Golf grips play an important role in your game. The grip is the part of the club that connects you with the golf club. Your golf swing begins with the grip you hold. At TGW, we know that with such a vital piece of your golf equipment comes some questions. That is why we put together this exclusive video. In this video, Rick Hatfield, head golf pro at Flint Hills National Golf Club and TGW’s resident product expert, helps us tackle the following frequently asked questions:
- What size grip should I use?
- Should I get thicker golf grips?
- How often should players replace their grips?
- What can I do to prolong the life of my grips?
- Can new grips really help my game?
- Should players use the same grips on all their clubs?
TGW Golf Grips Q&A
What size grip should I use?
Typically, golfers will prefer a grip that allows the left hand to close completely where the tips of the two middle fingers make slight contact with the heel of your thumb without digging in. For a left-handed golfer, you would use your right hand for the same reference point. If you see too much of a gap at this point then your grip is likely too large and will tend to slip. If your fingers dig into your palm then the grip is too small and the club will want to twist as you swing.
Another good rule of thumb is to go by your glove size. Here is a breakdown of glove sizes and how they traditionally correspond with grip sizes:
- Men’s XXL = Jumbo grips
- Men’s XL = Oversize/Midsize grips
- Men’s L or M or Women’s L = Standard grips
- Men’s S or Women’s Medium and smaller = Undersized grips
Should I get thicker golf grips?
However, there are exceptions to these guidelines. Players who deal with arthritis or tendonitis and feel pain or fatigue at the end of a round from closing their hands will want to opt for slightly larger grips. Golfers who have too much hand motion in their swing, causing them to rotate the face of the golf club, will also want to try larger grips as they do help keep the hands still.
How often should players replace their grips?
A few factors that go into deciding how often to change your grips include how many rounds you play, your typical weather conditions, and the condition in which you store your clubs. Grip wear can go almost undetected as you get used to the way they feel. When grips get hard and slippery, players tend to hold onto the club too tightly which disrupts the tempo and negatively influences your shots. A side-by-side comparison of a new, fresh golf grip can tell you if your clubs have worn grips. If you notice any slipping or smoothing out of your grips, then it’s time to replace them.
What can I do to prolong the life of my grips?
The first thing golfers can do to extend the life of their grips is to store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid keeping your clubs in the hot trunk of your car.
Second, you want to occasionally clean your grips with mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft towel. You don’t have to clean them after every round but an occasional wipe down will help your grips last longer.
Can new grips really help my game?
The answer to this question is absolutely, yes they can. The grip is the golfer’s #1 connection to their club. New grips help eliminate distractions and let players swing confidently knowing they have their golf clubs under control. Rick offers four classifications of grips:
- Tacky grips – these grips provide a stickier surface for a no-slip grip
- Soft grips – many players prefer a softer feel as it is more comfortable in their hands
- Textured grips – these grips provide extra traction through the use of ridges and patterns to dig into your glove for a sure hold
- Rubber grips – these are standard grips that do the work of the tread on your tires
One of the more popular trends in new grips is the widespread use of oversized grips on putters. These grips help stabilize the hands, wrists, and arms for a more pendulum-like motion. That gives you more control over the speed of the club and helps you better control the distance of your putts.
Should players use the same grips on all their clubs?
Rick advises that, except for the putter, golfers use the same grip on all the golf clubs in their bag. The last thing golfers need is another distraction on the golf course. Because the grip has such an effect on how the club feels in your hand, inconsistency is not something golfers prefer. A consistent feel from club to club is ideal. With differences in texture, weight, size, and more, minor differences in grips can cause clubs to feel different if the grips are not the same.
When you are ready to buy your next golf grips, be sure to visit TGW.com. TGW is your complete source for golf grips with options for every golf club in your set from metalwoods and irons to wedges and putters. We even have grip tape and solvent kits available for the do-it-yourselfer looking to regrip their clubs. With the latest knowledge and the right grips, you will be on your way to shooting lower scores in no time!
