What is the Best Putting Technique to Shoot Lower Scores?

What is Considered the Best Putting Technique?

The “best” putting technique is highly individualized and depends on the player’s physical attributes, comfort, and personal preferences. However, a successful technique typically emphasizes consistency, control, and confidence.

Key fundamentals include a solid setup, a smooth, pendulum-like stroke, and a strong focus on feel, including distance control and accurate green reading.

Most Popular Putting Techniques

Below are the most popular putting techniques, each with a brief description and explanation of its benefits:

1. Conventional Putting Stroke

• This is the traditional method where the dominant hand grips the putter lower, maintaining a natural stance and motion.
• Why It’s Popular: It feels intuitive and is easy for most golfers to learn. The conventional stroke provides good control and adaptability across different greens.
• Who Uses It: Many amateur golfers and professionals who prefer simplicity.

2. Cross-Handed (Left-Hand Low)

• In this grip, the left hand is placed below the right hand (for right-handed golfers). This adjustment stabilizes the lead hand, reducing wrist action during the stroke.
• Why It’s Popular: The cross-handed grip minimizes wrist breakdown and helps maintain a consistent stroke path.
• Who Uses It: Jordan Spieth and others seeking a more stable and repeatable stroke.

3. Claw Grip

• The right hand (for right-handed golfers) is positioned in a claw-like grip, holding the side of the putter instead of wrapping around it.
• Why It’s Popular: This grip reduces hand tension and wrist rotation, promoting smoother, straighter strokes.
• Who Uses It: Tommy Fleetwood, Justin Rose, and golfers looking for improved control and touch on shorter putts.

4. Arm Lock Putting

• This technique involves anchoring the putter shaft against the lead forearm, creating a rigid and pendulum-like motion.
• Why It’s Popular: Arm lock putting eliminates most wrist movement, offering unmatched stability and consistency.
• Who Uses It: Bryson DeChambeau and others who value mechanical precision in their putting stroke.

5. Broomstick or Long Putter

• A long putter is held upright and anchored against the chest or chin (anchoring is no longer legal under current rules). Modern versions rely on holding the putter steady without anchoring.
• Why It’s Popular: Ideal for players with shaky hands or those struggling with yips, as it provides added stability.
• Who Uses It: Adam Scott and other players adjusting to the post-anchoring ban.

6. AimPoint Express

• A green-reading technique where players use their feet to feel the slope and their fingers to visualize the target line.
• Why It’s Popular: It improves accuracy in reading greens, giving golfers a systematic way to align their putts.
• Who Uses It: Justin Thomas, Lydia Ko, and players who want a scientific approach to putting.

Benefits of Different Putting Techniques

Each putting technique offers distinct advantages:

• Consistency: Techniques like the claw grip and arm lock reduce wrist action, promoting a repeatable stroke.
• Accuracy: Systems like AimPoint help golfers better read greens and improve alignment.
• Adaptability: Long putters and alternative grips help players with physical limitations or mental hurdles.
• Customization: These techniques allow players to find a style that suits their unique needs and playing conditions.