A draw is a shot that curves gently from right to left for a right-handed golfer, and a fade curves gently from left to right. Both are controlled, intended shapes. When the same curves get too big and you didn't mean them, a draw becomes a hook and a fade becomes a slice. (Flip all of this for left-handers.)
What makes the ball draw or fade?
Two things at impact decide it: where the clubface points and which direction the club is moving (the path).
- Start direction comes mostly from the face. Launch monitor data shows the clubface angle accounts for most of the ball's starting direction, with the path adding the rest.
- Curve comes from face compared to path. If the face is closed relative to the path, the ball curves left (a draw). If the face is open relative to the path, it curves right (a fade). Hit off-center and gear effect can add or cancel some curve, especially with a driver.
So a classic draw starts a little right of the target with a face that's slightly closed to an in-to-out path, then curves back. A classic fade starts a little left with a face that's slightly open to an out-to-in path.
Draw vs fade: which is better?
Neither. Great players have won with both. Jack Nicklaus built a career around a fade. What matters is that your shot curves the same way most of the time. Here's how they usually compare:
| Draw | Fade | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical spin | Lower spin | Higher spin |
| Rollout | More roll after landing | Lands softer, stops faster |
| Distance | Often a bit longer | Often a bit shorter |
| Bad version | Hook | Slice |
| Who tends to play it | Players with an in-to-out swing | Players with an out-to-in swing |
For most recreational golfers who slice, learning a small fade is the faster path to the fairway than trying to flip the shot into a draw. If you already curve it right, keep the curve and make it smaller.
How do you hit a draw or a fade on purpose?
The simplest method: set the clubface at your target, then align your feet and body where you want the ball to start.
- Draw: feet and body aimed slightly right of target, face aimed at the target, swing along your body line.
- Fade: feet and body aimed slightly left of target, face aimed at the target, swing along your body line.
Start with small adjustments. A few degrees goes a long way. For a step-by-step version, see how to hit the perfect draw.
Can equipment help you draw or fade the ball?
Equipment can nudge your curve, but it won't fix your swing on its own.
- Draw-biased drivers move weight toward the heel so the face closes a bit easier. Most major brands make a draw model. Many adjustable drivers also have a movable weight or hosel setting for draw or fade.
- Shaft and grip matter too. A shaft that's too stiff can leave the face open, and grips that are too big can make it harder to release the club. Our guide on what shaft flex you need covers the first part.
Used drivers are a cheap way to try a draw setting or a more forgiving head. Browse used drivers, or read our breakdown of the Ping G410, Ping's first movable weight driver.
Where do the words "draw" and "fade" come from?
Both are plain English describing what the ball does. A fade fades away to the right as it loses speed. A draw is drawn back toward the target. We couldn't find a reliable source showing when either word first appeared in golf writing, so treat any precise date you see online with caution.
Common questions
Is a draw the same as a hook?
Both curve right to left for a right-hander. A draw is small and intended. A hook is big and usually isn't.
Does a draw go farther than a fade?
Often a little, because a draw usually has less spin and rolls more. The difference depends on your swing and the conditions.
Should a beginner try to hit a draw?
Focus on solid contact and a consistent curve first. Most beginners slice, so taming that into a small fade is a more realistic early goal.
Does a draw driver cure a slice?
It can reduce a slice a bit. It won't remove one caused by an open face and an out-to-in path.
More golf words explained in our golf terms glossary. Related: what is a shank, what is a birdie and what is par.
