Carry Distance
How far the ball flies through the air before it lands.
What it is
Carry distance is the distance the ball travels in the air, from impact to the point where it first touches the ground. It does not include roll.
Why it matters
Carry is the most reliable number for gapping your clubs and for clearing hazards, because it doesn't depend on bounce and roll. On a simulator, carry is the figure you can trust most.
How to improve it
Carry comes from the right mix of ball speed, launch angle, and spin. Improving any of those — usually starting with center contact — adds carry.