Jackson Reid
Golfers often face the issue of calluses forming on their hands, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly. While some amount of callus build-up is normal and even expected with regular practice, excessive calluses can be a sign of incorrect grip or technique. To prevent calluses from forming, golfers should ensure they are holding the club correctly, with a grip tension of about 5/10, and avoiding gripping too tightly. Additionally, wearing gloves and using medical tape or Chap Stick to protect the hands can help prevent calluses from forming or worsening.
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Wear gloves
Wearing gloves is a simple yet effective way to prevent calluses from forming on your hands when playing golf. Gloves act as a protective barrier between your skin and the golf club, reducing the friction and pressure that can lead to callus formation.
When choosing golf gloves, it is important to consider the size, material, and padding. Firstly, ensure that the gloves fit your hands snugly, allowing for a comfortable grip without being too tight or restrictive. Ill-fitting gloves can cause discomfort and may even affect your swing.
Secondly, opt for gloves made from breathable and flexible materials, such as leather or synthetic fabric. Leather gloves, like the Callaway cabretta golf gloves, are known for their durability and thin construction, providing a good balance between protection and feel. Synthetic gloves, on the other hand, tend to be thicker and may offer more cushioning, but they might not be as durable as leather options.
Lastly, consider gloves with extra padding in areas prone to callus formation, such as the palm and finger areas. This additional padding helps distribute pressure more evenly across your hand, reducing the likelihood of calluses developing in specific spots.
While wearing gloves can be highly beneficial in preventing calluses, it is also important to ensure that you are holding the golf club correctly and with the right amount of pressure. A proper grip and relaxed hands can further reduce the chances of callus formation and improve your swing.
By combining the use of gloves with a checked grip and relaxed hands, you can effectively prevent calluses from forming and enjoy your golf games without hand discomfort.
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Loosen your grip
A good way to think about it is to imagine you are holding a live bird. You want to hold it securely, but not so tightly that you hurt it. This will help your swing, too.
If you are gripping the club too tightly, it may be because your grip is too small. Instinctually, you will hold on to the club tighter if the grip is too small, causing blisters and calluses.
You can also take lessons to learn the correct grip and swing. Ben Hogan's book has a chapter on the proper golf grip, which may be useful.
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Use medical tape
While calluses are a common occurrence for golfers, they can be unsightly and uncomfortable. One way to prevent them is by using medical tape.
Flexible medical tape, often called Coban, is a great way to prevent calluses from forming or irritating you during a game of golf. Keeping a roll of this tape in your bag means you can quickly address any blisters or calluses that may be causing you discomfort. The flexibility of the tape means it will stay on even when exposed to water, ensuring it lasts throughout your game.
To prevent calluses, you can apply the tape to the affected area before playing golf. This will help to protect the area and prevent further irritation. You can also use the tape to cover any blisters that may be forming, which will help to keep them clean and prevent infection.
It is important to note that if you have an open wound, it is best to avoid using the tape directly on the wound. Instead, you can use a liquid bandage to seal the wound and then apply the tape over it for extra protection.
By using medical tape, you can help to keep your hands smooth and callus-free, ensuring a more comfortable golfing experience. This simple trick can make a big difference in preventing and managing calluses, allowing you to focus on enjoying your game.
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Treat with ChapStick
While golfing, blisters and calluses can be a common problem. Calluses are hard, thick areas of skin that may be uncomfortable. They are caused by excessive friction or pressure on certain areas of the skin.
One way to treat calluses is to use ChapStick. ChapStick is a lip balm that can be applied to the affected area to help soften and moisturize the skin. This method has been recommended by several people online, especially golfers.
To treat calluses with ChapStick, first, make sure the affected area is clean and dry. Then, apply a generous amount of ChapStick to the callus. Massage it into the skin until it is fully absorbed. You can do this multiple times a day, especially after washing your hands or taking a shower, as this will help lock in moisture.
Using ChapStick can be a convenient and portable way to treat calluses. It is small enough to fit in your pocket or golf bag, so you can take it with you on the course and apply it as needed.
In addition to ChapStick, there are other treatments for calluses. These include home remedies such as warm water soaks with Epsom salts, using a file or pumice stone, and applying exfoliating creams or lotions. You can also try using baking soda paste, heavy moisturizing creams, or petroleum jelly to help soften the callused areas.
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Take a lesson
Taking a lesson is a great way to prevent calluses from forming while playing golf. A professional instructor can help you identify and correct any issues with your grip, which is often the cause of calluses.
When gripping the golf club, your fingers should only be holding at about a 5/10 tension. Most of the club's pressure should be against the soft on the back of your gloved hand. A common mistake is to grip the club too tightly, which can lead to calluses and blisters. A proper golf grip should be like holding a live bird—loose but secure.
Additionally, the position of your grip is important. Calluses can form if your grip is too deep in your palm and not enough in your fingers. A lesson can help you ensure that you are holding the club correctly and prevent calluses from forming in the first place.
Ben Hogan's book, "Five Lessons: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf", is a great resource for learning about the proper golf grip. In it, he describes where you can expect calluses to form if you grip too hard with a proper swing. This can help you identify if your grip is too tight and make the necessary adjustments.
Taking a lesson can also help you improve your swing, which can indirectly help prevent calluses. A more relaxed and natural swing will reduce the tension in your hands and wrists, minimizing the formation of calluses.
In summary, taking a lesson is a valuable investment for any golfer looking to improve their game and prevent calluses. A professional instructor can provide personalized advice and help you develop a proper grip and swing technique, reducing the likelihood of calluses forming and improving your overall golf experience.
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Frequently asked questions
One way to prevent calluses is to wear gloves while playing. Additionally, ensuring that your grip is not too tight can help prevent calluses; your fingers should only be holding the club at about a 5/10 tension.
Your grip should be loose enough that it feels like you are holding a live bird.
When you are not playing, treat the calluses with Chap Stick. You can also use flexible medical tape, such as Coban, to cover the affected area while playing golf to prevent further irritation.
Yes, ensuring that your grip size is correct can help prevent calluses. If the grip is too small, you may instinctually hold the club tighter, leading to calluses and blisters.
