by Dan Rozek, PGA Teaching Professional @ Fox Creek Golf Club
The putter is the one club we will use the most in a round of golf, yet it is the club least often custom fit for us. It is essential that we are able to aim the putter face properly in order to get the ball rolling down our intended target line. Many times where we think the putter is aimed and the reality of where it truly is are quite different.
Having a putter that fits your stance and alignment can make a huge difference in the number of putts we make. The ability to set the putter down behind the ball and confidently know it is aimed down the intended target line is priceless. Standard putters for men come in lengths of 35 inches, 34 inches, and 33 inches in length. (You may need one longer, or in my case shorter than standard.) Having the proper length and lie are as essential to good putting as your stroke.
When choosing a putter, here are some other factors involved:
Head Construction – Putter heads come in a large variety of shapes. Each are designed to help you align the face to the target. No two people see things the same, thus the wide range of shapes and sizes available.
Face Material – Putters come with a variety of face inserts that have an effect on your distance control. The inserts translate feel to the golfer.
Hozel Configuration – Some of the options available are:
- Center shafted – the shaft enters the putter head near the center of the club head.
- Off set – the shaft connects to a hozel that is bent in front of the club face
- Non-off set- Shaft enters the putter head usually near the heal of the club head and is even with the face.
Hozel configuration directly effects the golfer’s alignment of the club head
Grip size – Larger thicker grips will tend to take the wrist action out of the putting stroke.
Stop by and have one of the professionals at Fox Creek, or Legacy take a look at your alignment and see if the putter you are using can be better fit for you.
We are offering $25 putting lessons this month!