Understanding Spin in Golf: Fade vs Draw Explained for Shot Shape, Control & Distance
Learn the difference between a fade and a draw. Understand how swing path, clubface, and ball position shape shots, control landing, and add consistency.
Key Points
For a draw:
• Align the body right of the target
• Clubface should be slightly closed relative to swing path
• Ball position is slightly further back in stance
• Club must approach the ball from the insideIn golf, spin determines the ball’s curve:
• A fade curves left to right
• A draw curves right to left- The concept of the deep plane explains spin: it’s the 3D relationship between swing path, clubface angle, and low point of the arc
For a fade:
• Align the body left of the target
• Clubface should be slightly open
• Ball is placed further forward in the stance
• Club path comes slightly from the outside- The clubface determines the ball’s starting direction, while the swing path creates the curve
- A draw tends to roll more after landing.
- Mastering spin allows you to shape shots intentionally and manage landing behavior effectively.
- A fade lands softer with more control, which is why elite players like Jon Rahm often favor it for precision on approach shots
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