Is there a benefit to switching to an oversized grip?

f you’ve never tried an oversize grip and thought they were only for those with supersized hands or arthritic joints in the fingers, then think again.  They are certainly a necessity for anyone who wears a large size glove or bigger and anyone who struggles with arthritis in the hands but even players with average sized hands have felt improved comfort and feel when changing to a grip that’s larger than what they’ve been used to.  Oversize grips on putters are now almost as popular as the standard size.

The big advantage of a mid size, jumbo or even a standard grip that’s been built up with wraps underneath is that it provides an increased surface area which can give a more substantial grip on the club.  Especially with a putter, a larger grip can inhibit excessive wrist movement which promotes a more stable swing and squarer club face at impact.  Other advantages are:

Reduced Hand Pressure: Oversize grips distribute pressure more evenly across the hands, reducing the tendency to grip too tightly. This can promote a smoother swing and help prevent tension-related errors.

Reduced Taper: Oversize grips typically have less taper than standard grips. This allows for a more consistent grip pressure throughout the swing, which can help maintain clubface stability and improve shot consistency.

Improved Shock Absorption: The extra material in oversize grips can help dampen vibrations from off-centre hits, reducing the sting often felt in the hands on mishit shots

Counterbalancing: Some oversize grips are designed to be heavier, which can counterbalance the weight of the clubhead. This may help certain players achieve a smoother swing tempo and better overall control.

Enhanced Alignment: Some oversize grips feature alignment aids, such as lines or patterns, that can help golfers square the clubface more consistently at address, leading to improved alignment and accuracy.  A perfect example of this is the Golf Pride Align grip, with a rib down the back of the club to fit into the grooves of the fingers and keep a square clubface.

It's worth noting that while oversize grips offer these potential advantages, they may not be suitable for all golfers. Some players may find them too bulky and lose the feel of the club head.  As with any equipment change, it's essential to experiment and find what works best for your individual swing characteristics and preferences.  See our PGA Professionals for advice – trying one to feel the difference for yourself is the way to go.

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