The angle, in degrees above the ground, at which the ball takes off. Together with ball speed and spin it defines the whole flight. Too low and the ball dives before it can carry; too high and you trade distance for altitude. Driver launch is mostly ideal in the 12–16° range for average speeds (slower swings need more launch, not less). Launch is set mainly by the club's loft at impact plus your attack angle — which is why teeing it higher and hitting slightly up on the driver adds carry for most people.