What Is A Fade In Golf? | Ways on How to Hit A Fade in Golf

Want to take your golf game to the next level, but don’t know where to start? One of the most important shots you need in your repertoire is a fade – a shot designed to move left (for right-handed golfers). In this blog post, we’ll explore what is a fade in golf, different types of fades, and how you can incorporate fades into your own game for improved accuracy and distance control. With practice and dedication, adding a fade shot into your golfer’s bag can help make tough courses easier on the greens. So let’s get started learning about this versatile technique.

What is a fade in golf?

A golf fade, also known as a cut shot, is a controlled ball flight that curves from left to right for right-handed players and from right to left for left-handed players. It resembles a slice but covers less lateral distance. For instance, a right-handed golfer intentionally hitting a tee shot that moves slightly from left to right is executing a fade. On the other hand, if the shot goes off course uncontrollably to the right, it is considered a slice.

Difference of fade and draw in golf

There are notable distinctions between the fade and draw shots in golf. The variations encompass the grip, stance, swing path, and wrist angle.

Grip

Golfers aiming for a draw typically employ a stronger grip compared to those attempting a fade. A strong grip allows for easier clubface rotation and squared impact. Conversely, when hitting a fade, it is recommended to slightly weaken the grip.

Stance

Differences in the setup of the stance are apparent between a fade and draw shot. A closed stance is essential for a draw, aligning both feet and shoulders to the right of the target. On the other hand, an open stance is necessary for a fade, accounting for the left-to-right curve.

Swing Path

While a fade shot may require a slightly more outside-in swing path, emphasis should be placed on the clubface angle at impact when comparing fade versus draw shots. If the clubpath deviates significantly, a fade can easily turn into a slice.

Wrist Angle

The final contrast lies in the clubface angle at contact, influenced by the wrist angle. An open clubface results from excessive extension in the lead wrist, causing the golf ball to fade. To execute a draw shot, a slight flexion, or bowing, in the lead wrist at impact is necessary. Wearing a HackMotion can help maintain the appropriate wrist flexion for a controlled draw shot, preventing it from turning into a hook.

When should you play a fade in golf?

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A fade golf shot is best played when there is a need to curve the ball from left to right, in a controlled manner. This shot brings consistency to the game and provides the most value on a hole that doglegs right, as it allows the golfer to cut corners and reduce the hole length.

How do you play a fade in golf?

To execute a fade in golf, there are several essential adjustments to consider. For an out-to-in swing path, aim slightly left of your target (for right-handed golfers). Additionally, to generate the desired left-to-right spin on the ball, maintain a slightly open clubface at impact.

How to hit a fade in golf?

To execute a fade shot in golf, follow these steps:

1. Utilize your shoulders to swing to the left of your target.
2. Employ your hands to slightly open the clubface.
3. Combine the shoulder and hand movements to produce a fading ball flight.
4. Adjust your grip by placing your trail hand more on top of the grip to weaken it for the fade.
5. Ensure that your trail thumb aligns directly with your clubhead for proper execution.

How do you hit a fade with your driver?

To hit a fade with your driver, a standard grip for many players is two to two-and-a-half knuckles. However, for a power fade, you can slightly move your grip back. In this case, you should be able to see only one knuckle.

How to hit a fade in golf with irons?

To execute a fade with irons in golf, ensure that the club’s face angle at impact is positioned to the left of the target. This will result in the ball starting left of the target. Additionally, the swing path should be slightly left of the face angle, thereby generating fade spin.

Also, try : How to fix slice golf

Using HackMotion to hit a fade in golf

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To utilize the HackMotion swing analyzer for executing a fade shot in golf, follow these steps in a professional manner:

1. Obtain baseline data for a straight shot by hitting 10 to 15 shots. Analyze the wrist angles at impact and the top of your backswing.
2. Determine your intention to hit a fade, which requires a slight extension in the lead wrist.
3. Configure the HackMotion audio feedback system to indicate when your wrist angles align with the appropriate range for executing a fade.
4. Compare the collected data with that of the original straight shot to ensure correct movement of the wrists to achieve the desired shot type.

Benefits of a fade in golf

A fade in golf offers several benefits. Firstly, it allows for greater control as it flies higher with more backspin compared to a draw. By landing softly and stopping quickly, a fade provides precision and accuracy. Many professionals, including renowned golfers like Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Dustin Johnson, prefer the fade off the tee, particularly among the longest hitters in the game. Additionally, a fade is easier to play than a draw for most golfers, especially when using longer clubs like the driver. Although a draw may roll farther, a fade’s higher flight can offer extra carry distance. Overall, the fade is a preferred shot due to its advantages in control, accuracy, and ease of play.

Downsides of fade in golf

Despite its versatility, a fade shot in golf has a few drawbacks. Firstly, when hitting into a headwind, the excessive backspin of a fade can cause the ball to “balloon,” resulting in a shorter distance than intended. Additionally, playing a fade in a left-to-right crosswind can be problematic, as the wind can easily push the ball off-target. Lastly, holes that dogleg left may not be ideal for a fade shot, as the shot shape may work against the curve of the fairway and potentially lead to the ball landing in the rough.

FAQs: Fade in golf

Do more pros hit a fade or draw?

The majority of professional golfers prefer hitting a fade off the tee with their drivers for better control. Rory McIlroy, for instance, transitioned to predominantly hitting a fade in 2021, despite his previous reputation for hitting massive, high draws. As for the irons, most pros possess the ability to shape the ball in either direction to suit the demands of the shot.

How much further does a draw go than a fade?

Based on the provided ball speed, launch angle, and spin rate, a draw and fade will carry and roll the same distance. However, in practice, most club golfers tend to hit a draw further than a fade. This is because a draw reduces the loft, resulting in lower spin rates. Consequently, shots with lower spin generally travel a greater distance.

How do you not hit a fade in golf?

Hitting a fade in golf can be a challenge to address. To avoid the ball veering to the right (for right-handed golfers), it’s necessary to concentrate on swinging more towards the right. Even though it may feel like you’re swinging left, you should actually aim for swinging down the line towards the target. This adjustment can initially feel daunting, but with practice, you can overcome it.

How do you set up a fade in golf?

To set up a fade in golf, follow these steps:

1. Point your clubface left of the target.
2. Set up so that the club face is aiming slightly to the left of your target.
3. Open your stance by aiming your feet, hips, and shoulders further to the left than the club face.
4. Swing along the line of your feet, hips, and shoulders, starting the ball out to the left and allowing the open club face to curve it back to the right.