Why do golfers draw/fade the ball on straight holes?

Question

I'm a bogie golfer and can only hit it without draw/fade...is that bad? Should I learn how to be a competitive golfer or is this a good thing? (I think because I don't have great hand/arm strength?)

Answer 1

I am a 2 handicap that doesn't like to work the ball. I used to hit the ball straight, but my new golf coach is getting me to hit the ball off the tee with a draw to add more distance. It really has helped and has brought my driving distance up around 18 yards.

Answer 2

Golfers miss.  It's not a game of perfection afterall.  Shaping the shot increases the percentage of avoiding hazards in case of a miss.

On approach to the green, pin placement, green slope, wind, hazards, all play a factor to whether to play a fade or draw.

Another reason is trajectory, draw produce a lower more piercing trajectory, than fade.  So a draw shot is good on long and windy hole when you want to get as much roll on the ball after it lands.  Fade is good on approach shot where both long and short is trouble as fade shots have higher trajectory and will not roll as much on the green after it lands.

But for me, I am happy with keeping it down the middle most times, and not try to be cute with my shots.  Unless I am in trouble and am forced to curve my balls to have a chance at hitting the green.

And lastly, drawing or fading does not require hand/ arm strength, just how to swing it.  Inside out with full finish (club head behind your back) produces draw, and a half finish (with the club head above your arms/ wrist) will produce a fade.

Answer 3

i am a 4 hdcp and i can fade it and draw it when i want, and when i do it i do it so my second shot has a better angle to the green.