Wrist hinge, also called wrist set or wrist cock, is the bending of the wrists during the backswing that creates an angle between the lead arm and the club. It stores energy for the downswing, adds speed and helps the club travel on a good path. Too little hinge costs power; too much, or at the wrong time, costs control. Here's how to get it right.
What is wrist hinge?
As you swing back, the wrists bend upwards (towards the thumbs), so the club moves above the hands. At the top of a full swing, the lead arm and shaft form roughly an L shape.
Early vs late set
| Early set | Late (gradual) set | |
|---|---|---|
| When | Wrists hinge in the first part of the takeaway | Wrists hinge gradually as the arms swing up |
| Feel | Club up quickly | One-piece takeaway |
| Pros | Simple, good for steeper swings and short game | Wide arc, more width |
| Cons | Can become too steep or handsy | Can lead to too little hinge |
Choose what feels natural. Read how to improve your backswing.
Lead wrist at the top
- Flat: the most common, neutral position.
- Cupped (bent back): tends to open the face; often linked to slices.
- Bowed (flexed): tends to close the face; often linked to draws or hooks.
Grip affects wrist position. Read how to grip a golf club.
Wrist hinge and power
The angle stored in the backswing is released through impact, adding club head speed. Releasing it too early (casting) wastes speed. Read how to release the golf club.
Wrist hinge in the short game
- Chips: little or no wrist hinge. Read how to chip in golf.
- Pitches and bunker shots: more hinge for height and speed. Read wedge play: pitching and spin.
- Lob shots: plenty of hinge. Read how to hit a lob shot.
Drills
- L-to-L drill: swing back until the lead arm is parallel to the ground with an L between arm and shaft, then through to the mirror position.
- Hinge and turn: hinge the wrists first at address, then turn to the top.
- Light grip pressure: read grip pressure.
- Mirror checks at the top.
Frequently asked questions
How much should my wrists hinge?
For a full swing, roughly a 90-degree angle between lead arm and shaft at the top, depending on flexibility.
Is an early wrist hinge good?
It can be. Some good players hinge early; others gradually. Consistency matters most.
Why do I cup my lead wrist at the top?
Often grip or habit. It tends to open the face; work on a flatter position.
Does wrist hinge add distance?
Yes, when the angle is retained and released at the right time.
The bottom line
Hinge your wrists naturally to around an L at the top, keep the lead wrist roughly flat, use light grip pressure and release the angle through impact. For more on the swing, read the impact position.