If you struggle with a slice, you’ve probably heard two competing pieces of advice:
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“You need to fix your swing.”
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“You just need the right driver.”
The truth is more nuanced. Both equipment and training can help reduce a slice — but they work in different ways and on different timelines.
This guide explains what fixes a slice faster, what actually works long term, and how most golfers get the best results.
Why Golfers Slice in the First Place
A slice happens when the clubface is open relative to the swing path at impact. For most recreational golfers, this comes from a mix of:
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Poor face awareness
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An out-to-in swing path
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Grip issues
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Timing problems under speed
Understanding this matters because equipment and training address different parts of the problem.
For a full breakdown of the causes, see our complete guide on how to fix a golf slice.
How a Driver Helps Fix a Slice (Fast Results)
Slice-reducing drivers are designed to minimize the punishment of common mistakes.
They help by:
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Reducing side spin
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Encouraging a more square face at impact
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Increasing forgiveness on off-center hits
For golfers who slice most rounds, this can lead to immediate improvement — often on the very first tee shot.
That’s why many golfers see quick gains when switching to a driver designed for accuracy. In fact, using the right equipment is often the fastest way to keep the ball in play while you work on fundamentals.
We compare the top options in our guide to the best drivers for golfers who slice.
How Training Fixes a Slice (Long-Term Improvement)
Training works differently.
Instead of masking mistakes, it:
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Improves face control
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Builds a repeatable swing path
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Reduces reliance on timing
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Creates confidence under pressure
The downside is that training takes time and consistency. Results usually appear over weeks, not immediately.
However, training offers something equipment alone cannot: lasting improvement across all clubs, not just the driver.
Which Fixes a Slice Faster?
If we’re being honest:
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Driver = faster short-term improvement
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Training = better long-term solution
Most golfers who want quick relief from slicing see results faster with equipment. Golfers who want permanent control need training.
That’s why the most effective approach for many players is combining both.
The Combination That Works Best for Most Golfers
Here’s what we see work over and over again:
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Use a slice-friendly driver to reduce frustration
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Practice simple, focused drills for face control
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Avoid rebuilding your entire swing at once
This combination:
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Keeps golf enjoyable
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Builds confidence
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Prevents overthinking
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Speeds up improvement
It also explains why golfers who only chase swing tips often struggle — and why golfers who rely only on equipment eventually plateau.
For golfers dealing with a persistent slice, using a slice-reducing driver while improving fundamentals can be effective, and we break down one such option in our SF1 Driver review.
What About Rules and Legality?
Some golfers worry that draw-biased or slice-reducing drivers might not be legal.
They are.
Draw-biased drivers conform to equipment rules established by the USGA, provided they meet current clubhead and face regulations. They’re designed to help golfers play better — not gain unfair advantages.
How to Choose Your Best Next Step
Ask yourself:
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Do I want straighter drives right now?
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Or am I willing to invest time for long-term control?
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Am I losing strokes because of penalty shots or consistency?
If your slice is costing you enjoyment and confidence, reducing it quickly often leads to better practice and better decisions.
Final Verdict
There’s no single “correct” way to fix a slice.
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Drivers help faster
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Training helps longer
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Combining both works best
Understanding the difference helps you choose smarter, avoid frustration, and make real progress — instead of bouncing between tips and equipment.
Related Guides
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How to Fix a Golf Slice – Understand the root causes
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Best Drivers for Golfers Who Slice – Compare the top options
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SF1 Driver Review – A focused look at a slice-reducing driver