How Is Putter Length Measured: A Complete Sizing and Measurement Guide

How Is Putter Length Measured? A Simple Guide for Golfers

Getting the right putter length is one of the most overlooked but important parts of building a consistent putting stroke. Whether you’re shopping for a new putter or checking if your current one fits you properly, it’s essential to understand how putter length is measured—and what lengths are most common on the course.

How Putter Length Is Measured

Putter length is measured from:

• The top of the grip (end of the shaft)

• Down to the sole of the putter head (where it rests flat on the ground)

It’s important that the putter is in its playing position—with the sole lying flat on the surface—when you take the measurement. The measurement is taken along the shaft, not vertically, and does not include any offset or bend in the hosel.

Pro tip: You can measure at home by setting the putter on a flat surface and using a tape measure or yardstick that runs along the shaft up to the top of the grip.

Standard Putter Lengths

The most common putter lengths fall within this range:

• 33 inches – Shorter option, ideal for players under 5’6″ or with a very bent-over posture

• 34 inches – The most common length for most amateur golfers

• 35 inches – Often sold as “standard,” but best for taller players (6’0”+) or those with an upright posture

Custom or Alternative Lengths

Some golfers benefit from alternative putter lengths:

• Armlock Putters – Typically range from 40 to 43 inches

• Broomstick (Long) Putters – Usually 46 to 52 inches

• Counterbalanced Putters – Slightly longer (35 to 38 inches), with added weight in the grip or shaft for more stability

What Length Do the Pros Use?

While many amateurs assume pros use 35-inch putters, that’s not always the case. Many tour players prefer shorter putters for better control and posture.

• Tiger Woods – 35.25 inches (Scotty Cameron Newport 2)

• Jordan Spieth – 35 inches (Scotty Cameron 009)

• Rory McIlroy – 34.25 inches (TaylorMade Spider X)

• Rickie Fowler – 35 inches

• Adam Scott – Uses a broomstick-style putter at 49 inches

How to Know if Your Putter Is the Right Length

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do your eyes sit over or just inside the ball at address?

• Are your arms able to hang naturally with slight tension?

• Do you feel comfortable and in balance without having to reach or crouch?

If your posture feels awkward or you’re inconsistent on the greens, adjusting your putter length could help.

Final Thoughts

The length of your putter matters just as much as the style of head or type of grip. While 34 inches fits most golfers, it’s worth testing different lengths based on your height, posture, and stroke style.

When in doubt, a professional putter fitting can help dial in the right length to maximize your confidence and consistency on the greens.