Putting is often considered one of the most critical aspects of a golfer’s game. To sink those critical putts, you must have a good putting grip that suits your personal style and comfort. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to putting grips, as different variations can provide various advantages. In this post, we’ll explore seven most popular and best putting grip variations that can help you become a more confident and successful putter.
Having a golf putting grip that suits your individual style and comfort is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, putting is a game of precision, and the grip is the primary connection between you and the putter. The right grip allows you to control the putter face, which directly affects the direction and speed of your putts. Secondly, a comfortable putting grip reduces tension and helps promote a smooth, consistent stroke. It also minimizes the chances of grip-related errors, such as yips or unwanted wrist movements. Lastly, a personalized putting grip gives you confidence on the green, enabling you to focus on reading the green, visualizing your line, and executing your putts with precision. Ultimately, finding the best putting grip variations for you can significantly improve your putting performance and contribute to lower scores on the golf course.
Best putting grip variations
- The Conventional Grip (Reverse Overlap)
The conventional putting grip is the most widely used and taught grip in golf. In this grip:
- 1) Place your left hand on the top of the grip.
- 2) Position your right hand below the left hand, with the fingers interlocking or overlapping.
- 3) Make sure the hands work together as one unit to control the putter.
This grip is a safe and consistent choice for many golfers.
- The Cross-Handed Grip (Left Hand Low)
The cross-handed putting grip, also known as “left hand low,” is used to promote a more consistent and square putter face through impact. In this grip:
- 1) Place your left hand below the right hand on the grip.
- 2) Keep the hands close together, which can help reduce wrist movement.
This grip can be beneficial for golfers who struggle with yips or wrist manipulation during their putts.
- The Claw Grip
The claw grip is a variation of the conventional grip and is favored by many professional golfers. In this grip:
- 1) Place your left hand on the grip in a conventional manner.
- 2) Extend the index and middle fingers of your right hand down the grip and rest them against the side of the handle.
- 3) The grip helps reduce wrist movement and can provide better control.
- The Arm Lock Grip
The arm lock grip has gained popularity in recent years, especially among golfers looking for a more stable putting stroke. In this grip:
- 1) Extend the putter’s grip up your lead arm (left arm for right-handed golfers and vice versa).
- 2) Allow the grip to rest against your forearm.
- 3) This grip promotes a more anchored and pendulum-like motion.
- The Split-Hand Grip
The split-hand grip, also known as the “forearm lock,” is another option for stability. In this grip:
- 1) Split your hands widely apart on the grip, with the lead hand (left for right-handed golfers) placed much lower on the shaft.
- 2) Keep the upper hand close to the end of the grip.
- 3) This grip limits wrist action and promotes a more consistent stroke.
- The Pencil Grip
The pencil grip is a non-traditional but effective way to promote a pendulum-like motion. In this grip:
- 1) Hold the grip as you would a pencil, between your index finger and thumb.
- 2) Place your other fingers lightly against the grip.
- 3) The pencil grip encourages a more direct, shoulder-driven putting stroke.
- The No-Grip (Palm Grip)
The palm grip is a unique approach that eliminates traditional hand positioning altogether. In this grip:
- 1) Rest the grip directly against the lifeline of your lead hand (left hand for right-handed golfers).
- 2) Use the fingers of your other hand to lightly stabilize the putter.
- 3) This grip minimizes wrist involvement and can lead to a smoother, less mechanical stroke.
Concluding best putting grip variations
Selecting the right putting grip variation is a personal choice and depends on your comfort, style, and specific putting needs. It’s essential to experiment with these variations and seek guidance from a golf professional to find the grip that works best for you. Practice and consistency are key to mastering your chosen putting grip and becoming a more confident putter on the green. Whether you opt for a conventional grip, the cross-handed grip, or one of the more unconventional options, the goal is the same: to hole out with confidence and finesse.