Putting is simply the consistent distance and directional control over the golf ball.
Putting seems simple, but there are a lot of things that come into play. However, the problem with putting is that most golf players haven’t realized how important it is to find the proper putter length.
Some of the factors that play a role in putting include the type of the greens, the stroke style, the putter you’ve chosen, and the putter length.
Putter length is something that has a huge impact, despite not being talked about enough. Because of this, I have decided to cover some of the most important things you need to know when choosing the right length of the putter. I’ll also explain why choosing the right putter length is important, and what effect that will have on your game.
Let’s begin!
How To Measure Putter Length
Before you start learning about anything else, you need to know how to measure putter length appropriately. Some people come to me with the question: “How long should my putter be?” Look at the putter you currently have. There are a few ways to measure the length, but only one is correct. Here is how to do it.
Step 1
First off, gather all the necessary supplies. Of course, you need to have a putter. You also need to have a long, flat ruler, that is about four feet long, as well as a flat work surface area. Don’t take measurements outdoors, as the ground isn’t as even as it might seem.
Step 2
To begin measurement, you have to ensure the putter’s head is flat on the work surface area. This way, you’ll get an accurate measurement. Make sure it’s standing perfectly flat, and don’t hold it in any way that might compromise the position.
Step 3
Then, take the bottom of the ruler and place it in line with the putter’s center. To keep everything in line, you have to do the measurement from the putter’s head. As long as the ruler and the center of the putter are on the ground and the grip and shaft are touching the upper part of the ruler, it doesn’t matter if the shaft is on an angle. This won’t ruin the measurement.
Step 4
Finally, look at the part where the top of the grip meets the ruler. This is the putter length.
Don’t be surprised if the length isn’t an even number. For example, you may end up with a putter that is 33 1/16”. This is still a 33-inch putter.
Also, be aware that some golf grips come with a thicker butt end compared to other ones. This can also influence the length and make the wrong measurement. For example, if you have a stock putter, you can expect measurements to be close – but not equal – to the 33, 34, and 35-inch mark.
Of course, if you’re cutting for a custom putter, you don’t have to keep the length from the specifications.
Putter Length Guidelines
If you wondered “What length putter do I need?”, there is a method for that, as well. All you need is to use a (real or imaginary) golf ball and a (real) friend.
Get into the address position without actually holding a putter, as if you were on the field, ready to stroke a putt. Don’t do any adjustments to your regular posture. Then, let your arms and hands from your body. Once again, it’s important to keep the position completely natural.
Ask a friend to help you measure the distance from your wrist to the ground. Depending on your height and posture, this should be between 32 and 36 inches. This is the adequate putter length for you.
Overall, this is the recommended putter length by height.
| Under 5 feet | 32 inches or smaller |
| 5’0” to 5’2” | 32.5 inches |
| 5’2” to 5’4” | 33 inches |
| 5’4” to 5’6” | 33.5 inches |
| 5’6” to 5’8” | 34 inches |
| 5’8” to 6’0” | 34.5 inches |
| 6’0” to 6’2” | 35 inches |
| 6’2” to 6’4” | 35.5 inches |
| Above 6’4 | 36 inches |
Of course, this is just a general guide. What’s more important is your posture, arm length, and style. In case the measurements you got don’t match with this putter length chart, go with the measurements and what feels more comfortable for you.
Is There a Proper Putting Alignment & Posture?
While you’re here to learn about the putter length, it’s important to briefly mention the putter posture, as well.
Before I start, I need to disclaim that there isn’t one right position when it comes to standing over the ball. Think about all the great golfers and the difference in their stance when they play. However, there are some fundamentals that you should look up to. This is what they are:
- Your feet should be square to target, at a shoulder-width.
- Shoulders, arms, and hips should be aligned toward the target line.
- Keep your knees slightly bent; this will give you an athletic position.
- Bend a bit at your waist, as well, as this will keep your eyes either directly over the ball or just a bit underneath it.
This is a general position that is comfortable for most golf players as it allows them to see the line while the arms are hanging naturally.
If you feel uncomfortable by any means, make changes that will make it easier for you to hit the ball.
How To Properly Fit A Golf For Putters
We’ve explained what putting is, but did you know that putter fitting is also something that comes into play?
There are five variables of putter fitting. I’ll briefly go over all of them, so you can understand the differences.
Length
Length affects both directional and distance control of the putt. It’s very important for consistency in putting. This is also where putter length comes into play, as we’ve discussed prior.
Loft Angle
The loft is more important for distance control, but it can also affect directional control. To putt it with consistency, you need to have a loft. The amount of loft at impact should be anywhere between 3o and 4½o.
Lie Angle
Lie angle is essential for directional control, but it doesn’t affect distance control too much. If the lie angle isn’t properly fitted, the ball won’t go in the direction your putter head is pointing.
Swing Weight
Swing is to ensure the putter’s length and putter’s head have a proper weight between them. This is essential for distance control of the putt, and it plays a major part in directional control. You need to have enough weight to achieve proper balance and feel of the putter without it being too heavy.
Putter Head Design
The design of the putter head is mostly to fit the preferences of the golfer. Do proper research and ensure you’ve found the right design for you.
FAQs
What Is The Standard Putter Length?
It’s challenging to precisely say what is the standard length of something as individual as a putter. However, if you look at many websites, you’ll see that most putters measure between 33 and 35 inches.
Another thing to consider is the average male height. According to Healthline, this is 5’9”. This means that most men will need a putter length of 34 to 34.5 inches.
What Is The Best Putter Length For My Height?
As mentioned earlier, there is a table with general guidelines when it comes to putter length. However, it’s important to consider your posture, arm length, etc. The simplest answer would be: The best putter length for you is the one you feel most comfortable with.
Is A 34 Or 35-Inch Putter Too Long?
Overall, a 35-inch putter is too long for most golfers, while 34 is considered standard. However, once again it all comes down to your height and other characteristics.
For someone 6’2”, 35-inch putter would be considered the adequate putter length, or even a tad bit too short. However, if you’re 5’4”, then this would be way too long.
Once again, it all comes down to each individual and his or her preferences.
Takeaways
As you have probably noticed, there is quite a lot of things that come into consideration when picking the right putter length for you.
First, you have to make sure you’ve measured everything the right way. To do so, you need to make sure your putter head is held straight and on a flat surface. Also, some putters don’t have a precise length, and the numbers can be rounded.
Then, while height is the most important factor to consider, there is more to picking the right length than just how tall you are. Some people have arms of different lengths. Others have a different posture. Find the length that feels fitting for you.
Having a too long putter will make you stand too far from the ball. Opposite of that, a too-short putter will make you stand too close. None are great options.
Now that you know how to determine the right putter length, find a friend who can help you measure everything. If you find that your old putter isn’t fitting, try some other models and see if this affects your performance in any way.
