Putting is often considered one of the most critical aspects of a golfer’s game. It requires finesse, precision, and a consistent putting style. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to putting in golf, several putting styles have proven effective for different players. In this article, we will explore some of the best putting styles in golf and discuss their key characteristics.

1. Conventional Putting Style

The conventional putting style is the most widely used method in golf. It involves a square stance, with both feet positioned parallel to the target line. Golfers using this style typically employ a traditional blade putter and address the ball with their hands directly below their shoulders. The conventional style is known for its simplicity and can work well for players who prefer a straightforward approach to putting.

Pros:

• Provides stability and consistency.
• Suitable for various green speeds.
• Ideal for golfers with a straight-back, straight-through putting stroke.

Cons:

• May not be as effective for golfers with pronounced arcs in their putting strokes.
• Requires practice to maintain a square clubface at impact.

2. The Arc Putting Style

The arc putting style is characterized by a slight arc in the putting stroke, with the putter traveling inside the target line during the backswing and then returning inside the line during the follow-through. This style often suits golfers with a natural putting arc and can be particularly effective for those who have difficulty keeping the putter face square throughout the stroke.

Pros:

• Accommodates players with a natural arc in their stroke.
• Provides a smooth and rhythmical putting motion.
• Suitable for various green speeds.

Cons:

• Requires precise timing to square the clubface at impact.
• Can be less forgiving if the arc becomes inconsistent.

3. Face-Balanced Putter Style

Face-balanced putters are designed to keep the putter face square to the target throughout the stroke, regardless of the golfer’s stroke type. Golfers who tend to have a straight-back, straight-through stroke or minimal arc often find success with face-balanced putters. This style minimizes the need for manipulation during the stroke, promoting a more consistent path.

Pros:

• Helps golfers maintain a square clubface.
• Reduces the influence of player error.
• Suitable for golfers with minimal face rotation.

Cons:

• May not suit golfers with pronounced arc or rotation in their strokes.
• Requires a stable and repeatable setup.

4. The Claw Putting Style

The Claw putting grip has gained popularity in recent years. In this style, the golfer places their lead hand in a manner resembling a claw’s grip on the club, while the trailing hand has a more conventional grip. This unique grip promotes a stable wrist position and can help golfers control the putter face more effectively.

Pros:

• Encourages a stable wrist position.
• Can help reduce wrist breakdown during the stroke.
• Suitable for golfers looking to minimize wrist-related errors.

Cons:

• May feel unconventional or uncomfortable for some golfers.
• Requires practice to adapt to the grip style effectively.

5. The Cross-Handed (Left Hand Low) Putting Style

The cross-handed putting style involves placing the lead hand (left hand for right-handed golfers) lower on the grip than the trailing hand. This style can promote a smoother putting stroke and help golfers maintain a consistent path and square clubface through impact.

Pros:

• Encourages a smoother and more consistent stroke.
• Can help alleviate common putting errors.
• Suitable for golfers struggling with conventional grips.

Cons:

• May feel unusual for golfers accustomed to traditional grips.
• Requires practice to adapt to the new hand position effectively.

6. The Arm-Locking Putting Style

Arm-lock putting has gained popularity, especially among players looking for a reliable and repeatable putting technique. In this style, the golfer extends their lead arm (usually the left arm for right-handed players) and locks it against the chest using a longer putter shaft. This setup promotes a pendulum-like motion and can enhance stability and control.

Pros:

• Increases stability and minimizes wrist manipulation.
• Encourages a consistent pendulum stroke.
• Well-suited for players struggling with the yips.

Cons:

• Requires a specific type of putter and setup.
• May not be allowed in all golf competitions (check local rules).

7. The Split-Hand (Broomstick) Putting Style

The split-hand or broomstick putting style involves using an extra-long putter shaft that extends up to chest height. Golfers grip the putter with their hands spread apart, providing stability and control. This method is often preferred by players who struggle with the conventional grip or have physical limitations.

Pros:

• Enhances stability and minimizes hand-wrist interaction.
• Reduces the need for excessive bending at the waist.
• Suitable for golfers with back or wrist issues.

Cons:

• Requires a specific putter setup, which may not be readily available.
• May not be allowed in all golf tournaments (verify local rules).

8. The Green-Reading Putting Style

While not a physical putting style, mastering green reading is crucial for successful putting. Understanding the slope, grain, and speed of the green can significantly impact your putting performance. Golfers who excel at reading greens can anticipate how the ball will break and adjust their aiming point and stroke accordingly.

Pros:

• Improves your ability to read and anticipate the break on greens.
• Enhances your decision-making on putts.
• Complements any putting style you choose.

Cons:

• Requires practice and experience to become proficient.
• Green conditions can vary, making reading greens a constant challenge.

Traditional Putting Styles

Putting Style	Description	Pros	Cons	Notable Players
Conventional Grip	Overlapping or interlocking grip	Good control and feel	Requires precise alignment	Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus
Split Grip	Hands separated on the putter grip	Enhanced distance control	Less popular and unconventional	Phil Mickelson, Sergio Garcia
Claw Grip	Grip resembles a claw shape	Reduces wrist movement	Can feel awkward initially	Chris DiMarco, Vijay Singh
Cross-Handed Grip	Bottom hand above the top hand	Helps maintain a stable stroke	Transition period can be challenging	Jordan Spieth, Matt Kuchar
Arm-Lock Putter	Shaft anchored against the forearm	Reduces face rotation	May not suit every golfer’s preference	Bryson DeChambeau, Matt Kuchar

Modern Putting Styles

Putting Style	Description	Pros	Cons	Notable Players
Face-Balanced Putter	Putter with a balanced face	Enhances alignment	Requires a steady hand	Dustin Johnson, Jason Day
Toe-Hang Putter	Putter with toe-weighted balance	Offers a natural arc in the stroke	May require more skill to control	Rory McIlroy, Justin Rose
Forward Press	Slight forward shaft lean at setup	Promotes an ascending stroke	Timing can be critical	Henrik Stenson, Zach Johnson
Arm-Swing	Full-arm pendulum-like motion	Consistent tempo and rhythm	Requires precise distance control	Matt Fitzpatrick, Brandt Snedeker
Claw Variation	Modified claw grip variations	Combines stability and comfort	Individual adaptability may be needed	Adam Scott, Justin Thomas

 Green Reading Techniques

Technique	Description	Pros	Cons	Notable Advocates
AimPoint Express	Using fingers to feel slope	Precise green reading	Initial training time	Adam Scott, Stacy Lewis
Plumb-Bobbing	Aligning the putter with the target	Simple visual reference	Subjective and not USGA approved	Fred Couples, Jordan Spieth
Linear Green Reading	Focusing on entry and exit points	Clear visual cues	May require practice	Justin Rose, Gary Player
BreakMaster	Using a digital slope-reading tool	Highly accurate readings	Additional equipment required	Various professionals
Traditional Method	Relying on experience and instinct	Quick and intuitive	Less precise compared to others	Many professional golfers

Putting Aids

Putting Aid	Description	Purpose	Pros	Notable Users
Laser Putting Device	Projects a laser line on the green	Aid in alignment and aim	Provides instant feedback	Many tour pros
Putting Mirror	Reflective surface for setup checks	Ensures proper alignment	Helps with stroke consistency	Phil Mickelson, Justin Thomas
Green-Reading Books	Detailed books with green contours	Aid in reading the green	Comprehensive information	Bryson DeChambeau, Jason Day
Stroke Analyzer	Measures putter path and face angle	Analyze and improve putting stroke	Data-driven improvement	Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods
Putting Mat	Indoor or outdoor putting surface	Practice putting anywhere	Replicates real green conditions	Jordan Spieth, Rickie Fowler

Common Putting Mistakes

Mistake	Description	Impact on Putting	How to Correct
Ball Position Errors	Incorrect ball position relative to stance	Poor contact, aim, and distance control	Ensure consistent ball position in stance
Over-Gripping	Holding the putter grip too tightly	Reduced feel, tense stroke	Maintain a relaxed, light grip pressure
Rushing the Stroke	Quick and jerky putting motion	Lack of control and accuracy	Develop a smooth and deliberate tempo
Poor Alignment	Misalignment of the putter face and target	Missed putts due to off-center strikes	Use alignment aids and practice alignment
Neglecting Green Speed	Not adjusting for green speed	Underestimating or over-hitting putts	Practice reading green speed regularly

Conclusion

The best putting style in golf ultimately depends on a player’s individual preferences, physical characteristics, and comfort level. Successful putting styles can vary widely among professional golfers, emphasizing that there is no single “best” way to putt. Golfers should experiment with different putting styles and techniques to find what works best for them and seek guidance from teaching professionals to refine their putting skills. Regardless of the chosen style, consistent practice, and a calm mindset are essential for becoming a proficient putter on the golf course.