Is left-handed golf really that different from right-handed golf? Some will argue that the changes are significant, while others believe that once you’re off the tee, it’s not that different. There are pros and cons to being a left-handed golfer and some strategies to help you play your best. While less than 10% of golfers are left-handed, you are part of a unique group – one that everyone remembers, so you have it going for you!
Equipment Availability: The Good and the Bad
The bad news for lefties is that left-handed golf equipment can be harder to find than right-handed equipment. Depending on the model of the club, some companies won’t even turn left.
Mizuno had a reputation for not having irons for left-handed players. In their new versions, like the Mizuno Pro 245, left-handed irons are available in 4-GW. Right-handed players have the option of 2-GW. It’s progress.
It’s harder for a left-handed golfer to walk into a store expecting them to have what you need. However, custom fitters must handle a wide range of equipment left-handed.
Here’s the good news.
Deals on left-handed golf equipment are almost always better than what you’ll find for right-handed golfers. My husband is left-handed, and I’ve found some great discounts on golf clubs for him over the years.
You’ll see these deals, especially on golf clubs that are a year or two old. Manufacturers want to eliminate all their older left-handed models.
Course layouts are generally right-handed
Golf course layouts are often designed with right-handed golfers in mind. The extension lines can get a little tricky for left-handed players. It only takes a little awareness to overcome this problem.
I can tell you that in most cases, the person who sets up the golf course for the day is a right one. The tee box layout may be more suitable for right-handed players.
Keep your ball between the tip markers, but don’t let their reach guide your shot.
Rotary tips for a slice or kick
One of the most confusing things about being a left-handed golfer is reading instructional posts. Something like “how to fix a part” or “how to get a draw” should be rotated.
As I write golf content, I’ve tried to be more conscious of this in recent years. You’ll find some content that uses “main side” and “edge” to try and help the left-handed player. Look for guidance tips specifically for lefties. Golf is confusing, and when you have to regurgitate all the information, it only adds to the difficulty.
Practice on the left side of the border
When practicing the driving distance, aim to the left side.
From this position, you won’t feel like you’re practicing with the right player in front of you.
Also, let’s face it: if the golfer across from you isn’t a good golfer, the last thing you want to do is pick up some of their habits. If you don’t see a right-handed pro in range, walk away and head to the left side.
Growing up, my father was a left-handed golfer. As I started to get into the game and become a better player, I would send it to the left side of the range as I went to the right side of the zone. In this case, he had some swing habits and flaws that I didn’t want to pick up!
Unsteady motion feedback from trainers
Left-handed players may have difficulty finding golf coaches who are comfortable teaching lefties. Ask the pro you are working with if they have taught lefties in the past.
In addition, there are a number of excellent YouTube videos where you can see instructors who deal specifically with left-handed players. From a visual learning perspective, it’s good for you to see these instead of just consuming right-handed golf instructional content.
Remember how tip boxes work
One last tip for left-handed players. You may be tempted to detach from the left side of the car box, giving you plenty of room to set up and swing. However, try to avoid this. This area is often violated as right-handed players tend to stay there all day.
While keeping your golf ball within the teeing zone is a requirement, your feet should not be inside the markers. Feel free to use the right side of the cargo box, even if it means your feet are slightly off the markers. It can help you find better grass, especially when you level up to level three. You might also like the view of the hole from that side of the box. Try it.
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