Best Golf Grip for Small Hands

Best Golf Grip for Small Hands

By Paul Liberatore

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Selecting the right golf grip is crucial for players with small hands, as it directly impacts comfort, control, and overall performance on the course. This comprehensive guide will explore various grip options, techniques, and considerations to help golfers with smaller hands optimize their game.

Understanding Golf Grip Types

Overlapping Grip

The overlapping grip, also known as the Vardon grip, is a popular choice among professional golfers. It involves placing the pinky finger of the trailing hand (right hand for right-handed golfers) on top of the index finger of the lead hand.

Pros:

  • Provides good control and is suitable for players with larger hands

  • Allows for a unified hand action during the swing

Cons:

  • May feel less secure for golfers with small hands

  • Can be challenging to maintain proper pressure throughout the swing

Interlocking Grip

The interlocking grip involves intertwining the pinky finger of the trailing hand with the index finger of the lead hand. This grip is favored by many professional golfers, including Tiger Woods.

Pros:

  • Offers a secure connection between hands

  • Reduces tension in the swing

  • Suitable for players with smaller hands

Cons:

  • Can feel awkward for beginners or those with very small hands

  • May limit wrist mobility for some players

Baseball (10-Finger) Grip

The baseball grip, also called the 10-finger grip, involves placing all ten fingers on the club without overlapping or interlocking.

Pros:

  • Feels natural and comfortable, especially for beginners

  • Ideal for small hands and junior golfers

  • Provides maximum power potential

Cons:

  • Offers less control over the club compared to other grips

  • May lead to inconsistent shots due to reduced hand unity

Importance of Grip Size

Choosing the right grip size is crucial for golfers with small hands. A properly sized grip can significantly impact swing mechanics, ball flight, and overall performance[5].

Effects of Incorrect Grip Size

Grips Too Small:

  • Can cause overactive hand and finger muscles

  • May lead to an early release and potential hooking

  • Increases the risk of inconsistent shots

Grips Too Large:

  • Restricts hand movement and slows down the swing

  • Can result in a loss of swing speed and clubface control

  • May promote slicing due to difficulty squaring the clubface at impact

Determining the Right Grip Size

To find the optimal grip size for small hands:

  1. Measure your hand size from the wrist crease to the tip of your middle finger

  2. Consult a grip sizing chart or seek professional fitting advice

  3. Consider using undersized or junior grips for better control

  4. Experiment with different sizes to find the most comfortable and effective option

Best Golf Grips for Small Hands

SuperStroke Traxion Tour Golf Club Grip

The SuperStroke Traxion Tour Golf Club Grip is an innovative grip design that has gained popularity among golfers seeking improved performance and feel. Introduced by SuperStroke, a company known for its putter grips, the Traxion Tour represents their foray into full swing club grips.


This grip features a multi-layer construction that sets it apart from traditional rubber grips. The outer layer is made of a soft, tacky polyurethane material that provides excellent traction and feel. Underneath this is a firmer rubber core that offers stability and enhanced feedback during the swing.


One of the key technologies in the Traxion Tour is the "Traxion Control" surface texture. This consists of X-shaped micro-treads strategically placed in high-sensory areas of the grip. The texture is designed to improve feedback and tackiness, allowing golfers to maintain a secure hold on the club without excessive grip pressure.


The Traxion Tour also incorporates "Taper Control Technology," which reduces the amount of taper in the lower hand area of the grip. This design aims to promote even hand pressure throughout the grip, potentially leading to increased swing speed and a more natural squaring of the clubface at impact.


Another notable feature is the "Spyne Technology," which is an embossed ridge along the underside of the grip. This serves as a reminder for consistent hand placement, potentially improving shot consistency.


The grip is available in multiple sizes, including undersized, standard, midsize, and oversized, catering to different hand sizes and preferences. It comes in various color options, allowing golfers to customize their club aesthetics.


While the Traxion Tour offers a different feel compared to traditional rubber grips, many golfers appreciate its combination of softness and feedback. The grip has gained traction among amateur golfers and has seen some use on professional tours, though it hasn't achieved the same level of tour popularity as SuperStroke's putter grips.


Overall, the SuperStroke Traxion Tour Golf Club Grip represents an innovative approach to grip design, blending advanced materials and technologies to potentially enhance a golfer's performance and comfort on the course.

SuperStroke Traxion Tour Golf Club Grip

Lehui Golf Putter Grip

The Lehui Golf Putter Grip is a specialized golf accessory designed to enhance a golfer's putting performance and feel. This grip is part of a newer wave of putter grip innovations that aim to improve upon traditional designs.


The grip features an advanced surface texture that is engineered to provide better feedback to the golfer during the putting stroke. This textured surface is designed to increase tactile sensation, allowing players to have a more nuanced feel of the putter head throughout the motion. The improved feedback can help golfers develop a more consistent and controlled putting stroke over time.


One of the key design elements of the Lehui grip is its unique parallel shape. Unlike traditional tapered grips, this parallel design aims to promote a more even distribution of grip pressure across both hands. The theory behind this is that it can help minimize excessive grip pressure, which is often a cause of tension and inconsistency in putting strokes. By encouraging a lighter, more relaxed grip, the Lehui design may help golfers achieve smoother, more pendulum-like putting motions.


The grip is available in different sizes, typically 2.0 and 3.0 inches in diameter. This variety allows golfers to choose a size that best fits their hand size and putting style preferences. The larger grip sizes are part of a trend towards oversized putter grips, which some golfers find helpful in reducing wrist action during the stroke.


Lehui has also incorporated a tacky surface feel into the grip material. This tackiness is intended to enhance the golfer's ability to maintain a consistent grip pressure and hand position throughout the putting stroke, even in varying weather conditions or with sweaty hands.


While not as well-known as some major golf equipment brands, Lehui has positioned this putter grip as a performance-enhancing option for golfers looking to improve their putting. The combination of texture, shape, and material properties in the Lehui Golf Putter Grip represents an effort to address multiple aspects of putting performance through grip design.

Lehui Golf Putter Grip 

 

SuperStroke Slim 3.0

The SuperStroke Slim 3.0 is a popular oversized putter grip that has gained significant traction among both professional and amateur golfers. Introduced as part of SuperStroke's innovative line of putter grips, the Slim 3.0 is designed to improve putting performance by reducing wrist action and promoting a more pendulum-like stroke.


With a diameter of 1.3 inches, the Slim 3.0 falls in the middle range of SuperStroke's offerings, providing a substantial feel without being overly bulky. The grip features a unique non-tapered design, meaning it maintains a consistent width from top to bottom. This parallel shape is intended to encourage even pressure distribution between both hands, potentially leading to a more stable and repeatable putting stroke.


The Slim 3.0 is constructed with a lightweight polyurethane material and incorporates SuperStroke's proprietary Cross-Traction technology, which enhances tackiness and grip in various weather conditions. The core of the grip is made from a firm foam, while the outer layer offers a softer feel, creating a balanced tactile experience.


One of the key benefits touted by SuperStroke is the grip's ability to minimize tension in the hands and wrists. By promoting a lighter grip pressure, it aims to engage larger muscles in the arms and shoulders, potentially leading to improved distance control and accuracy.


The Slim 3.0 has been used by several top professional golfers, including Jordan Spieth and Sergio Garcia, which has contributed to its popularity among amateur players. It's available in a variety of colors, allowing golfers to customize their putter's appearance.


While some golfers may require an adjustment period when switching to the larger grip, many users report improved confidence and consistency in their putting, particularly on shorter putts where hand action can be detrimental.

SuperStroke Slim 3.0

 

JumboMax JMX UltraLite Golf Grips

JumboMax JMX UltraLite Golf Grips represent an innovative approach to golf grip design, offering an oversized grip that is significantly lighter than traditional options. These grips were developed to address the needs of golfers seeking enhanced control and comfort without sacrificing swing speed.


The JMX UltraLite grips are part of JumboMax's larger line of oversized grips, which have gained attention in the golfing world, particularly after being used by professional golfer Bryson DeChambeau. What sets the UltraLite series apart is its unique combination of large size and lightweight construction. These grips are 20-25% lighter than standard skinny grips, despite their much larger diameter.


The grips feature a proprietary Tri-Texture surface design, which incorporates different patterns in specific areas to optimize performance, feel, and all-weather playability. This includes a hex pattern for maximum texture in key gripping areas, a cross pattern for tackiness and moisture dispersion, and a herringbone V pattern to assist in consistent hand placement.


JumboMax utilizes advanced materials and construction techniques to achieve the UltraLite's unique properties. The grips have a firm, stable core that resists twisting, surrounded by a softer outer layer for comfort. This design aims to promote a lighter, more relaxed grip pressure, potentially reducing hand fatigue and improving overall swing mechanics.


Available in various sizes to accommodate different hand sizes and preferences, the JMX UltraLite grips are designed to fit a wide range of golfers. They come in both tapered and non-tapered (Str8 Tech) versions, allowing players to choose based on their grip style and feel preferences.


While these grips represent a significant departure from traditional grip designs, they have garnered positive attention for their potential to improve comfort, reduce grip pressure, and maintain or even increase swing speed due to their lightweight nature. However, as with any golf equipment change, individual results may vary, and proper fitting is recommended to achieve optimal performance.

JumboMax JMX UltraLite Golf Grips

JumboMax Tour Series Golf Grips

JumboMax Tour Series Golf Grips are an innovative product in the golf equipment industry, designed to challenge traditional notions of grip size and performance. Developed by JumboMax, a company known for its oversized grip technology, the Tour Series represents a premium line of grips aimed at golfers seeking improved control, consistency, and comfort in their game.


The Tour Series grips are characterized by their significantly larger diameter compared to standard golf grips. This design is based on the principle that a larger grip allows for a more relaxed hold on the club, potentially reducing tension in the hands and arms during the swing. The increased size is meant to promote a grip that relies more on the fingers and palm working together, which JumboMax refers to as their "Finger-Palm™ grip" technology.


These grips feature a dual-texture surface pattern, combining a raised hex pattern for enhanced traction with a cross pattern designed to repel moisture and maintain tackiness. The Tour Series is offered in multiple sizes, ranging from standard oversize to extra-large, allowing golfers to find a fit that suits their hand size and preferences.


JumboMax claims that their oversized grips can lead to increased distance, improved accuracy, and more solid ball striking. The company has conducted independent tests to support these claims, showing improvements in various performance metrics compared to standard grips.


The Tour Series is particularly popular among golfers dealing with hand or arm issues like arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome, as the larger grip size can help reduce stress on these areas. Professional golfers, including Bryson DeChambeau, have used JumboMax grips, bringing attention to the potential benefits of oversized grip technology in competitive play.


While the concept of oversized grips is not new, JumboMax has pushed the boundaries further than most, offering some of the largest grip options available in the market. This approach has garnered both interest and skepticism from golfers and equipment experts, making the Tour Series a topic of ongoing discussion and experimentation in the golf community.

JumboMax Tour Series Golf Grips

 

SAPLIZE Golf Grip Wrapping Tapes

SAPLIZE Golf Grip Wrapping Tapes offer a innovative solution for golfers looking to regrip their clubs quickly and easily. These wrapping tapes are designed to provide a convenient alternative to traditional grip replacement methods, which often require specialized tools, solvents, and considerable time and effort.


The SAPLIZE wrapping tapes are made from a durable PU (polyurethane) material that offers excellent comfort and a better fit for hands. This material is designed to be soft and comfortable while providing stability during the golf stroke. The unique arc design of the grip surface enhances feedback and control, allowing golfers to maintain a secure hold on their clubs.


One of the key features of these wrapping tapes is their anti-slip and tacky surface. This allows golfers to play without wearing gloves if they prefer, as the grip remains sweat-absorbent and slip-resistant in various weather conditions. The tapes are engineered to perform well in both dry and wet environments, ensuring consistent performance throughout a round of golf.


The SAPLIZE Golf Grip Wrapping Tapes come in a pack of 15, with each tape measuring 43.3 inches in length, 1.06 inches in width, and 0.03 inches in thickness. This generous size allows for customization to fit all club types and sizes. Golfers can adjust the overlay when wrapping to control the length and thickness of their grip, ensuring a perfect fit for each club in their bag.


The installation process is straightforward and quick, typically taking less than a minute per club. Users simply peel the backing, wrap the tape around the club handle, and seal it in place. This eliminates the need for solvents, vise clamps, or other specialized equipment traditionally used in grip replacement.


In addition to their functional benefits, these wrapping tapes also offer golfers the opportunity to personalize their clubs with distinctive styles and colors, adding a unique touch to their golf bag.

SAPLIZE Golf Grip Wrapping Tapes

 

Golf Pride CP2 Wrap Golf Grip Bundle

The Golf Pride CP2 Wrap Golf Grip is a high-performance golf grip designed to provide golfers with a perfect balance of comfort and control. This innovative grip combines advanced technology with a soft, tacky feel to enhance overall performance on the course.


At the core of the CP2 Wrap's design is Golf Pride's exclusive Control Core technology. This feature incorporates a 2.5-inch inner core stabilizer specifically engineered to reduce torque during the swing. By minimizing unwanted club movement, golfers can achieve greater control and consistency in their shots.


One of the standout features of the CP2 Wrap is its reduced taper design. This unique construction simulates the effect of having four extra layers of tape in the lower hand area. This promotes more even grip pressure between both hands, encouraging a lighter grip that can lead to increased comfort and power throughout the swing.


The CP2 Wrap is known for its exceptionally soft feel, making it Golf Pride's softest performance grip. The high-tack surface combined with soft rubber material provides maximum comfort and control, which can be particularly beneficial for golfers with hand sensitivities or those who prefer a cushioned feel.


Available in various sizes including Standard, Midsize, Jumbo, and Undersize, the CP2 Wrap caters to a wide range of hand sizes and preferences. The grip's weight varies depending on the size, ranging from 45g for the Undersize to 80g for the Jumbo version.


Golf Pride has designed the CP2 Wrap to be suitable for all club types, from drivers to putters, allowing golfers to maintain consistency across their entire set. The grip's durability and performance in various weather conditions make it a popular choice among both amateur and professional golfers seeking to improve their game through enhanced grip comfort and control.

Golf Pride CP2 Wrap Golf Grip Bundle

Golf Pride Tour Wrap 2G Golf Grip Bundle

The Golf Pride Tour Wrap 2G Golf Grip is a popular choice among golfers seeking a high-performance grip with a classic look and feel. This grip combines the aesthetics of traditional leather wraps with the durability and performance of modern rubber materials.


The Tour Wrap 2G is constructed using a proprietary high-tack rubber compound, which provides excellent grip in various weather conditions. This material offers enhanced tackiness, allowing golfers to maintain a secure hold on the club without excessive grip pressure. The soft feel of the grip reduces hand fatigue during long rounds or practice sessions.


One of the standout features of the Tour Wrap 2G is its simulated wrap design. This one-piece grip mimics the appearance of a leather wrap, giving clubs a sophisticated, premium look. However, unlike traditional leather wraps, the Tour Wrap 2G offers superior durability and consistent performance throughout its lifespan.


Golf Pride offers the Tour Wrap 2G in multiple sizes to accommodate different hand sizes and preferences. These include standard, midsize, jumbo, and undersize options. The grip is available in various colors, allowing golfers to customize their club aesthetics.


The Tour Wrap 2G is known for its versatility, performing well in both dry and wet conditions. Its tacky surface provides excellent traction, helping golfers maintain control throughout their swing. The grip's softness also aids in shock absorption, reducing vibration at impact and improving overall feel.


Many golfers appreciate the Tour Wrap 2G for its balance of classic style and modern performance. It's particularly popular among players who prefer a softer feel and those who don't wear gloves. The grip's durability also makes it a cost-effective choice for frequent players, as it maintains its performance characteristics over extended use.

Golf Pride Tour Wrap 2G Golf Grip Bundle

Winn Dri-Tac

The Winn Dri-Tac is one of the most popular golf grip lines produced by Winn Grips, a company known for pioneering polymer grip technology in golf. Introduced in the early 2000s, the Dri-Tac series quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional comfort and performance, especially in wet conditions.


The Dri-Tac grip is made from Winn's proprietary WinnDry polymer material, which is designed to provide a tacky, non-slip surface in all weather conditions. This material offers a softer feel compared to traditional rubber grips, which helps reduce hand fatigue during long rounds or practice sessions. The grip's surface features a distinctive pattern that enhances traction and control.


One of the key advantages of the Dri-Tac grip is its shock-absorbing properties. The polymer material used in its construction helps dampen vibrations from impact, reducing stress on the hands and arms. This can be particularly beneficial for golfers with hand or joint issues.


The Dri-Tac series is available in a range of sizes, including undersize, standard, midsize, and jumbo, catering to golfers with different hand sizes and preferences. It also comes in various colors, allowing players to customize their clubs' appearance.


Over the years, Winn has continued to refine the Dri-Tac series. In 2021, they introduced the Dri-Tac 2.0, an updated version featuring improved durability and feel. This new iteration maintains the core benefits of the original while addressing some of the wear issues that were occasionally reported with the earlier models.


The Dri-Tac's popularity extends beyond amateur golfers, with several professional players on various tours choosing to use these grips. Its combination of comfort, performance, and all-weather capability has made it a staple in many golfers' bags and a frequent recommendation from club fitters and teaching professionals.


While the Dri-Tac grips are generally more expensive than traditional rubber grips, many golfers find the investment worthwhile due to the improved comfort and performance they experience. However, it's worth noting that these grips may wear out faster than rubber alternatives, especially for frequent players or those with a particularly firm grip.

Winn Dri-Tac

Golf Pride MCC Plus4 Grips

The Golf Pride MCC Plus4 Grip is an innovative golf grip design that has gained significant popularity among both professional and amateur golfers. Introduced as an evolution of Golf Pride's successful MultiCompound (MCC) grip line, the Plus4 model addresses a common modification made by many players - adding extra layers of tape under the lower hand.


The key feature of the MCC Plus4 is its larger lower hand diameter, which is approximately 4.6% larger than the standard MCC grip. This design simulates the effect of adding four additional wraps of tape, hence the "Plus4" name. The purpose of this enlarged lower section is to promote a lighter grip pressure, reduce tension in the hands and arms, and potentially increase swing power and consistency.


The grip combines two distinct materials in its construction. 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 utilizes a softer rubber compound, enhancing feel and comfort in the non-gloved hand for most golfers.


Golf Pride has incorporated various textures and design elements throughout the grip to optimize performance. These include micro-textures for improved traction, strategically placed larger textures for stability during the downswing, and channels to help wick away moisture.


Available in multiple colors and sizes (including standard, midsize, undersize, and jumbo), the MCC Plus4 caters to a wide range of preferences and hand sizes. Its hybrid design aims to offer the best of both worlds - the all-weather performance of cord grips and the comfort of rubber grips.


The MCC Plus4 has been widely adopted on professional tours, further cementing its reputation as a high-performance grip option for serious golfers seeking to optimize their equipment setup.

Golf Pride MCC Plus4 Grips

Techniques for Improving Grip with Small Hands

Proper Hand Placement

  1. Position the club diagonally across the base of the fingers in your lead hand

  2. Close your fingers around the grip, ensuring the thumb points slightly right of center

  3. Place your trailing hand below the lead hand, with the lifeline of the palm resting on the thumb of the lead hand

Grip Pressure

Maintaining the right grip pressure is crucial for players with small hands:

  • Aim for a pressure of 5-6 on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the tightest

  • Focus on gripping the club primarily with the last three fingers of each hand

  • Avoid squeezing too tightly, as this can lead to tension and reduced swing speed

Grip Customization

Consider these customization options to optimize your grip for small hands:


Grip tape: Add extra layers of tape under the grip to fine-tune its size and shape

Grip extensions: Use grip extensions to lengthen the grip without increasing its diameter

Custom molding: Some grip manufacturers offer custom-molded grips tailored to your hand size and shape


Addressing Common Issues for Small-Handed Golfers

Lack of Power

Golfers with small hands may struggle to generate sufficient power in their swings. To address this:


  1. Focus on proper weight transfer and body rotation

  2. Experiment with lighter club shafts to increase swing speed

  3. Consider using a stronger loft on your driver to maximize distance

Inconsistent Ball Striking

Small-handed players may experience inconsistent ball striking due to grip-related issues. To improve consistency:


  1. Practice maintaining a consistent grip pressure throughout the swing

  2. Use alignment aids on your grips to ensure proper hand placement

  3. Consider using larger grip sizes on your wedges for improved short game control

Fatigue and Discomfort

Playing with ill-fitting grips can lead to hand fatigue and discomfort. To alleviate these issues:


  1. Take regular breaks during practice sessions to rest your hands

  2. Use grips with shock-absorbing materials to reduce impact vibrations

  3. Strengthen your hands and forearms with targeted exercises

Choosing the Right Grip for Different Clubs

Driver and Fairway Woods

For maximum distance and control with your longer clubs:

  • Consider using a slightly larger grip size to promote a smoother release

  • Experiment with cord grips for enhanced traction during full swings

  • Focus on maintaining a light grip pressure to maximize clubhead speed

Irons and Hybrids

To optimize control and feel with your mid-range clubs:

  • Use a consistent grip size throughout your iron set for better consistency

  • Consider slightly thinner grips to enhance feel and feedback

  • Experiment with different textures to find the ideal balance of comfort and control

Wedges and Putter

For improved touch and precision in your short game:

  • Try using slightly thicker grips on your wedges to minimize hand action

  • Experiment with oversized putter grips to reduce wrist movement and improve stability

  • Consider using a different grip style (e.g., claw grip) for putting if it feels more comfortable

Maintaining Your Grips

Proper grip maintenance is essential for consistent performance:


  1. Clean your grips regularly with mild soap and water

  2. Avoid exposing grips to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight

  3. Replace grips when they show signs of wear or loss of tackiness

  4. Consider regripping your clubs annually or every 40-50 rounds

Conclusion

Finding the best golf grip for small hands requires experimentation and attention to detail. By understanding different grip types, sizes, and customization options, golfers with smaller hands can optimize their performance and enjoyment of the game. Remember that comfort and consistency are key, so don't be afraid to try various grips and techniques until you find the perfect fit for your game.


Ultimately, the best grip for small hands is one that allows you to maintain control, generate power, and play with confidence. With the right grip, you'll be well on your way to lowering your scores and enjoying the game to its fullest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best golf grip style for small hands?

The baseball grip (also known as the 10-finger grip) is often recommended for golfers with small hands. This grip style feels more natural and offers greater power behind your swing. However, the interlocking grip can also work well for some players with smaller hands. Ultimately, the best grip is the one that feels most comfortable and produces the best results for your individual swing.

How do I determine the right grip size for my small hands?

To determine the right grip size, measure from the crease of your wrist to the tip of your middle finger. If this measurement is between 5" to 6.5", you likely need an undersize grip. You can also use your glove size as a guide - if you wear a men's small or women's small/medium glove, undersize grips are typically recommended.

What are the potential issues with using grips that are too large for small hands?

Using grips that are too large for small hands can lead to several problems:

  • Restricted and slowed hand movement

  • Loss of swing speed

  • Difficulty squaring the clubface at impact

  • Increased tendency to slice the ball

Can I customize my grip size for small hands?

Yes, you can customize your grip size. Many golfers add extra layers of tape underneath the grip to fine-tune the size. As a general rule, adding 4 extra layers of tape will increase the grip size from undersize to standard. Some grip manufacturers also offer "Plus 4" technology, which simulates the feel of 4 extra layers of tape in the lower hand area.

Are there specific grip materials that work better for small hands?

While grip material is largely a matter of personal preference, some golfers with small hands prefer softer, tackier materials for better control. Synthetic grips, like those made by Winn or SuperStroke, often provide good feedback and shock absorption, which can be beneficial for players with smaller hands or those prone to hand fatigue. However, it's best to try different materials to see what feels most comfortable and provides the best performance for your game.

Paul Liberatore

Paul Liberatore

As the Founder of Golfers Authority Paul Liberatore Esq. has spent the last 7+ years writing about the best golf equipment or instruction from the top golf instructors in the world. He has been a contributing writer for Sports Illustrated Golf and GolfWRX. After graduating with honors from Purdue University, he realized that he had a passion for the golf business and the law. When he's not practicing law, or creating golf content on YouTube, he can be found on his syndicated Behind the Golf Brand podcast talking with the most prolific leaders in the golf industry.