How To Choose a Putter
Before you conduct your research, it's not unusual to think that choosing a putter will be a simple job. It's only when you see just how many choices there are available that you can become overwhelmed. We've all been there, but lucky for you, we've compiled this comprehensive guide to outline everything you need to know.
Read on to learn how your stroke length and type of grip can influence which putter is best for you. Let's get into it!
Type of Stroke
To discover which type of putter is best for you, you must invest some time into thinking about your game. With so many styles available, you can find a match that suits your game and will help improve your play.
One aspect of your game to consider is the type of stroke you most commonly use. While everyone has their unique stroke in golf, there are a couple of methods that most people base theirs on - mainly the arc stroke or the straight back, straight through. If you like the arc, you'll do better with a blade putter. However, if you're more of a straight-back, straight-through person, we recommend trying a mallet.
Shaft Length
You only have to have played one game of golf to know that your posture is essential to your success. Besides anything else, the last thing you want is to have a sore back when you get home. To help with that, you need to consider the length of your putter when buying it.
If you're unsure how to ascertain the right length, think about this: with the proper length putter, when you're standing over the ball at the address, your eyes will be over or slightly under the ball. And don't forget to consider your arm length when making your decision.
Head Shape
Another aspect to consider when getting yourself set up with a decent putter is the head shape. Traditionally, the head types are blade or mallet, but there's also the High MOI.
Blades are a great choice if you are consistent in your game, but they will let you down if you have more variety. They also tend to have a toe hang.
Mallets are far more forgiving and, therefore, might be a better choice for beginners or those less confident in keeping consistent.
Finally, we've got the High MOIs. The new technology that bought these about seems to be loved universally, and it certainly seems they can do no wrong—an excellent choice for all (even the professionals).
Budget Range
As with most things in life, when it comes to putters, there are super expensive specialist options, and there are budget-friendly ones that - a lot of the time - work nearly as well. Before researching which putter you'd like to invest in, decide on your budget. If you don't do this, you'll be overwhelmed with options, and you'll likely end up buying one that is way out of your price range when there was a perfectly good one much cheaper.
As with many things on this list, having an idea of your boundaries and variables before shopping will ultimately help you in the long run.
Face Feeling
The final thing we think is essential when buying a putter is to consider the feel of it. First of all, you'll be holding and using it for a long while, so you want to be comfortable. But secondly, there's also the way you play to consider.
For example, if you're more of a fan of slow greens, you'll want a firmer-feeling face compared to if you prefer super-fast greens, then a softer feel will be better for you.
It's a game of understanding all the variables of your play and finding the best putter to fit all of them the best. After all, you'll hopefully be using it for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Choose a Putter Design?
Choose a putter design by taking into account aspects such as the shaft length, head shape, the type of stroke you prefer, your budget, and how it feels in your hands. There are a vast amount of options available, so make sure to understand your needs first before heading to the shop.
How Do I Choose a Putter Shaft?
The shaft length of a putter is all about your arm length and where your eyes fall as you stand over the ball. It might take some time and practice to learn which length is best for you, but the best bet is to speak to professionals, such as those in a golf shop, as they will be able to help you.
How Do I Know What Size Putter To Use?
The size of the putter you go for relies on your height and arm length. You need to be comfortable, and your eyesight needs to be over the ball as you stand before swinging.
How Do You Know What Putting Stroke You Have?
You can work out your putting stroke by using alignment sticks or rods, placing them parallel to each other in the direction you're you'll hitting; go to take your swing but stop short before hitting. This way, you can see where your putter sits compared to the rods, which will tell you if you have an arc or straight back, straight-through stroke.
Final Thoughts
Choosing your putter requires time and thought - after all, you should be buying a putter for life. For more information, head to Stitch Golf, and don’t forget to browse our golf gear and accessories, too!