Choosing a Grip
Elusive but Vital

There are not any pros or cons when choosing a grip, it is about that ever elusive thing called feel, the grip is the only contact you have in golf. When asked, "How does that feel?" You either say, "good" or "I don't like it."

When asked to describe feel we are at a loss for words, you cannot describe the feel. The grip gives you confidence that you will be able to hit the golf ball and that's the only contact you have with the golf club so you need to get it right.

There are so many different grips on the market today, but they all fall into one of five material groups:

• Rubber grips - these slip on grips are the most affordable and soft.

• Synthetic grips - give you a softer feel and are somewhat more shock absorbent - they also come in firm.

• Multi density grip - is the new trend in grips it is soft to the touch but underneath it is firmer against the shaft.

• Cord and half- cord grips - the hardest of the grips.

• Spongy rubber compound grips - for golfers with hand ailments and for those who have lost some or their ability to grip the club, these grips are also known as arthritic grips.

Then you have your types of grips to consider when choosing a grip:

• Taper grips as the name implies are bigger at the butt end. I have some better players that prefer taper grips, but they have me put extra wraps under their right hand for that special feel.

• Parallel grips are pretty much the same size for the entire length of the grip and I've found them to be softer.

• Reverse taper grips are also known as the "upside down" grip. The company that manufactures these grips states that "upside down" grips helps players control the clubs better and assists in eliminating the dreaded slice.

There are many different textures used to make grips:

• Wrap grips simulate the leather wrapping when golf clubs where still wrapped by hand.

• Velvet and crossline series have a smooth torque resistant texture - so the companies claim.

• Cord grips have cloth or linen fibers that stick through the surface of the grips and they come in full, 1/2, and 1/4 cord. They help the traction properties of the grip, but beware they do tend to have a harsher feel.

• Multi density grips are two or more compounds of different firmness placed at specific locations on the grip, such as under the thumbs and so on.

There are so many companies that make grips, and all the options that are available just boggle this old mind. So shop around when choosing a grip - go and touch them - but don't just try the OEMs that are on all the mass produced clubs. You need to give some of the lesser known companies a try, you might be surprised and save yourself some money.

Go to your club fitter and he/she will decide what size grip is right for you, but you still have to tell them what you feel.

With all the choices you still have to decide for yourself.

Making a Statement with Your Putter Grip

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