What is a golf grip?
The word Grip It has two meanings in golf, and golfers constantly switch between them:
- the club grip: the way the hands grip the club;
- the club's handle: the rubber or synthetic sleeve slipped over the top of the handle, which is replaced when it wears out.
In both cases, it's the only point of contact between the player and his club. A poor grip or a worn-out handle takes its toll with every shot.
What are the three ways to run a club?
For a right-handed player, the left hand is at the top of the neck and the right hand is below it. What changes from one grip to another is the way the two hands are positioned:
| Outlet | Hand Position | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Overlapping (Vardon grip) | The little finger of the right hand overlaps the index finger of the left hand. | The most common grip, especially among players with medium or large hands. |
| Interlocking (cross-shot) | The right little finger and the left index finger cross over each other. | Often chosen by players with small hands or short fingers. |
| Baseball (with ten fingers) | All ten fingers are on the neck, with no connection between the hands. | Useful for beginners, juniors, seniors, or players who lack hand strength. |
No single grip is “better” in absolute terms: what matters is that both hands work together. When putting, many players use a different grip, such as a low left hand.
Neutral, strong, or weak grip: What's the difference?
The grip is also described based on the rotation of the hands on the handle, as seen from the player's perspective:
- Neutral grip: You can see about two knuckles on the left hand, and the “V” shapes formed by the thumb and index finger of each hand point roughly toward the right shoulder or the chin.
- Strong grip: The hands are turned to the right, and three or more knuckles are visible. The clubface tends to close at impact: this helps correct a slice, but can cause hooks.
- Weak grip: The hands are turned to the left; one knuckle or less is visible. The clubface tends to stay open: the ball tends to go to the right more easily.
The club meets mainly at the fingers and not in the palm, using moderate pressure: gripping too tightly locks the wrists and prevents the clubface from closing naturally.
The grip: When should you replace it?
The grip wears out over time due to sweat, sun, and heat: it becomes smooth and hard, and you end up gripping the club tighter without even realizing it. Manufacturers and the golf press generally recommend replacing it about once a year or all the 30 to 40 games, and sooner if it is shiny, cracked, or slippery.
The change, known as regrip, can be done in the store or at home using double-sided tape and a solvent. You can also choose the diameter the handle, depending on hand size: this is one of the adjustments checked during a fitting.
What do the rules say about the grip?
The Equipment Rules require that the grip of a wood or iron have a cross-sectional area of circular, with a slight straight ridge allowed along its entire length, and it must not be contoured for the hands. Only the putter may have a non-circular grip, such as a flat-faced grip.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Golf Grip
Which golf grip should you choose: overlapping or interlocking?
Both are equally effective. The overlapping grip (Vardon grip) is the most common, while the interlocking grip is often better suited for smaller hands. The right choice is the one that allows you to hold the club without tension, with both hands linked together.
How can I tell if my grip is too weak?
If you see only one knuckle of your left hand—or fewer—at address, and your shots often veer to the right, your grip is probably too loose. Turning both hands slightly to the right helps close the clubface at impact.
How often should you replace your grips?
Generally, about once a year or every 30 to 40 games, or more often if you play a lot. A grip that is smooth, hard, or shiny should be replaced immediately.
Should you grip the golf club tightly?
No. Moderate pressure, applied mainly through the fingers, allows the wrists to cock and the clubface to close naturally. Gripping too tightly is a common cause of a slice.