What is a snap hook in golf?

From Golf FAQ

A snap hook in golf is a type of slice where the ball curves sharply to the left for a right-handed golfer (or to the right for a left-handed golfer). This occurs when the clubface is closed at impact, causing the ball to spin rapidly in the opposite direction of the intended shot. [1]

Causes of a Snap Hook[edit | edit source]

Several factors can contribute to a snap hook, including:

  • Closed Clubface: The most common cause is a clubface that is closed at impact. This can happen due to a variety of factors, such as:
   * Grip: A grip that is too strong (left hand too low on the grip) can lead to a closed clubface. [2]
   * Swing Path: A swing path that is too much from inside-out can also cause the clubface to be closed at impact. [3]
   * Wrist Action: Excessive wrist action during the downswing can also lead to a closed clubface. [4]
  • Incorrect Ball Position: A ball position that is too far forward in the stance can also lead to a snap hook. This causes the golfer to swing from the inside and close the clubface. [5]
  • Over-the-Top Swing: A swing path that is too much over-the-top can also cause the clubface to be closed at impact. [6]
  • Poor Body Rotation: Insufficient body rotation during the swing can lead to a closed clubface. [7]

Consequences of a Snap Hook[edit | edit source]

A snap hook can have several negative consequences for a golfer, including:

  • Lost Balls: A snap hook can easily send the ball out of bounds or into a hazard. [8]
  • Poor Scores: A snap hook can lead to higher scores, as it often results in a shot that is significantly off-target. [9]
  • Frustration: A snap hook can be a very frustrating shot to hit, as it can be difficult to control. [10]

Fixing a Snap Hook[edit | edit source]

Fixing a snap hook requires identifying the specific cause and making adjustments to the swing. Some common tips include:

  • Grip: Adjusting the grip to a more neutral position can help to prevent the clubface from closing at impact. [11]
  • Swing Path: Working on a more in-to-out swing path can help to square the clubface at impact. [12]
  • Wrist Action: Minimizing wrist action during the downswing can help to prevent the clubface from closing. [13]
  • Ball Position: Moving the ball position slightly back in the stance can help to encourage a more out-to-in swing path. [14]
  • Body Rotation: Ensuring proper body rotation during the swing can help to square the clubface at

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ https://www.golfdigest.com/story/golf-tips-how-to-fix-a-snap-hook
  2. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/how-to-fix-a-snap-hook-in-golf
  3. ↑ https://www.golftipsmag.com/golf-tips/swing-tips/fix-snap-hook-golf-swing-path/
  4. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/how-to-fix-a-snap-hook-in-golf
  5. ↑ https://www.golfdigest.com/story/golf-tips-how-to-fix-a-snap-hook
  6. ↑ https://www.golftipsmag.com/golf-tips/swing-tips/fix-snap-hook-golf-swing-path/
  7. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/how-to-fix-a-snap-hook-in-golf
  8. ↑ https://www.golfdigest.com/story/golf-tips-how-to-fix-a-snap-hook
  9. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/how-to-fix-a-snap-hook-in-golf
  10. ↑ https://www.golftipsmag.com/golf-tips/swing-tips/fix-snap-hook-golf-swing-path/
  11. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/how-to-fix-a-snap-hook-in-golf
  12. ↑ https://www.golftipsmag.com/golf-tips/swing-tips/fix-snap-hook-golf-swing-path/
  13. ↑ https://www.golf.com/instruction/how-to-fix-a-snap-hook-in-golf
  14. ↑ https://www.golfdigest.com/story/golf-tips-how-to-fix-a-snap-hook
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