Fade

Understanding 'Fade' in Craps

In Craps, to 'fade' means to bet against the shooter or a specific outcome. This typically involves placing a wager on the Don't Pass or Don't Come lines, betting that the shooter will lose rather than win.

How Fading Works

When a player chooses to fade, they are taking the opposite side of the more common Pass Line bet. Instead of cheering for the shooter to roll a winning combination, a player who fades is hoping for the opposite outcome.

For example:

On the come-out roll, a Don't Pass bet (a classic fade) wins if the shooter rolls a 2 or 3, loses on a 7 or 11, and pushes (ties) on a 12.

Once a point is established, the player wins if the shooter rolls a 7 before the point number.

This approach is often described as betting against the dice, since it relies on the shooter failing to hit the desired number.

Why Players Choose to Fade

Fading is seen as a defensive and steady strategy, favored by players who prefer minimizing risk and avoiding the emotional swings of betting with the shooter. Because the house edge on Don't Pass and Don't Come bets is slightly lower than on their counterparts, some experienced players consider fading a mathematically sound approach.

However, fading can be socially unpopular at the table, as most players tend to root for the shooter to win.

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FAQs About Fading in Craps

What does it mean to 'fade' in Craps?

To fade means to bet against the shooter, usually by placing a wager on the Don't Pass or Don't Come lines.

Is fading considered bad etiquette?

While not against the rules, some players see fading as unfriendly because it means you’re betting against the shooter’s success.

Why do some players prefer to fade?

It’s a lower-risk approach with a slightly better house edge than betting with the shooter.

Does fading guarantee a win more often?

No. It simply offers a small statistical advantage over the long term, but outcomes still depend entirely on the dice rolls.