Understanding Golf’s ‘Lip Out’ Phenomenon: A Scientific Breakdown

An intriguing study from the University of Bristol has shed light on the perplexing phenomenon known as the ‘lip out’ in golf, a moment that can frustrate both amateur and professional players alike. This occurs when a golf ball strikes the edge of the hole but fails to drop in, instead rolling back onto the green. The research, led by Emeritus Professor John Hogan, explores the underlying physics of this common occurrence and offers insights into how players might adjust their techniques to minimize the chances of a lip out.

Exploring the Mechanics of Lip Outs

Professor Hogan’s work, published in Royal Society Open Science, identifies two distinct types of lip outs: the rim lip out and the hole lip out. The rim lip out occurs when the ball’s center of mass does not dip below the level of the green, while the hole lip out happens when it does. This research employs principles of mechanics, specifically focusing on a concept known as ‘degenerate saddle equilibria,’ which describes the balance point where the ball teeters on the rim of the hole.

In the case of a rim lip out, the ball rotates around the lip of the hole. Any slight perturbation—be it a grain of sand, a gust of wind, or a change in spin—can determine whether it rolls back onto the green or drops into the hole. Conversely, the hole lip out manifests under specific conditions where the ball falls into the hole and undergoes a pendulum-like motion, potentially returning to the rim without sinking.

Implications for Golfers

For golfers seeking to improve their game and reduce the frequency of lip outs, Professor Hogan offers practical advice. His findings suggest that players should aim for the center of the hole and approach the rim with minimal speed. “My golfing friends tell me that lip outs occur when you hit the ball too hard,” he noted. “Our research showed that aiming close to the center and arriving at the rim with little speed allows just enough momentum to tip the ball into the hole.”

Professor Hogan’s exploration of golf mechanics is part of a broader trend where principles from physics, once reserved for celestial bodies, are increasingly applied to sports. His previous studies have examined the physics of skateboarding and the trajectory of basketballs after they hit the hoop, demonstrating the versatility and relevance of mechanical principles across different sports contexts.

In summary, the research from the University of Bristol not only provides a scientific perspective on a frustrating aspect of golf but also offers actionable strategies for players aiming to enhance their performance on the course. Understanding the mechanics behind lip outs could be the key to turning those near-misses into successful putts.

For further details, the full study can be accessed through Royal Society Open Science, DOI: 10.1098/rsos.250907.