Reverse-Overlap Putting Grip
Also known as: reverse overlap grip, reverse overlap putting grip, standard putting grip, conventional putting grip, traditional putting grip, reverse overlap
The reverse-overlap grip is the traditional putting grip. The palms face each other, the thumbs sit on the flat top of the grip and the lead index finger rests over the fingers of the trail hand. That links the hands and quiets the wrists.
In the full-swing overlapping grip, the trail hand's little finger rests on top of the lead hand. The putting version reverses that. The lead index finger lies across the fingers of the trail hand, often over the little and ring fingers. All the fingers of the trail hand can then sit on the grip.
Many golfers hold the putter more in the palms than a full-swing club. The thumbs run straight down the flat top of the putter grip, with the palms facing each other and square to the face. Some extend the lead index finger down the trail hand's fingers for extra support. Grip pressure stays light enough to feel the putter head.
The grip is popular on tour and at club level. It keeps the hands from rolling and supports a stroke driven by the shoulders. It is not the only option. Golfers who struggle with a breaking-down lead wrist or the yips often try cross-handed, claw or arm-lock grips. Pick the grip that keeps your face square and your speed steady.
Tips by skill level
Place both thumbs straight down the flat top of the putter grip. Then lay your lead index finger over the fingers of your trail hand.
Try extending the lead index finger down the trail hand's fingers. Some golfers find it firms up the lead wrist and keeps the face steadier.
Example
A new golfer holds the putter with his normal overlapping grip, and his wrists flick at the ball. His coach switches him to a reverse overlap with both thumbs on the flat of the grip. His hands now move together and his stroke steadies.
Why it matters
The grip decides how much the wrists can interfere with the stroke. The reverse overlap is the usual starting point before trying other styles.
Common mistakes
- Using the full-swing grip on the putter
- Squeezing so hard that the putter head cannot be felt
- Setting the palms so they do not face each other
- Letting the thumbs drift off the flat top of the grip
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard putting grip?
The reverse-overlap grip. Both palms face each other, the thumbs sit on the flat top of the grip and the lead index finger rests over the fingers of the trail hand.
What is a reverse overlap grip in golf?
It is the traditional putting grip. Instead of the trail pinkie overlapping the lead hand, as in a full swing, the lead index finger overlaps the trail hand's fingers.
Is reverse overlap the best putting grip?
It is the most common starting point, but not the best for everyone. Golfers with a flippy lead wrist or the yips often do better with a cross-handed or claw grip.
Sources
Related terms
- Cross-Handed Grip (Putting)A cross-handed (left-hand-low) putting grip reverses the standard hand order, so the lead hand sits below the trail hand. It is a common fix when the trail hand dominates and breaks down the lead wrist through impact.
- Claw Grip (Putting)In the claw grip, the trail hand holds the putter handle like a pencil against the palm instead of wrapping around it. Separating the hands this way is a popular fix for excess trail-hand wrist action and the putting yips.
- Putting FundamentalsSet up with your eyes over or just inside the ball, the ball a little forward of center and a light grip. Rock your shoulders to move the putter back and through with quiet wrists. Aim the face first, then focus most of your practice on speed.
- Overlapping Grip (Vardon Grip)The overlapping (Vardon) grip rests the trail pinky between the lead hand's index and middle fingers. The pinky does not interlock or wrap fully around the handle.
- Grip PressureGrip pressure is how tightly the hands hold the club. Most instructors recommend a light-to-moderate pressure — enough to hold the club securely, loose enough to allow wrist hinge and a free release.
- Putting StrokeThe putting stroke is the controlled pendulum motion that rolls the ball along the intended line. Good mechanics include a square face at impact, consistent tempo, and path that matches the putter's arc.
Related guides & benchmarks
Put this into practice
Ask SwingVantage a follow-up question about this, or keep reading the related terms above.