Guide to Golf Grips: Types, Brands, Conditions, and Sizing
GolfMark Sales
Golf grips are often overlooked in discussions about improving performance on the course, but they play a crucial role in every golfer's game. The right grip can enhance control, consistency, and comfort, whereas the wrong one can lead to poor shots and discomfort. In this blog post, we'll delve into the various types of golf grips, explore popular brands, consider how weather conditions affect grip performance, and discuss the importance of grip sizing.
Types of Golf Grips
Golf grips come in several types, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. Here's a look at the primary types:
1. Rubber Grips: Rubber grips are the most common and widely used type. They offer a good balance of durability, comfort, and tackiness. Rubber grips are generally suitable for most weather conditions and are available in various textures and firmness levels to accommodate personal preferences.
2. Corded Grips: Corded grips feature a blend of cord material (often nylon) woven into the rubber. This design provides exceptional traction, making them ideal for golfers who play in wet or humid conditions. Corded grips are more durable but can be rougher on the hands, so they may not be the best choice for all players.
3. Hybrid Grips: Hybrid grips combine elements of both rubber and corded grips. They offer a balance of traction and comfort, with a corded pattern in the upper portion for improved grip in adverse conditions and a softer, rubbery feel in the lower portion for comfort.
4. Putter Grips: Putter grips come in various shapes and sizes, from traditional round grips to larger, more specialized designs. Larger putter grips can provide a more stable feel and reduce wrist movement, which can be beneficial for players with a tendency to over-swing.
5. Jumbo Grips: Jumbo grips are thicker than standard grips and are designed for golfers with larger hands or those who want to reduce the tension in their grip. They can help alleviate joint pain and promote a smoother swing.
6. Men’s vs. Women’s Grips: Grips are also differentiated by gender, with men’s grips typically being slightly larger in diameter compared to women’s grips. Choosing the appropriate size is crucial for optimal control and comfort.
Popular Golf Grip Brands
Several brands are renowned for their quality and innovation in golf grips. Here are some of the top brands in the industry:
1. Golf Pride: Golf Pride is one of the most recognized names in the grip market. Their grips, such as the GP Grips and MCC series, are known for their exceptional performance and variety. Golf Pride grips are popular among both amateur and professional golfers.
2. Lamkin: Lamkin offers a wide range of grips designed to meet various needs, including the popular Comfort and Crossline series. Lamkin grips are known for their innovative materials and comfortable feel.
3. Winn: Winn is known for its focus on comfort and shock absorption. Their grips, such as the Dri-Tac series, are designed to provide a soft, cushioned feel while maintaining excellent traction.
4. SuperStroke: SuperStroke specializes in putter grips and is renowned for its larger, more ergonomic designs. Their grips, such as the Slim and Traxion series, are designed to improve stability and reduce hand tension.
5. Iomic: Iomic grips are known for their unique material, which offers a blend of durability and tackiness. Their grips are often favored by golfers looking for something different from the traditional rubber grip.
Weather Conditions and Grip Performance
The performance of your golf grip can vary significantly based on weather conditions. Here's how different conditions can affect your grip and what you can do about it:
1. Wet Conditions: In rainy or humid conditions, traction becomes crucial. Corded grips are excellent for these conditions due to their superior grip texture. Rubber grips can also perform well if they are designed to be non-slip. Consider using a grip with a high-tack surface or applying a grip-enhancing spray to maintain control.
2. Hot Conditions: In hot weather, grips can become slick due to sweat. Opt for grips with high moisture absorption or those specifically designed for hot conditions. Some golfers prefer to carry a towel to keep their grips dry and maintain control.
3. Cold Conditions: In cold weather, grips can become stiff and less responsive. Consider using grips with softer materials or hybrid grips that can provide a bit more flexibility. Keeping your hands warm and dry is also important for maintaining grip performance.
4. Extreme Conditions: For extreme conditions, such as very humid or very dry environments, you may need to adjust your grip choice accordingly. Ensure you have grips that can handle these extremes without sacrificing performance.
Grip Sizing
Proper grip sizing is crucial for comfort and performance. Golf grips come in various sizes, including standard, midsize, and jumbo. Here's a guide to help you choose the right size:
1. Standard Grips: Standard grips are typically used by most golfers. They are suitable for average hand sizes and offer a good balance of control and comfort.
2. Midsize Grips: Midsize grips are slightly larger than standard grips and are ideal for golfers with larger hands or those who prefer a bit more cushion. They can also help reduce grip tension and provide a more comfortable feel.
3. Jumbo Grips: Jumbo grips are the largest and are often used by golfers with very large hands or those seeking to reduce the tension in their grip. They can help alleviate joint pain and promote a smoother swing.
4. Custom Fitting: For the best results, consider getting custom-fitted grips from a professional. A custom fitting will ensure that you have the optimal size and type of grip for your specific needs, which can significantly enhance your overall performance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right golf grip involves considering the type of grip, brand preferences, weather conditions, and grip sizing. By understanding these factors, you can select a grip that enhances your comfort, control, and performance on the course. Whether you're dealing with rain, heat, or just want a grip that suits your personal style, there's a grip out there to meet your needs. Don't overlook this critical aspect of your equipment; the right grip can make a significant difference in your game.