Golf’s governing bodies approved a new rule that outlaws the putting stroke used by several tour players. The rule comes into effect in 2016 and applies only to professional and amateur sanctioned events. Recreational golfers can of course continue to use them.
The new rule does not ban the long putters, only the way they commonly are used. Golfers no longer will be able to anchor the club against their bodies to create the effect of a hinge. Players can still use the putter, but it would have to be held away from the body to allow for a free swing.
Off-the-shelf putters are not designed for optimal putting as they are built on the mass production principle of one-size fits all. It is possible to putt the ball straight with an ill-suited putter, but the odds are stacked against you when it comes to consistency.
Here’s what to look for in a real putter fitting:
- Putter Length – Based on your height, arm length and posture.
- Lie Angle – Incorrect lie angle compromises solid contact and ball direction.
- Loft – generally 3 or 4 degrees…more loft for slower greens.
- Grip – Thin to fatso for comfort and minimum wrist hinge.
- Head Weight – proper weight improves feel and distance control.
- Head Style – Blade, semi-mallet, mallet, and alignment aids or not.
- Counter Balancing – Can help improve your swing…facilitate pendulum motion.
Putter fitting will not correct
a poor setup and stroke.
It will only make it “less bad”.
Contact Jacques by email
[email protected]
or 204-470-3262