What Is the Straddle Bet in Poker? Poker Straddle Guide

Ever sat down at a poker table and heard someone mention a “straddle”, but had no idea what it actually means? You’re not alone. It is a term that can sound a bit confusing if you have not come across it before.

Whether you are learning the basics or sharpening up, understanding straddles could potentially help you feel more confident at the table in the future. There are a few important points to know, especially if you move between live rooms and online tables.

Rules can vary by venue and platform, and operators in the UK are regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), so it might be worth knowing how a straddle works before you potentially sit in. Let’s look at what it means and how it might fit into your approach.

How Does a Poker Straddle Work?

A straddle is an optional bet made before the cards are dealt, usually by the player to the left of the big blind, and it is typically double the size of the big blind. If the big blind is £2, the straddle is £4. This, however, can vary depending on the specific rules of the game, so it might be a wise idea to check this before engaging in play. 

By placing it, players create a live bet that counts as an extra blind. The key effect is on the pre-flop order of play. Action begins to the left of the straddler, and the straddler gets to act last before the flop. That later decision could be useful, although you commit chips without seeing your cards.

You will see straddles mainly in live cash games. Some online tables do not offer them, so check the table rules if you are unsure. If a game allows straddling, the size of typical opens and raises often adjusts around the straddle amount, which can potentially make pots bigger from the start.

If you do decide to try your hand at poker, remember to do so responsibly and within your means; never wager more than you can afford to lose.

Types of Straddles in Poker

Straddles come in a few forms, depending on the house rules. The most common are below, and each one changes who can place it and who acts last before the flop.

Under-the-Gun Straddle Explained

This is the standard version. The player directly to the left of the big blind posts a live bet before any cards are seen, usually double the big blind. If the big blind is £5, the straddle is £5. Pre-flop action starts with the player to the left of the straddler, and the straddler acts last in that round. You will see this most often in live no-limit Hold’em cash games.

Mississippi Straddle Explained

A Mississippi straddle can usually be posted from later positions, most commonly the button, although some rooms allow it from any seat. The defining feature is that it lets the straddler act last before the flop, even though they did not post from under the gun. Exact positioning and size rules vary, so some tables only allow it in certain seats or with set amounts.

Button Straddle Explained

Here, the player on the dealer button posts the straddle. It is rarer and only available if the room specifically allows it. When used, the button keeps the advantage of acting last pre-flop, and the early positions must act first. As with other versions, the table’s rules decide the permitted size and whether re-straddles are allowed.

Why Do Players Use a Straddle?

Players use straddles to change the texture of the hand before any cards are dealt. By increasing the live money in the middle, opens and raises tend to be larger, which can create more contested pots.

Another reason is position. Acting last before the flop provides extra information about who has entered the pot and how they have bet. Some players like that tactical trade-off, even though they are putting in chips without seeing their cards.

There is a cost. Straddling increases the amount you commit on your weaker starting hands, which can affect results over time. Many regulars only straddle in specific line-ups, at particular stack depths, or when they feel it suits their table image. If you do use it, consider how it fits your budget and the game you are in.

Is a Straddle Allowed in All Poker Games?

No. You will mainly find straddles in live cash games, especially no-limit Hold’em. They are often not used in fixed limit formats and are restricted or unavailable in some pot-limit or tournament settings.

Online, availability depends on the software and the table setup. Some providers keep pre-flop options simple and do not include straddles. If you want to play with one, it might be a good idea to check the table info or help section to see what is allowed.

In the UK, operators must clearly display the rules for each table, including any optional bets. A quick glance at those guidelines will most likely tell you whether straddles are in play and how they work at that venue.

Play Poker Online

If you are interested in exploring poker from home, King Casino offers a range of online poker games for different experience levels and budgets. You can browse by format, and table type to find something that suits your pace.

All games on King Casino provide clear information about rules and betting options before you play, and the platform is licensed and regulated in the UK. It is easy to compare tables, check the blinds, and see which features are available.

If you decide to play, take a moment to read the table rules and set sensible limits that work for you. Our support team is on hand to help with any questions. When you are ready, feel free to explore the lobby and pick a table that fits how you like to play. Always keep responsible gambling practices in mind.

_{**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.}

_{*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.}