A draw is one of the most versatile shots in golf. This controlled curve from right to left can help you shape shots around obstacles, find fairways, and maximize distance. But exactly what is a Draw in Golf?
A draw in golf refers to a shot that starts out to the right of your target and gently curves back to the left. For right-handed golfers, this shot moves from right-to-left. The opposite shot, a fade, goes the other way from left-to-right.
Being able to intentionally hit draws and fades gives every golfer more control over their ball flight. Read on to understand the keys to shaping a draw.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Clubface Alignment: Close clubface relative to swing path, slightly open to target line.
- Swing Path: Achieve an inside-out swing path.
- Ball Position: Position the ball forward in the stance.
- Strategic Use: Use draws to avoid obstacles, maximize distance, and control ball flight.
Understanding the Basics: What is a Draw in Golf?
A draw in golf refers to a shot where the ball starts right of the target line for a right-handed golfer and then gently curves to the left, finishing on or near the target.
This shot is desirable for its ability to add distance and avoid obstacles. The draw is achieved through a combination of factors including the golfer’s swing path, clubface alignment, and ball position.
What Causes a Draw?
To hit a draw, it’s essential to strike the golf ball with the clubface closed relative to the swing path and slightly open relative to the target line at impact. This dual orientation is key to achieving the desired curve. This imparts a sidespin that makes the ball curve in flight.
Specifically, when the clubface is closed (angled left) compared to the path of the swing, the ball will launch out to the right but curve back to the left. For right-handed golfers, this is a draw.
The opposite is true for a fade. An open clubface relative to the swing path will start the ball left and curve it right.
Ball Position For a Draw
The first step to hitting a draw is positioning the golf ball correctly at address. For most shots, you’ll want to play the ball slightly forward in your stance to promote a draw.
When teeing off with the driver, move the ball up towards your left heel to increase the draw spin.
Inside-Out Swing Path
Creating an inside-out swing path promotes a draw. This means swinging from inside the target line to outside through impact.
An inside takeaway followed by an outward downswing creates left-to-right sidespin on the ball. Focus on initiating the downswing with your lower body.
Increase Loft
Adding loft to your clubface helps generate a higher ball flight on a draw. The increased backspin will make the ball curve more dramatically left to right in the air.
Using a more lofted club like a 7-iron makes hitting draws easier than lower lofted woods. As you improve, start hitting draws with longer clubs.
Draw vs Fade: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Draw | Fade |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A shot that curves from right to left for a right-handed golfer (left to right for left-handed). | A shot that curves from left to right for a right-handed golfer (right to left for left-handed). |
| Preferred For | Often preferred for adding distance. | Preferred for better control and stopping power on the green. |
| Typical Use | Useful for avoiding obstacles on the left and gaining extra yards. | Employed to avoid hazards on the right and for a softer landing on the green. |
| Ball Flight | Starts to the right of the target and curves back to the left. | Begins to the left of the target and curves back to the right. |
| Impact on Distance | Tends to travel further due to less backspin. | Generally shorter in distance due to more backspin. |
| Skill Level | Often considered more challenging to execute consistently. | Regarded as easier to control for many golfers. |
| Swing Path | Requires an inside-out swing path. | Involves an outside-in swing path. |
| Clubface at Impact | Clubface is closed relative to the swing path but open relative to the target line. | Clubface is open relative to both the swing path and the target line. |
| Common Mistake | Can easily turn into a hook if overdone. | Can become a slice if not executed properly. |
Draw vs Hook: Clarifying the Confusion
It’s important to differentiate a draw from a hook. While both shots curve to the left, a draw is controlled and gentle, whereas a hook is more severe and often unintended.
Understanding this difference can help golfers avoid turning a well-meant draw into a problematic hook.
Equipment Considerations for Drawing the Ball
The type of golf club and its characteristics, like loft and lie angle, can influence the ease of hitting a draw.
Some clubs are designed to promote a draw bias, which can be beneficial for golfers struggling with this shot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Trying to Hit a Draw
- Over-Rotating the Clubface: Avoid closing the clubface too much, as it can turn the draw into a hook.
- Misjudging the Swing Path: Ensure an inside-out swing path; incorrect path can result in a straight shot or a fade.
- Incorrect Ball Position: Position the ball properly; incorrect placement can affect the draw’s trajectory.
Drills To Practice Hitting Draws
- Alignment sticks: Place two sticks on the ground – one straight down the target line and another through the ball angled left. Swing along the angled stick to promote an inside-out path.
- Impact bag: Swing and strike an impact bag while holding your clubface closed to get the feeling of a closed face impact.
- Feet together: Take practice swings with your feet together to improve balance and consistency in your swing path.
- Swing in to out: Make practice swings that are exaggerated from inside the target line to out to develop an in-to-out move through impact.
Use Draws Strategically
Learning to hit draws is invaluable for maneuvering the ball around the golf course:
- Go left around hazards and trees: Shaping a draw left around obstacles is an excellent strategy to avoid penalties and keep the ball in play.
- Maximize distance: Allowing for the right-to-left curvature can help optimize carry distance, especially off the tee.
- Control dispersion: A small draw keeps the ball flight more consistent from hole to hole. Limiting fades and slices improves accuracy.
- Attack tucked pins: Drawing the ball into greenside pins tucked on the left gives you the best angle of attack to get it close.
FAQs
What is the difference between a draw and a hook?
A draw curves slightly left, while a hook curves sharply left. A draw is a controlled shot, while a hook is an exaggerated curve that is usually a miss-hit.
Is a draw or fade better for distance?
For most golfers, a small draw will provide the most distance off the tee. This allows full extension through the ball with added yards from the curvature.
What causes a double-cross or unintentional draw?
Inconsistent swing mechanics lead to double-cross draws and slices. Make sure your grip, stance, and swing path promote the ball flight you intend.
Should I aim differently when hitting a draw?
Yes, aim left of your target line to allow for the curvature of the drawback to the target. The amount left depends on the strength of draw and distance of the shot.
How do I reduce my draw and hit a straighter shot?
Weakening your grip, playing the ball back, and swinging more out-to-in will promote a lower-spinning straight shot or fade.
Final Thought: Start Shaping Your Draws Today
Learning to shape draw shots is one of the most rewarding ball-striking skills in golf. With an inside-out swing path and closed clubface, you can move the ball both ways and take advantage of this useful shot.
Remember to position the ball forward, make an inside takeaway, and release the clubhead powerfully through impact. As you practice the mechanics, you will gain the ability to hit draws on command and dramatically improve your golf game.
