The putter is one of the most important clubs in the bag, often referred to as the “flat stick” for its distinctive design and role on the green. From the shape of the putter head to the type of grip and balance, every detail affects how the putter feels and performs. Whether you’re sinking short rolls or mastering long-distance putts, selecting the right putter can make or break your game.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different putter styles—like mallet putters, blade putters, and more—along with details on alignment, stroke, and grip options. If you’re a golfer looking to upgrade your golf putter or just better understand how putters are made, this article is packed with insights to help you choose a putter that fits your putting style and boosts confidence on the green.
What Is a Golf Putter?
A putter is a golf club designed to roll the golf ball smoothly across the green and into the hole. While it might not look as powerful as a driver or as sleek as a wedge, the putter is one of the most frequently used clubs in a golfer’s bag.
Because a great putt can save a par—or win a tournament—the value of the putter can’t be overstated. The shape of the putter head, grip, putter face, and alignment features all influence how well a golfer can control the roll of the ball, manage distance control, and keep the face square through the stroke.
Different Types of Putters
There are several different types of putters, each with unique characteristics. The two main categories are the blade putter and the mallet putter, but within those are variations in putter head shape, shafted putters, and putter design.
- Blade-style putters: These are typically more compact and are best for golfers with a strong arc in their putting stroke. They provide an excellent feel but are less forgiving on off-centre hits.
- Mallet putters: These have a large head and are often more stable, making them a more forgiving putter choice for those with a straight-back, straight-through stroke.
- Long putter or belly putter: These were once popular for anchoring the putter against the body, but recent rules of golf changes have limited their use.
Every type of putter offers a different experience, and selecting the right one depends on your personal preference and putting style.
Mallet vs. Blade Putter
Choosing between a mallet putter and a blade putter is one of the first decisions a golfer faces. Each offers unique benefits depending on how you put it.
- Mallet putters are known for their moment of inertia, meaning they resist twisting on off-centre hits. Thanks to their mallet design, these putters are much easier to align and keep square through the stroke, which helps golfers who struggle with consistency. Many mallet styles come with built-in alignment aids to improve targeting.
- Blade putters are often favoured by purists who value feeling over forgiveness. The look of a blade appeals to those who like a minimalist head design. However, they may be harder to control on longer putts or mishits.
Some putters come in hybrid styles that blend features of both, offering the best of both worlds.
How Does Putter Length Affect Your Stroke?
The putter length has a direct effect on your putting stroke and posture. The standard putter length ranges from 33 to 35 inches, but players come in all shapes and sizes, and so should their putters.
- A long putter may help stabilize the stroke for taller players or those who prefer a more upright stance.
- Shorter putters are generally better for golfers who lean over more or like to get their eyes directly over the ball.
A putter fitting can help determine the right length for your swing arc and height. The correct putter length ensures a more natural stroke and better distance control.
What Is a Face-Balanced Putter?
A face-balanced putter is designed so that when the shaft to the putter head is balanced on your finger, the putter face points upward. This means the face stays square longer through the stroke, which benefits those with a straight-putting path.
If your stroke is straight-back and straight-through, a face-balanced putter can help keep the club face aligned at impact. This type of putter reduces rotation and simplifies the stroke mechanics, making it ideal for players who want a consistent roll.
Toe-Balanced Putters
Toe-balanced putters are weighted so that the toe of the club points down when balanced on your finger. This design supports golfers with an arced putting stroke, where the putter face opens and closes during the motion.
- Blade putters are usually toe-balanced, making them a popular choice among traditionalists.
- If your stroke naturally follows a curve rather than a straight line, a toe-balanced putter may offer more control and feedback.
This type of putter encourages a natural release through the ball and is great for players who want to feel more involved in their putt.
How Do Grip Size and Style Impact Putting?
The putter grip is your direct connection to the golf club, and its size and texture can significantly impact how you put it.
- A thicker grip helps reduce wrist action and can stabilize the stroke, ideal for players who tend to flip the clubface.
- A thinner grip offers more feedback and is favoured by those who rely on feel and finesse.
When you choose a grip, consider your putting style and hand size. A proper grip helps maintain consistent pressure and smooth rhythm. Don’t overlook grip size—it’s a small detail with a big impact.
Role Of Putter Head Design
The shape of the putter head affects how the putter feels and performs. Modern putter designs include a wide variety of shapes, materials, and finishes—all crafted to offer better stability, alignment, and feel.
- Milled putters are made from a single block of metal and often provide a firmer feel.
- Insert putters use a soft material on the face of the putter to enhance feedback and smooth out the roll of the ball.
Different putter head designs also affect how the weight is distributed. Some putters feature perimeter weighting for added forgiveness, while others focus weight directly behind the sweet spot for better feedback.
Why Alignment Aids on Putters Matter
An alignment aid is a visual tool built into the putter head to help you align the putter to your target. These can be simple lines or more elaborate markings that help keep your eyes and hands square to the target.
- Mallet putters also tend to offer better alignment features due to their larger surface area.
- Proper alignment is essential for hitting a straight putt, especially under pressure.
Regardless of your type of putter, make sure it includes an alignment aid that you can confidently use on the green. It’s one of the easiest ways to improve your setup and accuracy.
Choosing the Right Putter for Your Game
There’s no one-size-fits-all putter. The right putter depends on your stroke, preferences, and the way the putter is made. Scotty Cameron Golf and other premium brands offer various custom options, but even off-the-rack putters today have plenty of choices to fit every golfer.
Try different putter head styles, grips, and lengths to see what suits your game. Use a putter fitting session to dial in your specs, and don’t forget that personal preference and comfort often win out over brand names.
