What is the Most Forgiving Putter?

The putter is often regarded as your most important golf club. Finding the best golf putter for you can save countless shots. If you’ve never used a putter, it’s a good idea to start with one that is easy to use and forgiving of your lack of skill. If you have used a putter before, but feel like your performance is lacking and want to know how to improve, maybe it’s time to get a new putter.

golfer lining up shot

Elements to Consider

There are several elements to consider when you are looking for the most forgiving putter. Not every putter is the same, so you have to consider certain aspects in order to find the putter best for you. 

Moment of Inertia (MOI)

The Moment of Inertia (MOI) is how much the putter will resist twisting around the center of mass. If the MOI is high, the ball will twist less and you’re more likely to make the shot. A high MOI means the putter is much more stable and precise. MOI is generally increased when the mass of the club head is placed further away from the center of gravity.

Sweet Spot

The sweet spot is the most important part of the putter. However, it can be incredibly difficult to learn how to hit the ball with that sweet spot at first. Hitting it in the exact same spot every time can be nearly impossible. Some putters have larger sweet spots or guidelines, making it much easier to strike your ball with.

Shaft Length

Posture is everything when it comes to golf. If you find yourself bending down too low when making strokes, it’s time to increase the shaft length. If you have better posture, your eyes will determine distance and direction more efficiently.

putters on green

Head Type

There are two different head types: mallet putters and blade putters

Mallet putters tend to have a higher MOI, making it one of the most forgiving putters and a great choice for beginners. The head on a mallet putter is heavy, making it very stable. This best suits the player who has a straight back and forth putting stroke. 

Blade putters are less forgiving but have several benefits that might make it a better putter for you in the long run. They suit players who have an arc in their stroke. They also offer great accuracy and distance control. This gives the blade putter a sense of feel and control that the mallet putter can sometimes lack.

After finding the best shaft length, sweet spot, MOI, and head type, take your putter out and learn for yourself why it’s considered the best club in your bag.