quality. Often, a better strike increases ball speed without extra effort.
Club speed
What it is: How fast the clubhead is moving at impact.
Why it matters: More club speed can create more distance—but only if you strike it well.
How to use it in practice:
- Compare club speed and ball speed together.
- If club speed is high but ball speed is not, you’re likely not striking the centre of the face consistently.
Smash factor
What it is: A simple efficiency number: Smash Factor = Ball Speed / Club Speed
Why it matters: It tells you how well you're converting swing speed into ball speed (i.e., quality of strike).
How to use it in practice:
- Use smash factor as your “strike quality” score.
- Do a 15-minute session focused purely on centred contact (half swings are fine).
Tip: If you're working on strike, start with shorter clubs (e.g., 8-iron) before moving into driver.
Launch angle
What it is: The angle the ball takes off relative to the ground.
Why it matters: Launch angle heavily affects carry distance and peak height.
How to use it in practice:
- If shots are coming out too low, you may be de-lofting the club at impact.
- If shots balloon too high, you may be adding too much loft or creating excess spin.
Quick win drill: Hit 10 shots focusing on a smooth tempo and balanced finish. Many launch issues are tempo/strike issues in disguise.
Spin rate
What it is: How fast the ball is spinning (backspin, measured in rpm).
Why it matters: Spin helps the ball stay in the air and stop on greens—but too much or too little can cost distance and control.
How to use it in practice:
- Use spin as a feedback tool for strike and delivery.
- If spin is wildly inconsistent, focus on face contact and low-point control.
Note: Spin is influenced by club, ball, strike location, and delivery—so don't obsess over one “perfect” number. Look for patterns.
Carry distance (and total distance)
What it is: Carry is how far the ball flies in the air; total includes roll.
Why it matters: Carry is usually the most reliable number for gapping your clubs and planning shots.
How to use it in practice:
- Build a simple “carry chart” for 7-iron, 5-iron/hybrid, and driver.
- Use the average of 8–10 solid shots rather than your best one.
Bonus metrics (useful once you've got the basics)
Side angle / side spin / shot shape
These help explain why the ball is curving left/right. If you're seeing a consistent miss (slice/pull/hook), this is where you can diagnose it—especially with coaching.
Peak height
Great for understanding whether you're launching high enough to hold greens (irons) or optimise driver carry.
Dispersion
The “shot pattern” is often more important than your longest shot. A tighter pattern means lower scores.
A simple way to use metrics without overthinking (3-step plan)
Pick one goal per session
Examples:
- “Improve strike quality (smash factor consistency)”
- “Tighten dispersion with 7-iron”
- “Find a repeatable driver launch”
Use a 10-ball test
Hit 10 shots with one club and record:
- Ball speed
- Carry
- Dispersion (left/right)
You'll quickly see what's consistent and what isn't.
Make one adjustment only
Change one thing (tempo, tee height, ball position, alignment, target line) and re-test.
The simulator makes it easy to see cause and effect—if you keep it simple.
What to do when you arrive for your session at FlexTee
When you arrive, enter using your booking instructions/access details, head to your assigned bay, and get set up. If you need a hand getting started, guidance is available—especially if it's your first time using the simulator.
Ready to turn your simulator sessions into real improvement?
Book a FlexTee bay and use your launch monitor numbers with a clear plan—or take the fast track with 1-to-1 coaching.
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By FlexTee