Finding a balance between the health of your hands and a low score on your scorecard has been a constant battle for both expert and novice golfers throughout the years.
There are several benefits of being comfortable when you golf. Tearing up your hands can cause you to not be able to complete rounds. I know I've had to call a couple of matches early because of the blisters and torn skin on my hands. Believe me, you'll feel like a fool when you're sitting in a golf cart waiting to go back to the clubhouse with bandaged hands as you watch the rest of your group have fun. Having injured hands might also cause you to alter your swing mechanics. You might change the way you grip your club or rotate your hands to avoid further aggravating your injuries. Not having to worry about your hands on the course can be extremely good for your game. You'll be able to focus more on your next shot and the layout of the course, rather than worrying if you brought along enough liquid bandage.
However, there are many benefits to feeling the club head on impact too. Being able to feel how you strike the ball provides you with instant feedback that can help you adjust your swing and achieve better results. You'll know whether or not you hit the sweet spot on your club, or if you hit the ball with the heel or toe of the club. Being able to properly feel the club head on impact will also prevent you from gripping your clubs too tightly, which is a concern with softer grips. Chipping and playing out of hazards are generally shots that require a lot of feel as well, and so you'll appreciate the control you'll have with firmer grips. In general, the firmer your grip, the more control you'll have over your swing.
Really, the question you need to ask yourself is, "What type of golfer am I?" You should also understand that there is a time for each approach. Now that some golf grip companies offer air installation, it's easy to switch back and forth between soft and firm grips. If you feel that you've been treating your hands a little roughly on the course, switch to slightly softer, spongier grips. If you feel that you've been striking the ball well, but ended up hitting the fairway on the 16th hole when you were aiming for the 13th green and can't understand why, you might want to consider firmer grips. Always find the right grip for you. It'll make a huge difference when you're out on the course!