Make sure you choose the correct putter length for your technique, posture, and height for better golf performance. Around 40% of golf strokes take place on the ground, so ensure that you select both the proper length as well as the ideal kind of putter.
So, If you’re around 5’9″ to 5’11”, a 34-inch putter is a good bet. And, if you’re on the shorter side, 5’8″ or less, consider a 33-inch putter. And if you’re a towering figure over 6 feet, a 35-inch putter might suit you.
Your stance is important, too. If you tend to stand up straight when you putt, a lengthier putter could be your match. But if you find yourself hunching over the ball, a shorter putter might be more your style.
Why Is Putter Length Important?
Using the wrong-length putter can seriously mess up your putting stroke. It can throw off your swing arc and how you hit the ball, sending it way off course from where you want it to go.
To get a bit more technical, it messes with something called the “lie angle” of your putter. Just like how the angle of your other clubs is crucial, having the right lie angle for your putter matters.
If your putter isn’t sitting properly, it can make the ball go wonky when you strike it. Not because you’re aiming off, but because that little bit of loft and the lie-angle are nudging your aim in the wrong direction.
Let’s break it down with a couple of examples:
- If the putter is very long, it’s like it’s standing on its tiptoes. When you swing to putt, it naturally wants to aim a bit to the target’s left.
- Now, flip the coin. If the putter is very short, it’s like the toe is pointing downward while the heel is up in the air. That puts your aim to the right of where you want it to go.
What’s the Right Putter Length for You?
When it comes to picking the perfect putter length, it’s not just about how tall you are. Your posture plays a big role too, and it’s all about what feels right for you.
Sure, your height matters, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Some golfers like to stand up straighter when they’re getting ready to putt, while others like to lean over a little.
Ultimately, it often comes down to what you prefer. Do you like your eyes to be right above the golf ball when you’re addressing it, or do you prefer them a little inside? The key is to have a flat lie angle, and your setup posture decides the size of the putter that works best for you.
If you like your eyes directly over the ball, a shorter putter might be your go-to. But if you prefer your eyes slightly inside the ball, a longer putter could be the better choice. It’s all about what feels most comfortable and effective for your unique putting style.
Adjusting Putter Length for Setup Posture
I mentioned earlier that your height isn’t the only thing to consider when choosing the right putter length. It’s all about finding that sweet spot for your posture as you stand over the ball.
So, here’s the deal: if you’re the type who stands tall and proud when you’re lining up a putt, a longer putter might be your jam. But if you tend to hunch a bit over the ball, a shorter putter might feel just right.
The truth is, putting a lot about how you feel and being comfortable is key.
One handy way to figure this out is to let your arms hang naturally by your sides and measure the distance from your wrists to the ground. That measurement can be a great indicator of the putter length that’ll give you the best feel on the greens.
How to Measure the Correct Putter Length
Step 1: Grab a ruler or tape measure, and if you can, bring a buddy along to help you out. A solid ruler is a bit easier to use, but a tape measure will do the job, too.
Step 2: Stand in your natural putting stance. For the best results, do this without a putter in your hands. Just bring your hands together and let them hang naturally like you’re about to address the ball.
Step 3: Now, measure the distance from your top wrist to the ground. Remember, it’s the hand on the top of your grip that we’re interested in.
Step 4: The number you get from that measurement (usually falling somewhere between 32 to 35 inches) is the magic number – that’s the putter length that’s spot-on for you. It’s all about making sure you’re set up just right for a great putt!
Defining the Length of Standard Putter
Usually, a typical putter length is around 34 inches, and that tends to work well for folks who are in the 5’9″ to 5’11” height range. But when we say “standard,” it’s more like “what most people go for.”
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all standard because, well, we’re all different. Most putter makers offer a range from 32 to 36 inches, so you’ve got options to find what suits you best. It’s all about finding the perfect fit for your unique putting style.
Should I Opt for Putter Fittings?
Getting a putter fitting can be a game-changer if you’re serious about upping your golf skills. When you let a pro help you choose the right putter length, the type of club head, its weight, and even the grip, you’re really fine-tuning your game.
Now, if you’re just starting out or consider yourself an average golfer, going all-in on a fitting might be overkill. You can make great strides by following advice from articles like this one and other sources to figure out which putter works best for you.
It’s all about finding that sweet spot between what’s practical and what’s going to help you sink more putts on the course.
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