[Photo: Al Chang/ISI Photos]
Question: Should I select a grip based on my hand size or how I swing the club?
Answer: The short answer is that both matter, but your hand size should be the foundation upon which you build your grip selection. Your swing tendencies certainly can and should influence fine-tuning.
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Proper grip size is tied to your hand measurements, specifically the length and width of your fingers and palm. A grip that’s too small for your hand size will require more finger pressure to maintain control, leading to tension in the hands and forearms. That can throw off your swing mechanics and cause fatigue over the course of a round.
On the flip side, if your grip is too large for you, it can result in a looser grip pressure, which might cause you to lose control over the club during the swing, leading to errant shots and inconsistent ball-striking.
Start by measuring both your hands. A simple way to do this is by measuring the distance from the tip of your longest finger to the crease in your wrist. Standard grips are typically designed for players with hands measuring between 7.25 inches and 8 inches (18.4 to 20.3 centimetres) from the crease to the tip of the middle finger. Players outside this range will generally need either a smaller or larger grip to ensure optimal comfort and control.
Once you’ve dialled in your grip size based on hand dimensions, your swing tendencies can offer additional insight into whether slight adjustments are necessary.
For example, players who tend to hit a lot of hooks might benefit from a larger grip size. A larger grip can reduce the amount of wrist rotation through impact, potentially helping to correct the path of the club and keep the face square at impact.
Players who struggle with slicing might opt for a slightly smaller grip size, as it can promote a more active release of the hands through the ball, helping to close the clubface.
It’s important to note, however, that these adjustments should be subtle. Using a grip that’s too large or too small in an attempt to correct swing flaws can have unintended consequences. It’s always wise to test different options under the watchful eye of a qualified clubfitter to avoid drastic changes that may hurt more than help your game.
The goal is to find a balance between comfort, control and swing efficiency. Hand size gives you a starting point, but don’t be afraid to make small adjustments for a more tailored fit that enhances your swing dynamics.
