How Playability Factor is Measured

Measuring MPF

by: Ralph Maltby - Founder of The GolfWorks

Geometric Center Of Clubface:

First, the clubhead is measured to determine the Geometric Center of the face, where the face centerline is. Then, the Center of Gravity (C. of G.) is identified by measuring in two planes — up the clubhead in a vertical position, and across the horizontal plane of the clubface. Then the location of the C. of G. is compared to the Geometric Center of the face and other reference points, as follow:

Vertical Center of Gravity:

The distance from the C. of G. of the clubhead to the groundline.
  • Lower Vertical C. of G. = More Consistent Trajectory
  • Lower Vertical C. of G. = More Solid Hits
  • Lower Vertical C. of G. = HIGHER PLAYABILITY FACTOR

Horizontal Center of Gravity Dimension:

The distance from where a vertical line dropped from the C. of G. of the clubhead intersects the groundline from the point where the centerline of the hosel intersects the groundline.
  • Greater Horizontal C. of G. = Larger Sweet spot
  • Greater Horizontal C. of G. = More Solid Hits
  • Greater Horizontal C. of G. = HIGHER PLAYABILITY FACTOR

Rearward Center of Gravity:

The distance from the C. of G. of the clubhead to the centerline of the hosel, measured front to back with the centerline of the hosel in a vertical position.
  • More Rearward C. of G. = Slightly Higher Trajectory With The Same Loft
  • More Forward C. of G. = Slightly Lower Trajectory With The Same Loft

Moment of Inertia (M.O.I.):

The tendency of the clubhead to resist twisting around its C. of G. in the heel-toe direction (a function of how much the total mass is distributed away from the center of gravity, towards the heel and toe).
  • Greater M.O.I. = More Distance On Off-Center Hits
  • Greater M.O.I. = More Solid Feel On Off-Center Hits
  • Greater M.O.I. = Better Directional Control On Off-Center Hits
  • Greater M.O.I. = HIGHER PLAYABILITY FACTOR