Center shaft putters are a type of golf club designed with the putter shaft attached to the center of the clubhead, as opposed to the traditional heel-shafted putters where the shaft is attached to the heel of the clubhead. While center shaft putters have gained popularity among amateur golfers for their potential benefits in alignment and stroke consistency, their use among professional golfers varies. In this article, we will explore whether any professional golfers use center shaft putters and the reasons behind their choice.
Pros Who Use Center Shaft Putters
- Bryson DeChambeau
One of the most notable professional golfers known for using a center shaft putter is Bryson DeChambeau. He is renowned for his unique approach to the game, including his single-length iron set and scientific approach to golf. DeChambeau has used a center shafted putter for its stability and consistency in his putting stroke. His success on the PGA Tour, including a Major championship win, has brought attention to center shaft putters.
- Webb Simpson
Webb Simpson, a former U.S. Open champion, is another professional golfer who has been seen using a center shaft putter. Simpson’s putting style relies on a consistent pendulum-like stroke, and the center shaft putter helps him achieve this.
Reasons for Using Center Shaft Putters
- Alignment
One of the primary reasons professionals may opt for center shaft putters is improved alignment. The center shaft helps golfers align the putter face more easily with the target line, promoting a straighter and more accurate stroke.
- Stroke Consistency
Center shaft putters can promote a consistent stroke, as the shaft is in line with the center of gravity of the putter head. This can lead to more predictable and reliable distance control.
- Personal Preference
Golfers, including professionals, have unique preferences when it comes to equipment. Some players simply feel more comfortable and confident with a center shaft putter in their hands.
Popularity Among Professionals
While center shaft putters have their advantages, they are not as prevalent among professional golfers as more traditional heel-shafted putters. This is largely due to the individual nature of putting preferences. Professional golfers often experiment with different putters and putting styles to find what works best for them. What may work for one player might not suit another.
Pros Who Use Center Shaft Putters (Continued)
- Jason Dufner
Jason Dufner, known for his calm demeanor on the golf course, is another professional golfer who has used center shaft putters during his career. Dufner’s putting stroke has been described as smooth and unhurried, and he believes that the center shaft putter helps him maintain that tempo.
- Bill Haas
Bill Haas, a PGA Tour veteran with multiple wins to his name, has also experimented with center shaft putters. Haas, like many other professional golfers, understands the importance of putting in the game and may choose center shaft putters for their perceived advantages.
Recent Trends
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of center shaft putters on both the professional and amateur levels. Manufacturers have been producing new models with various features to cater to different putting styles. As a result, more professionals have been willing to give them a try.
Additionally, the advent of high-definition putting analysis tools has allowed golfers, including professionals, to fine-tune their putting strokes with center shaft putters. These tools provide valuable data on stroke path, face angle, and impact dynamics, helping golfers make informed decisions about their equipment.
Pros and Cons of Center Shaft Putters
Pros:
- Alignment: Enhanced alignment aids in better accuracy and consistency on the putting green.
- Stroke Consistency: The shaft’s alignment with the center of gravity can promote a more consistent putting stroke.
- Personal Comfort: Some players feel more comfortable and confident with a center shaft putter in their hands.
Cons:
- Subjectivity: Putter choice is highly subjective, and what works for one golfer may not work for another.
- Transition: Switching to a center shaft putter may require an adjustment period, which can be challenging for professionals during competitive play.
- Limited Availability: Center shaft putters may not be as readily available as other putter types, making it harder for some golfers to try them out.
Pros Using Center Shaft Putters
| Player Name | Tournament Wins | Major Wins | Putter Model | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jordan Spieth | 15 | 3 | Titleist Scotty Cameron | Known for using center shaft putter effectively. |
| Dustin Johnson | 24 | 2 | TaylorMade Spider | Occasionally uses center shaft putters. |
| Rory McIlroy | 18 | 4 | Odyssey Toulon | Switched to center shaft putter for a season. |
| Brooks Koepka | 9 | 4 | TaylorMade Spider | Experimented with center shaft putters. |
| Justin Thomas | 14 | 1 | Scotty Cameron Newport | Rarely seen using center shaft putters. |
Popular Center Shaft Putter Models
| Brand | Putter Model | Pros Who Use It | Key Features | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Odyssey | Odyssey Toulon | Rory McIlroy, Henrik Stenson | Precision milled face, adjustable sole plate | $299 |
| TaylorMade | Spider | Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka | High MOI design, various alignment options | $249 |
| Titleist | Scotty Cameron | Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas | Classic design, customizable options | $399 |
| Bettinardi | Studio Stock | Matt Kuchar, Fred Couples | Soft feel, honeycomb face milling | $349 |
| Ping | Sigma 2 | Bubba Watson, Louis Oosthuizen | Adjustable length, multi-material construction | $199 |
Center Shaft Putter vs. Traditional Putter
| Aspect | Center Shaft Putter | Traditional Putter | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alignment | Enhanced alignment due to center shaft | Alignment dependent on sightline and design | Center Shaft |
| Balance | Generally balanced, reducing twisting during the stroke | Balance varies depending on the putter’s design | Center Shaft |
| Feel | May feel slightly different due to shaft position | Traditional feel, consistent across various models | Traditional |
| Forgiveness | High MOI often provides forgiveness | Forgiveness varies; depends on the specific putter | Center Shaft |
| Popularity Among Pros | Some pros use center shaft putters, but not mainstream | Traditional putters remain popular among most pros | Traditional |
Center Shaft Putter Materials
| Material | Characteristics | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless Steel | Durable, corrosion-resistant, common in putter heads | Odyssey Toulon, TaylorMade Spider |
| Aluminum | Lightweight, often used in putter faces | Ping Sigma 2, Scotty Cameron Newport |
| Carbon Steel | Offers a soft feel, susceptible to rust if not coated | Bettinardi Studio Stock, Titleist Scotty Cameron |
| Milled Brass | Provides a soft feel and excellent feedback | Some custom center shaft putters |
| Multi-material | Combines various materials for optimal performance | Ping Sigma 2, TaylorMade Spider |
Center Shaft Putter Lengths
| Putter Length | Description | Suitable Player Height Range |
|---|---|---|
| 33 inches | Short length, suitable for players who prefer to stand close to the ball | Under 5’8″ |
| 34 inches | Standard length, a versatile choice for many players | 5’8″ to 6’2″ |
| 35 inches | Slightly longer, provides a different feel and posture | 6’2″ and above |
| Custom Length | Varied lengths tailored to individual player preferences | Varies |
| Adjustable Length | Putter with an adjustable shaft length | Suitable for players who want flexibility |
Conclusion
While center shaft putters have gained traction among professional golfers, they are still a niche choice compared to more traditional putter styles. The decision to use a center shaft putter ultimately depends on individual preferences, putting styles, and the golfer’s confidence in their equipment.
As the golf industry continues to evolve and innovate, it’s likely that more professionals will experiment with different putter types, including center shaft putters, to find the best fit for their game. The resurgence of interest in center shaft putters demonstrates the ongoing pursuit of improvement and innovation in golf equipment at all levels of the game.
