Hedge Calculator
Calculate exactly how much to bet on the opposite outcome to guarantee profit regardless of who wins.
Calculate Your Hedge Bet
Your Original Bet
Hedge Opportunity
If Original Bet Wins
If Hedge Bet Wins
What Is Hedge Betting?
Hedge betting is a strategy where you place a second bet on the opposite outcome of your original bet to lock in a guaranteed profit (or minimize losses) regardless of the result.
When to Hedge
Hedging makes sense when your original bet has gained significant value—for example, if you bet a futures ticket at +2000 and your team is now in the championship game.
📐 The Hedge Formula
Hedge Amount = (Original Potential Payout) / (Hedge Decimal Odds)
This gives you equal profit on both outcomes. Adjust based on your preference for risk vs. guaranteed return.
Hedge Betting Example
You bet $50 on the Eagles to win the Super Bowl at +2000 (potential payout: $1,050). They make it to the big game. The opponent is -150 to win. You can hedge by betting on the opponent to guarantee profit either way.
⚠️ When NOT to Hedge
If you have an edge, hedging reduces your expected value. Only hedge when locking in profit is more important than maximizing EV—like when the guaranteed money is life-changing.
Hedge vs. Let It Ride
The decision to hedge depends on your risk tolerance and the situation:
Hedge When:
- The guaranteed profit is significant to you
- You need the money for something important
- Your edge has disappeared (e.g., key player injured)
- The hedge odds are favorable
Let It Ride When:
- You still believe you have an edge
- The potential payout far exceeds the hedge profit
- You can afford to lose the original stake
- Hedge odds are unfavorable (high vig)