Happy Monday Golfers;

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the putter you select plays a crucial role in your success on the greens. Before we get into the nitty-gritty it’s important to understand that a proper putter fitting is invaluable to finding the right putter for YOU.

This blog post will explore the various types of putters available and help you discover which one aligns with your unique playing style.

Blade Putters:

If I mention Ping Anser or Scotty Cameron Newport, you should start to have a clear picture of this style of putter. Think guy in Red shirt winning majors! Generally…A blade putter offers less forgiveness on off-center strikes as opposed to a mallet; we often see a drop-off in ball speeds and slightly more twist in the face, which can affect your start line and pace control. The weight is more dominantly positioned towards the toe of the putter, which creates a slower closure rate, which can be really helpful for somebody whose tendency is to pull their putts. A blade putter tends to encourage a greater arc within the stroke.

Mallet Putters:

Luke Donald played a mallet putter for a longer time and was statistically the best putter on the PGA Tour when he became world number one. In 2011, he went an incredible 449 holes without a 3-putt. To put it in context, that was about two months or 25 rounds. The Odyssey range of 2 Ball and Fangs was full of iconic putters that brought the mallet putter game to the forefront. Generally…A mallet putter offers more forgiveness than a blade because the center of gravity is further back, which allows ball speeds to be sustained on off-center hits and the face to twist less. Mallet putters tend to come with less ‘toe hang’, which means there is no bias in where the weight is positioned towards the heel or toe, and they encourage less arc with stroke than a blade putter.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about what you should consider when selecting your perfect putter:

Your Putting Stroke:

Assess your natural putting stroke. Is it straight, slightly arced, or even more pronounced? Match the putter design to complement your unique motion.

Feel and Feedback:

Consider the feedback you prefer. Some golfers love the classic feel of a blade putter, while others appreciate the stability and feedback of a mallet design. Also consider what the face is made of and is it milled or is there an insert that can change the feel.

Alignment Features:

Take a look at the alignment aids on the putter. Mallet putters often boast larger and more visible alignment features, which can be beneficial for improving your putting accuracy especially when matched up with a ball with alignment features. Customization Options: Explore putters with customization options. Being able to adjust the length, lie angle, weight and grip size/style can make a significant difference in finding the perfect fit for you. The length of the putter is also a crucial factor when it comes to finding the right putter and how it affects your stance and eyeliner.

Conclusion:

Selecting the right putter is a game-changer for every golfer. By understanding the different types and considering your own preferences and playing style, you can make an informed decision that enhances your performance and boosts your confidence on the greens. I would encourage any golfer to take a putting lesson if you never have and also work with your coach to find the right putter to compliment your stroke and start saving shots today! Stay tuned for more golf-centric insights to level up your game. Until then, may your putts be smooth, and your rounds be filled with birdies! – Coach Tim