The Putter is the most important club in the bag and often the key to lower scores. As part of Black Week, manufacturers are offering models that use state-of-the-art weighting, A.I. technology and innovative face inserts to maximize consistency and accuracy.
The current offerings in the Putt segment show that manufacturers are targeting three main areas to help golfers: increasing stability through moment of inertia (MOI), ensuring consistent ball speed on miss-hits and optimizing ball roll.
Black Week: Top putters at bargain prices
Putters with a high moment of inertia (MOI) are more forgiving and resist twisting on off-center putts. Several models achieve this stability through special material combinations and customizable weights.
- The Mizuno M. Craft OMOI putters (available as Mallet and Blade) utilize a higher head weight (up to 383g) and balance this with a lighter grip and shaft to control face rotation. An included kit of 3-gram and 13-gram weights allows you to fine-tune the swingweight.
- The TaylorMade Spider putters (Mallet shape) rely on a multi-material construction of a lightweight aluminum core and a heavy stainless steel frame to ensure a high MOI for maximum stability.
Consistency through A.I. design and center of gravity shift
A constant roll, regardless of the impact point on the clubface, is crucial for length control. AI technologies and special face materials are often used here.
- The Odyssey Ai-ONE Silver series uses an Ai-ONE insert developed using artificial intelligence. This aluminum insert with White Hot Urethane face has been contoured to deliver more consistent ball speeds even on off-center hits.
- The Cleveland Frontline Elite models (available as Mallets such as Elevado, Cero and RHO) pull the center of gravity (CG) far forward with a special Tungsten SOFT face. This strategic weighting in the face promotes straighter putts. The Speed Optimized Face Technology (SOFT) also ensures an even energy transfer across the entire face.
Optimization of the roll and special inserts
Some manufacturers focus on optimizing the direct forward spin of the ball to minimize bounce and drift.
- The Cobra King Vintage Putters (available as Mallet Cuda and Blades Sport-45/60) utilize SIK Face Technology. This patented technology utilizes four descending lofts (from 4° to 1°) on the face to ensure a consistent 1.5 degree launch and roll with every putt style and angle of attack. The models also feature adjustable sole weights.
- The TaylorMade Soto Blades use the Pure Roll Insert with 45 degree angled grooves designed to optimize roll characteristics.
- The Odyssey White Hot OG #7 DB SL women's model utilizes the legendary White Hot insert for the original sound and feel. This is complemented by the tour-proven Stroke Lab shaft and shorter lengths tailored to female golfers.