Few things are more frustrating in golf than watching a drive start down the fairway…
Then curve dramatically into the trees.
You swing harder.
Try a different grip.
Aim farther left.
Yet the slice keeps showing up.
If this sounds familiar, here’s some good news:
Your slice may not be caused by your swing path.
In many cases, it’s caused by something much simpler.
Your clubface.
Why the Ball Starts Right?
Many golfers think the slice happens because they swing across the ball.
While swing path does play a role, the clubface has the biggest influence on where the ball starts.
If your clubface is open at impact:
👉 The ball starts right.
And when the clubface is also open relative to your swing path…
The ball curves even farther right.
That’s the classic slice.
The Clubface Controls Everything
Think of it this way:
The clubface is the steering wheel.
Your swing path influences the curve.
But the clubface largely determines where the ball begins.
That’s why golfers often spend months trying to fix their swing path when the real issue is a face that’s simply too open.
Common Setup Mistakes That Cause Slices
Many slices begin before the swing even starts.
Some of the most common mistakes include:
❌ Weak grip position
❌ Open shoulders at address
❌ Ball too far forward
❌ Trying to “lift” the ball into the air
❌ Aiming left and compensating
These setup errors make it much harder to square the clubface at impact.
Stop Swinging Harder
One of the biggest mistakes golfers make is trying to overpower the slice.
The harder you swing…
The harder it becomes to control the clubface.
Instead of focusing on power, focus on delivering a square face to the ball.
You’ll often hit straighter shots immediately.
A Simple Anti-Slice Drill
Try this on the driving range:
Headcover Gate Drill
Place a headcover just outside the golf ball.
Your goal:
✔ Swing without hitting the headcover
✔ Feel the club approaching more from the inside
✔ Focus on squaring the face through impact
Start slowly.
Speed comes later.
Control comes first.
What Better Drivers Do?
Golfers who hit more fairways aren’t always swinging better.
They’re controlling the clubface better.
They understand:
✔ Setup matters
✔ Clubface matters
✔ Consistency beats power
And that’s why they spend more time in the fairway and less time searching for golf balls.
Most golfers believe their slice is a complicated swing problem.
Often, it isn’t.
A better grip.
A better setup.
A squarer clubface.
Those small adjustments can make a huge difference.
Because when the clubface improves…
Everything else becomes easier.
Ready to Hit More Fairways?
Every round becomes easier when you start from the short grass.
Learn how smarter practice, better strategy, and simple adjustments can help you play more consistent golf.
Text GOLF to 704-368-4412 for a free consultation.
