Let’s talk grips this week. As you start, ask the question of hand, joint, wrist, elbow or shoulder pain, arthritis – anything that could make gripping the golf club uncomfortable. Address this in both the size and type portion of your discussion. Lastly, remember that the butt diameter of the shaft is NOT universal. They are not all the same size. Guess what that means? If you put a standard size grip on a shaft with an oversize butt diameter, you’ll see a grip that finishes out larger than expected. I would consider getting a grip gauge to measure existing grips – in case you are trying to match up to an existing set of clubs. 

When it comes to grip types, this really depends on the players preference. Certain grips are better in a wider range of weather, some are better for players who don’t wear a glove. Some are softer, some are firmer. Some wear faster, some are more durable. You have your favorites, and you can certainly pass that along to your players. The most important thing to remind players is that grips aren’t forever. I’d encourage players to change their grips every season. They are made of rubber and they will age and wear. Set the expectation up front.

When it comes to grip size, this is a bit of personal preference as well, but there will be some performance changes due to size changes as well. Once you’ve verified the players needs due to injuries, etc. move on to sizing. Remember that joint problem will tend to appreciate a softer grip, and arthritis will appreciate a larger grip. The old thinking that a smaller grip will make you hook it, and a bigger grip will make you slice it is basically a myth. You want to make sure the grip is more in the fingers. Too small will make the grip ride up in the palm. Too large will do the same thing. The grip is the right size when it stays in the fingers as the player closes his hand on the grip. Medium large gloves will equal a STD Size. A grip that is too big or too small will ride up in the palm too much. This impedes a players release, and there will be more of a distance penalty than a directional penalty. IF a player wants a grip that is too big or too small, it’s better to go with it than to pick a battle that isn’t worth fighting. 

I hope this helps!! Happy Fitting