How to Hold a Golf Putter Correctly

← Golf Instruction & Improvement | Swing Mechanics & Fundamentals

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Quick Answer

• Grip the putter with your non-dominant hand above your dominant hand.
• Keep your thumbs centered on top of the grip, pointing down.
• Maintain light pressure, allowing your wrists to stay loose.

Who This Putter Grip Guide Is For

• Beginner golfers looking to build a solid foundation for their putting game.
• Intermediate players aiming to improve consistency and diagnose grip-related issues.
• Anyone seeking to refine their touch on the greens for more made putts.

What to Check First for Your Putter Grip

Before you even think about your hands, give your gear a once-over. A good grip starts with good equipment.

• Grip Condition: Is your putter grip worn smooth or slick? A worn grip means less control and feel. If it’s seen better days, it’s time for a replacement. You can usually get a new one installed at your local golf shop for a few bucks.
• Putter Length: This is a big one. A putter that’s too long or too short will force you into an awkward stance. Too long, and you’ll be hunched over. Too short, and you’ll be squatting. This affects your posture, your eye line, and ultimately, your stroke. Check the manual or manufacturer’s specs for recommended lengths based on your height.
• Loft and Lie Angle: These angles on the clubhead dictate how the ball rolls off the face. Loft adds topspin, and the lie angle determines if the putter sits flush to the ground. If these are off for your natural stance, it’s like trying to putt with a warped board. Again, consult your putter’s manual or manufacturer for details on how these affect your game.
• Grip Size: Grips come in different sizes. A grip that’s too thin can lead to too much hand action, while one that’s too fat can dampen feel. Most standard grips are fine for starters, but if you have unusually large or small hands, consider a different size.

Step-by-Step Plan: How to Hold a Golf Putter

Getting your hands on the putter right is fundamental. It’s not just about where your fingers go; it’s about setting up for a smooth, repeatable stroke. This is key for consistent putting [1].

1. Action: Place your non-dominant hand on the grip first.

• What to look for: Wrap your fingers around the grip comfortably. The lifeline of your palm should cover the area where your dominant thumb will rest. Your index finger of your non-dominant hand should be relaxed, not digging in.
• Mistake to avoid: Gripping too tightly with the palm of your non-dominant hand. This can disconnect your hands and kill the feel you need for distance control. Focus on letting your fingers do most of the holding.

2. Action: Position your dominant hand below your non-dominant hand.

• What to look for: Your dominant thumb should rest naturally on top of the grip, pointing straight down along the shaft. Your dominant hand’s fingers should overlap or interlock with your non-dominant hand’s fingers in a way that feels natural and secure. For many, this means the index finger of the dominant hand rests on top of the pinky finger of the non-dominant hand (the reverse overlap).
• Mistake to avoid: Crossing your dominant thumb over the grip or letting it drift to the side. This can lead to an open or closed putter face at impact, sending your putt off-line.

3. Action: Align your thumbs.

• What to look for: Both thumbs should be centered on top of the grip, pointing down the shaft towards the target line. This creates a stable platform for your hands and promotes a consistent putter face angle.
• Mistake to avoid: Thumbs pointing in opposite directions or one thumb significantly off-center. This imbalance can cause the putter face to twist during your stroke.

4. Action: Check your grip pressure.

• What to look for: Light and relaxed pressure. Imagine you’re holding a delicate bird – you want to keep it safe, not crush it. Your grip should feel secure but not tense. You should be able to wiggle your fingers slightly without the putter moving.
• Mistake to avoid: A death grip. Squeezing the life out of the putter locks up your wrists and forearms, leading to a jerky, inconsistent stroke and a loss of feel.

5. Action: Ensure your hands work as a unit.

• What to look for: Your hands should feel connected and move together throughout the stroke. There shouldn’t be a feeling of one hand trying to overpower the other. This unified movement promotes a smooth, pendulum-like swing.
• Mistake to avoid: Letting one hand dominate the stroke. For instance, if your dominant hand is too active, it can cause the putter face to flick open or close. They need to be in sync.

6. Action: Verify your putter is hanging correctly.

• What to look for: With your grip set, the putter should hang comfortably down towards the ball without any undue strain on your wrists or arms. Your forearms should be relatively parallel to the ground.
• Mistake to avoid: Forcing the putter into position. If it feels awkward or strains your body, it’s a sign something is off, likely with the putter’s length or your overall setup.

Refining Your Putter Grip for Better Performance

Once you’ve got the basic mechanics down, think about how your grip impacts your stroke. This is where you start to build that feel and consistency.

• The Reverse Overlap Grip: This is the most common grip for a reason. Your non-dominant hand goes on top, and the index finger of your dominant hand rests gently over the pinky finger of your non-dominant hand. This helps to keep your hands working together and reduces tension.
• The Cross-Handed (Left-Hand Low) Grip: Many pros use this, especially if they struggle with a dominant hand that tends to get too active. Your right hand (for a right-handed golfer) goes on top, and your left hand goes below it. This naturally quiets the hands and promotes a more stable stroke.
• The Claw Grip: This is a more unconventional grip where your dominant hand’s fingers curl around the side of the grip, almost like a claw, while your non-dominant hand is placed normally above it. The idea is to take the wrists out of the stroke even further. It’s not for everyone, but some players swear by it for stability.
• Grip Thickness: As mentioned, grip thickness matters. If you have larger hands, a thicker grip can prevent your palms from pressing too hard. Smaller hands might benefit from a standard or slightly thinner grip. Experiment to see what feels best.
• Grip Texture: Most modern grips have a tacky feel to provide a secure hold. However, some players prefer a smoother feel, especially in humid conditions. Ensure your grip isn’t slippery, as that will definitely impact your control.

Common Mistakes in Putter Grip Technique

Even with the best intentions, golfers often fall into a few common traps with their putter grip. Avoiding these can make a world of difference on the greens.

• Gripping too tightly — Why it matters: This is probably the most common mistake. It restricts wrist action, creates tension in your arms and shoulders, and kills the delicate feel needed for distance control. You end up making a jab rather than a smooth stroke. — Fix: Consciously relax your grip pressure throughout the putting stroke. Imagine you’re holding a baby bird. Your grip should feel firm enough to hold on, but loose enough not to harm it.
• Thumbs not aligned — Why it matters: When thumbs aren’t on top and pointing down, it creates an unstable base. This can cause the putter face to open or close unpredictably during the stroke, leading to missed putts left or right. — Fix: Ensure both thumbs are centered on top of the grip, pointing down the shaft. This creates symmetry and stability.
• Dominant hand too high — Why it matters: If your dominant hand is positioned too high on the grip (closer to the clubhead), it can encourage that hand to take over the stroke, leading to an open or closed putter face and inconsistent contact. — Fix: Place your dominant hand clearly below your non-dominant hand. This promotes a more unified stroke where both hands work together.
• Palm pressure on the non-dominant hand — Why it matters: Pressing too hard with the palm of your non-dominant hand can disconnect your hands and reduce your feel for the putter head. It makes the stroke feel more like a push than a pendulum swing. — Fix: Focus on letting your fingers do the holding. The palm should be relaxed and connected, but the primary grip pressure should come from your fingers.
• Uneven grip pressure — Why it matters: If you grip tighter with one hand than the other, or if the pressure fluctuates during the stroke, it creates an inconsistent motion. This makes it incredibly difficult to control the distance and direction of your putts. — Fix: Aim for consistent, light pressure throughout your grip, from the backswing to the follow-through. Your pressure should remain steady.
• Ignoring grip size — Why it matters: A grip that’s too thin can lead to excessive hand and wrist action, while a grip that’s too thick can dampen feel and make it hard to get your fingers around it comfortably. Both can negatively impact your stroke. — Fix: If you suspect your grip size is an issue, try different sizes at a golf store or ask a professional for advice.

FAQ on How to Hold a Golf Putter

What is the most common golf putter grip?

The most common golf putter grip is the reverse overlap grip. In this setup, your non-dominant hand is positioned above your dominant hand on the grip. The index finger of your dominant hand then rests gently over the pinky finger of your non-dominant hand. This grip is popular because it helps to keep the hands working together as a unit and can reduce tension in the wrists [1].

Should my thumbs be straight or bent when holding a putter?

Your thumbs should be relatively straight and point downwards along the grip, centered on top. A bent thumb can lead to inconsistent pressure and control, as it makes it harder to maintain a stable position throughout the stroke. Think of them as guides, pointing towards your intended target line.

How much pressure should I use when gripping a putter?

You should use very light pressure. A common analogy is holding a tube of toothpaste without squeezing any out. Too much pressure leads to tension in your arms and shoulders, which restricts your wrists and kills your feel for the putter head. Aim for a grip that feels secure but not strained.

Does the type of putter grip matter?

Absolutely. Different grips can promote different hand positions, wrist action, and overall stroke mechanics. For example, a cross-handed grip naturally quiets the hands more than a conventional grip for some players. Finding a grip that feels comfortable, allows for a smooth, consistent stroke, and minimizes tension is crucial for effective putting.

Can I change my putter grip if it’s not working?

Yes, you can, and many golfers do. If you’re struggling with consistency, distance control, or feel, experimenting with different grips is a smart move. Common variations include the cross-handed (left-hand low for right-handers) and the claw grip. Just remember to practice diligently with any new grip to build muscle memory and consistency.

Should my hands be close together or far apart on the putter grip?

Generally, your hands should be close together, with your dominant hand directly below your non-dominant hand. This promotes a unified stroke where your arms and shoulders control the movement, rather than independent hand action. Some golfers might slightly widen their hands for specific reasons, but for most, keeping them close is the standard for a stable stroke.

How do I know if my putter grip is correct?

There are a few signs. If you feel excessive tension in your hands, wrists, or arms when you grip the putter, it’s likely too tight. If you struggle with distance control, often leaving putts short or blasting them past the hole, your grip might be contributing to an inconsistent stroke. A good grip feels comfortable, relaxed, and allows for a smooth, repeatable pendulum motion. When you set up, the putter should feel like a natural extension of your arms.

Are there specific putter grips for different types of putters?

While the grip itself is a personal choice, some grips might pair better with certain putter designs. For instance, a very stable, larger grip might be favored by players using a mallet putter or a counter-balanced putter, as these designs often aim to reduce unwanted wrist action. Conversely, players who like a bit more feel and wrist hinge might opt for a smaller, more traditional grip. Ultimately, it’s about what feels best and works for your unique stroke and putter.

Sources

• [1] How to Hold a Golf Putter: https://golfhubz.com/how-to-hold-a-golf-putter