Interlock vs. Overlap Golf Grip

Which One Actually Works Best?

Few fundamentals in golf are as important—and as misunderstood—as the grip. It’s the only connection you have to the club, yet many golfers choose a grip style based on what looks right rather than what actually helps them control the club.

One of the most common questions golfers ask is whether they should use an interlock grip or an overlap grip. Both are used at the highest level of the game, and neither is inherently “right” or “wrong.” But one may be far better suited to your hands and swing.

Here’s how to understand the difference—and how to choose the grip that gives you the most control.

What Is the Interlock Grip?

The interlock grip links the hands together by interlocking the pinky finger of the trail hand with the index finger of the lead hand.

Why golfers choose it:

Helps keep the hands working as a single unit
Prevents the club from slipping during the swing
Promotes connection for players with smaller hands
Often preferred by golfers who struggle with excess wrist action

This grip can make the swing feel more compact and controlled, especially for players who fight a slice or lose the club at the top.

What Is the Overlap Grip?

The overlap grip places the trail hand pinky on top of the lead hand index finger rather than locking them together.

Why golfers choose it:

Allows for slightly more hand freedom
Encourages natural wrist hinge
Often feels smoother and less restrictive
Common among golfers with larger hands

The overlap grip tends to feel more fluid, particularly for players who already have decent hand control and don’t need extra connection.

Why Neither Grip Is “Better” by Default

A common mistake golfers make is copying the grip of a tour player without understanding why it works for them. The truth is, grip choice should be based on hand size, comfort, and control, not imitation.

The best grip is the one that:

Keeps your hands working together
Feels secure without tension
Allows you to return the clubface consistently

If your grip fights your anatomy, your swing will constantly feel like a compensation.

A Simple Way to Choose the Right Grip

Instead of guessing, use this quick guideline:

Smaller hands or weaker grip strength → Interlock often works better
Larger hands or good hand control → Overlap often feels more natural

From there, the real test is performance. The correct grip should make it easier to:

Square the clubface
Control low point
Repeat contact without effort

If a grip feels forced or unstable, it’s likely not the right fit—regardless of how common it is.

One Key Reminder Most Golfers Miss

Grip pressure matters just as much as grip style.

Even a “correct” grip will cause problems if it’s held too tightly. Your hands should feel connected but relaxed, allowing the club to swing freely while staying under control.

Think secure—not squeezed.

Final Thought

Interlock and overlap grips are both proven, effective options. The mistake isn’t choosing one over the other—it’s choosing a grip that doesn’t match your hands or your needs.

Experiment, pay attention to control and comfort, and commit to the grip that helps you swing more consistently, not the one you think you’re supposed to use.