Driving · Lesson
Slice Basics: Fix the Simple Stuff First
Part of our driving programs for slice, topped or thin. Build a program with it
Before you rebuild your swing, check the easy things. Are your clubs fit for you? A local pro can help with that. Is your grip too weak? A weak grip often leaves the face open at impact. Are you aiming left to dodge the slice? That usually makes it worse, because it encourages the same cutting swing. Set up square instead. Then feel the swing head a bit out to the right while the face turns over. Last, check where the ball sits. Too far forward or back changes both face and contact.
Step by step
- Get your clubs checked for fit.
- Firm up a weak grip.
- Stop aiming left to compensate.
- Set up square and swing out to the right.
- Check your ball position.
Why it works
A slice happens when the clubface points right of the swing path at impact, which puts left-to-right spin on the ball. A weak grip leaves the face open, and aiming left invites an outside-to-in path that adds more cut spin. Squaring your setup and swinging out to the right gives the path room to move away from the cut, while a stronger grip helps the face turn over and close to that path.
Common mistakes
- You strengthen the grip so much that it feels twisted and tight.Turn both hands only until you can see a couple of knuckles on your left hand at address, and keep your grip pressure light.
- You keep aiming left because it feels safer, so your body and feet stay open.Lay a club along your toes pointing at the target, then match your feet, hips and shoulders to it.
- You swing out to the right by pushing your hands away from your body, which sends the ball far right.Keep the swing smooth and let the clubface turn over through impact as the club travels out to the right.
How you'll know it's working
- The ball starts closer to your target line and curves less to the right.
- You make centered contact, and your divot points less to the left of the target.
- Your grip and setup feel square and repeatable when you check them before each shot.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: Hit short shots with a wedge or a mid-iron first, and use a club on the ground to set your aim and ball position.
Harder: Hit a series of drives and keep the same grip, aim and ball position while you try to hold the ball on your target line.
Common questions
Why do I slice the ball with my driver?
Most slices come from an open clubface relative to your swing path. Common causes are a weak grip, an open stance, and a cutting swing from outside to in.
Does a weak grip cause a slice?
Yes, it can. A weak grip often leaves the face open at impact, so the ball starts out and spins right. Firming it up helps the face close.
