How do center shafted putters improve putting accuracy. What are the key benefits of using a center balanced putter. Why are professional golfers increasingly adopting center shafted putters. How can amateur golfers transition to using a center shaft putter effectively.

The Rise of Center Shafted Putters in Professional Golf

Center shafted putters have become increasingly popular among professional golfers in recent years. These putters, characterized by their shaft connecting directly to the middle of the putter head, offer a unique balance and feel that many players find advantageous. Notable champions like Adam Scott, Justin Thomas, Jordan Spieth, and Rory McIlroy have all clinched major titles wielding center shafted mallet putters, sparking interest among amateurs seeking to enhance their short game.

Why are these putters gaining traction on the professional circuit? The answer lies in their design and the benefits they offer:

• Enhanced stability and balance
• Improved face alignment
• Consistent roll and impact
• Increased forgiveness on off-center hits

These advantages have led to a surge in popularity, with many golfers eager to explore the potential improvements a center shafted putter might bring to their game.

Understanding the Mechanics of Center Shaft Putters

Center shafted putters differ from traditional heel-shafted models in their fundamental design. The shaft’s connection point being at the center of the putter head creates a unique weight distribution and balance. This configuration offers several mechanical advantages:

Perfect Weight Distribution

The centered shaft ensures equal weight distribution from heel to toe. This balance contributes to a more stable putting stroke, reducing the likelihood of twisting or turning during impact.

Minimized Face Rotation

With the shaft centered, there’s less tendency for the putter face to rotate during the stroke. This characteristic promotes a squarer impact with the ball, potentially leading to more accurate putts.

Enhanced Alignment Features

Many center shafted putters incorporate alignment aids directly down the center of the head. These visual cues can make it easier for golfers to align their putts accurately, promoting better overall consistency.

Do these mechanical advantages translate to improved performance on the green? While individual results may vary, many golfers report increased confidence and consistency when using center shafted putters.

Key Benefits of Center Balanced Putters

The unique design of center shafted putters offers several distinct advantages that can potentially improve a golfer’s putting performance:

1. Superior Balance and Stability: The centered weight distribution creates a very stable feel during the putting stroke, potentially leading to more consistent contact.
2. True Face Balancing: The center shaft minimizes face rotation and twisting, helping to keep the putter face square to the target line through impact.
3. Improved Alignment: Many center shaft putters feature prominent alignment aids, making it easier to aim accurately.
4. Forgiveness on Mis-hits: The balanced design can help maintain consistency even on putts that aren’t struck perfectly in the center of the face.
5. Customizable Feel: Golfers can fine-tune the putter’s feel by adjusting head weights, shaft lengths, and grip styles.

These benefits combine to create a putter that many golfers find more consistent and easier to use, potentially leading to improved performance on the greens.

Selecting the Ideal Center Shaft Putter for Your Game

Choosing the right center shafted putter involves considering several factors to ensure it complements your putting style and preferences:

Head Design

Center shaft putters come in various head designs, with mallet styles being the most common. However, blade-style center shafted putters are also available. Consider which shape appeals to your eye and feels most comfortable at address.

Head Weight

Putter head weights typically range from 300g to 500g. Heavier heads generally offer more stability, while lighter heads may provide better feel for some golfers. Experimenting with different weights can help you find the ideal balance for your stroke.

Shaft Length

Standard putter lengths are typically 34-35 inches, but longer shafts (37-38 inches) are available for those who prefer a pendulum-style stroke. Your height and putting posture will influence the ideal shaft length for you.

Lie Angle

The lie angle affects how the putter sits at address. Most putters come in 71° and 75° lie angles. The correct lie angle ensures your eyes are positioned directly over the ball, promoting consistent alignment.

Grip Style

Center shaft putters can accommodate various grip styles. Choose one that feels comfortable in your hands and complements your putting technique.

How can you determine which center shaft putter is best for you? The most effective method is to test several models on a practice green. Pay attention to the putter’s appearance at address, the feel at impact, and the consistency of your putts. This hands-on approach will help you identify the center balanced putter that best suits your stroke and style.

Transitioning to a Center Shaft Putter: Tips for Success

Switching from a traditional heel-shafted putter to a center balanced model can feel unfamiliar at first. Here are some strategies to help you make a smooth transition:

• Practice Patience: Allow yourself time to adjust during practice sessions before using the new putter in competitive play.
• Focus on Alignment: Take advantage of the center shaft’s alignment features to ensure proper face alignment and eye position over the ball.
• Calibrate Distance Control: The improved roll characteristics may require some adjustment in terms of distance and pace control.
• Embrace a Free-flowing Stroke: Let the putter’s balanced design work for you by minimizing hand and wrist manipulation during the stroke.
• Make Gradual Changes: Consider changing only the putter initially, then experiment with grip style, length, and lie angle as you become more comfortable.

How long does it typically take to adjust to a center shafted putter? While individual experiences may vary, most golfers find that it takes several practice sessions and rounds to fully acclimate to the new feel and balance. Patience and consistent practice are key to realizing the potential benefits of your new center balanced putter.

The Legality of Center Shafted Putters in Tournament Play

A common concern among golfers considering a switch to a center shafted putter is whether these clubs are legal for tournament and handicap play. The good news is that center shafted putters are indeed legal under the Rules of Golf, provided they meet standard dimensions and the center balance point is not above the impact area.

Most major manufacturers design their center balanced putters to comply with these regulations, ensuring that golfers can use them in both casual and competitive play without worry. In fact, many tour professionals prefer center shafted putters precisely because they offer performance benefits while staying within the rules.

Are there any specific regulations golfers should be aware of regarding center shafted putters? While the basic design is legal, it’s always wise to check the specifications of your particular model against the current Rules of Golf, especially if you’re competing in high-level tournaments. Generally, as long as the putter adheres to standard length, lie angle, and face angle requirements, it should be permitted for play.

Analyzing the Impact of Center Shafted Putters on Putting Performance

While the popularity of center shafted putters has grown, it’s important to consider their actual impact on putting performance. Several studies and anecdotal evidence from professional and amateur golfers suggest potential benefits:

Improved Consistency

Many golfers report more consistent putting results with center shafted models. The balanced design may contribute to a more repeatable stroke, potentially leading to improved accuracy over time.

Enhanced Confidence

The alignment features and stable feel of center shafted putters often boost golfer confidence on the greens. This psychological advantage can be significant, as putting success is closely tied to mental state and confidence.

Adaptability to Different Putting Styles

Center shafted putters can accommodate various putting techniques, from traditional to more modern approaches like the “claw” grip. This versatility makes them appealing to a wide range of golfers.

Have scientific studies conclusively proven the superiority of center shafted putters? While some research suggests potential benefits, it’s important to note that putting is a highly individual aspect of golf. What works exceptionally well for one golfer may not yield the same results for another. The key is to find a putter that instills confidence and complements your natural putting stroke.

Customizing Your Center Shaft Putter for Optimal Performance

One of the advantages of center shafted putters is the ability to customize various aspects to suit your individual preferences and putting style. Consider the following customization options:

Weight Adjustments

Many center shaft putters offer adjustable weights, allowing you to fine-tune the feel and balance of the club. Experimenting with different weight configurations can help you find the optimal setup for your stroke.

Grip Modifications

The grip is your only point of contact with the putter, making it a crucial component. Trying different grip sizes, textures, and styles can significantly impact your comfort and control.

Shaft Flex and Length

While less common, some golfers benefit from adjusting shaft flex or length. A stiffer shaft may provide more feedback, while a more flexible one could smooth out your stroke. Similarly, minor adjustments in shaft length can optimize your setup position.

Face Insert Materials

Different face insert materials can alter the feel and roll characteristics of your putts. Options range from soft polymers to firmer metal inserts, each offering a unique sensation at impact.

How can you determine the best customization options for your center shaft putter? Working with a professional club fitter or spending time on the practice green experimenting with different setups can help you identify the modifications that enhance your putting performance. Remember that small changes can have a significant impact, so take your time and be thorough in your testing process.

As center shafted putters continue to gain popularity among both professional and amateur golfers, their potential to improve short game performance becomes increasingly evident. By understanding the mechanics, benefits, and customization options of these putters, golfers can make informed decisions about whether a center balanced putter might be the key to lowering their scores on the greens. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend enthusiast, exploring the world of center shafted putters could open up new possibilities for enhancing your putting game and overall golfing experience.

Introduction – What are center shaft putters?

If you’ve been paying attention to the world of golf equipment lately, you may have noticed more and more players using putters with the shaft connected directly to the middle of the putter head – these are known as center shafted or center balanced putters. While traditional putters have the shaft connected near the heel of the putter head, center shafted putters literally have the shaft in the exact center of the head.

Center shafted putters have been around for decades, but have seen a surge in popularity on the professional tours in recent years. Players like Adam Scott, Justin Thomas, Jordan Spieth, and Rory McIlroy have all won major championships using a center shafted mallet putter. This trend has led many amateur golfers to give center balanced putters a try in hopes of improving their putting and lowering scores.

What are the benefits of center shaft putters?

There are a few key advantages that center shafted putters offer over traditional heel shafted models:

• Better balance and stability – With the shaft connected directly in the middle, the weight is balanced perfectly heel-to-toe. This creates a very stable and balanced feel during the putting stroke.
• True face balancing – The center shaft minimizes face rotation and twisting, ensuring the face stays square to the target line through impact. This promotes more consistent impact and roll.
• Easier alignment – Center shaft putters usually have lines, dots, or graphics directly down the center that make it easier to align the face perfectly to your target line.
• Forgiving on mis-hits – The balance and stability of center shafted heads provide more consistent results even when you don’t hit the exact center of the face.
• Customizable feel – Varying head weights, shaft lengths, and grip styles allow you to fine tune the feel and balance of a center shaft putter.

Choosing the right center shaft putter

If you’ve decided to make the switch to a center balanced putter, there are a few things to consider as you shop around:

• Type of head – Most center shaft putters come in a mallet style, but you can also find center balanced blade putters. Decide which style and shape fits your eye the best.
• Weight of the head – Manufacturers offer heads in varying weights from about 300g up to 500g. The heavier the head, the more stable it will feel.
• Length of the shaft – Standard putter shaft length is 34-35 inches. Longer shafts around 37-38 inches can help create a pendulum stroke.
• Lie angle – Having the proper lie angle ensures your eyes are directly over the ball at address. Most putters come in 71o and 75o lie angles.
• Grip style – Center shaft putters accommodate any type of grip – choose one that fits your hand size and is comfortable.

The best way to find the right center shaft putter is to test out a few models out on the practice putting green. Pay attention to how the putter looks to your eye, the feel at impact, and the roll and consistency of your putts. This will help you select the center balanced putter that performs best for your stroke and style.

Making the transition to a center shaft putter

Switching from a traditional heel shafted putter to a center balanced model may feel strange at first. Here are some tips for making a smooth transition:

• Give yourself time to adjust during practice sessions – don’t expect great results right away during a competitive round.
• Focus on alignment – take advantage of the center line or graphics to align the face and your eyes directly over the ball.
• Develop a feel for distance control – the improved roll may require some calibration with distance and pace.
• Let the putter swing freely – avoid manipulating the hands, wrists or arms too much; let the stable head do the work.
• Make incremental changes – try changing just the putter first, then experiment with grip style, length, lie angle, etc.

It will likely take several practice sessions and rounds to become completely comfortable with a center shafted putter. Stay patient, keep an open mind, and allow yourself time to relearn your feel and touch on the greens. The benefits of improved alignment, balance, and consistency will be worth it in the end.

Are center shafted putters legal for tournament play?

One common question about center shafted putters is whether they adhere to the Rules of Golf for tournament and handicap play. The answer is a definitive yes – as long as the putter meets standard dimensions and the center balance point is not above the impact area, center shafted putters are perfectly legal under the rules. Nearly all major manufacturers keep their center balanced putters within legal limits.

In fact, many tour pros actually prefer center shafted putters precisely because they stay within the rules. Front or extreme heel weighting outside of legal limits can actually be detrimental to a pendulum-style stroke. Keeping the balance point in the middle or slightly above center promotes better feel and control. Golf’s ruling bodies aim to limit technological advantages, so center shafted putters thrive by maximizing function while still conforming to the rules.

Center shaft putters are worth a look

If you’ve been struggling with your putting and can’t seem to find consistency, a center balanced putter could be the solution. Their improved alignment features, balanced feel, and stroke stability have helped many golfers improve their efficacy on the greens. Center shaft putters may feel foreign at first, but allowing yourself time to adjust can lead to better results in the long run.

Keep an open mind, experiment with different models and fittings, and consult your local pro to determine if a center shafted putter is right for your game. Consistent putting is hugely important for scoring, so any technology or equipment that can lead to more confidence on the greens is worth consideration. Give one of the popular center balanced putter models a try and see if it can help improve your short game!

Benefits of center shaft putters vs traditional models

The world of golf equipment is always evolving with new technologies and designs aimed at improving performance. This is especially true in the realm of putters, where center shafted models have surged in popularity versus traditional heel shafted putters. What are the real benefits of using a center balanced putter versus a standard heel shafted version? Let’s break it down.

Balance and stability

Having the shaft connected directly in the middle of the putter head creates perfect balance from heel to toe. Unlike a heel mounted shaft that biases weight towards the hosel, center shaft putters split the weight 50/50 on either side. This provides a very stable and grounded feel during the stroke. The head resists twisting or opening up, instead staying solidly locked into position. If you struggle with consistent face angle and release, a center shaft putter can help immensely.

True face balancing

Face balancing refers to keeping the face square to the target line and avoiding face rotation during the stroke and at impact. Because center shafted putters evenly distribute weight across the head, they achieve much truer face balancing. The putter face naturally wants to stay on the correct path rather than manipulating with your hands and wrists. This leads to more solid impact and better directional control.

Easier alignment

Most center shafted putters incorporate some type of alignment aid right along the center of the head – usually lines, circles, or triangles. This provides a clear focal point to line your eyes up over along with the center line of the putter face. Traditional putters only have alignment aids on the topline, which can lead to misalignment errors. Center shaft putters make it effortless to get your eyes and the face aligned correctly.

More forgiveness on mis-hits

The balanced weight of a center shafted head still provides consistent results even when you don’t hit the absolute center of the face. Shots struck slightly towards the heel or toe don’t twist the face as much, helping correct some gear effect. Off-center hits will lose some distance, but the direction stays relatively true. Heel shafted putters tend to twist more dramatically on poor strikes.

Easier to customize feel

Since center balanced putters don’t rely on heel weighting for balance, it’s easier to customize the overall weight and feel of the putter. Manufacturers typically offer heads in 300g to 500g weights to accommodate different preferences. You can also more easily extend shaft length or modify lie angle and grip style to optimize the setup without disrupting balance. Dialing in the right feel is simpler.

In contrast, traditional heel shafted putters depend more on hosel placement for proper balance. Customizations like weigh kits can negatively influence feel and stability if not done carefully. Center shafted heads offer more flexibility for getting fit or modifying the setup to your exact preferences.

Consistent results

At the end of the day, the biggest benefit of using a center shafted putter is simply more consistent results on a day-to-day basis. The balance and stability minimize variables like face angle, path direction, gear effect, and mis-hits. Performance simply varies less from one putt to the next. Consistency equals confidence, which leads to better putting and lower scores. You know exactly what you’re going to get each time you draw the putter back.

Downsides of center shaft putters

Of course, center balanced putters also come with some disadvantages to consider:

• Appearance takes some getting used to
• Provides less feedback and feel to some
• Requires a pause at the top of the stroke
• Won’t fit some arched putting strokes
• Less ability to manipulate face and path

It’s simply a matter of weighing the performance benefits against any comfort or feel issues for your stroke. When executed properly, center shafted putters can clearly lead to better consistency and results. But finding the right model takes some thought and practice.

Making the switch successfully

Transitioning from a traditional putter to a center shafted model takes some adjustment. Here are some tips:

• Get properly fit for length, lie, loft, and grip size
• Take time practicing to get comfortable with alignment
• Develop a feel for distance control
• Avoid manipulating the hands/wrists too much
• Start with changes to the putter only, then tweak the rest later

It will likely take at least a few weeks to get fully dialed in with a center balanced putter. But once you adjust to the different look, feel, and balance, the performance benefits speak for themselves. If you gravitate towards gear effect and struggle with face angle, a center shaft putter could be a game changer.

Still conforming to the rules

One final benefit of center shafted putters is that they remain completely legal under the Rules of Golf. As long as the balance point stays near the middle of the head, these putters conform to USGA regulations. That gives you all the performance advantages while still adhering to the rules for tournament and handicap play.

Center shafted putters have clearly gained popularity for some very good reasons. While they require an adjustment, many golfers find they provide a more repeatable, consistent stroke and improved results on the greens. If your putting has been holding you back, maybe it’s time to upgrade to a center balanced model.

How Center Shaft Improves Alignment and Stability

If you’ve been paying attention to the world of golf putters lately, you may have noticed more and more tour pros opting for center shafted models. Center shaft putters are quickly becoming the hottest trend in putting, and for good reason. A center shaft promotes better alignment, a more consistent stroke path, and enhanced feel and feedback. Let’s take a closer look at why center shafted putters are taking the greens by storm.

First and foremost, center shaft putters make it easier to align properly to your target line. With a traditional heel-shafted putter, the hosel and shaft can obstruct your view of the face at address. This makes it harder to line the face up squarely. With a center shaft putter, you have a completely unobstructed view from your eye position to the middle of the face. This clear sightline enables you to align the face more accurately time after time.

The centered shaft position also promotes a straighter, more repeatable stroke path. On a heel-shafted putter, the weight distribution leads many golfers to inadvertently open or close the face during the stroke. This leads to mis-hits and inconsistent distance control. A center shaft putter places the shaft directly in line with the center of mass, keeping the face square through impact and minimizing twisting or manipulation of the face.

Additionally, center shafted putters provide outstanding feel and feedback. Because the hands sit directly over the center of the clubface, you gain a heightened sense of where impacts are occurring on the face. Mishits towards the toe or heel reverberate more noticeably through the shaft into your hands. This feedback allows you to fine-tune your stroke and make adjustments to improve accuracy.

One of the most popular center shafted putter designs is the mallet style. Mallets are inherently more stable and resistant to twisting. Combining a mallet head with a center shaft amplifies these stability benefits. The added mass of a mallet head combined with the centered balance point resists opening or closing of the face. This further enhances the consistency of your pace, distance control, and direction.

Many mallet center shaft models like the Odyssey 2-ball putters utilize advanced counterbalance weight systems. Counterbalancing places additional weight in the grip end of the putter to compliment the head mass. This allows the entire club to swing freely, like a pendulum, with minimal effort or manipulation. The result is a smoother, more rhythmic stroke and better distance control.

Center shafted putters also perform exceptionally well on breaking putts. The improved stability keeps the face square to the initial start line longer, increasing accuracy on putts with more break. Players notice the head wants to remain on path rather than twisting open or closed.

While center shafted putters have countless benefits, they aren’t necessarily for everyone. Some golfers prefer the arc and manipulation of a heel-shafted putter. But the stability and alignment perks of center shafted mallets and blades make them at least worth trying out. Many players are being instantly converted after brief testing sessions.

If you struggle with consistency in your putting stroke and want to improve alignment, a center shaft putter is an outstanding option. Models like the Odyssey O-Works #7 and Toulon Madison have become wildly popular on tour. Not only do they look sleek, they roll the rock with impressive smoothness and accuracy. With heightened feedback and stability, a center shaft putter like the Toulon Austin provides the consistency needed to drain more putts. Give one a roll today!

Whether you choose a center shaft blade like the Scotty Cameron Futura 5.5M or a mallet like the Ping 2021 Tyne 4, you’re sure to notice instant improvement. The clear alignment advantages, stroke stability, and enhanced feel add up to more confidence and control on the greens. Take a page from the tour pros’ playbooks and walk up to your next putt with a center shafted putter in hand. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your scores start dropping as you roll in more and more putts!

Top brands making center shaft putters

Golfers looking to improve their short game are increasingly turning to center shafted putters. These putters, with their unique design featuring a shaft that connects to the middle of the putter head, are gaining popularity thanks to their enhanced feel and improved consistency on the greens.

Many of the top golf equipment manufacturers have taken notice of this trend and now offer center shafted putter models. Some of the leading brands producing center shaft putters include:

Odyssey

Odyssey is renowned for their high-performance putters, including mallets, blades, and mid-mallets. They have incorporated center shaft technology into several putters such as the Odyssey O-Works #7 and Odyssey Stroke Lab Seven. The unique weighting of these putters with the shaft in the middle provides a very smooth, pendulum-like stroke that appeal to many golfers.

TaylorMade

TaylorMade has also embraced center shafted designs in putters like the Spider X and Spider Tour. The Spider X in particular utilizes a heavy aluminum frame around the perimeter combined with the True Path alignment system to help golfers start the ball on their intended target line. The stability of these TaylorMade putters improves consistency on the greens.

Bettinardi

Known for their buttery soft feel, Bettinardi putters like the Queen B #6 are now available with a single bend shaft connected in the center of the putter face. This improves the balance of the putter while providing great feedback and roll. Models like the Bettinardi Queen B #6 provide the ultimate in alignment, feel, and accuracy.

Ping

Ping engineers highly forgiving putters using precision milling for optimal weight distribution. Putters like the Ping Heppler Fetch have a distinctive matte black finish and aerodynamic contours, with the shaft attached via a single bend into the middle of the putter. The Heppler Fetch provides golfers with smooth acceleration and consistency for sinking more putts.

Cleveland

Cleveland Golf consistently wins awards for their innovative putter designs, including center shafted models like the Cleveland Huntington Beach SOFT #6. This putter combines a high MOI design with the enhanced feel of a fully milled face for great speed control. The center balanced weighting improves consistency on short putts and lag putting.

The benefits that center shafted putters can provide are appealing to golfers of all skill levels. Here are some of the main advantages of using a center shafted putter:

Why Center Shafted Putters Are Trending

Center shafted putters have surged in popularity in recent years. Here are some of the key reasons why this putter design is proving so effective for golfers looking to improve their short game:

Promotes a Straight Back and Through Stroke

The centered position of the shaft minimizes twisting and manipulation during the stroke. This makes it easier for golfers to swing the putter straight back and straight through for better directional consistency. The symmetry also provides excellent balance and feel.

Improves Pendulum Motion

With the shaft connected in the middle, center shafted putters move like a pendulum from the shoulders. This smooth, rhythmic motion enhances the sense of touch and feedback for more reliable speed and distance control.

Maximizes Moment of Inertia

Center shafted putters typically have high MOI designs from heel-to-toe. The distributed weight increases stability and forgiveness on mis-hits. Missed putts stay on line for fewer 3-putts.

Quiets Hands During Stroke

Since less wrist action is needed with the centered shaft, golfers can relax their grip pressure and keep the hands quiet during the putting stroke. This enhances both feel and accuracy.

Easy to Align Properly

Most center shafted putters incorporate easy-to-use alignment aids like lines, dots, or arrows. Combined with the balanced design, this makes it simple to align the putter face correctly to the target.

Provides Great Feedback on Distance Control

The focused point of impact and crisp feedback with center shafted putters gives golfers more sensitivity for judging pace. Golfers can consistently gauge the right speed to take the ball to the hole.

Variety of Models Available

Center shafted putters come in a wide range of head shapes from classic blades and mallets to high-tech mallets with perimeter weighting. Golfers can choose a look they love while getting the performance benefits.

More and more amateur golfers as well as PGA Tour pros are switching to center shafted putters and experiencing better results on the greens. With enhanced alignment, stroke consistency, and distance control, it’s no surprise that center shafted putters are becoming a go-to choice for serious golfers wanting to sharpen their short game.

Center shaft mallet putters gaining popularity

If you’ve been paying attention to the professional golf scene lately, you may have noticed more and more players opting for center shafted mallet putters. What gives? As it turns out, these unique putters are experiencing a resurgence in popularity thanks to their unique characteristics and ability to improve a golfer’s consistency on the greens.

First things first – what exactly is a center shafted mallet putter? As the name implies, it’s a mallet-style putter with the shaft connected directly to the middle of the putter head, rather than towards the back or heel area like a traditional putter. This centralized balance point provides excellent stability and minimizes twisting on off-center hits. Center shafted mallets also tend to have thicker, heavier heads that further enhance stability.

One of the biggest benefits golfers are noticing from using center shafted mallets is improved consistency and distance control. Because these putters minimize twisting, you can be confident that your putting stroke and impact will be the same every time. The thick mallet head also provides excellent feedback on mishits so you can calibrate your swing. Ever have one of those days where you feel like you’re hitting great putts that somehow come up short? A center shafted mallet takes out the guesswork.

Many pros are also switching to center shafted mallets because they excel on slower greens. The thick head provides plenty of mass to power through dense or grainy surfaces. The centralized sweet spot also reduces skipping and skidding on longer putts. If you play on public courses or places that don’t have ultra-fast surfaces, a center shafted mallet can definitely give you an edge.

Of course, center shafted putters aren’t necessarily the right fit for every golfer. Here are a few things to consider before taking the plunge:

• They tend to have a larger profile which can take some adjustment if you’re used to a thinner blade-style putter.
• The balance point requires a straight-back straight-through pendulum stroke. Golfers who employ an arcing putting motion may struggle.
• The heavier head requires a smooth tempo. Aggressive putters may feel like they lose some speed control.
• The thicker mallet design isn’t as versatile for green-reading or manipulating face angle as a blade.

As with any new equipment, it’s smart to test out a center shafted mallet before committing to it. Try rolling some putts on an artificial putting green or practice facility. Pay attention to distance control, consistency of impact and how the heavier head feels. If everything clicks, you may have found your new secret weapon!

If you’re still intrigued by the resurgence of center shafted mallets, here are some top options to check out:

Odyssey O-Works Center Shafted Putter

Odyssey is the undisputed leader when it comes to high-tech putters, and their O-Works center shafted mallet models incorporate some of their most innovative features. The Microhinge Face Insert provides an immediate forward roll for better consistency, while the perimeter weighting improves stability. Available in a variety of clean mallet shapes, there’s an O-Works center shaft model to suit just about any stroke.

TaylorMade Spider EX Center Shaft

The Spider lineup from TaylorMade has attracted many converts thanks to their high-MOI stability and Pure Roll groove technology for optimal overspin reduction. For golfers seeking ultra-forgiveness, the new Spider EX incorporates a center shaft and thick mallet design that stays incredibly square to the path. A must-try option if you struggle with face angle manipulation.

Bettinardi BB Series Center Shaft

Known for crafting putters with superb feel, Bettinardi recently expanded their lineup to include center shafted mallets. The BB Series heads are CNC milled from a single block of soft carbon steel, providing pleasing feedback on pure strikes. Models like the BB-8 and BB-1 employ Bettinardi’s F.I.T. Face Milling for consistent speed across the face too. If nothing else, they offer incredible curb appeal!

Clearly there are some compelling reasons center shafted mallet putters are gaining traction. Their ability to enhance consistency and minimize twisting can pay immediate dividends in lower putts per round. Be sure to test out a few models for yourself, as finding the right balance of weight, alignment, and feel is key. And who knows – you may just sink more one-putts than ever this season!

Blade designs with centered shafts also available

Golfers looking to improve their short game are increasingly turning to center shafted putters. These putters, with the shaft connected directly to the middle of the putter head rather than towards the heel or toe, have surged in popularity over the last few years. But why are more and more golfers making the switch to center shafted models? Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of putters with centered shafts.

First and foremost, center shafted putters promote a straight back and straight through stroke. With the shaft aligned down the middle, it naturally encourages the golfer’s hands to move directly back away from the ball and then straight forward on the follow through. This minimizes any potential for an arched or inside-outside stroke path which could lead to inconsistency.

Centered shaft putters are also excellent at providing feedback on your stroke. If the face is open or closed at impact, you will immediately feel it in the hands and wrists thanks to the central connection to the shaft. This instant feedback allows you to self-diagnose issues and make quick adjustments to get the face back to square.

The centered shaft design is also beneficial for golfers who struggle with their alignment. With the shaft bisecting the head symmetrically, it provides a clear reference point for lining the putter face up square to the target line. For those who have difficulty aiming other blade or mallet style heads accurately, a center shaft putter can take much of the guesswork out of alignment.

Most center shafted putters on the market also come with an additional sightline or aiming aid right on the top of the shaft. This can further assist golfers in setting up the putter correctly and starting the ball directly on line. Between the centered shaft and sightline, alignment becomes almost foolproof.

For players who suffer from the yips or putting tremors, a center shaft putter can provide some extra stability as well. The central connection point allows both hands to steady against the shaft and can reduce the negative effects of excess movement during the stroke.

While center shafted putters have always been around, they used to be seen as more of a niche or specialized design. But thanks to pros like Tiger Woods and Bryson DeChambeau using and speaking highly of center shafted models, they are now becoming much more mainstream and available from all the major putter companies.

For example, Scotty Cameron has seen massive success with its Futura line of center shafted putters. This includes blade shapes and mallets with the familiar red sightline in the shaft. Odyssey, Cleveland, TaylorMade, and other big names also offer multiple center shafted options appealing to a wide variety of preferences.

The key things to consider if you are thinking about trying a center shafted putter is the head shape/style you prefer (blade, mallet, etc.), the appropriate length for your stroke, and whether you want any additional alignment aids. Once you know these factors, there are lots of excellent center shaft choices to be found. Models with crisp angular lines as well as soft rounded shapes are available.

Before purchasing, it is also highly recommended to test out a center shafted putter, ideally on a practice green. Rolls some putts and get a feel for the improved feedback and alignment these putters can provide. Take note of how the straight back and straight through stroke feels compared to your current putter. Most golfers see immediate improvements on their speed control and accuracy.

While it may look and feel strange at first, don’t be afraid to try a center shafted putter. Statistics show that PGA Tour players make over 90% of putts from 10 feet and in, while average golfers lag far behind that. Improving your consistency and stroke on short putts is key to lowering scores. And a center shafted putter just might be the solution.

The bottom line is that center shafted putters have gained tremendous traction because they simply make it easier to line up and roll the ball on the intended target line. With the parallel sightline and symmetrical head shape, alignment issues fade away. And any flaws in your stroke path and face angle at impact are instantly magnified with the responsive center shaft feedback. If you have been frustrated with your normal putting woes, try out one of the new generation of center shafted putters. You might just find that centered is better and your short game goes to the next level.

Finding deals on new and used center shaft putters

As center shafted putters continue to grow in popularity, more and more golfers are looking for ways to get their hands on these stroke-improving models without breaking the bank. While the big brand name putters can run over $300, there are deals to be found if you know where to look for new and used center shaft putters.

Starting with new putters, sales and limited time offers can allow you to grab a new center shafted putter for under $200. Keep an eye out for holiday sales like Presidents Day or Memorial Day when major retailers run specials on golf clubs. This is often when you’ll find some of the best discounted prices.

Another great place to check is the websites of the putter companies themselves. Companies like Odyssey, Scotty Cameron, and Cleveland often run online sales on older model years when they release their newest putter lines. If you’re not worried about having the absolute latest putter, you can save big on a slightly older model – the technology won’t have changed much year to year.

Golf specialty stores like Golfsmith and PGA Superstore also regularly have demo days and fitting events for putters where you can try them out and get professional recommendations. They’ll often discount floor model and fitting club inventory, so it’s worth asking about center shafted putters they may have marked down.

For the best selection and prices, online retailers like Rock Bottom Golf, Global Golf, and 2nd Swing are key stops. They carry all the major brands and offer discounts and promotions throughout the year. For example, Rock Bottom Golf currently has 2019 Odyssey center shafted putters for under $150.

When it comes to used putters, eBay and other auction sites let you search for just about any center shafted model you can imagine. Putter technology doesn’t become obsolete too quickly, so a gently used putter from a few seasons ago can be a great find.

To get the best deals on used, keep a few things in mind. Look closely at pictures for any major dings, dents or wear and tear. Check the seller’s ratings and reviews. Ask questions about the grip, roll and overall condition. And factor in the cost of new grips or other work you may need after buying. A certified pre-owned putter that has been inspected and refurbished can be worth the slightly higher price.

Your local classifieds and Facebook Marketplace are other hidden gems when putter hunting. You can often negotiate better prices in person and test out the club before buying. Bring some balls and reader glasses to do a quick putting session in the seller’s driveway or backyard to gauge the roll.

Offline stores like Play It Again Sports and used club shops are scattered across most cities. Their selection is hit or miss but you can stumble on lightly used Scotty Cameron’s or high-end mallets for hundreds off retail. Take time to putt with anything that catches your eye.

When buying used online or in person, standard head shapes like Anser or Newport will be easiest to find. More unique shapes like large mallets or tanks may be harder to track down. Be flexible on preferences like hosel style, alignment lines, colors, etc. to increase options.

If finding a suitable used putter proves challenging, consider sending your own in for restoration. Putter companies and specialty shops can redo the finish, replace grips, and tune up even heavily worn putters to play like new again for under $100 typically.

While no magic bullet, a value-priced new or used center shafted putter can still provide noticeable gains in alignment, stroke and consistency versus a traditional offset hosel putter. Test some out on practice greens or simulator bays whenever possible. And scour all the discount retailers, online classifieds and auction listings to find hidden deals.

A little time and effort hunting for budget center shafted putters can go a long way. You don’t necessarily need the latest $400+ model to experience the benefits of the straight back, straight through pendulum stroke. Playing around with different shaft lengths and grip styles is useful too. Don’t empty the wallet right away – try out a more affordable center shafted putter first before upgrading to that dream Scotty Cameron. Improving your setup, alignment and stroke doesn’t have to break the bank.

Custom fitting options for optimal performance

Getting custom fit for a center shafted putter by a professional club fitter can help optimize your performance and get the most out of these stroke-enhancing designs. While off-the-shelf putters allow for some adjustment, truly dialing in the right length, lie angle, grip style and other specifics for your build and stroke requires a comprehensive fitting.

Some elements a fitter will analyze include your posture, eye position, stroke arc and path, wrist action, impact position, grip style, and consistency under pressure. Measurements are taken and high speed video is often utilized to capture your entire putting stroke in detail.

Length is a basic but extremely important fitting component for center shafted putters. If the putter is too short or long for your stance and stroke, it can lead to inconsistency. Finding the ideal length for smoothly penduluming the clubhead promotes better distance control.

Lie angle also needs to be suited to your setup position. Bending the hosel to fine tune lie angle ensures proper impact between the face and ball at the low point of your arc. Manufacturers offer different hosel options to factor in lie adjustments.

Grip style preference and size should align with the type of stroke you make. Claw, left hand low, classic, reverse overlap and other grips change how the putter releases from your hands. An oversized or midsize grip accommodates different hand sizes.

Custom weights and balance points can be modified on certain center shafted putters as well. Heavier weights towards the rear help counter a stroke that has a tendency to flip or rotate closed. Lighter setups suit gentler strokes. This tuning enhances consistency of face angle and impact.

Some putters allow adjustments to the sightline length and color for improved alignment confidence. This is especially helpful on center shafted putters where the sightline is integral for aiming off the centered shaft.

Beyond the physical build of the putter, a launch monitor and video capture lets a fitter analyze your actual stroke path, face angle, impact position, gear effect,Consistency under pressure can also be gauged during the fitting.

Being fit for a center shafted putter has advantages over traditional offset hosel putters as well. The straight back and through pendulum stroke associated with center shaft putters make alignment, path, face angle and other fitting factors more evident and easier to improve.

Major club manufacturers like Ping, TaylorMade, Titleist and others offer comprehensive putter fitting experiences at select locations. Independent fitters affiliated with shaft and grip companies may also have extensive putter fitting expertise.

Look for a certified putter fitter that carries all the premier center shafted putter brands like Odyssey, Scotty Cameron, Cleveland, Evnroll, Bettinardi, etc. Testing a wide range makes and models lets you compare the look, feel and performance of different configurations.

The putter fitting session may take an hour or more, so allow plenty of time to try multiple putters. Bring your regular playing putter as a baseline comparison. Expect to leave with detailed recommendations on length, lie, grip, weights, and other factors optimal for your build and stroke.

Many fitters can also build fully custom putters from scratch to your exact specs. While more expensive, a fully custom center shafted putter gets precisely dialed in for you. Consider custom if unable to find a production model suited to your needs.

While cutting edge technology like video analysis and launch monitors are great, trusting your feel and eye during the fitting is most important. You need to gain confidence in the putter during the fitting. Make sure to roll plenty of real putts too instead of just hitting into nets.

Pay attention to how the weighting, alignment, and grip feel integrates with your motions. Proper putter fitting matches the equipment to your natural tendencies rather than overhauling your stroke. Find what works for your eye and hands.

A properly fit center shafted putter won’t automatically make every putt, but can certainly help refine your setup, alignment, and stroke. The gains in consistency for most golfers are worth the investment into a professional custom fitting session.

Proper grip and stroke techniques for center shaft putters

Switching to a center shafted putter can immediately enhance alignment and feel, but you need to pair it with proper grip and stroke techniques to fully optimize performance. Your grip influences face angle control and impacts how the putter releases. And your stroke must work in concert with the centered shaft by moving the clubhead straight back and straight through.

First, let’s discuss grip for center shafted putters. The most common choice is the reverse overlap grip, with dominant hand pinky overlapping secondary hand index finger. This promotes a straight back and through motion and stroke freedom.

Grip pressure is also key. Too tight and wrist action gets restricted, hurting feel and lag putting. Too loose and the putter can twist, costing accuracy. Find a light but secure grip pressure that coils the wrists then releases smoothly.

Custom fitting includes testing different grip sizes and textures to determine ideal traction and hand position. Midsize or oversize grips work well to relax the hands and eliminate clenching.

Stance width can vary from about hip width to slightly wider than shoulder width depending on preference. Posture should have knees and hips slightly flexed, arms hanging down from the shoulders. This athletic setup allows free arm swing.

Ball position ranges from opposite the instep up to middle of the stance. Hitting putts with different foot alignments helps dial this in. Keep eyes centered over the ball. Having proper setup fundamentals in place makes it easier to swing the putter head directly along the target line.

As far as the takeaway, you want to draw the putter head back low to the ground on the target line using your shoulders initiating the movement. Keep wrists quiet early then gradually hinge upward as the backward stroke progresses.

On the forward stroke, lead with the shoulders as they return to address position. Let the arms and hands trail to keep the face square. Tempo should be smooth and unrushed. Make a stroke that rolls rather than hits the ball.

The centered shaft lends itself to this pendulum swinging motion rather than choppy strokes or manipulating the face and path. It allows your natural rhythm to dictate pace.

Footwork should stay quiet and minimize lower body movement. Maintain posture angle through impact as the upper body pivots around the spine angle. Eliminate any lateral swaying for optimal consistency.

Impact position is typically with hands even or slightly forward of ball position. Shaft lean should match address. Controlling face angle and directing roll rather than adding power is the goal.

A center shaft putter provides great feedback when your path, face angle or low point deviate from the ideal. Pay attention to this instant feedback and make subtle corrections as needed.

Strive to roll the ball end-over-end with topspin by making contact on a slightly descending angle of attack. This promotes better speed control and accuracy.

Drills like the “gate drill” where you swing the putter head inside two tees or alignment sticks without touching help train the proper path. The ” fasta” drill alternates tap in strokes with longer strokes to sharpen feel.

Skill challenges like tossing a ball back and forth hands free while putting helps learn soft grip pressure. Trying different stances, ball positions and sightlines boosts confidence.

While centered shaft putters make alignment easier, always take time to properly line up each putt. Read greens thoroughly before stepping in and trust your instincts. Never rush into a putt.

Being committed mentally to your read and stroke execution is just as crucial as mechanics. Center shafted putters have great feel when your focus connects intuitively with the motion.

Finally, spend adequate time practicing with your center shafted putter. Learn its sound, weight and feedback. Fine tune grip, posture and stroke to mesh with the straight back, straight through pendulum motion. Mastering your center shaft putter takes effort but pays off greatly.

With good fundamentals and refined technique, center shafted putters promote consistency. Dial in proper grip pressure, alignment, stroke path and tempo to maximize their performance benefits. Don’t just make a change in equipment without adapting your skills as well.

Top pros using center shafted models

Center shafted putters have become an increasingly popular choice among professional golfers in recent years. With their unique design that places the shaft directly in the middle of the putter head, center shafted models provide distinctive feel and balance compared to traditional heel-and-toe weighted designs. Many top pros have made the switch to center shafted putters and credited them with improving their putting statistics and overall performance on the greens.

One of the biggest names to adopt a center shafted putter is Tiger Woods. He has used various Scotty Cameron by Titleist models over the years, including the Newport 2 and Newport 2.5. Woods attributes the balance of these putters to helping him improve his putting stroke and achieve more consistency on the greens. At the height of his powers, Woods was renowned as one of the best putters on the PGA Tour, and his trust in center shafted designs played a key role.

Rory McIlroy is another major champion who has transitioned to a center shafted model in recent seasons. McIlroy changed to a Spider Tour Black center shafted putter by TaylorMade in 2018 and noticed immediate gains in his putting stats. The unique design helped straighten out his putting stroke, leading to more made putts. McIlroy has since stuck with the Spider model and credits it with transforming his putting game.

Jason Day is another top-10 player who has been spotted using a center shafted putter. His gamer is the Toulon Austin model by Toulon Design, featuring a crank-neck plumber’s neck design with the shaft in the middle. Day has praised the smooth roll and consistency he gets with the center shafted putter. He also credits the balance and mid-mallet design with helping keep his stroke on line and improve his distance control.

Two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson has used an unconventional Ping Sigma 2 Fetch center shafted putter for several seasons. Unlike most designs, the Sigma 2 Fetch has the shaft connected at the very back of the putter head. Watson attributes this unique balance with helping him develop more touch on shorter putts and achieve better results on fast, tricky greens.

Four-time major winner Brooks Koepka used a center shafted putter by Scotty Cameron called the Phantom X 5.5 model up until 2019. The putter’s unique design featuring a single bend shaft helped Koepka achieve major success including back-to-back PGA Championship and U.S. Open wins. Although he has since switched models, Koepka’s trust in center shafted putters for some of his biggest wins demonstrates their potential.

Among the older generation of pros, Bernhard Langer has been using a center shafted putter for well over a decade. Langer’s putter of choice is the ArmLock Method by TaylorMade, specially designed to be anchored on the forearm for maximum stability. The unconventional center shafted mallet model has helped Langer maintain his putting prowess well into his 60s, keeping him competitive on the PGA Champions Tour.

While center shafted putters have become very popular with professionals, they also have some potential drawbacks. The unique balance can take some time getting used to for players who are accustomed to a more conventional heel-and-toe weighted design. The centered sweetspot also demands more precise stroke technique. Additionally, center shafted heads are banned under the USGA rules of amateur golf, which place restrictions on putter designs. But for pros playing under PGA rules, center shafted models clearly offer tangible benefits.

For golfers looking to experiment with a center shafted putter, there are more options than ever before across a variety of brands. Many equipment companies now offer these uniquely designed models alongside their traditional lines. Trying out different center shafted models is the best way for players to find the right fit for their stroke and putting style.

When wielded by the deftest putters in the game like Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, center shafted putters have proven their ability to elevate performance on the greens. The benefits in balance, consistency, and stroke technique are clear. While center shafted putters demand a refined putting stroke, the results can certainly be worth it for aspiring professionals and skilled amateurs alike.

Are straight shaft putters still a good option?

With center shafted putter models gaining popularity on professional tours and with amateur golfers, it’s natural to wonder if traditional straight shafted putters are still a viable option. While center shafted designs offer some unique benefits, straight shafted putters have stood the test of time and remain a top choice for many players.

One of the main advantages of a conventional straight shafted putter is the heel-toe weighting it provides. This places more mass towards the heel and toe areas of the putter head, providing stability and preventing twisting on off-center hits. Many players find this forgiveness and alignment assistance invaluable on shorter putts. It can inspire confidence knowing the putter face will stay square even when contact isn’t made exactly at the sweet spot.

Another plus for straight shafted models is the pendulum-like motion they promote in the putting stroke. With the shaft connecting directly to the hosel at the heel or plumber’s neck, there is a natural arc that encourages a smooth, arcing stroke path. This caters well to players who utilize an arched putting motion and stroke inside-to-square release pattern.

Traditional straight shafted head shapes like blades, mallets, and mid-mallets allow for versatility in alignment preferences and stroke technique. Variations like a plumber’s neck, slant neck, or heel shafting provide further customization in offset and face balancing. Familiar setup and alignment confidence are key benefits of conventional putters.

When it comes to high MOI putters with enhanced stability and forgiveness, straight shafted models can still compete with newer designs if engineered effectively. Heel-toe weighting techniques used in many mallets places mass low in the head around the perimeter, achieving high MOI without the need for exotic counterbalanced configurations.

Major club manufacturers continue to innovate within the constraints of traditional straight shafted designs. Modern milling techniques, multi-material construction, deeper CG placement, and improved alignment aids are prevalent in the latest straight shafted releases. Classic shapes have been reimagined combining the best of old and new technology.

Some players find the balance and feel of center shafted models difficult to control. Without added mass in the heel and toe areas, some shots may twist off axis or require holding the face very steady through impact. The centered sweet spot also leaves less margin for error on mis-hits. A straight shaft provides familiar feedback that many golfers still prefer.

While center shafted putters require an anchored forearm grip to be legal under USGA rules, straight shafted models can be used in a traditional grip style. This allows more versatility to switch between standard, claw, left-hand low, etc. to find what works best for an individual stroke.

Popular putters on the professional tours show straight shafted models are still very relevant even among elite players. Adam Scott has used a traditional Titleist Bullseye style flare neck putter for many years. Jordan Spieth wields a Wilson Staff model with classic heel shafting. Justin Thomas alternate between blade and mallet models from Odyssey and Scotty Cameron, all with straight shafts.

For golfers considering making the switch to a center shafted putter, trying out both designs on a launch monitor or fitting system can clarify which is a better match for their stroke. When properly fit, either putter style can produce excellent results. It comes down to finding the right look, feel, and balance to inspire confidence.

While center shafted putters offer intriguing technological benefits, traditional straight shafted models shouldn’t be counted out. Thanks to proven designs, advanced engineering, versatility, and familiar feel, the straight shafted putter remains a top choice of professionals and amateurs. The key is finding a putter in either style that you connect with and have confidence in on the greens.

For many players, a conventionally shafted blade, mid-mallet, or mallet aligns intuitively and flows smoothly through the stroke path they’ve ingrained. Confidence in setup, alignment, and stroke technique is critical, no matter if the shaft attaches through the hosel or the middle of the head. Keep an open mind, explore all options, and choose the putter design that optimizes performance for your game.

Center shaft putters great for golfers struggling with consistency

Putting can be a fickle part of the game. Even great putters have days when the stroke just feels off and the ball refuses to drop. For players who struggle to find consistency on the greens, center shafted putter models offer some unique benefits that could provide a solution.

One of the main advantages of a center shafted putter is the stability and balance it provides throughout the stroke. By lining up the shaft directly through the middle of the putter head, twisting and torque is minimized during the swing. This can help players who tend to push or pull putts keep the face aligned better through impact.

With both hands placed under the shaft, a center balanced putter promotes a more pendulum-like motion with less wrist action. This repetitive motion makes it easier to groove a consistent pace and rhythm. For players with a tendency to decelerate or ‘stab’ at putts, the centered pivot point enhances fluidity.

The focal point created by the centered shaft aids visualization for players who struggle with alignment inconsistencies. Setting up to the ball, it is easy to envision lining the shaft up perpendicular to the target line. This alignment cue is right in the eyeline rather than angled off the heel as with a standard putter.

Since center shafted putters essentially eliminate toe and heel weighting, off-center hits won’t twist the face as much. The large sweet spot limits the distance and direction errors from mis-hits. This forgiveness can relieve frustration for players who often miss putts on the edges.

With both hands below the shaft, center balanced putters allow the stroke to be more anchored and restricted to the shoulders. This reduces the potential for erratic strokes involving too much wrist or elbow action. Keeping the pivot restricted enhances repeatability.

The counterweight or heavy head mass typical of many center shafted designs quiets the hands throughout the stroke. This dampening effect helps smooth out excessive motions or jerks for players struggling with a jabby, twitchy stroke.

Since center shafted putters must be unique lengths to accommodate the centered grip position, players get fit specifically for their optimal length. Putting with properly fit clubs is essential for consistency versus a standard off-the-shelf model.

For players who utilize a straight-back, straight-through stroke path, a center balanced putter aligns intuitively to guide the clubface down the target line. This makes it easier to trace the proper path and visualize keeping the face square.

The stability of center shafted models is also useful on quick, short putts where precision is key. The balanced design prevents the putter face from opening or closing too easily when the stroke accelerates.

While center shafted putters are banned for amateur play by the USGA, golfers can still utilize them for practice. Grooving a repeatable stroke on the practice green with a center balanced model can ingrain good habits that translate to traditional putters.

However, center shafted putters aren’t a cure-all solution. The unique balance and centralized sweet spot demand a refined stroke of their own. Mishits and face angle errors still occur if the putting motion is out of sync. Proper practice is required to adapt to the different feel.

Players who employ an arcing, strongly face-balanced stroke may struggle with the static balance of center shafted models. The rigid pendulum motion conflicts with sweeping strokes that flow inside-to-square.

Center shafted heads also have a smaller profile since weight is concentrated in the middle rather than the perimeter. Golfers seeking maximum forgiveness benefits may be better served by a counterbalanced mallet.

As with any equipment change, dialing in the right center shafted model takes experimentation. Variations in head shape, shaft bend, length, lie angle, and grip affect feel and results. A patient fitting process is ideal to find an optimal match.

For golfers who putt their best when fundamentals like alignment, stroke path, and pace are sound, center shafted putters can certainly help achieve consistency. But they require discipline and repetition to master their unique balance and feel characteristics.

A center shafted putter isn’t necessarily a permanent solution either. It can act as a valuable training tool to reinforce proper technique. Grooving a smooth, pendulum motion on a center balanced putter can establish good habits. Those stroke fundamentals can then translate back to success with a traditional heel-toe weighted putter.

Consistency on the greens requires tremendous feel and finesse. When a center balanced putter synchronizes with a golfer’s stroke and putting preferences, the results can be very compelling. While not ideal for every player, center shafted models have helped many find their putting stroke and lower scores.

How to choose the right center shaft putter for your game

With so many center shafted putter models now available from companies like Bettinardi, Cleveland, Evnroll, and others, it can be daunting finding the right one for your stroke and preferences. Here are some tips on fitting criteria to consider when selecting a center shafted putter.

Head shape is one of the most important factors, as center shafted putters come in blade, mid-mallet, and mallet profiles. Blades have the least forgiveness but offer the most feel and workability for arched strokes. Mallets provide maximum stability and MOI for straight back-straight through strokes. Mid-mallets balance forgiveness and finesse.

Weight of the putter head is a key fitting variable, as center shafted models range from lightweight to very heavy mallets. Added mass can improve stability, but also requires more effort to accelerate smoothly. Find a head weight that synchronizes with your tempo and handles smoothly.

Length is critical, as center shafted putters are fit to the exact length needed for an anchored arm position. Standard length charts don’t apply. Your ideal length depends on posture, arm length, and hand placement to find the right geometry to swing on plane.

Lie angle preference varies by player. Upright lies promote an upright posture and straight back-straight through path. Flatter lies accommodate more arced strokes and forward press techniques. Lie angle also interacts with putter length to fine tune your setup.

Grip style is another element of center shafted putters to evaluate. Models with a “hosel” allow you to grip below the shaft, while “hosel-less” designs encourage an anchored hand position directly on the shaft. Grip diameter is also available in different sizes.

Shaft bend is a fitting choice in center shafted putters ranging from no bend to strong arcing. Shaft bend contributes to face angle closure and stability. Matching bend style to your stroke plane is crucial.

Stroke path and release pattern are important factors in selecting a center shafted putter. Arced strokes benefit from face balancing while straight strokes pair better with toe hang. Your ideal release – whether you cut across the ball or roll the face square – also impacts performance.

Green reading tendencies play a role, as high MOI mallets allow more manipulation while blades demand a more committed stroke. Determine how much you need to release and rotate the putter face through impact to match speeds.

The sound and feel preferred varies by player. Softer feel offers more tactile feedback while firmer inserts promote a more solid impact. Listening for the right sound that matches your tempo can build confidence.

Some center shafted models allow adjustable weights to fine tune head weight and balance. This lets you tweak stability and maintain consistent swing weight as shaft lengths change during fitting.

Appearance, alignment aids, and confident aesthetics are also crucial. Choose colors, shapes, lines, and graphics that inspire confidence over the ball and align intuitively.

Putter fittings for center shafted models go well beyond standard length, lie, and grip selections. Factor in your full putting stroke, release, and tempo to find the head style, balance, and shaft bend that maximizes performance.

Be prepared to experiment and commit time to find the optimum center shafted model. It may take several sessions to explore different setups and dial in proper putter length. Don’t rush the process.

Start by articulating your stroke traits and putting goals to narrow down fitting options. Prioritize key needs like straightness, stability, consistency, or versatility. Reference your best and worst putter fits to learn more about your preferences.

On-course testing is ideal after initial fittings to validate real-world performance. Pay attention to feel, distance control, forgiveness, and confidence over key putts.

Focus on synchronizing your posture, grip, and stroke mechanics to take full advantage of the unique balance and swing path a center shafted putter enables. This may require lessons and practice to ingrain.

View center shafted putter fitting as the start of the process, not the end. Expect further refinements like length adjustments after adapting to the new setup and stroke feel.

Be open minded and don’t limit yourself to conventional putter designs. Combining a center shafted putter with proper practice and refinement in stroke fundamentals can unlock huge performance gains on the greens.

With so many fitting elements to evaluate in finding your ideal center shafted putter, it pays to work with an experienced fitter and coach. But investing the necessary time to explore and understand your preferences will lead you to the right model.

Practice routine tips to master center shaft putter

Switching to a center shafted putter can provide excellent benefits, but masters the unique setup and stroke requires practice commitment. Here are some tips to help ingrain the feel of a center shafted putter.

Take time to get comfortable with bending over and gripping the putter under the shaft. This upright posture may feel unnatural at first. Practice your ideal stance width, ball position, and maintaining posture/spine angle through the stroke.

Expect the centered balance to feel much different than a heel-toe weighted putter. The putter will swing straight back without twisting open on the backstroke. Let the putter swing smoothly like a pendulum without manipulation.

groove a continuous motion and solid contact. Avoid decelerating or steering the putter during the stroke. Center shafted putters reward an uninterrupted tempo and follow through.

Use alignment aids and visual references to keep the putter face perfectly on your start line during takeaway and stroke. The center shaft makes it easy to trace your path.

Control distance with smooth tempo adjustments rather than aggressive stroke acceleration from your hands or arms. Let the putter head weight provide power.

Practice solid contact under the shaft. Mishits towards the toe or heel are magnified without perimeter weighting to compensate on a center shafted putter.

Dial in the right posture and grip pressure to nullify your hands and arms. Let your shoulders rock to swing the putter rather than using hands or wrists.

Groove an automatic, repeatable routine from setup to finish. Master sequencing the motions of posture, grip, alignment, stroke path, and finish position.

Use mirrors and video to check fundamentals like spine angle, posture, grip, and symmetry don’t change during the stroke.

Control consistency using a mirror, chalk line, or training aids to reinforce straight stroke paths back and through.

Putt to gates or holes cut in foam pads to master center contact. Make adjustments to keep putts online if impact drifts towards the toe or heel.

Practice putts of 5 feet and in to develop touch and feel with center shafted putter. Don’t just pound long putts.

Work on drills and strokes outside your comfort zone to expand versatility. Arc the putter more, putt cross-handed, vary swing direction, etc.

Dial in speed control starting close then moving back to 15-20 feet. Master distance through tempo, not physical effort.

Commit fully to the stroke and fillow through after contact. Poorly struck putts need the same finish as perfect strokes.

Make practice as realistic as possible simulating pre-shot routine, pressure putts, normal walking, uneven lies, etc.

Be disciplined about practice frequency and process. Fifteen minutes per day with purpose is better than random lengthy sessions.

Grooving fundamentals and mechanics must come before expecting low scores. Be patient through early inconsistency as you adapt.

Stay positive through mis-hits and misses. Maintain trust in your proven routine and stroke practice.

Mastering a center shafted putter and optimizing its benefits requires commitment and repetition. But diligent practice of proper technique can yield excellent putting skill gains.

Why more golfers are switching to center shaft putters

Center shafted putters have surged in popularity in recent years on professional tours and among amateur players. Here’s a closer look at the key benefits leading more golfers to make the switch.

First, the centered balanced design promotes a more pendulum-like stroke that swings smoothly back and through. This helps many players achieve a more consistent pacing and stroke path.

With both hands under the shaft, center shafted putters minimize wrist action that can lead to mis-hits and wavering face angles. Keeping wrists quiet fosters solid contact.

The fixed fulcrum point provided by the centered shaft simplifies the stroke mechanics. It’s easier to trace a straight path back and through the ball without manipulation.

Perimeter weighting is essentially eliminated in a center shafted putter, reducing twisting and torque. The face stays square to the path even on mis-hits.

With weight concentrated in the head, center shafted putters achieve very high MOI for enhanced stability and forgiveness on off-center hits.

The visual cue of the centered shaft simplifies alignment and aiming. It’s easier to trace the target line back and through the ball.

Counterbalanced designs place more mass in the grip end to counteract the heavy head weight. This combination dampens wrist action to smooth out the stroke.

Since both hands grip the club under the shaft, center shafted putters can be fit to an optimal length specific to the player’s posture and arm position.

Models with a hosel vs. hosel-less designs allow flexibility in grip style and hand positioning for better bio-mechanical efficiency.

Adjustable weights are available in some center shafted putters, enabling further customization of balance, feel, and swing weight.

For players with a straight back, straight through stroke style, a center balanced model aligns intuitively to help trace the proper path.

The stability of center shafted designs maintains face angle integrity even when stroking quickly on short putts.

Center shafted mallet designs especially excel on quicker greens. The high MOI gets the ball rolling end-over-end without skidding.

While face-balanced, center shafted models aren’t ideal for big arcing putting strokes. But stabilizing straighter strokes is a key benefit.

The consistency and confidence center shafted models can inspire has led many amateur players to explore fitting options and make the switch.

Seeing the success of professionals like Tiger Woods, Adam Scott, and Jordan Spieth using unconventional putters has opened minds about equipment options.

Major club companies like Cleveland, TaylorMade, Evnroll, Bettinardi, and others now offer center shafted models, improving access and options.

Improvements in head materials, milling capabilities, and weighting technologies have allowed designers to optimize center shafted performance in new ways.

As green speeds have increased on both professional tours and public courses, the accuracy demands have intensified. Center shafted stability helps on slick surfaces.

Center shafted putters still have a learning curve and specialized fitting considerations. But the benefits can be substantial once a player dials in their optimal model.

Not every golfer will instantly connect with a center shafted putter after years with a conventional design. But more open-minded players are exploring the advantages.

Seeing the performance gains achieved by peers and tour pros with specialized designs compels golfers to test new solutions for themselves.

For players seeking more consistency in their setup, alignment, stroke path, and face angle control, center shafted putters offer compelling benefits.

While classic putter designs will never disappear entirely, center shafted models have earned a firm place in the modern game. Expect to keep seeing them in the bags of more and more golfers.