Types of Golf Grips: 3 Basic Types & Putting Grips

Types of Golf Grips: 3 Basic Types & Putting Grips

By Dr. Eric Wilson, PGA Legacy Master Professional and Keiser University College of Golf Executive Director of Golf Operations

Having the right golf grip for your game is just one of the many aspects that must come together in order for you to become the best golfer you can be. A good golf grip will help with control and flight of the ball. Adjusting your grip can correct flaws in your swing that cause you to slice or hook the ball. So, here are a few examples of grips to get you started. If you are already golfing on a regular basis with a solid grip, this will be a good reminder and bring you back to some of the basics that can often be overlooked by even the most experienced golfers.

Different Golf Grips

Choosing the right golf grip is important for swing control, comfort, and consistency. Golf grips come in many styles, each offering benefits depending on the golfer’s hand size, playing style, and preference. There are three basic types of golf grips: Vardon/Overlapping, Interlocking, and Ten-Finger grips. There are three basic types of golf grips: Vardon/Overlapping, Interlocking, and Ten-Finger grips.

Vardon or Overlapping Grip

If you are a beginner golfer, this is probably the first golf grip you are going to learn. It was made popular by Harry Vardon. This grip is used by players with large, strong hands and brings both hands closer together on the handle. After you place your hands on the club, take the pinky finger on your trail hand and place it in between your index and middle finger on the lead hand (for a right-handed golfer, the lead hand is the left hand).

Interlocking Grip

Many leading professional golfers like Tiger Woods use the interlocking grip. Place your hands on the golf club and intertwine your pinky finger on the trailing hand with the index finger on the lead hand. This is a good grip for people with smaller hands. This grip allows you to have more control of the club because of the way your hands are locked together. It also does not require a lot of forced pressure on the hands when they lock with the club handle, so if you have weak hands, you will find that it takes only a little effort to hold on.

Ten-Finger Grip

For this grip, you’ll want to press the pinky finger of the trailing hand against the index finger of the lead hand. Then, with the lifeline of the trailing hand, cover the thumb of the lead hand. This grip is not the most popular but works well for a lot of golfers. Beginners, seniors, and women should explore this grip to see if it allows more power and distance.

Strong, Neutral, and Weak Grips

Strong Grip: The hands are rotated more to the right (for right-handed golfers), promoting a draw and reducing slices.

Neutral Grip: The thumbs align with the center of the grip, offering a balanced approach for all shot types.

Weak Grip: Hands are rotated more to the left, which can help control hooks and promote a fade.

Different Types of Putting Grips

Reverse Overlap Grip

Commonly used in putting, where the index finger of the lead hand rests over the fingers of the trailing hand. Helps reduce excessive wrist action and promotes a smooth stroke.

Claw Grip

The trailing hand is positioned differently, with the fingers gripping the club in a claw-like manner. Helps golfers struggling with putting consistency or yips by stabilizing the stroke.

Arm Lock Grip

The grip is extended up the forearm to create stability in the putting stroke. Used by professionals like Bryson DeChambeau for a more consistent, repeatable motion.

The Best Golf Grip – Choosing What’s Best for You

Your golf grip is one of the most fundamental aspects of your game. Whether you are just starting out or you are making it big, you should always work on perfecting your golf grip. Think of your club as another limb of your body. Do you want that limb to be in shape and well-tuned?

If you give it some thought and focus, you will have more control, and your game will show the improvements we all strive for.

A strong, well-formed grip provides stability, improves shot accuracy, and allows for a better feel and feedback from the club. On the other hand, a poor grip can lead to mis-hits, inconsistent ball flight, and even unnecessary strain on your hands and wrists. Finding the right grip isn’t just about comfort—it’s about creating a solid foundation for a reliable and repeatable swing.

There are multiple grip styles, including the overlapping (Vardon) grip, interlocking grip, and ten-finger (baseball) grip, each offering unique benefits depending on your hand size, strength, and swing mechanics. Additionally, grip pressure plays a critical role—too tight, and you restrict fluid motion; too loose, and you lose control.

Taking time to assess and refine your grip will pay off in every aspect of your game, from driving accuracy to short-game finesse. Try to experiment with different grips, seek advice from other golfers, and remember that the best grip is the one that gives you confidence and control.

Consistency, Comfort, or Control

Selecting the right golf grip is about more than just personal preference—it directly impacts your swing, shot accuracy, and overall performance on the course.

Consistency in your game allows for a more reliable golf game. The right grip helps ensure that your hands are in the same position every time you address the ball. If your grip feels awkward or forces your hands into unnatural positions, it can lead to erratic ball striking and unpredictable results. A well-fitted grip allows you to maintain grip pressure and hand placement.

Comfort is essential for a relaxed, effortless swing. If a grip is too small, too firm, or too rough, it can cause discomfort, leading to tension in your hands and forearms. Soft, cushioned grips absorb shock and minimize vibrations, making them ideal for players with arthritis or hand fatigue. When your grip feels natural and comfortable, you can swing more freely, allowing for a smoother tempo and better energy transfer through impact.

Control is the key to precision and shot shaping. Firmer, textured grips provide better feedback and a direct connection to the club, allowing for enhanced feel and manipulation of the clubface. Whether shaping shots or maintaining stability in wet conditions, a control-focused grip helps golfers execute with confidence.

Interested in Learning More about Golf Grips?

For more on golf tips, be sure to check out our YouTube channel and some of our videos on golf grips below!

Perfecting Your Grip

What Is The Proper Grip Size For My Golf Clubs?

How to Improve Your Golf Club Grip

Golf Takeaways

If you’re really serious about improving your game and working in the golf industry, download our complimentary golf career guide to review all your options.

Want more tips? If you want to take your game to the next level, contact our team at Keiser University’s College of Golf & Sport Management today. With our dedication and experience, together, we can elevate your game to new heights. Give us a call today at 888-355-4465.