If you’re trying to figure out how to stop slicing the golf ball, the first step is understanding what causes that hard curve to the right.
It feels like you made a decent swing. The contact didn’t even feel that bad. But somehow the ball has other plans.
The good news? A slice isn’t random. It’s predictable and once you understand why it happens, it becomes much more manageable.
In this guide, we’ll break down what causes a slice, what’s really happening at impact, and two simple adjustments you can start using right away to turn that wild curve into a controlled, playable shot.
If you’re new to golf and want a basic guide on how to play golf check out our Beginner Guide to Golf
Or if you’re just looking for consistency in parts of your golf game see our How to Be Consistent in Golf section
If you want to see our full golf articles browse our full Golf Article Library Our Featured Articles include like How to Swing a Golf Club, How to Hit Irons Consistently, and How to Stop Chunking the Golf Ball
Just looking for gear? Check out our shop breaking down products for specific play styles.
Jump To What You Need
What Is a Slice in Golf?
A slice is a shot that curves sharply to the right in the air (for a right-handed golfer). For left-handed golfers, it curves left.
The ball may:
- Start straight and then curve right
- Start slightly left of target and then curve back across
- Fly high and weak with very little roll
What separates a slice from a small fade is the amount of curve. A fade is controlled and subtle. A slice is excessive and difficult to control.
A slice happens when the clubface is open relative to your swing path at impact. That open face creates sidespin, and that sidespin makes the ball curve.
So instead of guessing or blaming your timing, we’re going to look at the real causes.
Why Golfers Slice the Golf Ball
Most slices come from a combination of two things: An open clubface and an outside-to-inside swing path. Let’s simplify it into three common causes.
The Clubface Is Open at Impact
The clubface has the biggest influence on where the ball starts and how it curves.
If the clubface is pointing to the right of your target at impact (for a right-handed golfer), the ball is going to want to curve that direction.
Even a few degrees open can create noticeable curve.
Many golfers don’t realize their clubface is open because it can look square at setup, but during the swing, the face stays slightly open through impact.
An “Over the Top” Swing Path
An over-the-top move means the club is coming down from outside your target line and cutting across the ball.
This outside-to-inside path, combined with an open clubface, creates the classic slicing ball flight.
It often happens when:
- You start the downswing with your shoulders instead of your lower body
- You try to hit the ball too hard
- You swing down steeply instead of around your body
When the club cuts across the ball, it adds even more sidespin.
A Weak Grip
Your grip directly influences how the clubface returns at impact.
A “weak” grip (for a right-handed golfer) usually means:
- You can only see one knuckle on your lead hand
- Your hands are rotated too far toward the target
This makes it harder for the clubface to close naturally during the swing.
A weak grip doesn’t automatically cause a slice but it makes it much easier for the face to stay open.
The 3 Simple Fixes That Actually Help
Now that we know why a slice happens, let’s look at adjustments you can make.
You don’t need to change everything at once. Start with the grip, then work on swing path.
Fix #1: Strengthen Your Grip
This is often the fastest way to reduce a slice.
For a right-handed golfer:
- Rotate your lead (left) hand slightly to the right on the club
- You should see 2–3 knuckles when looking down
- The “V” formed by your thumb and index finger should point toward your trail shoulder
Do the same with your trail hand so both hands work together.
A slightly stronger grip helps the clubface square up more naturally at impact.
For many golfers, this alone can reduce a slice dramatically.
Fix #2: Feel Like You Swing Out to the Right
If you tend to swing over the top, your path is likely cutting across the ball.
Instead of thinking about hitting the ball straight, try this feel:
Imagine you are swinging slightly out toward right field (for a right-handed golfer).
This promotes a more inside-to-out swing path, which reduces the cutting motion that creates sidespin.
You don’t need to exaggerate it. Even a small change in direction can make a noticeable difference.
Fix #3: Focus on Clubface Awareness
Before you swing, check your clubface at setup.
Make sure:
- The face is square to your target
- Your hands are not excessively behind the ball
- You aren’t leaving the face wide open
During practice swings, pay attention to how the clubface feels through impact. Awareness alone can help you close the face more consistently.
Two Drills to Help Straighten Your Shots
Now let’s make this practical. These drills target both swing path and clubface control.
Drill 1: The Grip Check Drill
Before hitting balls at the range:
- Set up to the ball.
- Look down at your lead hand.
- Adjust until you clearly see 2–3 knuckles.
- Make small half swings focusing on solid contact.
Hit 10–15 balls this way without trying to swing hard.
Pay attention to ball flight. Many golfers notice the ball starting straighter almost immediately.
Drill 2: Headcover Outside the Ball Drill
This drill helps fix an over-the-top swing path.
How to set it up:
- Place a headcover (or small object) just outside and slightly behind the golf ball.
- The object should sit a few inches outside your target line.
- Make swings without hitting the headcover.
If you come over the top, you’ll strike the object.
If you swing more from the inside, you’ll miss it and strike the ball cleanly.
Start with slow swings. Build up speed gradually.
This drill trains your body to approach the ball from a better angle.
Turn Your Slice Into a Playable Shot
You don’t need a perfectly straight shot to play good golf.
The goal isn’t perfection. It’s control.
A small, predictable fade is playable. A wild slice that curves 30 yards off target is not.
By strengthening your grip, improving your swing path, and becoming more aware of your clubface, you can reduce that excessive curve and start finding more fairways.
Once the ball stops curving dramatically, everything else becomes easier.
Distance improves, confidence grows, and the game feels far less frustrating./
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I only slice my driver?
The driver is longer and has less loft than your irons, which makes it more sensitive to face angle and swing path. A small open clubface with a driver can produce a much bigger curve than it would with a shorter club. Because the shaft is longer, it’s also easier to swing over the top. If you slice your driver but not your irons, focus on clubface control and slowing down your tempo with the driver.
Does slicing mean I’m swinging too hard?
Not necessarily, but swinging too hard can make a slice worse. When golfers try to generate more distance, they often start the downswing with their shoulders, which promotes an outside-to-inside path. A smoother, more controlled swing usually improves path and face control. Distance often improves once the slice is reduced.
What’s the difference between a slice and a fade?
A fade is a controlled shot that curves slightly and predictably. A slice is an exaggerated curve caused by an open clubface and a poor swing path. The key difference is control. A fade starts slightly left of target (for right-handed golfers) and gently moves back. A slice often starts left or straight and curves dramatically off target.
Can the wrong equipment cause a slice?
Equipment can influence ball flight, but it rarely causes a slice on its own. A shaft that is too stiff or a club that doesn’t fit your swing can make it harder to square the face. However, most slices are caused by swing mechanics specifically face angle and swing path. It’s best to address technique first before assuming the club is the problem.
How long does it take to fix a slice?
Depends on practice and awareness, but many golfers see improvement quickly once grip and path are corrected.