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10 Best Putting Mats

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Putting Mats

Choosing the right putting mat can make a big difference in your indoor golf practice. The main goal is to mimic the real feel of a golf green as closely as possible, which helps you refine your stroke, work on accuracy, and build confidence. When comparing different putting mats, understanding their main specs will help you pick the one that matches your space, skill goals, and expectations for realism.
Mat LengthMat length determines how much room you have to practice different putt distances. Short mats (around 6-8 feet) are compact and fit easily in small spaces, good for working on accuracy and mechanics at closer range. Medium mats (9-12 feet) offer more realistic putting experience and allow for a bit of variety, while long mats (over 12 feet) are best for practicing longer putts and better simulating real green conditions. Think about the space you have at home and the types of putts you want to practice most—if you have limited space, a shorter mat is practical, but if you can dedicate a longer area, a longer mat adds versatility.
Mat WidthMat width affects how much you can move side-to-side and whether you can practice slightly angled putts, not just straight shots. Narrow mats are simple and good for basic straight putts, while wider mats provide more flexibility and can feel more like a real practice green. If you want to work on specific alignment or have the space, a wider mat can be a great choice, but if you only have a narrow hallway, then a thin mat is still very useful.
Surface MaterialThe surface material of the mat affects how the ball rolls and how closely it simulates real grass. Cheaper mats use thin, felt-like materials that can allow for a consistent, but sometimes unrealistic, roll. Mats with higher-quality synthetic turf feel more like a golf course and hold up longer to repeated use. If realistic feel and durability are important to you, look for a thicker, denser surface material. For occasional, casual use, a basic material can still help improve your technique.
Stimp Rating (Speed)The stimp rating tells you how fast the ball rolls on the mat, similar to real-life greens, where a higher number means a faster surface. Lower stimp ratings (7-9) are slower, mimicking municipal greens; mid-range (10-11) simulates most private courses; and higher stimp ratings (12+) feel like tournament conditions. If you want to prepare for play at your usual course, try to match your mat’s stimp rating to it. If you want to challenge yourself, a slightly faster green can help you develop better touch and control.
Ball Return FeatureSome mats have a built-in ball return system that automatically brings the ball back to you after each putt, using a ramp or track. This is mostly a convenience feature—if you prefer a smoother, more continuous practice without retrieving balls, a mat with ball return may be helpful. It’s especially useful during longer practice sessions or if you have limited mobility.
Break and Slope AdjustabilityCertain putting mats allow you to add breaks or slopes, either with foam wedges or built-in contours, so you can practice curved putts rather than just straight lines. Basic mats are flat and straightforward, which is great for building fundamental skills. If you want to improve your ability to read greens and handle more complex putts, a mat with adjustable breaks offers more realistic, varied practice.
Portability and StorageConsider how easy it is to roll up and store the mat if you’re limited on space, or if you want to move it between rooms. Lightweight mats are easier to move but may move around more easily during use, while heavier mats can stay in place better but may be less convenient to store. If your practice area is multipurpose, portability will be a key factor.