Golf Club Specifications- The Grip.

The golf club grip is synonymous to the stirring wheel of your high power sports car. It is your physical connection with the machine, which you use to control your shots or maneuver the ball. There are also some aspects of the grip that will help you play better.



1. Condition of Grip
My best ball striking rounds are usually right after I switch the grips on my clubs. The newer the grips, the more traction they have, hence, the less tension you will have in your wrists and shoulders. I always notice that with new grips, I feel more in control of the club, it actually feels like an extension of my arms.
Some tour players change grips every month, I've even heard of some who will change them every week. However, for the average golfer, 2-4 times a year will likely serve you well, depending on how often you play. Obviously, if you take your clubs out of the garage once every 3 months, there is no need to change grips that often.

2. Size of Grip
Some of us have skinny fingers, some short, others fat, long and any other size description out there. Golf grips can be customized to 1/32" depending on the size of your fingers. Most golf retailers will have a grip fitting tool, which will determine what size will work best for you. Believe me, it can make a huge difference. You may need to pay a little extra, but it will be worth it.

3. Rib or no Rib?
A rib is a protrusion that is placed on the back of the grip. The purpose of the rib is to provide a point of reference for your fingers so that you grip the club exactly the same each time. Many club manufactures use ribbed grips because they make it easier for the average golfer who does not get much practice. However, some people prefer grips without a rib, or "round" grips instead, because the rib feels too different for them. It is important to note that both ribbed and round grips are USGA compliant.

4. Type of grip.
There are so many types of grips out there. Some are soft, others firm, some are rubber, others synthetic and high tech. Others have cords for more traction, and others resemble the old fashioned leather wrap used in early golf clubs. The most important aspect of choosing the type of grip is how it feels to you. If it feels great to you, then it will most likely contribute to your successful shot execution. However, like everything else in life, there is always a trade off. Softer feeling grips tend to lose their traction much faster than firmer ones. On the other hand, firmer grips do not feel as good softer ones. Most club manufactures use a "velvet style" grip, which is the best of both worlds. It feels as soft as it can be, while maintaining durability. However, companies like Winn and Golf Pride continue to create innovative compositions. Again, most golf retailers with a repair shop or custom club shop will have a plethora of grips from which to choose.

Brought to you by EMBARK GOLF.