Draw vs Fade: Mastering the Fade and Draw Shots in Golf

As a golfer, one of the most important skills you can develop is the ability to control the direction of your shots. There are many ways to do this, but two of the most common techniques are the draw vs the fade. These shots can help you navigate tricky holes, avoid hazards, and reach the green with greater accuracy. In this article, I will explain the difference between a fade and a draw, as well as provide some tips on how to hit them.

The Fade Shot

A fade is a shot that curves from left to right (for a right-handed golfer). It is often used to avoid obstacles on the left side of the fairway, or to land the ball softly on the green. To hit a fade, you need to create sidespin on the ball that causes it to curve to the right.

To hit a fade, start by aiming your clubface slightly to the left of your target. Then, take your normal grip and stance, and focus on swinging the club in a slightly outside-in path. This means that you should swing the club slightly to the right of your target line. As you make contact with the ball, try to hit the ball with a slightly open clubface. This will create the sidespin you need to make the ball curve to the right.

The Draw Shot

A draw is a shot that curves from right to left (for a right-handed golfer). It is often used to get extra distance off the tee, or to navigate holes that require a left-to-right shot shape. To hit a draw, you need to create sidespin on the ball that causes it to curve to the left.

To hit a draw, start by aiming your clubface slightly to the right of your target. Then, take your normal grip and stance, and focus on swinging the club in a slightly inside-out path. This means that you should swing the club slightly to the left of your target line. As you make contact with the ball, try to hit the ball with a slightly closed clubface. This will create the sidespin you need to make the ball curve to the left.

Draw vs Fade: Tips and Tricks

Tips for Hitting Both Shots To hit both the fade and the draw, you need to pay attention to your swing path and clubface. Here are some tips that can help you hit both shots with more consistency:

1. Practice, Practice, Practice: Both the fade and the draw take time and practice to master. Spend some time on the range hitting both shots, and experiment with different swing paths and clubface positions until you find what works best for you.
2. Grip the Club Lightly: Gripping the club too tightly can interfere with your ability to create the sidespin you need to hit the fade or draw. Make sure you grip the club lightly and allow your wrists to move freely through the swing.
3. Keep Your Head Steady: It’s important to keep your head steady throughout the swing, as any movement can cause your shot to go off course. Focus on keeping your head still and watching the ball as you make contact.

The fade and draw shots are valuable advanced ball striking techniques for any golfer looking to improve their accuracy and control on the course. By mastering these shots, you can navigate tricky holes, avoid hazards, and reach the green with greater consistency. With practice and patience, anyone can learn to hit both the fade and the draw with confidence.