Unusual Putting Grips from Around the World
Putting grips can significantly impact a golfer's accuracy and consistency on the greens. While conventional grips like the reverse overlap and the cross-handed are widely used, there are several unconventional grips that have gained popularity around the world. These grips often originate from unique golfing traditions and can provide different advantages for players looking to refine their putting technique. Here, we explore some unusual putting grips, their origins, and their potential impact on your game.
1. The Claw Grip
Origin: The claw grip emerged in the late 1990s and gained prominence on the PGA Tour through players like Chris DiMarco.
Technique: In this grip, the left hand (for right-handed golfers) holds the putter conventionally, while the right hand adopts a claw-like position. The thumb and fingers of the right hand lightly pinch the side of the putter grip, minimizing wrist movement.
Impact: The claw grip helps reduce the influence of the dominant hand, promoting a smoother, more pendulum-like stroke. It can be particularly beneficial for golfers who struggle with the yips or excessive wrist action.
2. The Pencil Grip
Origin: The pencil grip, also known as the "split-hand grip," has been used by various professional golfers and is popular among players seeking a unique approach to their putting.
Technique: The left hand holds the top of the putter grip, while the right hand is positioned lower, almost as if holding a pencil. The hands are separated, which can feel unusual but provides a distinct feel.
Impact: This grip can improve feel and control, especially for players who struggle with traditional grips. It encourages a smoother stroke by reducing tension in the hands and arms.
3. The Arm Lock Grip
Origin: The arm lock grip gained traction after the anchoring ban in 2016, with notable proponents like Matt Kuchar showcasing its effectiveness.
Technique: The putter handle is extended up the lead forearm, and the grip is anchored against the arm. Both hands grip the putter, but the lead arm acts as a stabilizer.
Impact: The arm lock grip promotes a consistent stroke by eliminating wrist breakdown. It can improve accuracy and consistency, making it a reliable option for golfers seeking stability.
4. The Prayer Grip
Origin: The prayer grip, sometimes called the "palms-facing" grip, has been adopted by golfers looking for a symmetrical and balanced approach to putting.
Technique: Both hands are placed on the putter with palms facing each other, thumbs aligned down the shaft. This grip mimics a prayer position, hence the name.
Impact: The prayer grip can enhance alignment and promote a straight-back, straight-through stroke. It helps balance the pressure between both hands, leading to more consistent putts.
5. The Saw Grip
Origin: The saw grip, popularized by golfers like Phil Mickelson, is another innovative technique aimed at reducing hand and wrist action.
Technique: The lead hand grips the putter conventionally, while the trail hand is positioned along the side of the grip, resembling a saw motion. Fingers of the trail hand rest on top of the grip.
Impact: This grip stabilizes the putter and reduces the influence of the trail hand, promoting a smoother stroke. It can be particularly useful for players struggling with a dominant trail hand.
Benefits of TimberTouch Putters
At TimberTouch Putterworks, our putters are designed to accommodate a wide range of grip styles. Whether you prefer a traditional grip or an unconventional one, our handcrafted wooden putters provide excellent feel and feedback, essential for mastering any putting technique. The high MOI (moment of inertia) in our designs ensures stability and accuracy, enhancing your performance on the greens.
Conclusion
Exploring different putting grips can offer new perspectives and improvements to your putting game. Whether you're dealing with specific challenges like the yips or simply looking for a fresh approach, these unconventional grips can make a significant difference. Combining these techniques with the superior design and craftsmanship of TimberTouch putters ensures you have the best tools to enhance your putting performance.