In the world of golf, every detail matters. From the clubs you choose to the shoes you wear, each element plays a crucial role in your performance on the course. Among these factors, the grip on your driver stands out as a critical component that can significantly impact your game. The right driver grip can enhance your control, improve your comfort, and ultimately lead to better shots off the tee.
With the myriad of options available in today's market, choosing the perfect driver grip can seem overwhelming. Golfers are faced with a variety of materials, sizes, and designs, each promising to revolutionize their game. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the process of selecting the best driver grip, helping you make an informed decision based on your unique needs and preferences.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, understanding the nuances of driver grips can be the key to unlocking your full potential on the course. Let's dive into the world of golf grips and discover how the right choice can elevate your driving game to new heights.
Table of Contents
Understanding Driver Grips: What Makes Them Different?
Driver grips are not created equal, and understanding their unique characteristics is crucial in making the right choice for your game. Let's explore the key factors that differentiate driver grips:
Material Types
The material of your driver grip plays a significant role in its performance and feel. Two main categories dominate the market: rubber and corded grips.
Rubber Grips: These are the most common type of grips, known for their softness and comfort. Rubber grips provide excellent tackiness, making them ideal for players who prefer a softer feel and don't struggle with sweaty hands. They're also generally more affordable and easier to replace.
Corded Grips: Designed for players who need extra traction, corded grips feature a layer of cord material woven into the rubber. This provides superior grip in wet conditions or for those with sweaty hands. While they offer excellent control, some players find them less comfortable than pure rubber grips.
Hybrid Grips: A popular compromise between rubber and corded grips, hybrid designs like the Golf Pride MCC (Multi-Compound Cord) feature a combination of materials. Typically, they have a corded upper section for control and a rubber lower section for comfort.
Grip Sizes
Grip size is a crucial factor that's often overlooked. Using the wrong size can lead to inconsistent shots and even potential injury. The main sizes available are:
Standard: Suitable for most golfers with average-sized hands.
Midsize: Slightly larger than standard, ideal for players with larger hands or those who prefer a thicker feel.
Jumbo: The largest option, typically used by golfers with very large hands or those seeking maximum shock absorption.
Choosing the right size depends on your hand measurements and personal preference. A general rule of thumb is that your fingertips should just touch your palm when gripping the club.
Tackiness & Texture
The surface texture and tackiness of a grip significantly affect its performance:
Tacky Grips: Grips with a sticky or tacky surface, like the Winn Dri-Tac, provide excellent grip with minimal pressure. This can be beneficial for players with arthritis or those who prefer a lighter grip. However, tacky grips may wear down faster and require more frequent replacement.
Textured Grips: These grips feature patterns or indentations designed to enhance traction. They're often found on corded grips and can provide excellent control, especially in wet conditions.
Weather Conditions
The climate you typically play in should heavily influence your grip choice:
Hot and Humid Environments: If you often play in sweaty conditions, moisture management becomes crucial. Corded grips like the Golf Pride ZGRIP Cord excel in these situations, offering superior traction even when your hands are damp.
Rainy Conditions: For those who brave the rain, grips with aggressive textures or cord elements provide the best control. The Lamkin Crossline, known for its deep, cross-line texture, performs exceptionally well in wet weather.
Moderate Climates: In more temperate conditions, you have more flexibility. A hybrid grip like the Golf Pride MCC can offer a good balance of comfort and control across various weather conditions.
Comfort vs. Control
Finding the right balance between comfort and control is essential:
Soft Grips: Grips like the Golf Pride CPX offer maximum comfort and are ideal for players with joint issues or those who prefer a cushioned feel. They can help reduce fatigue during long rounds but may sacrifice some control.
Firm Grips: Options like the Lamkin ST+2 Hybrid provide excellent feedback and control, especially for players with higher swing speeds. While they may feel less comfortable initially, many players appreciate the increased connection to the club.
The choice between soft and firm grips often comes down to personal preference and playing style. Some players find that a firmer grip improves their consistency, while others perform better with a softer, more comfortable option.
Durability & Maintenance
Consider how often you play and how well you maintain your equipment:
Durability: Corded grips and those with firmer compounds tend to last longer than soft, tacky grips. If you play frequently, investing in a more durable grip can save you money in the long run.
Maintenance: All grips require some level of maintenance to perform their best. Regularly cleaning your grips with mild soap and water can extend their lifespan and maintain their tackiness. However, some grips, particularly those with a softer compound, may require more frequent replacement to maintain optimal performance.
As a general rule, you should consider replacing your driver grip every 40 rounds or once a year, whichever comes first. However, this can vary based on how often you play and the specific wear patterns of your grip.
Top Driver Grips
Golf Pride CPX Grip
The Golf Pride CPX (Comfort Performance Extreme) grip represents a significant innovation in Golf Pride's product lineup, introduced in 2022 as their softest performance grip to date. This grip was designed to address the growing demand for comfort-focused grips while maintaining the high-performance standards Golf Pride is known for.
The CPX grip features several unique technologies. At its core is the EXO Diamond-Quilted surface pattern, inspired by BMX bike grips. This texture is designed to maximize contact points between the hand and the grip, enhancing traction and feel. The grip is constructed using a proprietary rubber compound that offers a soft feel without sacrificing durability or performance in various weather conditions.
Another key feature of the CPX is the Control Core technology. This firmer underlisting at the top of the grip, where the most grip pressure is applied, helps maintain stability and control throughout the swing. The grip also incorporates a larger lower hand diameter, similar to Golf Pride's Plus4 technology, which is intended to encourage a lighter grip pressure and potentially increase swing speed.
Available in four sizes (Undersize, Standard, Midsize, and Jumbo), the CPX caters to a wide range of golfers. The standard size weighs 52 grams, placing it in the mid-range of Golf Pride's grip offerings in terms of weight.
The CPX grip represents Golf Pride's response to market trends favoring softer grips, while also addressing the needs of golfers who desire comfort without sacrificing performance. It's part of Golf Pride's strategy to maintain their dominant market position by offering products that cater to evolving golfer preferences while incorporating advanced materials and design technologies.
Golf Pride MCC Plus4 Grip
The Golf Pride MCC Plus4 Grip is a revolutionary hybrid golf grip that has gained significant popularity among both professional and amateur golfers. Introduced as an evolution of the original MCC (Multi-Compound Cord) grip, the Plus4 model incorporates innovative design features to enhance performance and comfort.
The most distinctive feature of the MCC Plus4 is its larger lower hand diameter, which simulates the effect of adding four additional wraps of tape under the grip. This unique design encourages a lighter grip pressure, reducing tension in the hands and promoting a more fluid, powerful swing. The reduced taper profile allows golfers to maintain consistent hand placement and pressure throughout their swing, potentially leading to improved accuracy and distance.
The grip utilizes a hybrid construction, combining two different materials to optimize performance. The upper portion features a brushed cotton cord material, which provides excellent traction and moisture management, particularly beneficial in wet or humid conditions. The lower section is made from a softer rubber compound, offering enhanced feel and responsiveness in the area where the fingers wrap around the grip.
Golf Pride has also incorporated a micro-texture surface throughout the grip, strategically placed to maximize hand coverage and increase overall traction. This texture contributes to a more secure hold on the club without the need for excessive grip pressure.
Available in multiple sizes (standard, midsize, undersize, and jumbo) and color options, the MCC Plus4 caters to a wide range of player preferences and hand sizes. Its versatility and performance benefits have made it a popular choice on professional tours and among recreational players seeking to optimize their equipment setup.
The MCC Plus4 represents Golf Pride's commitment to innovation in grip technology, combining comfort, control, and performance in a single product that has become a benchmark in the golf industry.
JumboMax JMX UltraLite Grip
The JumboMax JMX UltraLite Grip is an innovative golf grip that has gained attention in the golfing world for its unique design and performance benefits. Developed by JumboMax, a company known for pushing the boundaries of grip technology, the JMX UltraLite is designed to be significantly larger than traditional golf grips while maintaining a surprisingly light weight.
One of the most notable features of the JMX UltraLite is its size. These grips are substantially larger in diameter compared to standard or even jumbo grips, which can be jarring at first glance. However, this increased size is intentional and serves several purposes. The larger diameter promotes a lighter grip pressure, which can help reduce tension in the hands and arms during the swing. This can lead to improved consistency and potentially greater clubhead speed.
Despite their size, the JMX UltraLite grips live up to their name by being 20-25% lighter than conventional grips. This is achieved through advanced materials and construction techniques, allowing golfers to enjoy the benefits of an oversized grip without adding significant weight to their clubs. The reduced weight can help maintain or even decrease overall club weight, potentially leading to increased swing speed.
The grip features a unique Tri-Texture design, incorporating different surface patterns in specific areas to enhance performance and feel. This includes a hex pattern for maximum texture in key gripping areas, a cross pattern for tackiness and moisture dispersion, and a herringbone pattern to assist with consistent hand placement.
JumboMax offers the JMX UltraLite in various sizes to accommodate different hand sizes and preferences. The grips have gained popularity among golfers of all skill levels, including some professional players, for their potential to improve comfort, reduce grip pressure, and enhance overall performance.
Golf Pride Tour Velvet Grip
The Golf Pride Tour Velvet Grip is one of the most iconic and widely used golf grips in the industry. Introduced over two decades ago, it has become the standard against which other grips are measured. Its popularity stems from its simple yet effective design, combining comfort, durability, and performance.
The Tour Velvet features a proprietary rubber compound that provides a firm yet tacky feel. This material offers excellent durability, maintaining its performance characteristics over extended use. The grip's surface pattern is designed with a non-slip texture, featuring a distinctive plus sign pattern that enhances traction and moisture management. This design helps golfers maintain a consistent grip in various weather conditions, from dry heat to light rain.
Available in multiple sizes, including standard, midsize, jumbo, and undersize, the Tour Velvet caters to a wide range of hand sizes and preferences. It also comes in both round and ribbed versions, allowing golfers to choose based on their feel preference and alignment needs.
The grip's moderate firmness strikes a balance between comfort and feedback. It provides enough cushioning to reduce vibration at impact while still allowing golfers to feel the clubhead throughout the swing. This balance of feel and comfort has made it a favorite among professional golfers and amateurs alike.
Golf Pride has continued to innovate with the Tour Velvet line, introducing variations like the Tour Velvet ALIGN, which features a raised ridge to help with hand placement and alignment. The grip's versatility and consistent performance across different club types have contributed to its enduring popularity, making it a staple in the golf industry for years.
Lamkin Sonar+ Tour Calibrate Grip
The Lamkin Sonar+ Tour Calibrate Grip is a premium golf grip that combines several of Lamkin's innovative technologies to provide golfers with enhanced performance and consistency. Introduced as part of Lamkin's 2020 lineup, this grip builds upon the success of the original Sonar+ Tour model by incorporating the new Calibrate Technology.
At the core of the Sonar+ Tour Calibrate is Lamkin's proprietary Genesis Material, a hybrid compound designed to deliver optimal performance and durability across various weather conditions. This material provides a balance of softness for comfort and firmness for control, appealing to a wide range of golfers.
The grip features Lamkin's Fingerprint Technology, which utilizes micro-textures across the surface to enhance traction and feel. This innovative design allows for a secure hold without the need for an overly aggressive texture, promoting a lighter grip pressure that can lead to increased swing speed and distance.
What sets the Calibrate version apart is the addition of Lamkin's Calibrate Technology. This feature introduces a pronounced reminder ridge running along the underside of the grip. The ridge, colored in a distinctive neon green, helps golfers consistently place their hands in the optimal position on the club. This can improve clubface awareness and overall control throughout the swing.
The Sonar+ Tour Calibrate also incorporates a reduced taper profile. This design element maintains a more consistent diameter from top to bottom compared to traditional grips, encouraging even grip pressure between the upper and lower hands.
Visually, the grip presents a sleek black appearance with subtle branding and the eye-catching neon green Calibrate ridge. This design not only serves a functional purpose but also gives the grip a modern, high-tech aesthetic.
Targeted at golfers seeking consistency and performance, the Lamkin Sonar+ Tour Calibrate Grip offers a blend of comfort, control, and innovative features designed to enhance the connection between player and club.
Winn Dri-Tac Grip
The Winn Dri-Tac Grip is one of the most popular and innovative golf grips on the market, known for its exceptional comfort and performance in all weather conditions. Developed by Winn, a pioneer in polymer grip technology, the Dri-Tac series represents a significant advancement in golf grip design and materials.
Winn introduced the original Dri-Tac grip as an alternative to traditional rubber grips, utilizing a proprietary polymer compound called WinnDry. This material is engineered to provide superior tackiness and shock absorption compared to conventional grips. The Dri-Tac's unique texture and composition offer excellent traction in both dry and wet conditions, making it a versatile choice for golfers playing in various climates.
One of the key features of the Dri-Tac grip is its softness and comfort. The polymer material is designed to reduce hand fatigue, allowing golfers to play longer without discomfort. This makes it particularly popular among players with arthritis or other hand sensitivities. Despite its soft feel, the Dri-Tac maintains a high level of durability and performance.
The Dri-Tac series has evolved over time, with Winn introducing variations like the Dri-Tac 2.0 and Dri-Tac LT. These iterations have further improved on the original design, offering enhanced tackiness, durability, and grip profiles. The Dri-Tac LT, for instance, features a less tapered design with a larger lower hand section, promoting lighter grip pressure and better control.
Available in various sizes including standard, midsize, and oversize, the Dri-Tac caters to a wide range of player preferences. Its color options have also expanded, allowing golfers to customize their club aesthetics while benefiting from the grip's performance features.
The Winn Dri-Tac has become a staple in the golf industry, praised for its ability to combine comfort, performance, and all-weather playability in a single grip. Its success has influenced grip design across the industry, cementing Winn's position as a leader in golf grip innovation.
SuperStroke S-Tech Grip
The SuperStroke S-Tech Grip is a premium club grip designed for golfers seeking optimal performance and control. Introduced in 2016, it marked SuperStroke's entry into the club grip market, expanding beyond their well-known putter grips.
The S-Tech grip is crafted from a high-quality compound rubber material, striking a balance between softness and tackiness. This composition provides a comfortable feel in the hands while maintaining excellent feedback and control. The grip's surface features a Cross-Traction texture, which enhances traction and performance across various weather conditions, including light rain.
One of the S-Tech's key attributes is its versatility. It's suitable for a wide range of players, from amateurs to professionals, and can be used effectively across an entire set of clubs. This consistency in feel and performance throughout the bag is a significant advantage for many golfers.
The grip has gained popularity on the professional tour, with notable players like Jordan Spieth, Sergio Garcia, and Jason Dufner incorporating it into their equipment. Spieth, in particular, has been a prominent user, having extended his deal with SuperStroke and transitioning from their putter grips to the S-Tech for his full set of clubs.
Available in multiple colors including black, blue, and grey, the S-Tech offers both performance and aesthetic options. Its durability has been well-received, with users reporting consistent performance over extended periods of regular use.
The S-Tech represents SuperStroke's commitment to innovation in grip technology, combining modern design elements with traditional grip principles to create a product that caters to the demands of contemporary golfers seeking enhanced control and feel in their game.
Golf Pride ZGRIP Grip
The Golf Pride ZGRIP Grip is one of the most popular and highly regarded golf grips on the market, especially for players dealing with sweaty hands or challenging weather conditions. Developed by Golf Pride, a leading manufacturer of golf grips, the ZGRIP is designed to provide maximum control and feedback in all playing conditions.
The ZGRIP is characterized by its firm feel and aggressive texture. It features a unique "Z-shaped" texture pattern that winds vertically around the grip, providing enhanced traction and control. This design helps channel moisture away from the hands, making it particularly effective in humid or wet conditions.
One of the standout features of the ZGRIP is its full cord construction. The grip is covered with a heavy cotton cord texture throughout, which significantly improves moisture management and grip stability. This makes it an excellent choice for golfers who struggle with sweaty hands or those who frequently play in hot or rainy weather.
The ZGRIP is known as Golf Pride's firmest grip, offering maximum feedback at impact. This firmness allows players to feel every nuance of their swing, which can be particularly beneficial for more experienced golfers looking to fine-tune their game.
Available in both standard and midsize options, the ZGRIP caters to a wide range of hand sizes and preferences. The grip also features a distinctive white end cap and white body paint fill, giving it a unique and recognizable appearance.
While the ZGRIP's firm feel and aggressive texture provide excellent control, some golfers with sensitive hands may find it too rough or abrasive. However, for those prioritizing performance in challenging conditions, the ZGRIP is often considered a top choice.
The Golf Pride ZGRIP has gained popularity among both amateur and professional golfers, praised for its durability, consistent performance, and ability to maintain grip integrity even in the most demanding situations on the course.
Lamkin ST+2 Hybrid Calibrate Grip
The Lamkin ST+2 Hybrid Calibrate Grip is an innovative golf grip that combines several of Lamkin's proprietary technologies to create a high-performance product for golfers of all skill levels. Introduced as part of Lamkin's lineup in recent years, this grip aims to provide a balance of comfort, control, and consistency.
The "ST" in the name stands for Smooth Tack, referring to Lamkin's Genesis material that offers a tacky feel without being overly sticky. This material is known for its durability and ability to maintain its tackiness even after repeated use and cleaning. The "+2" designation indicates the grip's reduced taper design, which creates a larger lower hand section to promote even grip pressure throughout the swing.
The "Hybrid" aspect of the grip refers to its dual-material construction. The upper portion of the grip features a light cord material, providing enhanced traction for the top hand, especially useful in wet or humid conditions. The lower portion is made entirely of the Genesis material, offering a softer feel and more comfort for the bottom hand.
What sets the Calibrate version apart is the addition of Lamkin's Calibrate Technology. This feature consists of a pronounced rib or spine running along the back of the grip, designed to help golfers place their hands consistently on the club every time. This can be particularly beneficial for players working on grip changes or those who struggle with consistent hand placement.
The grip is available in both standard and midsize options, catering to different hand sizes and preferences. It's designed to appeal to a wide range of golfers, from those transitioning from all-rubber grips to more performance-oriented options, to experienced players looking for a balance of feel and control.
Overall, the Lamkin ST+2 Hybrid Calibrate Grip represents Lamkin's effort to create a versatile, high-performance grip that combines comfort, control, and consistency-enhancing features in one product.
Lamkin Crossline Grip
The Lamkin Crossline grip is one of the most iconic and enduring golf grips in the industry, having been a staple in Lamkin's lineup for over 20 years. Known for its durability, performance, and classic design, the Crossline has earned a loyal following among amateur and professional golfers alike.
The grip features a distinctive crossline pattern that provides excellent traction and a consistent feel in various weather conditions. This pattern, combined with a firm rubber compound, offers superior torsion control, helping golfers maintain a stable grip throughout their swing. The firmness of the grip also enhances feedback, allowing players to better sense the clubhead position during the swing.
Lamkin's Crossline grip is available in multiple sizes, including standard, midsize, and oversize, catering to different hand sizes and preferences. The grip's versatility has made it popular across all club types, from drivers to putters.
One of the key attributes of the Crossline grip is its durability. The firm rubber compound and surface pattern resist wear, making it a cost-effective choice for frequent players. This longevity has contributed to its popularity among budget-conscious golfers and those who prefer consistency in their equipment.
The Crossline has evolved over the years, with Lamkin introducing variations like the Crossline Full-Cord, which incorporates a cord material for enhanced traction in wet conditions. Despite these innovations, the core design and performance characteristics have remained largely unchanged, testament to the grip's enduring appeal.
On the professional circuit, the Crossline has been used by numerous tour players, further cementing its reputation as a high-performance grip. Its presence on tour has helped maintain its popularity among amateur players seeking tour-proven equipment.
While some golfers may prefer softer or more technologically advanced grips, the Lamkin Crossline continues to be a go-to choice for those who value a classic feel, consistent performance, and exceptional durability. Its enduring presence in the golf industry speaks to its quality and the trust golfers place in its design.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Driver Grip
Specialized Grips Based on Unique Needs
Every golfer has unique requirements, and fortunately, there are grips designed to meet specific needs:
Grips for Sweaty Hands
For players who struggle with sweaty hands, corded grips are often the best solution. The Golf Pride MCC Plus4 is an excellent choice, offering:
Cord in the upper hand area for moisture management
Larger lower hand for reduced grip pressure
4.6% larger lower hand diameter compared to standard grips
These features combine to provide superior control in humid conditions while also promoting a lighter grip pressure.
Grips for Arthritis or Joint Pain
Golfers dealing with arthritis or joint pain benefit from softer grips that reduce vibration. The Winn Dri-Tac and Golf Pride CP2 Pro are top choices:
Soft, shock-absorbing materials
Tacky surface for a secure grip with minimal pressure
Larger diameters available for reduced tension
These grips can significantly enhance comfort and reduce pain during play, allowing golfers to enjoy the game despite physical challenges.
Grips for Power Hitters
Players with high swing speeds often prefer firmer grips that offer enhanced feedback and control. The Lamkin ST+2 Hybrid is an excellent option:
Firm feel for maximum control
Hybrid design with cord in the upper section
Slightly larger lower hand for reduced grip pressure
This grip provides the responsiveness needed for power hitters while incorporating features to enhance comfort and control.
How to Install & Maintain Your Driver Grip
Installing a new grip on your driver can be a rewarding DIY project. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Remove the old grip: Use a utility knife to carefully cut away the old grip.
Clean the shaft: Remove any residual tape or adhesive from the shaft.
Apply new grip tape: Wrap double-sided grip tape around the shaft, ensuring full coverage.
Prepare the new grip: Pour grip solvent into the new grip and shake to coat the inside.
Slide on the new grip: Quickly slide the new grip onto the shaft, aligning it properly.
Let it set: Allow the grip to dry for at least 6 hours before use.
Tools needed: Grip tape, grip solvent, utility knife, and a vice or clamp to hold the club steady.
To maintain your grip's performance:
Clean your grips regularly with mild soap and water
Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight when storing your clubs
Consider using a grip enhancing spray for temporary traction boost
Conclusion
Choosing the right driver grip is a crucial step in optimizing your performance off the tee. By considering factors such as material, size, weather conditions, and your unique playing style, you can select a grip that enhances your control, comfort, and overall enjoyment of the game.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to golf grips. What works for a tour professional might not be the best choice for your game. Don't be afraid to experiment with different options to find the perfect match for your needs.
Whether you opt for the comfort of the Golf Pride CPX, the all-weather performance of the ZGRIP Cord, or the soft feel of the Winn Dri-Tac, the right grip can make a significant difference in your driving accuracy and distance.
Take the time to assess your needs, try out different options, and consult with a professional if needed. With the right driver grip in your hands, you'll be well on your way to more confident, consistent, and enjoyable rounds of golf.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my driver grip needs replacing?
Look for signs of wear such as smoothness, hardness, or visible cracks. If your grip feels slippery or you're gripping tighter to maintain control, it's time for a replacement. Generally, grips should be changed every 40 rounds or once a year, whichever comes first.
Can changing my driver grip affect my swing speed?
Yes, it can. A new grip with the right texture and tackiness can allow you to hold the club with less tension, potentially increasing your swing speed. Additionally, a grip that's too thick or thin for your hands can negatively impact your swing mechanics and speed.
Is it better to have a softer or firmer driver grip?
This largely depends on personal preference and playing conditions. Softer grips, like the Golf Pride CPX, offer more comfort and can be beneficial for players with joint issues. Firmer grips, such as the Lamkin ST+2 Hybrid, provide more feedback and control, which some players prefer, especially in wet conditions.
How do cord grips differ from regular rubber grips?
Cord grips have a layer of cord material woven into the rubber, providing extra traction. They're excellent for players with sweaty hands or those who often play in wet conditions. However, they can feel rougher on the hands compared to regular rubber grips. The Golf Pride ZGRIP Cord is a popular corded option.
Can I use an oversized grip on my driver?
Absolutely. Oversized or jumbo grips can be beneficial for golfers with large hands, arthritis, or those who tend to grip the club too tightly. They can promote a lighter grip pressure, potentially leading to more consistent shots. However, it's important to choose the right size for your hands to maintain proper control.