Fixing a Slice with Your Driver: A Practical Guide with Skills Practice

Slicing your driver—watching your ball start straight and then veer sharply to the right (for right-handed golfers)—is one of the most common and frustrating issues in golf. The slice robs you of distance, accuracy, and confidence off the tee. But the good news is that it can be fixed with a combination of technique adjustments, proper equipment, and smart practice routines.

Why You Slice the Driver

A slice is usually the result of two main issues:

1. Open clubface at impact
2. An outside-to-in swing path

When the clubface is open relative to the swing path, it imparts left-to-right spin on the ball (for right-handers). Add a steep, over-the-top swing path, and that spin is exaggerated—hello, banana ball.

Step-by-Step Fix: Setup to Swing

1. Check Your Grip

Your grip is the foundation of a square clubface. Many slicers have a “weak grip,” where the hands are rotated too far toward the target.

Fix:

• For right-handers, make sure you can see 2 to 3 knuckles on your left hand when gripping the club.
• The “V” formed by your thumb and index finger on both hands should point toward your right shoulder.

2. Adjust Your Stance and Alignment

Poor alignment often leads golfers to compensate mid-swing, producing a slice.

Fix:

• Set up with your feet, hips, and shoulders parallel to the target line.
• Keep the ball just inside your front heel.
• Tilt your upper body slightly away from the target, giving you a good launch angle and helping you swing from the inside.

3. Shallow Your Swing Path

Slicers tend to swing down steeply and cut across the ball. You need to train a more rounded, inside-out path.

Fix:

• On the downswing, feel like your right elbow tucks into your side, not over the top of your lead shoulder.
• Think of hitting the ball to right-center field, not directly down the fairway.

Practice Drills to Groove a Slice-Free Swing

Drill 1: The Headcover Under Arm Drill

• Place a headcover (or towel) under your trail arm (right arm for righties).
• Take swings without letting it fall out.
• This keeps your trail arm tight and helps eliminate over-the-top moves.

Drill 2: Swing Path Gate

• Stick two alignment rods in the ground or place two headcovers about a foot in front of your ball, forming a “gate” aimed slightly right of your target.
• Practice swinging through the gate from the inside, avoiding contact with the rods.

Drill 3: Slow Motion Rehearsals

• Make 50% speed swings focusing on starting the downswing with your lower body first, not your shoulders.
• Feel the club drop into the “slot” and swing out to the right.

Equipment Check: It’s Not All Your Fault

Sometimes the slice isn’t just you—it’s your driver setup. Consider:

• Loft: Higher-lofted drivers (10.5° or more) can reduce spin and sidespin, making it easier to hit straight.
• Shaft Flex: A shaft that’s too stiff can leave the face open at impact.
• Adjustable Drivers: Use the built-in settings to close the clubface or add loft.

A professional club fitting can make a big difference and help compensate for tendencies while you work on technique.

Final Tip: Be Patient and Consistent

Fixing a slice won’t happen overnight, but consistent practice with the right drills and mindset pays off. Stick to 10–15 minute focused sessions a few times a week rather than long, unfocused range sessions. Record your swing to track progress or get feedback from a coach or trained eye.

In Summary:
Fixing your slice is about:

• Strengthening your grip
• Aligning properly
• Shallowing your swing path
• Practicing with purpose

With time and consistent drills, your slice will become a baby draw—or at the very least, a reliable fade you can play confidently.