What is the best way to keep from slicing a golf ball while driving?

Question

I play golf and I play regularly. My handicap is 15 but off the tee box I almost always slice the ball almost 30 yards from where I intended. I take nice, smooth swings but I think it's my setup.

Answer 1

The usual cause of a slice is a clubface that's open at impact. In terms of setup, you need to check your grip; you want what's known as a "strong" grip.

You might also check your equipment. A driver with more offset can help; so might a club that's weighted to promote a draw. You also might look at one that's higher lofted; the greater spin will produce more accurate results.

Finally, reconsider the driver off the tee altogether. For most 15 handicappers, the 3 wood will produce nearly as much distance (some studies say more)... but with the higher loft, your shots will be straighter. Ask yourself. Would you rather be 250 yards out in the rough, or 230 in the fairway?

Answer 2

Me too. It is just so much easier to come over the top, leave the club face open and over-swing with that club. Your best bet is to work on that at the range. Try aiming your body more to the right, (assuming you are right handed) and consciously let the club DROP from the top before you turn. This will put you more on an inside track and promote a draw, or at least straighten out that slice. Always swing smoothly. Another drill that helps is to turn so far to the right that you are practically facing away from the target and hit a few shots. It's almost impossible to slice from that position and it helps you trust lining up more to the right. Finally, something I do occasionally, is to deliberately open the clubface going back. Don't ask me why, but it helps me square the clubface on the downswing, probably because I know I have to.