We frequently overlook a fundamental component that can make or break our performance when we put effort into perfecting our swing and shaving strokes off our golf game: the grip. The club is the only way of contact that we have, and yet, the debate between using an interlocking vs Overlapping grip remains as divisive as ever.
Picture this: you’re standing on the first tee, the fairway spread out before you, and the outcome of your round rests not just on your skill or the quality of your clubs, but on how you choose to connect with your weapon of choice. Statistics from a recent golf poll suggest that the grip choice considerably affects the game’s performance for many of players, highlighting a genuine problem many golfers face.
Do you interlock vs overlap grip? This is not just a matter of personal preference but a strategic decision that could influence your entire golfing journey. Let’s delve into the nuances of each grip style, dissecting their pros and cons, to guide you towards making an informed decision that could transform your game.
What Is An Overlapping Grip
The Overlapping Golf Grip is often praised by seasoned golfers for its accurate control and feel. The Overlapping grip golf, also called the “Vardon Grip,” was named after the renowned Harry Vardon. Also, a favorite amongst legends like Ben Hogan and Matt Kuchar involves placing the little finger of the trailing hand between the index and middle finger of the lead hand. This small Overlap provides a solid handle on the golf club, intending to improve swing fluidity and synchronicity.
Next, we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of the Overlapping grip, as well as optimum hand positioning for optimal feel and control.
Advantages Of The Overlapping Golf Grip
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- Improved Control: Golfers typically find that lowering the overall thickness of the grip allows them to make an accurate swing, giving them more control over the club’s face at contact.
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- Enhanced Comfort for Larger Hands: Those with larger hands may find this grip more comfortable because it allows for a more natural finger grip position, lowering the chance of cramping or discomfort during long play.
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- Increased Swing Speed: Using the golf Overlap grip can result in more consistent hand movement throughout the swing, ultimately boosting clubhead speed as well as golf ball distance.
Disadvantages Of The Overlapping Golf Grip
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- Challenging for Beginners: Newcomers to golf may struggle with the feel of the Overlapping golf grip, which takes a particular level of hand coordination and power to maintain throughout the golf swing.
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- Less Stability for Smaller Hands: Golfers with smaller hands may find that this grip provides less stability because the Overlap does not give as much locking effect as other grips, perhaps resulting in a loss of control.
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- Adjustment Period: Moving to an golf Overlapping grip might be difficult at first, requiring patience and effort to observe improvements in control and performance.
Also Explore: Driver Grip vs Iron Grip: Which Is Right For You?
Common Hand Placement And Positioning For The Overlapping Golf Grip
For the best Overlapping grip, your lead hand( right for left-handed golfers, left for right-handed golfers) with the thumb pointed down the shaft should grip the club. The trailing hand then grabs the club with its little finger Overlapping the index and middle fingers of the lead hand. For right-handed players, position both thumbs slightly down the right side of the shaft, making a “V” shape that points to the right shoulder. This positioning is critical for striking the ideal balance of control, comfort, and power in your swing.
What Is Interlocking Grip
As we move on from the Overlapping grip, let’s look at the interlocking golf grip in further detail. This technique is popular among professionals such as Gary Player and Bubba Watson because it provides a strong connection between your hands for optimum control and a locked-in feel between your hands and the club. The trailing hand’s little finger connects with the lead hand’s index finger, creating an golf interlock grip. This interlock is intended to form a coherent unit, allowing the hands to work together more effectively during the swing.
Next, we’ll look at the benefits of interlocking golf grip and drawback of the this grip, as well as optimum hand positioning for optimal feel and control.
Advantages Of The Interlocking Grip Golf
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- Enhanced Hand Unity: The interlock grip golf mechanism naturally enhances hand unity, ensuring both hands work together during the swing. This can lead to more consistent shoots.
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- Increased Comfort for Smaller Hands: Golfers with smaller hands may find the interlock golf grip more comfortable and secure because it fits tightly, limiting the possibility of the club twisting on impact.
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- Better Control for High-Handicap Players: The interlock’s safe structure can provide superior club control, potentially resulting in more consistent shot outcomes for high-handicap or beginning players.
Disadvantages Of The Interlocking Grip
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- Complex for Beginners: While using the interlocking grip has some advantages for beginners, it can feel unnatural and complex at first, needing some adjustment before feeling comfortable.
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- Possible for Increased Tension: The interlocking grip can cause higher tension in the fingers and forearms If you do not complete it correctly, increasing stress and reducing swing efficiency during the round.
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- Risk of Inconsistency: Some golfers may experience inconsistencies with the interlocking grip, particularly if the interlock is not properly placed or if the grip pressure varies significantly from stroke to shot.
Common Hand Placement And Positioning For The Interlocking Grip
To form a good golf interlocking grip, place the lead hand (left hand for right-handed golfers, right hand for left-handed players) on the club, making sure the thumb extends down the shaft. The trailing hand grips the club by interlocking its little finger with the index finger of the lead hand. This interlock should feel snug but not too tight, allowing for natural movement. The thumbs of both hands should make a “V” shape that points toward the shoulder of the lead hand, laying the groundwork for a powerful and controlled swing.
Comparison Between Interlocking vs Overlapping Grips
Now let’s do the comparison between the overlapping vs interlocking grip and how they might impact your swing. Even a legend like Jack Nicklaus emphasized the importance of finding a grip that feels natural and comfortable, Jack Nicklaus is known for his fundamentals and consistency.
Hand Positioning And Finger Interlock
The main difference between interlock grip vs overlap grip in golf is how the fingers interact with one another and the club. With the Overlapping grip, the second hand’s little finger lies on top of the gap between the lead hand’s index and middle fingers. In contrast, with the golf grip interlocking, the second hand’s little finger must interlock with the lead hand’s index finger. This basic difference influences the overall feel and control one may have during the swing.
Impact On Club Control, Comfort, And Shot Consistency
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- Club Control: Golfers with larger hands or those looking for more control over their swing prefer the Overlapping grip in golf because it allows for easier club control. The interlocking grip, with its tight lock between the hands, can provide an impression of unity and control to golfers with smaller hands or those who experience club slipping during their swing.
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- Comfort: Comfort is mainly determined by the golfer’s hand size and personal preferences. Golf grips for big hands is Overlapping grip and might feel better with it, while the best golf grips for small hands players is interlocking grip they may provide a tight fit for your smaller hands.
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- Golf Shot Consistency: While both grips can result in consistent shoemaking, the choice is largely based on the golfer’s physical features and swing style. The Overlapping grip may provide more consistency for players with lighter grip pressure, whilst the interlocking grip may help those who demand more solidity during contact.
Personal Preference And Suitability Based On Hand Size and Comfort
Finally, the decision between an golf grip interlock vs overlap is quite personal. Golfers are recommended to try both to see which provides the best balance of comfort, control, and consistency depending on their unique features and preferences. Whether you have larger hands and like the finer control of the Overlapping grip or tiny hands and prefer the secure feel of the interlocking grip, the perfect option is available.
Understanding these main differences and implications allows golfers to make better-educated decisions, matching their grip choice with their course aims and ensuring that their grip becomes an asset rather than a hindrance to their game.
There is no clear answer to this age-old question. Both Overlapping and interlocking grips are most popular golf grip among successful golfers, and the “better” option is determined by your own preferences and hand size. Let us explore the aspects that may impact your decision.
Factors To Consider When Selecting A Grip Style
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- Hand Size and Strength: Golfers with smaller hands may prefer the interlocking grip close fit, while those with larger hands may find the Overlapping grip more comfortable.
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- Swing Technique: For those with a polished swing, the Overlapping grip can provide more feel and finer control, while the interlocking grip may provide the stability and unity required by players working on their swing consistency.
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- Injury Considerations: If you have any existing hand or wrist conditions, one grip may provide greater support or less strain than the other, depending on the severity of your condition.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to experiment. Spend some time on the range trying out both grips to evaluate which one feels more comfortable and provides a smoother swing with consistent ball control. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from a golf instructor who can evaluate your swing mechanics and hand size and recommend the optimal grip for your needs.
Also Read: Enhance your on grip and explore our another article on Strong Grip vs Weak Grip: Which Is Best For Your Golf Game?
Practice And Transitioning Between Grips
Deciding between an interlocking or overlapping grip might be difficult. What ever you are an experienced golfer or start playing golf. The good news is that you can improve your grip either way with practice. Here are some suggestions to help you get comfortable:
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- Start with Feel: Hold the club without the ball and concentrate on how each grip feels in your hands. Does one support a more relaxed hold? Is the other offering a stronger connection?
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- Mirror Work: Stand in front of a mirror and practice your grip form. Make sure your hands are properly positioned and your thumbs are comfortably folded down the shaft.
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- Dry Swings: Once you’re comfortable with the grip formation, take moderate practice swings while focusing on keeping a smooth path and consistent grip pressure.
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- Ball Striking: Gradually start hitting balls with your new grip. Begin with lesser distances and progressively increase the intensity as you develop confidence.
Transitioning Between Grips:
If you’re looking to grips changing, it’s best to do so gradually. Here’s how:
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- Practice Sessions: Devote a portion of your practice sessions to working with the new grip. Start with short drills and gradually incorporate them into your full swing.
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- Muscle Memory: Switching grips takes time to develop muscle memory. Be patient and consistent with your practice.
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- Seek Guidance: A qualified golf instructor can observe your swing mechanics and hand size to recommend the most suitable grip and guide your transition process.
While Tiger Woods famously uses the interlocking grip, players with large hands may find the overlapping grip better for controlling ball flight, whereas those with short hands might prefer interlocking to secure the wedge with their left index finger comfortably
Conclusion
As we conclude our guide, we’ve learned about two main types: overlapping vs interlocking golf grip. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to which is best. It depends on your hand size, how you play golf, and what feels right for you.
We investigated the advantages and disadvantages of interlock vs overlap golf grip. For those with larger hands, the Overlapping grip provides extra control and comfort. The interlocking grip provides a stable and unified feel, making it ideal for smaller hands or beginners seeking steadiness.
The key takeaway? Experimentation is your best friend. Experiment on the range, seeing how they feel in different settings, and determining what works best for you. Being able to swap grips as needed could benefit you on the course.
Whether you overlap or interlock, the goal is the same: find something that feels comfortable and provides you control to improve your golf game. So grab your clubs, head to the green, and start looking for your best grip
Read More: What Grip is Better the Overlapping or the Interlocking
