Master the straight drive: A guide to curing the slice
We only recommend products we belive are good or have tested. If you buy a product through any affiliet link on this page we will get a commision on the purchase.
Can you imagine teeing off and watching your ball sail straight down the fairway, untouched by the dreaded slice? It’s a golfer’s dream, but for many, it feels like an impossible goal. However, with a bit of understanding and practice, you can conquer the slice and enjoy a more consistent game. In this post I you will learn the reason to the slice and tips on how you can stop it.
Understand the slice
When the ball curves massively to the right, it is called a slice. The slice often occurs when the club face is open at impact and the swing path is negative (Out to in). Well, why is the club face open and how do I fix it? You might wonder. Just relax, I'm going to explain now.
How to fix the slice?
1. Fix your grip: If you have a grip that is too weak it will cause the club face to open in your swing and the ball will shoot out to the right. How do you know you have a weak grip? In the pictures below you you will see pictures of a weak, strong and a normal grip. Then take a photo of your grip and you can compare your grip to the photos. If you have a slice that don’t seem to go away, consider changing to a stronger grip.
2. Club path: If you struggle with a slice, you probably have a path that is out to in(See pictures). To solve this there are several tips. Try to feel that the club drops and stays behind you in the downswing, instead of letting the club go in front of you. You should also feel like your arms are connected and close to the body. I would recommend using an inflatable ball you can buy on Amazon. If you don’t want to spend money, a ballon could also work
3. Adjust your stance: Most slicers are actually aimed right of the target. Both the feet and body should point at the target. Your feet should be a bit wider than shoulder-width. They should also be flared out roughly 20%. Your hips and shoulders should be aligned with each other, making it easier to hit straight. Put a alignment stick or a golf club on the ground pointing at the target and aim the body and feet according to it.
Best drills to stop the slice
Now that you have changed your grip, your stance and maybe improved your club path you are ready for some drills that will help you even more to get rid of that slice. Most drills out there will not work and is just a waste of time, therefore I have tested all the drills available and have come up with the best ones.
1. Swing slow: The most undervalued drill is to simply swing much slower than you normal swing. Start swinging at 40- 50% off your full swing and gradually increase your speed. To hit your driver far and straight you actually should not swing at full speed. Most professional golfers actually swing at around 70-80% of their full power on all shots. Keep this in mind the next time you get on the course.
2. Towel drill: This one is very easy to execute. Simply place a towel under your left arm and keep it pressed against your body through the whole motion. Swing slow and focus on that the club drops behind you instead of it going over the top.
3. Film your swing: This is not really a drill but it is by far the most important to fix any part of your game. By filming your swing you can analyse your problems and fix them. I would strongly recommend to get a phone stand to film all your golf shots with. It is probably the best purchase any golfer will ever make. I found the best one on amazon. It is easy to set up and can easily fit in your golf bag.
What now?
When it comes to swing changes, there are some things you have to take into consideration. It will take time. You have to know that there is no quick fix for most golf problems. Keep practising and eventually your work will pay off. If you feel stuck and need help, feel free to email with your swing to Birdieseekers@gmail.com to get free tips.
If you like our content and know any other golfer that needs help, we would be forever grateful if you would recommend them this blog
Great post!