Buying Guide for the Best Taylormade Putters
When choosing the right putter, the key is finding a club that matches your stroke style, comfort level, and personal preferences. It's important to know that putters come in various shapes, sizes, and feature sets, each impacting your feel and performance on the greens. Start by considering what feels comfortable in your hands and what helps you aim and stroke the ball most consistently. Testing different styles at a local pro shop or using a fitting service can provide valuable insight into what suits your game best.Putter Head ShapeThe head shape is one of the most noticeable features and can be broadly divided into blade, mallet, and mid-mallet types. Blade putters are typically slimmer and preferred by players with a more arc-like putting stroke, offering better feedback and control for experienced golfers. Mallet putters, which come in rounder or more complex shapes, provide a larger sweet spot and more forgiveness, ideal for golfers who desire extra stability and use a straight-back-and-through style. Mid-mallets offer a balance between the two. Try out different shapes and see which gives you the most confidence and control.
Putter LengthPutter length determines both the comfort and your posture while addressing the ball. Standard lengths for putters range from 33 to 35 inches, but the right length depends on your height, arm length, and putting stance. If you find yourself standing too upright or crouched, the putter may not be the ideal length. Consider testing several lengths, aiming for one that lets your eyes sit just over the ball without forcing an uncomfortable position. The right length should help you aim accurately and release the stroke smoothly.
Putter Face Insert/MaterialThe insert or material on the putter face impacts the feel and sound at contact, which can influence your confidence while putting. Harder materials like steel offer a crisp, firm feel and sharper feedback, while inserts of softer composites or milled patterns provide a softer sensation and lower sound. Choose based on what gives you the best feedback and aligns with your green speeds; softer inserts may help on fast greens, while firmer faces suit slower surfaces.
Balance and WeightPutters can be face-balanced or toe-hang weighted. Face-balanced putters resist twisting during a straight-back-and-through stroke, making them suitable for golfers with minimal arc in their motion. Toe-hang putters favor those with a pronounced arc in their putting stroke. Weight is also key - heavier putters may help steady your hands, especially on short putts, while lighter ones can suit those with a smoother tempo. Try swinging different types and weights to match your natural putting action.
Alignment AidsMany modern putters come with lines, dots, or other markings designed to help you line up your putts. These aids can range from simple single lines to elaborate multi-line systems. If you struggle with alignment, a putter with bold or clear alignment guides might help you consistently aim at your target. Choose an alignment aid that is easy to use and not distracting – what works best varies from person to person.
Grip Style and SizeThe grip affects how you control the putter and your hand action during the stroke. Skinny grips provide more feedback and are often used by players who like to feel the head throughout the swing. Oversized or thicker grips can help reduce wrist action, promoting a smoother, more stable stroke. Consider how your hands feel on the grip and whether it encourages a desirable stroke motion for your game.