The Case for Mallet style Putters

Mallet style putters are getting a lot of attention right now, due to the increased stability they give the golfer while putting . A mallet putter is well balanced, has a bigger putting head than traditional putters, and generally weigh more than a blade-style putter.

Mallet style putters also boast a higher MOI than blade style putters. This means that the clubhead will twist less on an off-center hit, so the ball stays on a straighter line and loses less of it’s speed than when struck by a conventional putter. Mallet type putters typically include elaborate alignment systems that will help you line up short putts easily. Some of the most helpful designs are the Odyssey putters, especially their new White Hot XG line of mallet putters.

Due to the added mass and higher MOI, mallet putters are solid, even on off-center contact. If you are used to putting with a blade style putter, you may be shacked at how easy it is to hit the ball solidly and how little effort is needed. It will take some practice to prevent the ball from racing past the hole .

Some traditionalists feel that a more traditional style putter offers more feel on long putts . WHile partially true, other golfers feel the higher MOI of mallet-style patters contributes considerable feel, even on lengthy putts or those tough “touch” putts. One of the most important aspects of touch putts is getting the ball started on the right line, and high MOI mallet putters do that job perfectly.

One of the places where mallet putters really shine is on short putts between 4-8 feet. These are the putts that really count in pro golfing circles . The more of this length putt you make during a round, you will play better golf. And all of the features of mallet putters - heavy weight , extreme MOI and great alignment aids - translate into making more of those little ones that can make or break a round of golf.

Mallet style putters work best with a no-frills , pendulum style putting stroke. Even if your style is a bit deifferent than that, it doesn’t mean you can’t use a mallet putter . However it may prevent you from enjoying all the game improvement features mallet putters provide. If you aren’t willing to change your style , you may want to look at some the newer model putters.

Some of the Mallet designs might seem a bit funky , but many still have a traditional look. If you can put up with the large, geometric shapes of some of the mallet-style putters (like the Sabertooth putter ), you will find them to be a benefit to your golf game. If you prefer a less exotic look, some of the more traditional mallet putters may be a better fit for you .

Many golfers have switched to higher MOI mallet-style putters for the last several years now . Perhaps now is the time for you to try one out .