Introduction to Double Overlap Golf Grip:
The grip is one of the most fundamental aspects of the golf swing. Without a proper grip, it can be difficult to control the clubface, resulting in poor shots and inconsistency. The double overlap golf grip, also known as the “Vardon grip,” is a popular grip style used by many professional golfers and amateurs alike.
What is Double Overlap Golf Grip?
The double overlap golf grip involves placing the little finger of the bottom hand (the right hand for right-handed golfers) in between the index and middle finger of the top hand. This creates an overlapping grip that helps to lock the hands together and promote a more unified swing.
Advantages :
- Improved control: This grip promotes a more unified swing, which can lead to better control over the clubface. By locking the hands together, the grip helps to eliminate any independent hand movements that could cause the clubface to open or close during the swing.
- Increased power: Because this grip helps to promote a more unified swing, it can also lead to increased power. With a more synchronized swing, golfers can generate more clubhead speed and hit the ball farther.
- Better consistency: Consistency is key in golf, and this grip can help with that. By promoting a more unified swing and eliminating any independent hand movements, golfers can achieve more consistent shots.
Disadvantages:
- Uncomfortable for some: The double overlap golf grip can feel uncomfortable or awkward for some golfers, especially those with smaller hands. It may take some time to get used to the feel of the grip.
- Can lead to hooks or slices: Because this grip promotes a more closed clubface, it can sometimes lead to hooks or slices if not executed properly.
How to Use :
- Start with your left hand: For right-handed golfers, place your left hand on the club first, making sure the grip is in the fingers, not the palm.
- Overlap with the right hand: Take your right hand and place it so that the little finger rests between the index and middle finger of your left hand.
- Close your grip: Close your grip and make sure your hands are locked together. Your left thumb should fit snugly into the lifeline of your right hand.
- Check your grip: Make sure your grip is neither too tight nor too loose. You should be able to hold the club with a firm, but relaxed grip.
History:
The double overlap golf grip is named after Harry Vardon, a professional golfer from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Vardon is credited with popularizing the grip style, which he used to win six Open Championships and one U.S. Open. The grip style has since been adopted by many other golfers, including current pros like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.
Variations :
While the basic double overlap golf grip involves placing the little finger of the bottom hand between the index and middle finger of the top hand, there are some variations to the grip style that golfers can experiment with. These include:
- Three-finger overlap grip: Instead of placing the little finger of the bottom hand between the index and middle finger of the top hand, some golfers prefer to place the ring finger of the bottom hand in between the same two fingers of the top hand. This creates a grip with three fingers overlapping instead of two.
- Reverse overlap grip: This grip style is similar to this grip, but with the top hand overlapping the bottom hand instead of the other way around. This grip style is often used by golfers with smaller hands who find the double overlap grip uncomfortable.
Tips for Using Double Overlap Golf Grip:
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of the double overlap golf grip:
- Start with a neutral grip: Before experimenting with different grip styles, make sure you have a basic understanding of a neutral grip. This involves placing both hands on the club with the palms facing each other and the grip resting in the fingers, not the palms.
- Practice with different grip styles: While this grip is a popular grip style, it may not work for everyone. Experiment with different grip styles to find the one that feels most comfortable and helps you achieve the best results.
- Make sure your grip is consistent: Whether you use this grip or another grip style, make sure your grip is consistent from shot to shot. Inconsistent grip pressure or hand placement can lead to inconsistent shots.
- Get feedback from a pro: If you’re having trouble with your grip or want to improve your technique, consider getting feedback from a golf pro. They can help you identify any issues with your grip and provide tips for improvement.
Advantages
| Advantage | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Increased stability | The double overlap grip helps to stabilize the club, resulting in more accurate shots | Players can hit longer and straighter shots with more control |
| Better control | The grip provides greater control over the clubface, which can lead to more consistent ball flight | Golfers can make more precise shots and avoid mis-hits |
| Improved feel | The grip allows for a better connection between the hands and the club, which can improve the golfer’s feel for the shot | Players can more easily detect subtle changes in the swing and adjust accordingly |
| Reduced tension | The double overlap grip can help reduce tension in the hands and arms, leading to a more relaxed swing | Golfers can swing more freely and avoid fatigue or injury |
| Versatility | The grip can be used with a variety of club types, from drivers to putters, making it a versatile choice for golfers | Players can use the same grip for all shots, simplifying their setup and reducing the need for adjustment |
Disadvantages
| Disadvantage | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Uncomfortable | Some golfers find the double overlap grip to be uncomfortable or unnatural, especially if they are used to a different grip style | Players may need to spend time adjusting to the new grip and developing muscle memory |
| Reduced clubhead speed | The grip can limit the golfer’s ability to generate clubhead speed, resulting in shorter shots | Golfers may need to make adjustments to their swing to compensate for the grip |
| Limited shot options | The grip may not be suitable for certain shots, such as punch shots or flop shots, which require a different grip style | Golfers may need to switch grips for different shots, which can be time-consuming and distracting |
| Increased risk of hooking | The grip can cause the clubface to close too much at impact, leading to a hook shot | Golfers may need to adjust their setup or swing to avoid this problem |
| Inconsistent results | The grip may not work well for all golfers, and some may find that it leads to inconsistent results | Golfers may need to experiment with different grips to find the one that works best for them |
Steps to take when using a double overlap golf grip
| Step | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Proper hand placement | The hands should be placed on the grip in the correct position, with the thumbs pointing down the shaft | Golfers should ensure that their hands are aligned correctly and that they are not gripping the club too tightly |
| Firm grip | The grip should be firm but not too tight, with the fingers and palms of both hands in contact with the grip | Golfers should ensure that they are not squeezing the club too hard, which can cause tension and reduce control |
| Keep wrists stable | The wrists should be kept stable throughout the swing, with no excessive movement or flipping | Golfers should avoid hinging or rolling their wrists, which can cause the clubface to open or close |
| Follow through | The golfer should follow through after the shot, with the club finishing in the correct position | Golfers should ensure that their body is balanced and that they are not falling forward or backward |
| Practice | Consistent practice is essential for developing muscle memory and mastering the double overlap grip | Golfers should spend time on the range practicing with the grip and getting feedback from a coach or mentor |
Famous golfers
| Golfer | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Tiger Woods | One of the most successful golfers of all time, Tiger Woods is known for using the double overlap grip | Woods has won 15 major championships and is widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time |
| Phil Mickelson | Another successful golfer, Phil Mickelson is also known for using the double overlap grip | Mickelson has won 5 major championships and is a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame |
| Jordan Spieth | Jordan Spieth is a young golfer who has achieved great success using the double overlap grip | Spieth has won three major championships and is known for his excellent putting |
| Zach Johnson | Zach Johnson is a professional golfer who has used the double overlap grip throughout his career | Johnson has won two major championships and has been a consistent performer on the PGA Tour |
| Justin Rose | Justin Rose is a former US Open champion who has used the double overlap grip for many years | Rose has won 10 PGA Tour events and is known for his solid ball-striking and accuracy |
Conclusion:
This grip is a popular grip style used by many golfers. While it may take some time to get used to the feel of the grip, it can lead to improved control, increased power, and better consistency. However, it may not be comfortable for all golfers and can lead to hooks or slices if not executed properly. With proper practice and execution, this grip can be a valuable addition to any golfer’s game.
