Driver Grip Vs. Iron Grip | Unveiling the Differences

Gripping is a crucial thing in golf that considerably impacts the gameplay. But most golfers find it difficult to select the proper grip for them. They are not aware of the core differences between grips like iron and driver grips. And things like chipping or putting grips make it more complex.

The main difference between driver and iron grips is that the driver grips allow rotation to make it either stronger or weaker. It enables this grip to make adjustments for slicing or hooking. In contrast, there isn’t any such option for iron grips.

That said, this article will explain to you the ins and outs of both these grips in detail. Therefore, let’s immediately dive into the discussion of driver grip vs iron grip.

Driver Grip vs Iron Grip Comparison Chart

Between the driver and iron grips, there are similarities and differences. The chart below will portray an accurate picture of them in a true sense:

FactorsDriver GripIron Grip
SizeStandard, Midsize, Oversize, Undersize, JuniorStandard, Midsize, Oversize, Undersize, Junior
MaterialRubber Rubber and Leather 
DurabilityLowMedium
ColorsMulti-ColorMulti-Color
Hand Position Top of ClubDown below

What are the differences between driver grip and iron grip?

The core difference between driver and iron grip types is in the adjustment of the grip that the golfers make. But the debate doesn’t end as more aspects distinguish these grip types.

These are more than differences; they act as a factor that makes a golfer decide the right option. So, here is the key factors that draw the differences between driver and iron grips:

Grip Style Selection: Driver Grip Vs Iron Grip 

Generally, you need to choose among three different grip types before playing. These are – interlock, overlap, and ten-finger Gripping. 

How the fingers fit in the grip is crucial for getting the desired performance. It’s essential because the gameplay depends on the ease of adjustment between the grip and the player’s fingers. 

The grip types don’t vary between iron and driver grips. One can use these types for both driver and iron. It’s the limitations or preferences that dictate the choice. 

Interlocking grips are best for players with smaller hands. At the same time, the players with larger hands are more suited to a ten-finger grip.

If someone wants to shift the grip style, there would be considerable adjustments to make. It might seem to be a regular shift, but in reality, it can lead to a change in the course of the swing.

This emphasizes the part that one can revert the direction of swing with the simple act of adjustment. 

Vertical Hand Positioning: Driver Grip Vs Iron Grip  

Holding the golf club grip is crucial in determining the length of use. Some players like to hold it from the top, and others want to go down. And such vertical positioning of the hand affects the length of the club.

Between iron and grip drivers, the position of the hands should always be on the top for driver grip. It would enable you to utilize the total length of the driver and improve your gameplay.

That said, driver grips are best for covering longer distances. It gives you ample scope to hit the golf ball straight and cover the distance you need.

Iron grips are the best option when it is required to hold the club further down.

Holding the club further down is essential when precision is required more than covering a distance. The iron grips allow players to have more control over the shot they are going to take. It is more focused on covering shorter distances than driver grips.

Moreover, the main point of having a different preferable vertical hand positioning for both these grip types is to ensure the highest comfort level for the players.

Grip Pressure: Driver Grip Vs Iron Grip  

There exists a massive confusion among most golfers regarding the relevance between pressure and power applied to the club. Most players have a distorted idea that extra pressure on their grip would allow them to swing hard and cover more distance.

But in reality, the pressure should be consistent throughout the entire gameplay. To have total control over the club doesn’t mean that there is a need to hold it too firmly. Normal gripping is more than enough. 

And that said, it stands the same for driver and iron grips. The focus should always be to hold the grip lightly.  If there has to be a change in pressure, keeping the minimum should be the goal.

Physical Grip Size: Driver Grip Vs Iron Grip 

Numerous grip styles in the market are available in different sizes. Also, these options are available in various textures.

The main aim of choosing a specific grip size is to enable the highest comfort level for the player. Most players make the mistake of not selecting the new grip wisely when changing. It is a bad practice as it hampers the consistency in gameplay. 

That’s why choosing the right size is a crucial aspect. Especially with the driver grip, most golfers find themselves in difficulties while releasing a swing. For them, the best option would be to opt for a grip that isn’t too big for their hands.

When it comes to iron grips, these matters aren’t much discussed as the impact is relatively less compared to that of driver grips. So, for them, the grip should be large enough to get a proper hold when shifting down the club.

Shot Adjustments: Driver Grip Vs Iron Grip 

Iron grips are one-dimensional and are highly suited for hitting straight. Therefore, shot positioning for the iron grips stays the same, unlike driver grips.

On the other hand, you will have ample flexibility to change the driver grip formation depending on how you want to take a shot. This grip will allow you to adjust your shot left, right or straight wherever you want.

Driver Grip vs Iron Grip: Which one should you choose?

Choosing the proper grip takes a bit of time and a lot of consideration. There are aspects associated with the gameplay that the players need to reevaluate. 

After reading this article, we hope that you clearly understand driver grip vs iron grip. There are similarities as well as differences. Iron grips allow you to hit straight, whereas driver grips are more flexible for hitting around.

But most importantly, you need to ensure that you maintain consistency in terms of hitting and pressure applied on the grips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is There A Need For A Different Iron And Driver Grip?

There needs to be consistency in gripping the driver and iron. Gripping the same club in different ways would make things complicated and hamper the consistency. 
A golfer will already face variations in weather or health conditions. Something additional to this would just hamper the flow of gameplay.

Why Hand Positioning Is Different For Driver And Iron Grips?

The hand positioning varies because of the shots taken using both these types of grips. Driver grips are suited for long shots, so the vertical position should be on top. On the other hand, iron grips are best for precision, so the hand’s position is further down.

Is An Iron Grip More Durable Than Driver Grips?

Iron grips have higher durability than the driver grips because the latter wear out fast due to continuous usage for taking long shots and swinging.

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