What is a Slice in Golf?

A Slice in golf is the word used to describe an errant shot that veers dramatically away from the player. This means for a right handed player the ball will start straight but the amount of spin on the ball will dramatically change direction and head far left. The same is applicable for left handed players but the ball will travel to the right.

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

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 amatuer golfers are plagued with the slice. It can’t be controlled.

What causes a Slice in Golf?

There are many reasons a slice can be happening on your golf shots. Golf.com claims these to be the top ten reasons you slice the ball.

1. Open club face

2. Thumbs too on-top of the grip

3. Arms separating from body

4. Keeping lead arm straight too long

5. Bad posture

6. Not flexible enough

7. Lefty playing righty (or righty playing lefty)

8. Bad ball-position and tilt

9. Not understanding shoulder line vs. the target line

10. Incorrect foot flare

Now these reasons can look like a different language for some people. The number #1 reason on the list is true for almost 90-95% of slicers.

I always think of a quote I heard from none other than the PGA Professional Tony Finau:

“At the heart of every slice is an open clubface. And it usually goes with a steep swing that cuts across the ball from out to in.”

If you are wondering what he means by “in to out” here is an image showing what that means in terms of a golf swing.

Now with the majority of slices caused by “out to in” motion, we must identify what in our swing is making that open club face move “out to in”. Referring to the other 9 reasons in Golf.com’s article may help you find your answer.

How to Avoid the Slice in Golf

If Mr.Finau is accurate with his quote, then an easy fix would be to get the club head moving out to in. There are several drills we can do to promote more of an “in to out” motion when swinging. 

One of my favorite videos on how to do so is by ChrisRyanGolf. His explanations are clear and concise. You may not love all three drills but there will most certainly be one that makes you understand the feel of getting the club to move in to out. Watch below!

Radical Conclusion

Understanding the distinction between a slice and a fade is crucial for any golfer looking to improve their game. While a fade is a controlled shot that remains on target, a slice can be one of the most frustrating and detrimental shots to a golfer’s performance. Identifying the root causes of a slice, such as an open clubface and a steep swing path, is essential in addressing and rectifying this issue. 

By delving into the top reasons for slicing the ball, as outlined by Golf.com, and heeding the advice of professionals like Tony Finau, golfers can begin to make the necessary adjustments to their technique. Emphasizing an “in to out” swing motion and employing drills designed to promote this movement can greatly aid in reducing or eliminating slices from one’s game. 

Resources such as instructional videos, like those offered by ChrisRyanGolf, provide valuable insights and practical exercises to help golfers develop a more consistent and effective swing. With dedication, practice, and a willingness to analyze and refine their technique, golfers can overcome the challenge of slicing and enjoy greater success on the course. Hope this helps you slice less!