Grips are the one part of the golf club that come in direct contact with the body, so it's important that they be correct in size and feel for each golfer. If you've been playing with standard-size grips and are considering changing to oversize, there are considerations before making the switch.
Measurements
Grip size, a measurement of the circumference of the grip, varies from small or undersize to standard, slightly larger standard, midsize and oversize, according to Golf.com. Grips can be further built up in size by adding layers of adhesive tape on the shaft, underneath the grip. Putter grips operate somewhat differently, going larger in size and featuring a flat segment to accommodate the thumbs.
Oversize
Oversize grips have traditionally been favored by players with larger hands. The oversize grip tends to have the effect of reducing the hand action in a player's swing. For a golfer who hits a lot of hooks -- a ball with right-to-left movement -- the oversize grip may be helpful in reducing that problem.
Smaller
Players who have difficulty releasing their hands through the swing will be better served with a standard -- or smaller -- grip. The smaller grip helps increase hand action and allow for full release of the clubhead. Men who have difficulty releasing the club even with a smaller grip size might find the desired size by using ladies grips.
Matching Grip Size to Swing
Golf.com proposes that the traditional method of using hand measurements to determine proper grip size should be changed to allow for a more effective approach. The proposed method involves matching a player's swing dynamics -- not his hand -- to grip size.
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