How to Use a Golf Simulator
Everything you need to know for your first golf simulator visit in Chicago. From booking to understanding your data, we've got you covered.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps for a great first experience.
Book Your Session
Reserve your bay in advance, especially for weekends and evenings. Most venues offer online booking through their website. Sessions typically run 1-3 hours depending on your goals.
- Book at least a few days ahead for prime time slots
- Ask about off-peak discounts for weekday afternoons
- Inquire about group rates if bringing friends
Dress Comfortably
Wear athletic clothing that allows a full range of motion. The most important thing is proper footwear - clean, flat-soled shoes or golf shoes are essential.
- Athletic wear or casual clothes that allow you to swing freely
- Clean indoor shoes or golf shoes (required at most venues)
- Some venues provide shoe covers if needed
Arrive Early
Get to the venue 10-15 minutes before your session starts. This gives you time to check in, get oriented, and maybe hit a few warm-up shots before your time officially begins.
- Check in at the front desk or kiosk
- Ask staff about the simulator controls and features
- Use restrooms before your session starts
Choose Your Experience
Most simulators offer multiple modes: play famous courses, practice at the range, play games, or work on specific shots. Staff can help you navigate the options.
- Range mode is great for warm-up and practice
- Course play lets you experience famous venues like Pebble Beach
- Games and challenges add fun competition
Hit Your Shots
Step up to the hitting mat and swing away! The simulator tracks your ball and club, displaying the results on screen. Take your time between shots and focus on your fundamentals.
- Stand on the designated hitting area
- Make sure the ball is properly positioned
- Swing naturally - the technology does the rest
Review Your Data
After each shot, review the feedback on screen. You'll see metrics like ball speed, launch angle, spin rate, and carry distance. This data helps you understand your swing.
- Ball speed indicates how well you struck the ball
- Launch angle affects trajectory and distance
- Spin rate influences control and stopping power
What to Bring
Everything you need for your simulator session.
Golf Glove
Optional but recommended for grip and comfort
Indoor/Golf Shoes
EssentialClean, flat-soled shoes required by most venues
Your Own Clubs
Optional - most venues provide clubs
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your session
Comfortable Clothing
EssentialAllow full range of motion for swinging
Pro Tip
Most venues provide clubs at no extra charge. However, if you want to practice with your own equipment or are there for club fitting purposes, bring your own clubs.
Simulator Etiquette
Be a great guest and fellow golfer.
Respect Your Time Slot
Arrive on time and wrap up promptly so the next group can start.
Keep Noise Reasonable
Be mindful of other bays, especially in multi-bay venues.
Take Care of Equipment
Report any issues and treat the simulator with care.
Follow House Rules
Each venue has specific policies - follow them for everyone's benefit.
Clean Up After Yourself
Leave the bay tidy for the next group.
Tip Staff If Appropriate
If staff provide good service, gratuity is appreciated.
Understanding Your Data
Key metrics you'll see after every shot.
Ball Speed
How fast the ball leaves the clubface. Higher is generally better.
Typical range: Driver: 130-170 mph
Launch Angle
The angle the ball takes off. Affects trajectory and distance.
Typical range: Driver: 10-15 degrees
Spin Rate
How much the ball spins. Affects control and stopping power.
Typical range: Driver: 2000-3000 rpm
Carry Distance
How far the ball flies before landing. The main distance metric.
Typical range: Driver: 180-280 yards
Club Speed
How fast you swing the club. Correlates with power.
Typical range: Driver: 80-115 mph
Smash Factor
Ball speed divided by club speed. Measures efficiency of impact.
Typical range: Driver: 1.45-1.50
Want to Learn More?
Consider taking a lesson to get personalized help understanding your data and improving your swing.
Find venues with lessonsReady to Try It Out?
Find a golf simulator near you in Chicago and book your first session.