Trevor Ng
When it comes to the perfect golf grip, there are three main variants: the overlap (Vardon), interlocking, and baseball (10-finger) grips. The Vardon grip is the most popular, with 90% of Tour players and most amateur golfers opting for this style. However, the interlocking grip has been favoured by some of the best players in golf history. This grip is formed by placing the left hand on the grip first, then sliding the right hand onto the handle, interlocking the left index finger with the right pinkie. The baseball grip, on the other hand, is more common among children and those with smaller hands, as it does not require long fingers to anchor the grip. While personal preference plays a significant role in grip choice, the right grip can improve consistency and power, making it an important consideration for golfers of all levels.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Grip type | Interlocking, Overlapping, Baseball (10-finger) |
| Grip for small hands | Interlocking |
| Grip for long fingers | Overlapping |
| Grip for seniors | Baseball |
| Grip for beginners | Baseball |
| Grip for consistency | Interlocking, Overlapping |
| Grip for power | Overlapping |
| Grip for wrist hinge | Overlapping |
| Grip for comfort | Baseball |
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What You'll Learn
Interlocking vs overlapping grip
The grip is a golfer's only connection with the golf club, and choosing the right grip is essential for playing the sport well. The overlap grip and the interlocking grip are the two most commonly used grips, and they each have their own benefits and drawbacks.
The overlap grip, also known as the Vardon grip, is the most popular among golfers. It is achieved by placing the pinky finger of the right hand on top of the forefinger of the left hand (for right-handed golfers). This grip is often considered more comfortable and natural, especially for people with larger hands. It also keeps the wrists loose, allowing for freer movement. Many professional golfers, such as Phil Mickelson, Ben Hogan, and Arnold Palmer, use the overlap grip. However, one of the disadvantages of this grip is that it sacrifices some control over the club. It is also not ideal for golfers with smaller hands, as it may be difficult to maintain.
On the other hand, the interlocking grip provides more control over the club and improves overall speed. This grip is achieved by interlocking the pinky finger of the right hand with the forefinger of the left hand. While this grip may be challenging for people with larger hands, it can provide more security and control for those with smaller hands. Notable golfers who use the interlocking grip include Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus.
The choice between the overlap and interlocking grip ultimately depends on individual preferences and the size of one's hands. It is recommended that golfers find the grip that feels right for them and stick to it to build muscle memory and play more consistently.
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Interlocking grip benefits
Golf grip is one of the fundamentals of the sport, and a different grip can have a dramatic effect on your swing. While there's no consensus on which grip is the best, the interlocking grip is quite popular among golfers, including some of the best players in history, like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus.
Control and Speed
The interlocking grip gives players more control over the club and improves overall speed. With all ten fingers on the club, the interlock helps you hold it securely, reducing the tension on the club. This helps you avoid choking the club and allows for a more fluid swing.
Suited for Smaller Hands
The interlocking grip is well-suited to golfers with smaller hands, including children and female golfers. It is also useful for senior golfers who have difficulties wrapping their hands around the club due to flexibility issues or finger pain. With fewer fingers on the grip, there is less pressure, and it can be easier to get the club into a strong position, helping to eliminate a slice.
Stable Foundation
The interlocking grip creates a stable foundation by connecting your two arms, providing unity without needing to apply extra pressure. This can help improve consistency in your swing.
While the interlocking grip offers these benefits, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone. Some golfers, especially those with larger hands, may find it cramped and awkward. Additionally, it can reduce wrist movement, minimizing power and making big drives harder.
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Interlocking grip drawbacks
While the interlocking grip can provide golfers with more control over the club and improve overall swing speed, there are several drawbacks that may make it a less desirable grip for some players.
Firstly, the interlocking grip can be uncomfortable and awkward for golfers with larger hands. The interlocked fingers can feel cramped and restrict hand movement, making it difficult to achieve a full range of motion during the swing.
Secondly, the interlocking grip may limit wrist hinge and release. This is because the grip encourages both hands to act as one fluid unit, reducing the flexibility and independent movement of the wrists. As a result, the swing may feel less natural and fluid for some golfers.
Additionally, the interlocking grip may not be as stable for golfers with weaker wrists or arms. While the interlocked fingers provide unity between the arms, this grip may not provide enough support for golfers who struggle with wrist stability or arm strength.
Some golfers also report that the interlocking grip can feel insecure, as it requires placing both hands on the handle simultaneously. This can lead to the handle sitting too deep in the right palm, affecting the overall grip and swing.
Finally, while the interlocking grip can be beneficial for golfers with smaller hands, it may not provide the same level of comfort and stability for senior golfers with flexibility issues or finger pain. These players may find other grips, such as the baseball grip, more accommodating to their physical needs.
Despite these potential drawbacks, it is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to golf grips. The interlocking grip has worked well for many golfers, including some of the best players in history. The key is to find the grip that feels most comfortable, provides confidence, and allows you to develop a consistent swing.
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Interlocking grip technique
The interlocking grip is one of the three main grip variants in golf, the other two being the overlap (Vardon) grip and the baseball (10-finger) grip. The Vardon grip is the most frequently used grip, with 90% of Tour players and the majority of amateur golfers using it.
The interlocking grip is achieved by placing your left hand on the grip first, then sliding your right hand onto the handle. The lifeline of your right palm should be connected to the side of your left thumb. The left index finger is then straightened and interlocked with the right pinkie, and the remaining fingers of the right hand are wrapped around the grip.
This grip is well-suited to golfers with smaller hands as it requires less finger length to execute properly compared to the overlap grip. It also reduces the tension on the club, as all ten fingers are connected to the club and helping to hold it, which allows for a more fluid swing. It can also give players more control over the club and improve overall swing speed.
However, the interlocking grip is not without its drawbacks. It can be an awkward grip for golfers with larger hands, and it can also reduce wrist movement, minimising the power from the snap-through and making big drives harder without a perfect swing. It can also amplify existing problems with swing and posture, as it makes players rely more on their whole body for power and accuracy.
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Interlocking grip alternatives
Golf grip is fundamental to the sport, and different grips can have a dramatic effect on your swing. There are three main types of grip: the overlap (Vardon) grip, the interlocking grip, and the baseball (10-finger) grip. The overlap grip is the most popular, with 90% of tour players and the majority of amateur golfers using it. With this grip, the pinky of the right hand rests on the forefinger of the left hand (for right-handed golfers). The interlocking grip, used by some of the greatest golfers in history, including Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, and Rory McIlroy, has the pinky of the right hand interlocking with the forefinger of the left hand. Finally, the baseball grip, also known as the 10-finger grip, is the least popular of the three and is usually adopted by young children as they begin swinging the club for the first time. With this grip, both hands are pressed against each other on the grip, without any anchor linking them.
While the overlap grip is the most common, some golfers may prefer the interlocking grip for several reasons. Firstly, it can give players more control over the club and improve overall speed. Secondly, it locks the hands and wrists together, allowing them to act as one fluid unit, which can be beneficial for golfers who struggle with wrist movement. Additionally, the interlocking grip can reduce tension on the club, as the interlock helps hold it securely, preventing the need to choke the club and allowing for a more fluid swing. This grip is also well-suited to golfers with smaller hands, such as children and female golfers, as it can be challenging to execute with larger hands.
However, there are also some disadvantages to the interlocking grip. It can be awkward for golfers with big hands, reducing wrist movement and minimizing power from the snap-through, making big drives more difficult. Additionally, it may amplify existing problems with swing and posture, as it relies more on the whole body for power and accuracy.
For golfers who find that the interlocking grip does not suit their game, there are alternatives to consider. The overlap grip is a popular choice, especially for golfers with larger hands, as it can be challenging to execute the interlocking grip with bigger hands. This grip provides a strong connection between the hands, with the right pinkie acting as an anchor, and is known for producing consistent results. It is also worth noting that switching grips can be beneficial, as it allows golfers to find what works best for them and can improve their game. Additionally, the baseball grip is an option, although it is not as popular. This grip may be easier for some golfers, as it does not require interlocking the fingers, and can provide a more natural feeling for those who are used to swinging a baseball bat.
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Frequently asked questions
Interlocking fingers provide a stable foundation for your golf swing by creating unity between your arms without needing to apply extra pressure to keep them together.
The interlocking grip is quite common, with some of the best players in golf history using it. However, the overlap (Vardon) grip is the most popular, used by 90% of Tour players and the majority of amateur golfers worldwide.
The interlocking grip is particularly useful for golfers with smaller than average hands and fingers. It is also used by senior golfers who have difficulties wrapping their hands around the club due to flexibility issues or finger pain.
The choice between interlocking, overlapping, or baseball grips is a personal preference. It is recommended to try them all and choose the one that feels most comfortable and gives you the greatest confidence when taking a shot.
When gripping the club, place your left hand on the handle first, then slide your right hand onto the handle, interlocking your left index finger with your right pinkie. Ensure the club is not too deep in your right palm, which can limit your wrist hinge and release.
