This specialized equipment measures two crucial parameters of golf clubs: the angle the clubface sits relative to the vertical (lie angle), and the angle between the shaft and the clubface (loft). A precise measurement of these angles ensures the club interacts with the ball as intended, influencing trajectory and accuracy. For example, an improper lie angle can cause pulls or pushes, while incorrect loft affects distance and ball flight.
Accurate club fitting relies heavily on these measurements. Properly fitted clubs, customized to individual swing characteristics and physical attributes, contribute significantly to improved performance and consistency. Historically, assessing these angles was a more subjective process. Modern technology, however, allows for precise, repeatable measurements, leading to a more scientific and data-driven approach to club fitting and optimization.