When it comes to fashion, design, and even haircuts (who could have predicted the mullet comeback?), many aspects of our lives follow cycles of popularity. Similarly, in the golf world, one club style that is quietly making a steady comeback on the PGA Tour is the center-shafted putter.
If we analyze the winners so far this year on the PGA Tour, two out of the four, including Matthieu Pavon, have triumphed using a center-shafted putter. It is worth noting that Matthieu’s putter is particularly interesting as he is one of only two players on Tour utilizing a 10-year-old center-shafted PING Scottsdale TR model, with the other player being Mackenzie Hughes.
Although Grayson Murray’s LAB putter isn’t a true face-balanced design, it can still be grouped into the center-shafted category based on its appearance at address. By the same token, other LAB Golf putters such as the Mezz.1 Max or the new DF3 can be considered center-shafted for their looks, disregarding the face-balanced type.
Center shafted putters take center stage at Pebble Beach
During this week’s tournament at Pebble Beach, every major putter manufacturer had at least one center-shafted option available for players to test on the practice green. This marks a significant change compared to just a few years ago when finding a center-shafted putter at a PGA Tour event not already in a player’s bag would have been an arduous task. It seems that more manufacturers are now committed to expanding their center-shafted putter options, catering not only to Tour players but also to retail golfers.
What makes center-shafted putters stand out?
In most cases, center-shafted putters are face-balanced, meaning that when held by just the shaft, the face points directly upwards. The center balance of mass is located directly behind the shaft. For golfers who prefer a minimal arc in their putting stroke, this type of putter can help start the ball on the intended line with improved consistency.
Another critical factor is geometry and aiming. To develop a center-shafted putter that is also face-balanced, the putter has to be symmetrical from the heel to the toe. Golfers who rely on the leading edge or outside geometry of the putter for alignment will find it much easier to do so with a center-shafted putter.
If you are a golfer struggling with proper alignment on the greens or have a putting stroke with reduced arc, switching to a center-shafted putter could be the key to fewer putts and ultimately lower scores.
Looking to upgrade your golf equipment for 2024? Locate a fitting location near you at True Spec Golf.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is a center-shafted putter?
A center-shafted putter is a type of putter where the shaft is positioned in the center of the clubhead rather than near the heel or toe. This design provides a different feel and balance, often preferred by players who have a minimal arc in their putting stroke.
Are center-shafted putters popular on the PGA Tour?
Center-shafted putters are gaining popularity on the PGA Tour, with several recent tournament winners using this style of putter. Additionally, many manufacturers are now offering center-shafted options for both Tour players and retail golfers.
How can a center-shafted putter improve my putting?
A center-shafted putter can help improve your putting by providing better alignment and consistency. The face-balanced design and symmetrical geometry of center-shafted putters make it easier to aim and start the ball on the desired line, particularly for golfers with a straight-back, straight-through putting stroke.
Where can I find a fitting location for True Spec Golf?
To find a fitting location near you for True Spec Golf, visit their website at https://truespecgolf.com. They offer personalized club fitting services to help optimize your golf equipment.
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