Every golfer has some room for improvement in their golf game. As a beginner, you’ll struggle with many issues involving your swing and the proper setup at address. Whether it’s issues with your aim or swing path, using the best golf alignment sticks can have a big impact on your game and will be crucial when it comes to creating the right setup.
There are many golf training aids on the market these days, but golf alignment sticks are one of those must-have tools that will be invaluable to the beginner and even experienced players who are struggling with their swing path. I’ve tested many of the top-selling models and found six that are versatile, effective and have what it takes to correct your swing path, improve your swing, and ensure you lower your score. I’ve also put together a buyer’s guide that discusses how these training aids work and what features to look for that will indicate quality and a tool that can deliver the results you’re looking for. Below, you’ll find a comparison chart that lists each of the top models, how they rated, and the important features they have to offer.
Golf Alignment Sticks Comparison Chart
Product | Material | Sticks Per Set | Size | Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|
Alignment Pro Golf Training Aids | Plastic | 1 | 2x48 | |
ForeNoMore Golf Alignment Sticks | Steel/Plastic | 1 | 2x48 | |
SKLZ Golf Alignment Sticks Training Aid | Fiberglass | 3 | 2x48 | |
MVP Sport Aiming Sticks | Fiberglass | 2 | 2x44 | |
PrideSports Golf Alignment Stick | Plastic | 2 | 2x48 | |
Amy Sport Golf Alignment Sticks | Plastic | 4 | 2x47 |
Alignment Pro Golf Training Aids
This set by Alignment Pro features a unique design that allows the sticks to rotate at both ends using one-degree increments. This design is intended to increase the versatility of the sticks and helps to improve key aspects of the game. This training tool set can help make your putting straighter, can help to develop your swing, and can improve swing rate by relying on consistent training and muscle memory. Using these sticks will take the guesswork out of driving, chipping, and putting.
Pros
- Beginner-friendly
- Maximizes golf drills
- Perfect for improving chipping, distance, and putting
- Low price
Cons
- Only includes one stick
Conclusion
This alignment stick by Alignment Pro offers a unique design that features a hinge at each end that will move from zero to ninety degrees, using one-degree increments. This tool is specifically designed to improve distance, swing power, chipping, putting, and driving by directing your swing toward the target, ensuring you’re square and neutral to the hole in order to increase your chances of sinking a putt, and allowing you to improve your golf swing through repetitive practice sessions. This stick is designed for players of all skill levels, however, it’s a great buy for the beginner in need of more guidance on the course.
ForeNoMore Golf Alignment Sticks
This alignment stick features a magnet that allows you to attach the stick to wedges and irons, providing a visual of the club face aim while positioning at impact. The stick essentially allows you to see exactly what you’re aiming at before you swing the club. This training tool will correct your swing aim and path alignment, which will help you to develop proper positioning when you swing. The magnet offers twenty pounds of pulling force, however, it’s not compatible with non-magnetized putters, drivers or clubs. The stick works by attaching to a club in order to demonstrate the true flight path and can be used to redefine your swing, help you develop a stronger swing, and promotes muscle memory with consistent use during your regular practice session.
Pros
- Magnetic aiming stick
- Magnet has twenty pounds of pulling force
- Corrects your swing aim
- Works for both right-handed and left-handed players
Cons
- Not compatible with non-magnetized clubs
Conclusion
This tool can be used to improve your drive, putting, and chipping, features a lightweight design and works with most clubs. Additionally, the manufacturer offers a money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with this training tool. Basically, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain from using this versatile aiming stick to improve your performance out on the green.
SKLZ Golf Alignment Sticks Training Aid
This set includes three forty-eight inch aiming sticks made out of fiberglass. The sticks are designed to help you develop consistent alignment using the proper swing mechanics. Each of the rods features a total of nine rings for precise ball alignment, setup, and ball striking. This is a set of very versatile training tools that you can use to improve your setup, short game, and it can also be used for full swing techniques. Each of the sticks has a rubber safety cap located on one end, with the other end featuring a sharp point that makes it easy to stick it into the ground. Using this set during pre-swing setup will create a consistent alignment routine.
Pros
- Each stick features nine rings for a variety of configuration options
- Set includes three sticks
- Made out of fiberglass
- Rubber cap on one end for user safety
Cons
- Set does not come with instructions or user guide
Conclusion
This set of aiming sticks allows you to perfect your aim and swing path, for a solid performance out on the green. The fact that each of the sticks features a total of nine rings for a variety of configuration options will allow you to get more use out of these sticks by performing different types of drills that can help improve your short game, drive, and more.
MVP Sport Aiming Sticks
This set includes two forty-four-inch aiming sticks that will fit easily in your golf bag. Both the sticks are made out of a durable fiberglass material and feature a lightweight design. The set also comes with an instructional booklet that includes a variety of drills you can follow that will allow you to get the most out of these valuable and affordable training tools. Additionally, each of the sticks is equipped with a UV coating that will prevent fading.
Pros
- Made out of lightweight fiberglass
- Fits easily in most golf bags
- Set of two
- Both sticks have a UV coating that will prevent fading
Cons
- Stick are difficult to insert into the ground
Conclusion
This affordable set of two fiberglass alignment sticks are perfect for both the high and low-handicapper and can be used as a valuable training aid that can help improve your distance, swing quality, chipping, putting, and more. These sticks are easy to use and come with a guide that includes a variety of training drills that you can use to improve your performance. This set offers the most bang for your buck and features the type of compact, lightweight, durable design that most golfers are looking for.
PrideSports Golf Alignment Stick
This set includes two forty-eight-inch collapsible aiming sticks. The bright yellow color makes the sticks highly visible and provides the right amount of contrast that allows you to easily see the position of the sticks in any type of lighting condition. The sticks are collapsible for easier storage. This set comes with a guide that includes a variety of drills you can use to perfect your swing path, aim, and chipping, putting, and driving skills.
Pros
- Collapsible design
- Bright yellow color
- Low price
- Set includes two aiming sticks
Cons
- Sticks are not perfectly straight and have a slight curve
Conclusion
These sticks are the perfect training tool to use to improve your body movement, alignment, and swing plane. They can also be used to improve your short game and driving skills. The sticks are designed to help you regain the proper posture and avoid mistakes that can cause you to slice or hook the ball. The fully collapsible design will be a big plus for the golfer who doesn’t have much room in their bag to accommodate these long aiming sticks. This set is a great buy for beginners or experienced players who want to practice drills that can instantly help to boost their performance and improve in several aspects of the game.
Amy Sport Golf Alignment Sticks
This set of aiming sticks can help improve your game and alignment, but they can also do so much more for your performance out on the green. These sticks can be stuck in the ground at a variety of angles in order to help you improve your swing plane. The lightweight design makes them highly portable. Each stick measures in at forty-seven inches long and comes with a clear storage tube that you can use to place the sticks in after use, to prevent damaging your clubs. These sticks are built tough and are made out of a durable plastic and will not crack or chip.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Includes four sticks
- Low price
Cons
- Does not include a user’s guide
Conclusion
This set of four aiming sticks are versatile, easy to use and designed to last. Use these sticks to improve your short game, swing plane, putting, chipping performance and more. Unfortunately, the set doesn’t come with a guide, so you won’t get a list of drills included. However, you can easily find a variety of drills you can try, online. Overall, this is a good buy for the golfer on a budget who’s in need of a basic set of aiming sticks that can help improve their aiming accuracy, their setup, and overall performance.
Golf Alignment Sticks Buyer’s Guide
An alignment stick can be vital for the beginner who wants to perfect their form. Since so much goes into a perfect golf swing, there are times when a player will drift, which can cause them to hit the ball incorrectly. Because of this, it’s important to focus on proper alignment. These training tools are referred to as aiming sticks or alignment sticks and work to do just that, correct your alignment when you swing.
The goal of using one of these sticks is to improve your swing path alignment and aim. When you use one of these sticks, you may find that the ball doesn’t travel directly towards the target position, which means that, in terms of alignment, there are some things you need to fix. These sticks can be used each time you practice, to help adjust your swing until you find the proper alignment. Training with one of these devices typically involves stick drills that focus on swinging correctly. Utilizing these drills will help perfect your setup and approach.
Golf Alignment
Alignment refers to the relationship between the player’s feet at setup and the aim of the club head. In order to hit straight, the clubhead and the player’s toes must be aligned in a parallel line toward the target. If the club head is facing a different line or the player’s toes are off the line, then the player will usually hit a shot that will push or curve to the left or right of the target.
While it can seem simple enough to line up correctly with a target, it’s more difficult than you may think. When you stand over a ball and have to look at your target sideways, achieving the perfect alignment can be challenging. Alignment sticks are designed to ensure that you’re correctly lined up with your target.
Material
Most alignment sticks are made out of durable plastic or fiberglass. Fiberglass models will come with a higher price tag but have a reputation for being more durable and offering the type of flex you need in order to practice properly. Plastic models work well and are available at a more affordable price, but some models lack the flexibility that fiberglass sticks offer.
Design
The sticks typically have ends that are pointed and covered with a cap made out of plastic. The caps are used to help prevent damage to your clubs. These ends will allow you to easily insert them into the ground. Some sets will also include a connection device that will allow you to arrange the sticks in a T-shape.
These training tools are available in a variety of colors. Many users will prefer sticks that are brightly colored or models that come in a contrasting color to the ground, since this helps to provide a much stronger visual cue.
Set Size
You can find aiming sticks sold in sets of three to four sticks, or, if you want a top of the line aiming stick, you’ll find that these are often sold as singles, which can be a drawback if you’re on a tight budget and want to practice with more sticks. In most cases, a golfer will benefit more from training with at least two to three sticks, but this can also depend on whether they want to perfect their aim or use the sticks to also improve their chipping or putting technique, in which case more sticks will be needed.
Price
Surprisingly, you’ll find that even high-quality sets of aiming sticks are priced affordably, so you should have no trouble finding a set that will work for your budget. Fiberglass sets tend to be more expensive than aiming stick sets made out of plastic, however, they also have a reputation for lasting significantly longer.
Putting Use
These sticks can be used to practice putting to ensure your putting has a consistent back and forth motion, which is another great way to get the most out of this type of training tool. If you’re struggling with your putting performance, and want to try effective ways to improve your performance and lower your score, then click here to read my guide on putting secrets.
Drills for Aiming Sticks
There are several drills you can use with your new set of alignment sticks. These drills, when practiced consistently, can help to correct your aim and swing path, instantly improving your performance.
Basic alignment drills are simple and effective. Most drills will only require the use of a couple of alignment sticks. During practice, your shoulders, hips, and feet should be parallel to your target line. This keeps your swing plane between the alignment sticks, ensuring proper alignment.
The sticks should be set six feet apart, with your ball between them. The sticks should be placed roughly at the same angle as the club when at address. Make sure you complete full swings with the sticks in place. This will go a long way toward ensuring a proper swing plane. If you make contact with one of the alignment sticks, this proves you’re moving the club too far in or out.
Full Turn Drills
This is a great drill if you want to add more power to your swing. Most golfers often believe that improved stamina or working out and building muscle is what’s needed in order to increase the power in a shot. In reality, you just need to use the proper mechanics. You can use an alignment stick to develop a full turn, which results in a major increase in distance. This drill is the perfect way to develop a full turn and make it a habit. To do, you’ll cross your arms. Your right hand should be placed on your left bicep, while the left hand rests on the right bicep. The alignment stick should be placed between each of your hands and biceps.
You’ll bend over just like if you were addressing the ball, to practice making the correct rotation. You’ll feel your shoulders make a full rotation. The more you practice this drill, the easier it’s going to feel to make that same ration in your swing. An increased rotation in your swing results in an increase in your club speed as it makes contact with the ball. This increase in speed equals improved distance. You’ll notice this increase in distance when you use your fairway woods, drivers, and your irons.
Using Aiming Sticks on the Range or Practice Green
Typically, aiming sticks are used by placing them on the ground in a parallel arrangement, in front of the player. This type of layout will provide a visual aid regarding how to align the club head and the player’s feet at setup. Players that have been lining up incorrectly for a long period of time may struggle to adjust to this type of change in their alignment, but this can also be a big eye-opener for the golfer who often struggles with hooks and slices.
- Proper alignment will definitely benefit you on the tee box, however, if you also have issues with short putts, then these sticks can help here as well. On the green, the best way to use these sticks is to create a type of parallel chute with the ball in between the sticks along the target putting line. Place the sticks so that they’re wide enough to accommodate the putter in between, with gaps of about half an inch from the heel and toe of the club. You can practice keeping the putter head between each of the sticks, without crossing over the track. This kind of drill helps to keep the putting stroke along the target line, so this will be an invaluable drill to practice for the golfer who tends to struggle often with short putts.
- Another way to put these sticks to work is to practice by taking the sticks and holding one with your club so that the stick extends the handle of the club. This technique will promote proper positioning of the hands at impact on chip and pitch shots and can prevent breaking the wrists during contact. If you do it right, the lead wrist will remain flat, while the stick stays away from the body during follow-through. If you don’t do it correctly, then the lead wrist will bend and the stick will end up making contact with the side of the ribcage upon impact.
As you can see, there are a variety of ways you can put these alignment sticks to use. They’re a great training tool that can benefit players of all skill levels, but they will be invaluable to the beginner who wants to see some serious progress in their distance and swing quality.
Do I Have an Issue with Alignment?
Many golfers that experience poor shot-making end up hooking or slicing the ball. These shots occur as a result of the club head being closed or open at impact. The flight paths of these shots end up severely curving to the left or right. In other instances, the ball flight will not curve, but will fly straight to the left or right.
If your goal is to make a straight shot without a curve, then proper alignment will be critical. Many beginners will spend their time practicing at a driving range for hours, focusing on their technique. Unfortunately, many fail to pay attention to their alignment. But once they do focus on using proper alignment, after a while, it will become second nature, so a player will not even have to think about it when they’re at address. This is why it’s so important to practice alignment drills consistently.
Tips on Use
- In order to keep your alignment sticks firmly in place, try anchoring them with tees.
- One of the best ways to get a ball positioned correct is to use a club perpendicular to the aiming line. Straddling the club and putting the ball at its end will put the ball directly in the middle of your stance. Be sure that you’re parallel to the alignment stick and have it pointing toward your target. Practice your shots with alignment sticks to help improve your aim, working towards consistent results.
- When you practice with alignment sticks, it’s also important to focus on golf posture exercises to correct your setup and ensure you’re using proper form.
- Following alignment drills each time you practice will ensure consistency in your alignment and will eliminate the swings that end up sending your ball away from the target. It will also help you avoid any type of unintentional change to your technique that can happen from an unconscious effort used to get your ball back on the intended target line.
- Always hit your shots with your feet placed parallel to both alignment sticks while you stay in your usual address position. Make sure you periodically change the target line and placement of the sticks.
Final Thought
The best golf alignment sticks are the perfect training tools that all golfers can benefit from. Players of every skill level should focus on their alignment, which is a fundamental skill that should be refined. There are also other ways you can use these aiming sticks to improve your swing and other parts of the game. By practicing using different types of drills, you can improve in several areas. These sticks are not only practical and effective, but they’re also very affordable and a great option for the beginner on a budget that can’t afford expensive golfing lessons. This guide and the products I’ve included here can do wonders for your golf game if used correctly and consistently. So, if you’re looking for a fast and simple way to improve your game, then try practicing with aiming sticks. You’ll be surprised and impressed by how easy it is to instantly correct your swing path and your overall performance.