The four “for you’s” of a good putter
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Published on 29th April 2015 in Blog, Golfing in Victoria
Sometimes, the short game can be the most frustrating part of golf.
A putter isn't the be-all, end-all to improving your play on the green, but it doesn't hurt to have a quality club at your side, especially if you're venturing onto one of Victoria's premium golf courses. Before heading out and practising like there's no tomorrow, it's important to look for a putter with the following qualities:
Square-to-square players should go with face-balanced putters.
1. A balance for you
While you may be tempted to go down to your nearest golf store, find the most expensive putter and buy it thinking it's going to do wonders for your game, doing so will probably leave you disappointed.
Golf WRX noted that, for the most part, there are two types of putting strokes: the square-to-square or arc method. If you're an experienced golfer, you probably know which one you practice – it probably came naturally to you.
If you're a square-to-square player, than a face-balanced putter is your best bet. This is because the club calls for a straight, pendulum-like movement.
2. A length for you
If you're golfing mate is 17 centimetres taller than you and has a putter he would stake his reputation on, that doesn't mean you should choose a club with identical dimensions.
According to Best-Putter, the standard putter lengths for men and women are 90cm and 84-86cm, respectively. However, your height and stance can dictate which extension suits you best.
When you're in a putting position, tilt from your hips and place your eyes over the ball. Your elbows should be slightly bent, with your hands under your shoulders. If you find your grip is too high on the shaft, it means you need a longer putter.
3. A lie for you
For the most part, your putter should sit parallel to the ground when it's placed behind the ball. This is largely where height comes into play, as taller players typically need putters that possess a more upright placement.
Don't cut down your putter, as this will offset the original weight.
Something to keep in mind: If you're looking to manually adjust your lie, there are few shops out there capable of doing so. Best-Putter noted that there aren't many outfitters that can help you out.
4. A weight for you
Some of you may already know that cutting down your putter to better fit your grip isn't advisable, one of the reasons being that it will offset the original weight of the club.
If you're in the habit of swinging a bit too fast, a heavier club may be of use to you. However, the density of a club typically influences how far the ball will go once it's hit. At the end of day, look for a comfortable fit.