Fix Golf Slice: 2 Common Causes & Drills
- The slice, a common and frustrating shot shape, plagues many recreational golfers.
- According to GOLFTEC's Director of Teaching Quality, Josh Troyer, the slice typically results from two primary swing flaws: an out-to-in swing path combined with an open clubface at...
- While professional golfers typically align their hips and shoulders square to the target line, slicers ofen exhibit a significantly open stance, with their chest pointing left of the...
Tired of slicing your golf ball? This article reveals the two primary causes of a golf slice, a common frustration for many players.poor setup, with an open stance, and an incorrect transition sequence are often the culprits behind this dreaded shot. Discover how an out-to-in swing path combined with an open clubface at impact can ruin your game. GOLFTEC experts provide actionable fixes, like using an alignment stick to square your hips and shoulders and focusing on maintaining closed shoulders longer during your downswing. News directory 3 delivers this insightful analysis to help you fix your golf slice. Ready to fix your slice and improve your game? discover what’s next to get on the course with confidence.
Two Main Reasons Golfers Slice the Ball off the Tee
Updated June 17, 2025
The slice, a common and frustrating shot shape, plagues many recreational golfers. Characterized by a weak, uncontrolled ball flight that veers sharply to the right (for right-handers), the slice robs golfers of both distance and accuracy.
According to GOLFTEC’s Director of Teaching Quality, Josh Troyer, the slice typically results from two primary swing flaws: an out-to-in swing path combined with an open clubface at impact.
2 Reasons for a Slice
Poor Setup
Troyer emphasizes the importance of a proper setup. While professional golfers typically align their hips and shoulders square to the target line, slicers ofen exhibit a significantly open stance, with their chest pointing left of the target.
“They’re basically pointing their chest more toward the target and aligning everything too far left,” troyer said. “That setup encourages a swing path that’s more out-to-in.”
Ironically, many golfers adopt this open stance as a misguided attempt to compensate for their slice, further exacerbating the problem.
The Fix: Use an alignment stick on the practice range to ensure your hips and shoulders are parallel to the target line. This may initially feel like aiming to the right, but it promotes a more neutral swing path.
Incorrect Transition Sequence
An overly aggressive transition from the top of the swing can also contribute to a slice. Professionals shift their hips slightly toward the target during the transition, keeping their shoulders closed longer and allowing the club to stay behind the body.
“That forward movement helps keep the torso closed longer and keeps the club more behind the body,” Troyer said.”What many poor players do rather is open up their body too early and shift their hips away from the target…causing the hands and club to move out and away from the body, steepening the swing path.”
This early opening of the body forces the club to move across the ball from out-to-in, requiring an open clubface to avoid a hook.
The Fix: Focus on maintaining closed shoulders for a fraction of a second longer at the start of the downswing. This helps keep the club behind you and encourages an in-to-out swing path.
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What’s next
Consider booking a swing evaluation with GOLFTEC for personalized insights and guidance to eliminate your slice.