Trevor Ng
Golfers often wonder about the ideal putter length for their game. While a standard putter length of 35 inches may work for some, it may not be suitable for everyone. Determining the right putter length involves considering various factors, including height, putting style, swing path, arm length, and eye position. Custom-fitted putters are a great option for golfers who want to optimise their equipment, as the right putter length can significantly impact performance by influencing the stroke arc, lie angle, and ball trajectory.
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What You'll Learn
Height
The average height for men is around 5'9", and most golfers should have a putter length of 34 to 34.5 inches. However, golfers under 6 feet tall may need a different putter length, with 35 inches being too long for most. A golfer who is 5'7" tall may use a 33-inch putter, while someone taller, around 6 feet, may need a 35-inch putter or more.
It is important to note that while height is a significant factor, it is not the only consideration. Arm length, putting posture, and putting style also play a role in determining the ideal putter length. Golfers with longer arms may need a shorter putter than what is typically recommended for their height, while those with shorter arms may benefit from a slightly longer putter. Additionally, golfers who stand more upright tend to need longer putters, while those who bend more at the waist may require shorter ones.
Custom putter fitting can be beneficial for golfers looking to optimise their equipment. A professional club fitter can help determine the best putter length, head design, and grip size based on your unique game and preferences. They can also adjust the lie angle, ensuring the putter sits flat during the stroke for more accurate putts.
In summary, while height is a crucial factor in determining putter length, it is essential to consider other factors such as arm length, posture, and putting style to find the ideal putter length for your game.
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$119
Stance
The length of a golf putter significantly impacts a golfer's performance. It influences the stroke arc, lie angle, and ball trajectory. The correct putter length allows golfers to set up comfortably over the ball with their eyes directly over or just inside the target line.
To determine the correct putter length for your stance, you should first assume your natural putting stance. This is crucial—don't adjust your posture or try to achieve some "ideal" form. Let your arms hang naturally, slightly bend at the waist, and ensure your eyes are directly over the ball. The ball should be positioned just forward of the middle of your stance.
Next, you can measure the distance between the ground and your top wrist (Measurement A) and the distance between the ground (from the previously measured point) and the inner side of the ball (Measurement B). These measurements can then be used to calculate putter length using the Pythagorean theorem.
It's important to note that taller golfers typically require longer putters to maintain a natural and comfortable stance. Conversely, shorter golfers might find a shorter putter more appropriate. Additionally, golfers with longer arms might need a shorter putter to ensure their wrists remain in a neutral position during the swing, while those with shorter arms may benefit from a longer putter.
Custom putter fitting can also be an option to enhance accuracy and consistency. This process involves using advanced tools like launch monitors to gather data on swing dynamics and other factors such as arm length and playing style to determine the optimal putter length for an individual's unique stance and stroke path.
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Putting style
While height is a significant factor in determining the right putter length, your putting style is also vital.
If you prefer an upright stance, a longer putter may be more suitable, as it will help you maintain a natural and comfortable stance. Conversely, if you favour a bent-over stance, a shorter putter may be preferable, allowing you to get your eyes right over the ball.
The type of stroke you typically make will also influence the ideal putter length. Golfers with an arcing stroke may opt for a longer or shorter putter to accommodate the natural arc of their swing, while those with a straight-back-straight-through stroke may find a shorter putter more suitable.
It's worth noting that a putter that's too long or too short can negatively impact your performance. It can cause you to adjust your stance and posture, leading to inconsistent strokes and accuracy issues.
Ultimately, the right putter length will enhance your feel and control around the greens, improving your putting precision and consistency.
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Swing path
The swing path is a key element in sending the ball to the target, along with face angle and strike quality. There are two main types of swing paths: in-to-out and out-to-in. With an in-to-out swing path, the clubhead travels from the inside of the target line to the outside as it hits the ball. An out-to-in swing path is the opposite, with the clubhead travelling from the outside of the target line to the inside.
To determine your swing path, you can use two alignment sticks positioned on the ground like railroad tracks, with the width of your putter head between them. Swing the putter as if you are rolling the ball inside the sticks and observe which path the putter head follows. Alternatively, you can record your swing from behind the ball, with the camera pointing down the target line. Watching the video back will give you an idea of whether your swing path is in-to-out or out-to-in.
There are several drills you can use to improve your swing path. The Hip Turn Drill helps to eliminate swaying in the backswing, promoting better balance and a more consistent path. The Two Headcover Drill can help correct an out-to-in swing path (slice/over the top). The Clockface Entry Drill can help with an in-to-out swing path (blocks/hooks), focusing on entering the ball from the "5:00" position.
The design of the putter head can also influence the swing path. A face-balanced putter has a higher moment of inertia, resisting twisting of the putter head upon impact, and is better suited to a straight path swing motion. A toe-balanced putter has a lower moment of inertia, allowing the head to rotate naturally during the swing, and is better for an arc path.
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Arm length
While height is a general indicator, arm length is a more specific factor that can play a significant role in determining the right putter length for a golfer. Golfers with longer arms might require shorter putters than those with shorter arms of the same height. This is because the hands will naturally hang lower for individuals with longer arms, affecting the ideal length.
For instance, if your hands are gripping down on your shaft, you might be bending too far down or have a putter that is too short. Conversely, if you are standing too straight, you might need a longer putter to get into the proper setup position. A putter that is too long or too short can negatively affect your alignment and grip, leading to inconsistent strokes.
A golfer's unique putting style and stroke type also determine the putter's balance and length. For example, those with an arcing stroke might choose a slightly longer or shorter putter to accommodate the natural arc of their swing. Matching the putter length to the player's stroke type ensures better control and consistency on the greens.
To determine the right putter length, you can follow these steps:
- Measure your height to identify which category you fall into. Knowing your specific range will help you find a putter that complements your body proportions and putting stance.
- Consider your putting style and posture. The correct length can enhance your feel and control around the greens. Experiment with different putter lengths to find the most comfortable during your stroke.
- Evaluate your swing path and arm length to determine how they relate to the putter's length. The right putter length can promote a more consistent stroke and lead to a better roll on the golf ball.
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Frequently asked questions
The standard putter length is 35 inches, but this length may not be suitable for everyone. It generally ranges between 33 and 35 inches, which suits most golfers.
Your height is one of the most critical factors in determining the right putter length. A putter that is too long or too short can drastically affect your putting performance. If you're shorter, you might need a 33-inch putter, while taller golfers may prefer a 35-inch putter.
Your swing style is another crucial factor to consider. Golfers with an arc-style swing may benefit from a longer putter, while those with a straight-back-straight-through stroke may find a shorter putter more suitable.
