A Buying Guide for Putters

Golf Putter Buying Guide

Buying a putter can be confusing at times and I am going sort out the different types of putters for you. The first thing you need to do is step back and evaluate your game. For example, lets say you are a 20 handicap and play on very slow greens, a mallet putter would suit better than a blade or maybe you are a 7 handicap playing on slick greens, an inserted blade would probably be the way to go. Here are some guidelines to make your decision easier.

Blade vs Mallet

Blade putters are lighter than mallets which in theory means that they are the better putter for faster greens. Mallet Putters have a larger head, weighing more which helps alignment. Using mallet putters on slower greens is recommended mainly so you will not have to stroke your putts as hard which gives you much more control and accuracy. Mallets commonly have perimeter weighting in them which helps your mis-hits.

Center Shaft vs Offset Shaft

When choosing a shaft that is right for you, take a look at your putter style. Center shafted putters seem to be best for the player with a flat stroke vs a hinged one. The more experienced golfer likes this design for the narrow site line. The offset putter would favor your everyday golfer, it gives you a better site line being away from the ball more. The offset also gives you more topspin giving your putt a true roll.

Insert vs Steel Head

Inserts are made out of a soft composite that gives you a softer feeling putt. When choosing which one of these to buy consider the type of ball your playing and how fast the greens are. The bottom line is all about feel.

The Length is Important

Other things to take into consideration when buying a new putter would be the length. Most putters come with standard shaft sizes ranging from 32″-36″. Having the right one is more important than you think. When you take your putting stance, the head of the putter should be lying flat on the green. To measure how long of a putter you may need simply take your stance (without a club), hang your arms down and measure from the top of your hand to the green. That is the shaft size you need.

Exception to the Rule

Two other types of putters you may want to consider if you are short sighted or near sited  are the Belly Putter and the Long Putter. Players with bad backs also favor these putters. The belly putter is exactly how it sounds, the putter grip
rests in your midsection. The long putter sits under your chin, kind of like putting with a heavy driver.

The Bottom Line

Whether you buy a $15 putter from your local department store or a $400 custom fitted putter, make sure you love it and not like it. Putting is a head game and there is a reason there are thousands of putters to choose from. Find yours and go with it.