Rust on golf clubs is a common sight, especially on wedges. Some golfers believe that rust can actually increase spin on golf shots, which can be beneficial for certain types of shots, such as greenside chips and pitches. However, others believe that rust has no effect on spin rate, or even reduces it.

In this post, we will take a closer look at the evidence to see whether rust on a golf club can actually increase spin on golf shots. We will also discuss why some golfers allow their clubs to rust, and any other potential benefits or drawbacks of a rusty finish.

Why do golfers allow their clubs to rust?

There are a few reasons why golfers might allow their clubs to rust. Some golfers believe that rust can actually improve the performance of their clubs, especially wedges. They argue that the rough texture of rust helps to grip the ball better, which can lead to more spin.

Other golfers simply don't mind the look of rust on their clubs. In fact, some golfers even prefer the look of a rusty finish. Rust can also help to reduce glare, which can be beneficial in bright sunlight. I’ve personally played a set of raw irons for years and enjoy the look of the rust.

Finally, some golfers simply don't bother to clean their clubs very often. This can lead to the development of rust, especially in humid climates.

Does rust on a golf club increase spin on golf shots?

The short answer is no. Rust on a golf club does not increase spin on golf shots. In fact, it may actually reduce spin rate slightly.

This is because rust is a porous material. This means that it can absorb water and other contaminants. When water and contaminants get into the grooves of a golf club, it can reduce the friction between the grooves and the ball. This can lead to less spin on golf shots.

In addition, rust can also damage the grooves of a golf club over time. This can also lead to less spin on golf shots.

Supporting data

There have been a number of studies conducted on the effects of rust on spin rate. In one study, researchers tested the spin rate of a new wedge and a rusty wedge. They found that the new wedge produced more spin than the rusty wedge.

Another study tested the spin rate of a wedge with clean grooves and a wedge with dirty grooves. The researchers found that the wedge with clean grooves produced more spin than the wedge with dirty grooves.

Other potential benefits or drawbacks of a rusty finish

While rust does not increase spin on golf shots, it may have other potential benefits or drawbacks.

One potential benefit of a rusty finish is that it can help to reduce glare. This can be beneficial in bright sunlight, especially when you are trying to line up a shot.

Another potential benefit of a rusty finish is that it can help to protect the club from corrosion. However, it is important to note that rust can also damage the grooves of a club over time.

One potential drawback of a rusty finish is that it can make the club look less aesthetically pleasing. Some golfers may not like the look of rust on their clubs. However, other golf sickos (like me) prefer the look of a rusty wedge. It all boils down to personal preference.

Conclusion

While rust on a golf club does not increase spin on golf shots, it may have other potential benefits or drawbacks, such as reducing glare and protecting the club from corrosion. However, it is important to note that rust can also damage the grooves of a club over time.

If you are looking to increase spin on your golf shots, there are a number of other things you can do, such as using a wedge with sharper grooves or swinging the club with more speed and a steeper descent angle.