Most players are content to use an off-the-rack putter, or rarely consider having it customized for their build or stroke. We get it — putting is a slow-motion task that lacks the dynamics of lashing long-irons and woods. That doesn’t make your flatstick immune to the benefits of clubfitting. In fact, even a basic tweak of your putter’s most innocuous specs can pay huge dividends. Here’s what to keep your eye on, courtesy of the fitting experts at True Spec Golf.
NAIL LOFT AND LENGTH
Start at address, so you can ensure that you have a flatstick that fits your body and posture. Unlike full-swing clubs that droop and bend significantly in a dynamic motion, putters stay about the same during the stroke, so getting a length and loft that complement your setup is an important first step.
MAKE SURE YOU CAN SEE THE LINE
Optics are critical to putting success — if a putter doesn’t allow you to stand comfortably at address with your eyes in a position to consistently see the target line clearly, it’s not for you. Look for a model than sets your eyes either over the ball or slightly inside of it, so you can see where you want it to go.
FIT FOR SQUARE IMPACT, NOT STROKE SHAPE
Matching putter type to stroke shape isn’t a great fitting strategy. In fact, research indicates that how you “release” the putter is much more critical. Bottom line: If the putterface is square to the target line at impact, it doesn’t matter what it does during the rest of the stroke. Selecting the correct hosel can make all the difference here.
PICK A PUTTER YOU CAN CONTROL
Putters with more forgiveness and stability, like larger mallets, typically provide superior distance control, because they maintain consistent ball speed and roll, even on mis-hits. Unless you’re exceptionally accurate with your contact point (repeatable impact in the center of the putterface), don’t fall overly in love with the more traditional head shapes.
DOUBLE DOWN ON ALIGNMENT
None of the above matters if you can’t aim your putter correctly, Experiment with offset and straight-in hosels — you’ll definitely aim one type better than the other. Then, check the alignment marks. Do you prefer lines that run parallel to the target? How many lines? These are important questions that can best be answered through a proper fitting.
