What Is a Pull Fade in Golf?
A pull fade is a shot that starts left of the target and then curves slightly back to the right.
For a right-handed golfer, the ball launches left of the intended target line, then fades gently back toward the target. For a left-handed golfer, the directions are reversed.
What the Ball Flight Looks Like
A pull fade has two clear characteristics:
- Start direction: The ball begins left of the target line.
- Curve: The ball moves softly to the right as it flies.
When hit correctly, the shot does not slice dramatically. It has only a small, controlled fade.
Pull Fade vs. Other Shot Shapes
- Pull: Starts left and stays left.
- Fade: Starts near the target line or slightly left and curves right.
- Pull fade: Starts left and curves right.
- Slice: Curves much more sharply to the right.
Is a Pull Fade a Bad Shot?
Not always. A pull fade can be a useful and controlled shot shape, especially if it finishes near the target. However, if the ball starts too far left or curves too much, it can become an unwanted miss.
Quick Summary
A pull fade is a ball flight that starts left and gently moves right. It is a combination of a pulled start line and a fading curve, and it can be either an intentional shot or a common ball-flight pattern to diagnose.
