Putter Fitting: Arc vs. Straight-Back Stroke
Choosing the right putter balance for your natural motion.
Putting accounts for 40% of your shots, yet it's the club most golfers spend the least time fitting. Most people choose a putter based on looks, but the 'Balance' of the putter (Face-Balanced vs. Toe-Hang) must match your stroke type to be effective. If your putter's balance fights your natural motion, you will struggle with face alignment and distance control forever.
The Straight-Back, Straight-Through Stroke
If your putting motion is very linear—moving the head directly along the target line without rotation—you have a 'Straight' stroke. This type of stroke requires a 'Face-Balanced' putter (usually a mallet). A face-balanced putter is designed to resist rotation, helping you keep the face square to the line throughout the entire movement.
The Arcing Stroke: Natural Rotation
Most golfers have a natural 'Arc' in their stroke, where the putter face opens slightly on the backswing and closes through the ball, similar to a mini-swing. This requires a 'Toe-Hang' putter (usually a blade). The weight in the toe allows the face to rotate naturally through the arc. If you have an arc and use a mallet, you will likely struggle with leaving the face open at impact.
Understanding 'Toe Hang' Degrees
Toe hang isn't just on or off; it's a spectrum. Putters are often rated by degrees of hang (e.g., 15°, 30°, 45°). A 'Slight Arc' needs a small amount of hang, while a 'Strong Arc' (think Phil Mickelson) needs a significant amount of hang. You can check this by balancing the putter shaft on your finger—the angle at which the toe points to the ground is the hang.
Length, Lie, and Eye Position
Beyond balance, the length and lie angle are critical. Your eyes should be directly over the ball or slightly inside the line at address. If your putter is too long, you will stand too far away, forcing an artificial arc. If it's too short, you will be hunched over, making it hard to see the line. A proper fitting ensures your posture and equipment work together.
FAQ
Are mallet putters more forgiving?
Yes. Mallets have a higher MOI (Moment of Inertia), meaning the head twists less on off-center hits. They are great for distance control, but only if the balance matches your stroke.
Can I change the balance of my putter with lead tape?
You can add weight, but you can't easily change the balance from face-balanced to toe-hang. That is determined by the hosel (neck) design of the putter.
How do I know what my stroke type is?
The easiest way is to use a putting sensor like iPing or Blast Motion, or have a pro observe you. You can also do a 'gate drill' and see if the putter naturally wants to rotate or stay square.