One of the most tedious yet still necessary components of the game of golf is regripping your clubs. It can be a time-consuming and frustrating task — and a messy one at that. Regular players should be in the habit of regripping their clubs at least once a year on average, perhaps more if you get lots of rounds in throughout the year.
The solvent and grip tape method is tried and true, but using an air compressor instead can be much more convenient. Here is a look at how to regrip your golf clubs using an air compressor.
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Here are some other tips to keep in mind when moving through the regripping process.
1. Make a Tape Decision
When regripping your clubs, there are three basic options for what to do with the grip tape that’s already on your clubs.
One option is to leave the existing tape on your clubs and reuse it. This is possible, but it’s probably the least desirable of the three options. After all, it’s likely the tape won’t form as strong a bond with the grip as it did the first time around.
Option two is to place new grip tape on top of existing tape. This will add an extra layer of tape, which can give some players a preferred feel. Of course, you can’t use this method forever — and some point out you’re going to need to peel back the layers of tape so your new grips fit.
The final and likely most common option is to remove your existing tape and replace it with new tape. Rather than solvent, try using a hair dryer or heat gun to soften the tape and make it easier to remove.
2. To Tape or Not to Tape?
When using an air compressor to slide your grips on your clubs, it’s possible to get away without using tape at all. Some players report their grips are secure and tight enough to go without double-sided tape or even masking tape.
Like many aspects of golf, it all comes down to personal preference and “feel.” Even though you can get away without using tape in the traditional sense, it can give players peace of mind to know their grip is securely bonded to the club.
On the other hand, if you don’t use tape, you run the risk of the grips slipping or sliding at an inopportune moment. As most golfers know, even a few millimeters of slippage can throw off your swing at any given time, most likely resulting in unwanted additional strokes.
Again, see what works for you.
3. Air Compressor Tips
If you’re new to regripping your clubs with an air compressor, be prepared for a bit of trial and error. But, before long, you’ll be regripping your clubs with ease.
Try adjusting the PSI on your air compressor to see what works best. Most tend to agree that 45 PSI is about right, but, again, check to see what is most comfortable for you. Once you’re set up, the grip should go on in just a few seconds with a few quick bursts from the air compressor.
As an added bonus, an air compressor can also be used to quickly and easily remove a grip as well. Simply shoot short bursts of air into the grip hole at the end, just as you did when you put the grip on. A few bursts of air along with some tugging and pulling should remove the grip quickly.
If you have not yet regripped your clubs this season, give the air compressor method a try. It’s less messy and should take a fraction of the time that the solvent and tape method takes. And, if you don’t feel satisfied with the results, there’s nothing stopping you from going back to your preferred method.