What is a Fade in Golf?

The term fade in golf is used to describe the trajectory of a ball once it’s hit. A player hits a fade when the ball slowly turns away from him in the air. That means the ball is hit left and veers right in the air. (for a Right handed golfer) The same term is applicable to left-handed players. However since they’re on the opposite side of the ball, the ball would start right and veer left.

New golfers may confuse a fade with a slice. A slice is when the ball veers dramatically away from the golfer. The fade is a controlled shot that will still be on target. 

As you can see in the image above, there is a great distinction between the two ball flights. The fade is meant to be on target. As for the slice, it is one of the worst shots a golfer can hit. Many amateur golfers are plagued with the slice. It can’t be controlled.

How to Hit a Fade

The fade is a desired shot shape for a number of reasons. If you are currently unable to hit the ball straight, I would strongly suggest that you do not try to learn a fade. For those that are confident in their swing but need a better understanding of how to produce a fade, I’ve found some of the best coaches/players, and listed their most valuable tips.

When hitting a fade, you do not want to change your swing. This will introduce loads of problems as you’ve probably worked so hard to find a repeatable, reliable swing. What we want to focus on, is setting up to the ball differently in a way that will promote a fade.

This video from Golf Distillery is one that simplifies the fade and provides practical ways to achieve fades with ease. If you’re more of a reader, I’ve listed the key points down below.

The Set-up

Start by aiming the club face where you want the ball to start. This would be left of the target (Right-handed golfers) or right of the target (Left handed golfers).

Then we want to aim our bodies way left or right of the target depending on handedness. You can easily achieve this by starting with a normal stance and then taking your lead foot and moving drastically outside. This will allow you shoulder, hips, and feet to be aiming far left or right.

Now that we are set up, we just want to swing the club like we normally would. What will happen is we will swing along our normal plane but the club face will be more open. This will promote that perfect fade.

Drawbacks of the fade

One really important thing to note is that this will shave yards off your shots, so if the number you are trying to reach is the perfect distance for your 7-iron, you might want to club up and then fade the ball

Another thing about fades, is that sometimes you can overcook them and create a slice. Since the fade is a controlled version of a slice, if you miss hit or swing poorly, you may induce a wild slice.

Benefits of the fade

The fade is a must have shot in the bag for any good golfer. The fade will allow you to fight the element of mother nature as well as some tricky holes out on the golf course. Once masters, you can use it in those perfect situations.

Fade with your Driver

The video above shows how to fade the ball. However, it shows you with an iron. If you are more curious about how to fade the ball with a driver, here is none other than the man that taught me how to play golf through his videos, Rick Shiels. He shows you how to hit a fade with the driver.

Practice Drills for Hitting a Fade

The best thing for you to do when you are learning to hit a fade with the instructions shown above, is place an alignment stick next to the ball aimed perfectly at your target. Then use the stick as reference to opening your stance to create that fade. Really simple, really effective!

Check out this video from My Golf Instructor: Fade it Drill

Radical Conclusion

Mastering the fade in golf can significantly enhance a player’s versatility on the course. Understanding the distinction between a fade and a slice is crucial for golfers looking to improve their game. While a fade offers controlled and intentional ball flight, a slice often leads to unpredictable and errant shots. By implementing proper setup techniques and maintaining consistency in swing mechanics, golfers can reliably execute fades to navigate challenging course conditions and strategic shot placements.

Continual practice and refinement of fade shots, both with irons and drivers, are essential for incorporating this valuable skill into one’s repertoire. Alongside instructional videos and tips from experienced golfers and coaches, dedicated practice drills can reinforce the fundamentals of hitting a fade. With patience, persistence, and a commitment to mastering the fade, golfers can elevate their game and tackle a variety of course challenges with confidence and precision.

Hope this helps you fade the ball better!