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MAY'S TIP OF THE MONTH
Understanding Wrist Hinges in the Golf Swing
BY RYAN WILLIAMS, PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PROFESSIONAL
The golf swing is full of reference points that help predict ball flight, and one of the most frequently discussed is the position of the clubface throughout the swing. Many instructors and players have preferences about where the clubface should be at certain checkpoints—for example, matching the player’s spine angle when the club is parallel to the ground, or aligning the left wrist and clubface at the top of the backswing.
However, as we’ve highlighted in past articles, for every preference, there’s a Hall of Fame golfer who does it differently. Instead of prescribing one “correct” method, let’s explore the various wrist hinge styles so you can identify what works best for your swing.
Types of Wrist Hinges
Diagonal Hinge
This is the classic position many instructors consider “neutral.” With a diagonal hinge, the clubface remains square and the left wrist flat. At the top of the backswing, the clubface matches the back of the left wrist. Golfers like Tiger Woods and Adam Scott are great examples of players who utilize this style.
Horizontal Hinge
Popularized over the last five years, the horizontal hinge features a bowed left wrist, leading to a clubface that appears closed throughout the swing and points toward the sky at the top. This style has gained favor among modern instructors. Jon Rahm and Collin Morikawa are prominent horizontal hingers.
Vertical Hinge
Though less common today, the vertical hinge—often referred to as “cupped”—has the toe of the club pointing downward at the top of the swing, creating an open face. While not widely taught, it’s been effective for elite players like Ben Hogan and current world number one Scottie Scheffler.
Finding the Right Hinge for Your Swing
As we’ve discussed in previous articles, every golfer’s body moves differently. Your ideal wrist hinge lies on a spectrum—with purely horizontal and purely vertical on opposite ends. Most golfers fall somewhere in between.
To determine your natural hinge, I use the Orange Whip Trainer. I have students grip the trainer and resist its flex in each of the three hinge directions. This helps identify which hinge direction allows them to engage the ground effectively and control the club naturally.
When a golfer uses their natural hinge, several benefits follow:
Reduced injury risk
Increased clubhead speed
Better ground engagement and balance
Key Wrist Movement Facts Among Great Ball Strikers
Understanding what happens with the wrists during the swing can provide even more clarity:
At the top of the swing, the left wrist moves toward extension (a more cupped position), even in players with significantly bowed wrists like Morikawa.
In the transition into the downswing, the wrist begins to move toward flexion (away from the cupped position). Even vertical hinging players like Hogan follow this pattern.
At impact, the wrist moves back toward extension. While the lead wrist may appear flat at impact, it’s actually transitioning—helping to “release” the club and maximize speed.
By understanding your body’s natural tendencies and the dynamics of wrist motion, you can develop a swing that’s both efficient and sustainable. Instead of chasing trends, focus on finding what works best for you—and let that guide your improvement.
