Golf is a sport that requires precision and skill to hit the ball into the hole in as few strokes as possible. While the driver, fairway woods, and irons are essential clubs for hitting long distances, the putter is the club that comes into play when you’re on the green. In this article, we’ll explore the role of the putter in golf and how mastering its use can help you lower your score.
The Importance of a Putter in Golf
The Short Game
The short game refers to the shots played from close range, typically within 100 yards of the hole. In this section, we will explore the importance of the putter in the short game and discuss some techniques for mastering this aspect of golf.
Putter Techniques for Short Distances
Correct grip is essential for effective putting. A good grip should be firm but relaxed, with the hands held in a neutral position. The right hand should be placed on the grip, with the left hand placed on top. The fingers should be wrapped around the grip, with the thumbs resting on the bottom of the handle.
Proper stance is also crucial for successful putting. A proper stance involves standing with the feet shoulder-width apart, with the body facing the target. The knees should be slightly bent, and the shoulders should be relaxed.
The stroke itself is the most important aspect of putting. A smooth, rhythmic stroke should be used, with the putter moving along the intended path. The head should remain still and aligned with the target throughout the stroke.
Correct Grip
A correct grip is essential for effective putting. A good grip should be firm but relaxed, with the hands held in a neutral position. The right hand should be placed on the grip, with the left hand placed on top. The fingers should be wrapped around the grip, with the thumbs resting on the bottom of the handle.
Proper Stance
The Stroke
In the next section, we will explore the importance of accuracy in the short game and discuss some techniques for maintaining speed and adapting to different surfaces.
Putting Strategies for Long Distances
Aim
When it comes to putting for long distances, the first thing to consider is the aim. The golfer must take into account the slope of the green and the direction of the hole when deciding where to aim. A common mistake is to aim too directly at the hole, which can cause the ball to roll off the green. Instead, golfers should aim for the high point of the slope, which will give the ball the best chance of staying on the green.
Pace
Another important aspect of putting for long distances is the pace of the putt. Golfers must be able to judge the speed of the green and adjust their stroke accordingly. If the green is fast, the golfer may need to use a lighter touch to avoid the ball rolling too far past the hole. On the other hand, if the green is slow, the golfer may need to use a harder stroke to get the ball to the hole.
Managing the Wind
Finally, golfers must also take into account the wind when putting for long distances. A strong wind can cause the ball to move off course, so golfers must adjust their aim and stroke accordingly. They may need to aim into the wind to compensate for its effects, or use a lighter touch to avoid the ball being blown off course. Golfers must also be aware of changes in the wind direction and strength, as these can affect the ball’s trajectory and final destination. By considering these factors and using the right strategies, golfers can improve their putting for long distances and increase their chances of making par or better.
Understanding the Types of Putters
Blade Putters
Blade putters are a popular choice among professional golfers due to their ability to provide a high level of control and precision. These putters are designed with a more compact head and a more flat or even surface, which allows for a more consistent roll and a more accurate aim.
Design and Features
One of the key features of blade putters is their lack of forgiveness. This means that the club head is less likely to move off line if the golfer makes contact with the ball off-center. However, this also means that the golfer must have a high level of control and accuracy to use a blade putter effectively.
Blade putters also have a smaller sweet spot, which makes them more challenging to use for golfers who are not as skilled or experienced. This smaller sweet spot also means that the golfer must be more precise when aiming and hitting the ball.
Forgiveness
Blade putters are not known for their forgiveness, which can make them challenging for some golfers to use. The lack of forgiveness means that the golfer must be more precise when aiming and hitting the ball, as the club head is less likely to move off line if the golfer makes contact with the ball off-center.
Control
One of the main advantages of blade putters is their ability to provide a high level of control. The compact head and flat surface of the putter allow the golfer to have a more consistent roll and a more accurate aim. This makes blade putters a popular choice among professional golfers who want to have a high level of control over their shots.
Accuracy
Blade putters are designed to provide a high level of accuracy, which makes them a popular choice among professional golfers. The compact head and flat surface of the putter allow the golfer to have a more consistent roll and a more accurate aim, which is essential for making long putts and tricky shots.
Players Who Use Blade Putters
Many professional golfers choose to use blade putters due to their ability to provide a high level of control and accuracy. Some notable golfers who have used blade putters include Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Rory McIlroy. These golfers have been able to use their control and accuracy to achieve success on the golf course, and blade putters have played a key role in their success.
Mallet Putters
Mallet putters are characterized by their flat, mallet-like heads that are designed to provide a stable and consistent putting stroke. The design of mallet putters typically features a face balanced design, which means that the putter head is balanced so that the putter head is even on both sides of the shaft. This helps to improve the golfer’s ability to align the putter head correctly and to maintain a consistent stroke.
Mallet putters also typically have a heavier head and a longer shaft, which helps to increase the putter’s stability and accuracy. Additionally, mallet putters often have a larger sweet spot, which allows for more forgiveness on off-center hits.
Ease of Alignment
One of the main benefits of mallet putters is their ease of alignment. The face-balanced design and larger sweet spot make it easier for golfers to align the putter head correctly, which can help to improve their putting accuracy.
Stability
Mallet putters are also known for their stability, which is due in part to their heavier head and longer shaft. This stability can help golfers to maintain a consistent putting stroke, which can improve their overall putting accuracy.
Mallet putters are also known for their accuracy, due in part to their larger sweet spot and face-balanced design. These features help to reduce the amount of error that can occur during the putting stroke, which can improve the golfer’s overall accuracy.
Players Who Use Mallet Putters
Many professional golfers use mallet putters, including Keegan Bradley, who used a mallet putter to win the 2011 PGA Championship. Other professional golfers who use mallet putters include Webb Simpson, Louis Oosthuizen, and Zach Johnson.
In conclusion, mallet putters are a popular choice among golfers due to their stability, accuracy, and ease of alignment. Their face-balanced design and larger sweet spot make it easier for golfers to maintain a consistent putting stroke, which can improve their overall putting accuracy. Many professional golfers also use mallet putters, including Keegan Bradley, Webb Simpson, Louis Oosthuizen, and Zach Johnson.
Belly Putters
Belly putters are a type of putter that have a shaft that is attached to the clubhead at a point slightly ahead of the center of the clubhead. This design provides a lower center of gravity, which helps to increase stability and accuracy during the stroke.
Extra Length
Belly putters are typically longer than other types of putters, which allows for a more stable and controlled stroke. The extra length also helps to increase the MOI (moment of inertia) of the clubhead, which means that it is less likely to twist during the stroke.
Weight Distribution
The weight of a belly putter is distributed in such a way that it helps to reduce the amount of head movement during the stroke. This is achieved by placing more weight in the clubhead and shaft, which helps to stabilize the club during the swing.
One of the main benefits of using a belly putter is the increased stability it provides. The lower center of gravity and the extra weight in the clubhead and shaft help to reduce the amount of head movement during the stroke, which can lead to more accurate putts.
Players Who Use Belly Putters
Many professional golfers have successfully used belly putters, including Adam Scott, Keegan Bradley, and Jim Furyk. These players have found that the increased stability and accuracy provided by belly putters have helped them to improve their putting performance.
Hybrid Putters
Hybrid putters are a combination of blade and mallet designs, making them versatile and customizable to fit a golfer’s unique putting style. These putters are typically designed with a low-offset hosel, which helps to minimize the gap between the golfer’s hands and the putter head during the stroke. Additionally, many hybrid putters feature a flow-control or other similar technology, which helps to stabilize the putter head during the putting stroke and improve accuracy.
Customization
One of the benefits of hybrid putters is their ability to be customized to fit a golfer’s individual needs. This can include adjusting the length of the shaft, changing the grip size, or adding weight to the putter head to improve stability. Customization options can help golfers find the perfect putter that suits their swing and putting style.
Versatility
Hybrid putters are designed to offer a combination of the best features from both blade and mallet putters, making them a versatile option for golfers with different putting styles. They can provide the stability and forgiveness of a mallet putter, while also offering the precision and control of a blade putter. This versatility makes them a popular choice for many golfers, especially those who struggle with consistency on the greens.
Players Who Use Hybrid Putters
Many professional golfers have been known to use hybrid putters, including Justin Rose, Webb Simpson, and Bubba Watson. These golfers appreciate the versatility and customization options that hybrid putters offer, which can help them to find the perfect putter for their individual swing and putting style. Additionally, many amateurs have also turned to hybrid putters in search of improved accuracy and consistency on the greens.
Caring for Your Putter
Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance of your putter is crucial to ensure optimal performance on the green. Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent damage to the clubhead and shaft, and extend the lifespan of your putter. Here are some essential steps to follow:
Removing Dirt and Debris
After each round of golf, it is important to clean your putter to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the clubhead and shaft. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away any loose dirt or debris. If there is more stubborn dirt or grime, use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove it.
Lubricating Moving Parts
To ensure smooth and effortless movement of the clubhead, it is important to lubricate the moving parts of your putter regularly. Use a silicone-based lubricant to protect against rust and corrosion, and to reduce friction between the clubhead and shaft. Be sure to apply the lubricant sparingly, focusing on the hinge and pivot points of the clubhead.
Storage
Proper storage of your putter can help prevent damage to the clubhead and shaft, and keep your putter in good condition for future use. When not in use, store your putter in a secure, protective case to prevent scratches or damage to the clubhead. If you have a spare putter, consider storing it in a separate case to avoid any potential damage to the clubhead or shaft.
It is also important to keep your putter away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight, as these can cause damage to the clubhead and shaft over time. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your putter is always in top condition and ready to perform on the green.
Adjustments and Repairs
Adjusting the Length
One of the most crucial aspects of adjusting your putter is adjusting its length. A putter that is too long or too short can affect your accuracy and overall performance. To adjust the length of your putter, you should consider the following factors:
- Your height: The putter length should be approximately the same as your height. A general rule of thumb is to add one inch to your height for every 10 pounds of clubhead weight.
- Your arm length: The length of your putter should also match your arm length. A good starting point is to measure your arm length and then add one inch to the putter length.
- Your personal preference: Some golfers prefer a longer or shorter putter, so it’s essential to find the length that feels comfortable for you.
Once you have determined the appropriate length for your putter, you can adjust it using a shaft extender or a putter with an adjustable shaft. This will allow you to fine-tune the length to your exact specifications.
Adjusting the Grip
The grip is another crucial aspect of your putter that you should adjust to improve your performance. A good grip can help you maintain control over the putter and increase your accuracy. To adjust the grip of your putter, you should consider the following factors:
- The size of your hands: A grip that is too small or too large can affect your control over the putter. It’s essential to find a grip that fits your hand size comfortably.
- Your personal preference: Some golfers prefer a tighter or looser grip on their putter. Experiment with different grip styles to find the one that feels most comfortable for you.
To adjust the grip of your putter, you can use grip tape or wrap to change the size of the grip. You can also use a grip extender or a grip reducer to adjust the length of the grip.
Replacing Parts
Finally, you may need to replace parts of your putter if they become worn or damaged. Common parts that may need to be replaced include the grip, the shaft, and the head. To replace these parts, you will need to disassemble the putter and remove the old parts. Then, you can install the new parts and reassemble the putter.
Replacing parts of your putter can improve its performance and extend its lifespan. However, it’s essential to ensure that you use high-quality parts that are compatible with your putter. Otherwise, you may experience reduced performance or even damage to your putter.
Choosing the Right Putter
Factors to Consider
Your Style of Play
When choosing a putter, it’s important to consider your style of play. Do you have a smooth, consistent stroke or a more aggressive, faster swing? Different putters are designed for different playing styles, so it’s important to choose one that feels comfortable and suits your technique.
Course Conditions
Another factor to consider is the course conditions. If you frequently play on fast, dry greens, you may want to choose a putter with a heavier head to help maintain control and stability. On the other hand, if you often play on slow, wet greens, a lighter putter may be more suitable.
Your Physical Characteristics
Your physical characteristics can also play a role in choosing the right putter. Taller golfers may benefit from a longer putter shaft, while shorter golfers may prefer a shorter shaft to help maintain control and accuracy. Additionally, putters with larger grips can be beneficial for golfers with smaller hands, as they provide a more comfortable and secure hold.
Assessing Your Skills
Short Game Ability
Before selecting a putter, it is essential to evaluate your short game ability. This includes assessing your skills in chipping, pitching, and bunker play. The type of putter you choose should complement your strengths and help you improve your weaknesses in these areas. For instance, if you have a strong short game, you may prefer a putter with a lower loft and a more stable shaft for improved control and accuracy.
Long Game Ability
Your long game ability is also an important factor to consider when choosing a putter. If you have a strong drive and accurate approach shots, you may opt for a putter with a higher loft and a more flexible shaft for better control and distance. Conversely, if your long game is weaker, you may want to choose a putter with a lower loft and a stiffer shaft for better control and accuracy.
Putt Indoors or Outdoors
Another factor to consider when choosing a putter is whether you plan to use it indoors or outdoors. If you primarily play indoors, you may want to choose a putter with a lighter head and a softer grip for improved control and feel. On the other hand, if you play outdoors, you may prefer a putter with a heavier head and a firmer grip for better control and stability in windy conditions.
Seeking Professional Advice
When it comes to choosing the right putter, seeking professional advice can be a valuable step for golfers. Here are some professionals who can provide useful guidance:
Golf Instructors
Golf instructors are trained to analyze a golfer’s swing and offer recommendations on equipment. They can help golfers identify the type of putter that suits their stroke and provide guidance on adjusting the putter to suit their needs. Additionally, they can offer tips on how to properly align the putter and how to use it effectively.
Putter Manufacturers
Putter manufacturers are experts in their field and can provide valuable insights into the different types of putters available. They can offer recommendations based on a golfer’s skill level, stroke type, and preferences. Manufacturers can also provide information on the latest technological advancements in putter design and how they can benefit a golfer’s game.
Fellow Golfers
Fellow golfers can also provide valuable advice when it comes to choosing a putter. They can offer recommendations based on their own experiences and provide insight into which putters work well for different types of golfers. Additionally, they can offer tips on how to adjust the putter to suit a golfer’s needs and how to properly care for the putter to ensure it remains in good condition.
Summing It Up
When it comes to choosing the right putter, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, the length of the putter should be appropriate for the player’s height and stroke style. A putter that is too long or too short can affect the player’s ability to control the ball and make accurate strokes.
Another important factor to consider is the weight and balance of the putter. A putter that is too heavy or too light can affect the player’s ability to control the stroke and make accurate putts. Ideally, the putter should feel balanced in the player’s hand, with a weight that is comfortable and easy to control.
Additionally, the type of putterhead and shaft material can also impact the player’s performance on the green. Different putterhead shapes and materials can affect the ball’s trajectory and spin, so it’s important to choose a putter that feels and performs well for the player’s individual stroke style.
Ultimately, choosing the right putter comes down to personal preference and feel. While there are certainly technical specifications to consider, the most important factor is finding a putter that feels comfortable and natural in the player’s hand, allowing them to make accurate and consistent strokes on the green.
Keeping the Putting Green in Mind
When it comes to choosing the right putter, it’s important to keep the putting green in mind. Different putting greens can have different speeds, textures, and slopes, which can all affect the performance of your putter.
- Consider the speed of the green: Some putting greens are faster than others, which can affect the roll of your ball. If you’re playing on a faster green, you may want to choose a putter with a more aggressive or smaller sweet spot to help keep the ball rolling true.
- Look at the texture of the green: The texture of the green can also impact the performance of your putter. If the green is bumpy or has a lot of unevenness, you may want to choose a putter with a more forgiving face or a higher loft to help keep the ball on the green.
- Take into account any slopes on the green: Many putting greens have slopes that can affect the direction and speed of your ball. If there are significant slopes on the green, you may want to choose a putter with a longer or shorter shaft to help you manage the slope and keep the ball on the right path.
Overall, it’s important to consider the specific conditions of the putting green when choosing a putter. By taking the green’s speed, texture, and slopes into account, you can choose a putter that will help you make more putts and improve your overall putting performance.
The Final Word
Selecting the ideal putter is crucial for golfers to achieve success on the green. When choosing a putter, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind when making your selection:
- Shaft Length: The length of the shaft should be comfortable for the golfer and help them maintain proper posture and alignment during the swing. Typically, putters come in lengths of 33, 34, or 35 inches, and the right length depends on the golfer’s height and preferences.
- Head Shape: Different head shapes cater to various putting styles. For instance, some golfers prefer a mallet-shaped head, which offers a larger sweet spot and increased stability, while others may opt for a blade-style head, which provides more feel and precision.
- Material: The material used in the putter’s construction can affect its performance. Popular materials include aluminum, copper, and steel. Each material has its own characteristics, such as weight, durability, and feel, so golfers should choose the one that best suits their preferences and playing style.
- Putter Face: The putter face’s milling pattern, texture, and grooves can influence the ball’s roll. Some golfers prefer a more aggressive or smoother surface, depending on their stroke and desired ball roll.
- Balance and Weight: The putter’s balance and weight can significantly impact the golfer’s stroke. Ideally, the putter should feel comfortable and balanced in the golfer’s hands, allowing them to make a smooth and consistent stroke.
- Price: Putters can range from affordable to high-end, with premium models often offering advanced technologies and features. While a higher price may guarantee better performance, it’s essential to consider the golfer’s budget and priorities when making a decision.
Ultimately, choosing the right putter is a personal decision that depends on individual preferences, playing style, and budget. Golfers should consider trying out different putters during their practice sessions or visiting a golf store to experience various options before making a purchase. By investing in the right putter, golfers can enhance their putting skills and increase their chances of success on the green.
FAQs
1. What is a putter in golf?
A putter is a golf club that is used to hit the ball on the green, typically from a short distance away. It has a flat, angled face and a short shaft, designed to help the golfer control the trajectory and direction of the ball.
2. What is the role of a putter in golf?
The primary role of a putter in golf is to accurately strike the ball and send it towards the hole, usually from a distance of no more than a few feet. The putter is used to sink the ball into the hole, and is an essential club for any golfer looking to score well on the green.
3. How is a putter different from other golf clubs?
Unlike other golf clubs, the putter has a flat, angled face that is designed to help the golfer control the trajectory and direction of the ball. It also has a shorter shaft, which makes it easier to control and manipulate the ball on the green.
4. What are some tips for using a putter effectively?
One key tip for using a putter effectively is to keep your hands relaxed and your grip light. This will help you maintain a smooth, consistent stroke, and avoid mis-hits that can throw off your aim. Another important tip is to pay attention to your body position and posture, as this can affect your balance and accuracy when putting.
5. Can anyone use a putter in golf?
Yes, anyone can use a putter in golf. However, it does take some practice and skill to become proficient with the club, and to be able to use it to sink putts consistently. With time and effort, anyone can develop the skills needed to use a putter effectively and score well on the green.