Cross Handed Putting Grip - The Ginger Guru

Golf which is described as a game of inches, hinges on precision. Golfers know that mastering the art of putting is the key to shaving strokes off their scorecard. It’s on the green, with that final stroke, that matches are won or lost. This makes the putting grip a matter of paramount importance for any golfer. As there are a number of various putting grips out there it is challenging to find the one best suited to you.

A new and unique approach to putting has gained traction within the golfing space – the cross grip putting. Unlike the traditional grips, where the dominant hand (right for right-handed golfers, left for left-handed) is positioned lower on the club’s handle, the cross-hand grip flips this convention on its head. With the cross-hand grip, the non-dominant hand, often the left for right-handed golfers and vice versa, takes the lower position. This grip has sparked interest and debate among golfers of all levels- is it actually good or just a myth?

Basics of Cross Hand Putting Grip

The cross-hand putting grip, often referred to as the “left-hand low” or “claw grip,” stands in stark contrast to the conventional putting grips. With the cross-hand grip, your non-dominant hand (typically the left for right-handed golfers and vice versa for lefties) takes the lower position on the club’s handle. This means that it’s the top hand, the dominant hand, which typically controls the putter’s face alignment and the direction of the putt. In essence, it turns the traditional grip on its head, and that’s precisely why it’s called “cross-hand.” It may feel unnatural at first but take your time and practice it and it may start feeling like second nature!

Advantages of Cross Hand Putting Grip

One of the main advantages of the cross-hand grip is its potential to enhance stability. By having the non-dominant hand low on the handle, you create a more anchored and controlled position to strike the ball. This can help reduce wrist movement during the putting stroke, leading to a smoother and more consistent rolling ball.

Additionally, the cross-hand grip can promote a more natural alignment. Since the dominant hand controls the clubface, it’s easier to keep it square to the target line, reducing the tendency to pull or push putts. This aspect of alignment can be especially beneficial when you’re faced with those tricky breaking putts or you need to save par.

Disadvantages of Cross Hand Putting Grip

However, like any golf technique, the cross-hand grip isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Some golfers find it uncomfortable or difficult to adapt to initially. The non-dominant hand may feel awkward in the lower position for those used to traditional grips and this may take time and practice to get the swing of.

Furthermore, it’s essential to consider the course conditions and your personal playing style. The cross-hand grip may be more suitable for slower greens where stability and control are at a premium. On faster greens, it might require additional finesse to avoid overcompensation.

The decision to use the cross-hand putting grip should be made after careful consideration and practice. In the sections that follow, we will delve into the mechanics of this grip, its historical evolution, and practical tips for making it work for your game. So, if you’re intrigued by the concept of the cross-hand grip, stay with us as we uncover its secrets and potential benefits for your putting performance.

Practice and Drills

Distance Control Drill: Place three balls at different distances from the hole – short, medium, and long. Practice your distance control by trying to get each ball as close to the hole as possible with the cross-hand grip.

Alignment Aid Drill: Use alignment aids like putting gates or alignment sticks to ensure that your clubface is square to the target line. This drill helps you maintain proper alignment, a key advantage of the cross-hand grip

Pressure Putt Drill: Create a pressure situation by setting a target number of putts to make in a row. This simulates the pressure you might feel in a crucial moment on the course. Start with a manageable number and gradually increase the pressure as you improve.

Slope Simulation Drill: Practice on a practice green with various slopes. The cross-hand grip can help with better control on these tricky putts. Experiment with different break angles to improve your skills

Blindfolded Putting Drill: While this may sound unconventional, it can enhance your feel and touch when putting. Close your eyes (or use a blindfold) and practice putting using only your sense of touch. This drill can help you develop a consistent and smooth putting stroke.

Slope Simuation Drill: Practice on a practice green with various slopes. The cross-hand grip can help with better control on these tricky putts. Experiment with different break angles to improve your skills

Blindfolded Putting Drill: While this may sound unconventional, it can enhance your feel and touch when putting. Close your eyes (or use a blindfld) and practice putting using only your sense of touch. This drill can help you develop a consistent and smooth putting stroke.

Why You Should Try the Cross Handed Putting Grip

Improved Stability: The cross-handed grip promotes a more stable putting stroke by reducing wrist movement. This stability can lead to more consistent putts.
Enhanced Alignment: With the non-dominant hand lower, it’s easier to keep the putter face square to the target line. This grip can help you align your putts more accurately.
Reduced Yips: The cross-handed grip can be a solution for golfers struggling with the yips, a condition characterized by involuntary wrist movements during the putting stroke.
Smoother Roll: The reduced wrist action often results in a smoother roll of the ball, which can help it stay on its intended line.
Improved Distance Control: Many golfers find that the cross-hand grip allows for better control of the distance of their putts, helping them leave the ball closer to the hole.
Effective on Fast Greens: Cross-hand grip can be particularly effective on fast greens where a more stable and controlled stroke is crucial.
Suits Straight-Back, Straight-Through Stroke: If your natural putting stroke is straight-back, straight-through, the cross-hand grip can complement this style nicely.
Less Grip Pressure: Some golfers find that they can use a lighter grip pressure with the cross-handed technique, reducing tension in the hands and arms.
Versatile for All Skill Levels: The cross-handed grip is suitable for golfers of all skill levels, from beginners to professionals, making it accessible to a broad range of players.
Increased Confidence: Golfers often report increased confidence when they make the switch to the cross-handed grip. Confidence is a significant factor in successful putting.

Best Putter Grip for Cross Handed Putting

The putter grip is the golfer’s connection to the putter, and it plays a crucial role in controlling the putter face and achieving a smooth stroke. When it comes to cross-handed putting, finding a grip that allows you to comfortably and confidently hold the putter is essential. Here are some of the best putter grip options for cross-handed putting:

SuperStroke Cross Comfort Putter Grip

The SuperStroke Cross Comfort Putter Grip is a popular choice among golfers who putt cross-handed. Its unique design features a larger size and a cross-hatched pattern that provides a firm and comfortable grip. The larger size helps to stabilize the hands and wrists, promoting a more consistent stroke.

Golf Pride Tour SNSR Contour Putter Grip

The Golf Pride Tour SNSR Contour Putter Grip is another excellent option for cross-handed putters. It features a soft, tacky feel that provides excellent feedback and control. The grip’s unique contour shape helps to align the hands and wrists, promoting a more natural and repeatable stroke.

Winn Excel Jumbo Lite Pistol Putter Grip

For golfers who prefer a softer and lighter grip, the Winn Excel Jumbo Lite Pistol Putter Grip is worth considering. This grip combines a comfortable, slightly oversized design with Winn’s signature soft and tacky feel. The grip’s lightweight construction helps to reduce grip pressure and promotes a smoother stroke.

Lamkin Sink Fit Straight Putter Grip

The Lamkin Sink Fit Straight Putter Grip is designed to provide maximum stability and control for cross-handed putters. Its straight shape helps to align the hands and wrists, promoting a consistent and repeatable stroke. The grip’s firm feel ensures a solid connection with the putter throughout the stroke.

Odyssey Jumbo Putter Grip

If you’re looking for a grip with a larger diameter, the Odyssey Jumbo Putter Grip is an excellent choice. This grip’s oversized design helps to reduce wrist movement and promotes a more stable putting stroke. Its soft, tacky feel provides excellent feedback and control.

Finding the Right Putter Grip for You

When it comes to choosing the best putter grip for cross-handed putting, it ultimately boils down to personal preference. What works for one golfer may not work for another. Here are a few tips to help you find the right grip for you:

– Experiment with different grip styles and sizes to see what feels most comfortable and natural for your putting stroke.
– Consider visiting a golf store or pro shop that offers grip fitting services. A professional can help you find the grip that suits your hand size and stroke.
– Read reviews and seek recommendations from other cross-handed putters to get an idea of what grips have worked well for them.

Remember, the putter grip is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to improving your putting. Practicing regularly and working on your stroke mechanics will also play a significant role in your success on the greens.

Conclusion

Remember that every golfer is unique, and what works well for one player might not be the best fit for another. Trying the cross-handed putting stroke is an opportunity to explore a different technique that may enhance your putting performance. It’s essential to give it a fair chance through practice and experimentation to determine if it’s the right choice for your game. If it doesn’t work out stick with what you know or try a new one until you find one which works best for you and your playing styles.