An open or closed clubface can wreak havoc on your golf game, leading to slices, hooks, and inconsistent ball flights. Understanding what causes these issues and how to correct them is essential for improving your accuracy and lowering your scores. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the signs, causes, and fixes for an open or closed clubface.

What Is an Open or Closed Clubface?

What Does an Open Clubface Look Like?

An open clubface means the face of the club is angled away from the target at impact. This often results in a slice, where the ball curves to the right (for right-handed golfers).

What Does a Closed Clubface Look Like?

A closed clubface is angled toward the target at impact, often leading to a hook where the ball curves to the left (for right-handed golfers).

Signs of an Open or Closed Clubface

• Open Clubface: High, weak shots that miss to the right.

• Closed Clubface: Low, diving shots that miss to the left.

Causes of an Open or Closed Clubface

Grip Issues

• Weak Grip: Can lead to an open clubface.

• Strong Grip: Can lead to a closed clubface.

Wrist Position at Impact

• Open Clubface: Caused by excessive extension (cupping) in the lead wrist.

• Closed Clubface: Caused by too much flexion (bowing) in the lead wrist.

Swing Path

An outside-to-in swing path can exacerbate an open face, while an inside-to-out swing path can amplify a closed face.

How to Fix an Open or Closed Clubface

Adjust Your Grip

• For an Open Face: Rotate your hands slightly stronger on the grip.

• For a Closed Face: Rotate your hands slightly weaker on the grip.

Focus on Wrist Position

Practice drills to improve the position of your lead wrist at impact. Use a mirror or slow-motion swings to check for proper alignment.

Improve Your Swing Path

Work on creating a neutral swing path to avoid exaggerating the open or closed position of the clubface. A neutral path will allow the clubface to square naturally.

Drills to Help Fix Your Clubface

Impact Bag Drill

Hit an impact bag to feel the correct clubface position at impact. This helps reinforce muscle memory and proper alignment.

Alignment Stick Drill

Place an alignment stick parallel to your target line and practice swings, ensuring the clubface matches the stick at impact.

Conclusion

Fixing an open or closed clubface takes practice, but with the right adjustments to your grip, wrist position, and swing path, you’ll see noticeable improvements in your ball flight and accuracy. If you’re unsure about your technique, consider working with a golf coach to fine-tune your swing.

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