Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Swing Grips & Putter Grips
Why is swing grip size important?
An estimated 75% of golfers are using the wrong grip. Improperly sized golf grips make it difficult for golfers to deliver a square clubface at impact. Grips that are too small encourage excess wrist action; grips that are too large limit wrist action.
How do I select the proper swing grip size?
When determining the proper grip size, assume your normal grip on a golf club with a standard-sized grip installed. Next, remove your trailing hand (right-handed golfers, remove right hand; left-handed golfers, remove left hand). Next, determine where the tips of your middle and ring fingers rest. Ideally, your middle and ring fingers should lightly touch the heel of your palm. If your fingers do not touch the heel of your palm, the grip is too big. If your fingers dig into the heel of your palm, the grip is too small. Size up or down based on results, using grip tape to achieve in-between sizes if a stock size doesn't fit.
For best fit, consult a trained grip-installation expert for sizing advice.
What are the different golf swing grip constructions? How do I know which swing grip to use?
- Cord: Commonly referred to as "All-Weather Grips." Suitable for golfers with excess hand perspiration or who commonly play in wet/humid conditions. Rough grip texture provides additional traction and prevents the club from slipping due to moisture.
- Rubber/Synthetic: Designed for golfers who require outstanding durability from their grip. Engineered to provide a firm and adhesive feel, offering superior vibration dampening with lasting tackiness.
- Wrap: Slightly larger grip profile creates less hand traction and a smoother feel. Popular with golfers who don't wear a glove or prefer a softer feel.
There is no single grip suited for all golfers and conditions. Grip constructions benefit golfers based on varying playing conditions and feel preferences.
How often should I replace my swing grips and why is it important?
It is widely recommended to replace grips either once each year or after 40 rounds of play.
Heat, dirt and oils from your hand combined with repeated use break down the materials that make up your grips. The traction of a new grip allows you to hold the grip lightly, without feeling like the club is slipping, and encourages optimal swing mechanics. Playing with worn grips often leads golfers to grip the club tighter, which may cause arm and wrist tension that leads to poor swing mechanics.
How can I extend the life of my golf grips?
Routinely cleaning each grip with mild dishwashing detergent can add longevity to your grips. For cord and rubber/synthetic grips, use a soft abrasive brush. For softer, wrap-style grips, use a soft wash cloth. After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the grip in warm water to remove excess soap residue. Finally, towel or air dry.
How do I select the proper putter grip?
Similar to swing grips, there is no single putter grip suited for all golfers and skill levels. When choosing between grips, it is important to find a grip that feels good in your hands and allows you to make consistent, repeatable strokes. Consider the following when choosing a new putter grip:
- Firmness: Based on personal preference. Some golfers prefer a grip that is harder, while others prefer a softer, more cushioned feel.
- Size: Putter grips range in size from standard to jumbo and are selected based on personal preference. Standard-size grips commonly feature a tapered profile, which delivers the traditional feel and responsiveness sought after by some golfers. Oversize and jumbo grips commonly feature a non-tapered profile, which helps some golfers achieve greater consistency through limiting excess wrist and hand action during the stroke.
- Taper: Traditional, pistol-style putter grips feature a tapered design, meaning they are thickest at the butt end and get thinner toward the opposite end of the grip. Preferred by some of the world's best putters, tapered grips offer classic feel, feedback and responsiveness. Non-tapered grips feature a uniform length from butt to base. This relatively new grip style has gained popularity on Tour and helps quiet the hands and wrists for more consistency.
Consult a club-fitting specialist for help in determining the ideal putter grip for your game.
What are the benefits of using a larger putter grip and how will it help improve my putting?
Since your fingers are unable to wrap around the entire grip, oversized grips encourage lighter grip pressure and less hand/wrist manipulation during the stroke. This relieved tension helps the putting motion take place in the arms and shoulders instead of the hands and wrists, making it easier to achieve a more consistent, pendulum-like stroke. Engaging these larger muscle groups during the putting stroke allows for repeatability while providing a soft, comfortable feel.
What is counter weighting and how does it help me?
Counter weighting is widely viewed as a legal alternative to anchoring, which was banned from play in 2016. Putter grips with counter weighting technology commonly feature interchangeable weight screws that lock into the butt end of the putter grip. This technology affords golfers multiple options when dialing in their exact feel and performance preferences.
Placing additional weight above the golfer's hands increases the putter's overall Moment of Inertia—resistance to twisting—in order to help golfers more consistently deliver a square putter face at impact. This resistance to twisting allows golfers to develop a more consistent, repeatable putting stroke. Achieving greater stroke consistency benefits golfers who commonly push/pull putts offline, have difficulty controlling distance or lack stroke rhythm.
How can I tell if my new putter grip made a difference on the green?
Before installing a new grip, measure personal data—including putts per round, putts per green in regulation, average length of putts made—to determine a baseline for putting performance. After installing a new putter grip, measure the same data and compare to determine whether the new grip has improved your stroke and overall performance.
