Hedging Basics
Locking in profit (or cutting losses) by betting the other side.
Hedging is placing a bet on the opposite outcome of one you already hold, to guarantee a result instead of riding it out.
When it makes sense
- A futures ticket is one game from cashing big — a hedge on the other side locks in profit no matter who wins.
- A parlay has one leg left — hedging the final leg secures a sure return.
- Your read has changed (injury news, a blowout) and you'd rather bank a smaller certain amount than risk the whole thing.
The math
Hedging always costs some expected value — you're paying the vig twice and giving up upside for certainty. The question is whether the certainty is worth it for your bankroll and nerves. Our hedge calculator tells you exactly how much to put on the other side for a given target (full lock vs partial).
Don't over-hedge
If the bet is small relative to your bankroll, letting it ride is often the higher-EV play. Hedge to manage risk, not out of habit.