How do you calculate a hedge bet?

Hedge Amount = (Original Wager × Original Decimal Odds) ÷ Hedge Decimal Odds. This gives you the exact bet size to guarantee equal profit on both outcomes.

Free Hedge Calculator | Lock in Guaranteed Profit | NumberEdge

How to Hedge a Bet

Hedging is a risk management strategy where you place a second bet on the opposite outcome to guarantee profit (or minimize loss) regardless of the result. It's commonly used when you have a futures bet that's now in a favorable position, a parlay with one leg remaining, or a live bet where the line has moved in your favor.

Hedge Calculation Formula

To calculate the optimal hedge bet for equal profit on both outcomes:

Hedge Amount = (Original Wager × Original Decimal Odds) ÷ Hedge Decimal Odds

When to Hedge

Futures bets: Your team made the playoffs/finals and the hedge odds are favorable
Parlay final leg: Lock in profit before the last game
Live betting: The line moved significantly in your favor
Risk-free bet promos: Guarantee value from sportsbook promotions

Hedging vs. Letting It Ride

Hedging reduces variance but also caps your upside. Sharp bettors often let +EV bets ride rather than hedge, since hedging locks in the sportsbook's edge. However, hedging makes sense when the guaranteed profit is significant relative to your bankroll or when you need to manage risk for non-mathematical reasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hedging in sports betting?

Hedging is placing a second bet on the opposite outcome to guarantee profit regardless of the result. It's a way to lock in winnings or minimize losses.

When should I hedge a bet?

Consider hedging when you have a futures bet in a winning position, a parlay with one leg left, or when locking in profit is more valuable to you than the potential additional upside.

Is hedging always profitable?

Hedging guarantees a specific profit or loss, but it's not always the mathematically optimal play. You trade potential upside for certainty. Evaluate the guaranteed profit against your risk tolerance.

Hedge Calculator

Original Bet

Hedge Bet