Selecting Putters: Finding the Perfect Match for Your Putting Style

Putting is arguably the most crucial aspect of disc golf. While drivers and mid-range discs get much of the limelight, the putters make or break your score. Selecting the right putter can be a game-changer, and the task involves understanding the nuances in putter shapes, plastics, and profiles. In this guide, we'll break down these elements to help you find a putter that perfectly aligns with your putting style.

Putter Shapes

Bead vs. No Bead

  • Beaded: Putters with a bead have a small ridge on the bottom rim. This design provides extra grip and can make the disc more stable.
    • Example: Innova KC Pro Aviar
  • Beadless: These putters have a smooth bottom rim, offering a more comfortable grip for some players.
    • Example: Discraft Magnet

Low-Profile vs. High-Profile

  • Low-Profile: These putters have a shallow rim depth, making them easier to grip and release. They are often preferred for longer putts.
    • Example: Dynamic Discs Deputy
  • High-Profile: These putters have a deeper rim, offering more stability but potentially more challenging grip.
    • Example: Innova Rhyno

Putter Plastics

Basic Plastics

  • Characteristics: Soft, grippy, but less durable.
  • Performance: Good for wet conditions and close-range putts.
    • Example: Innova DX

Mid-Grade Plastics

  • Characteristics: A balance between grip and durability.
  • Performance: Offers consistent releases and moderate durability.
    • Example: Dynamic Discs Classic Blend

Premium Plastics

  • Characteristics: High durability and slicker feel.
  • Performance: Best for maintaining long-term flight characteristics.
    • Example: Latitude 64 Zero Hard

Specialty Plastics

  • Characteristics: Unique texture or added grip.
  • Performance: Tailored for special needs like extreme weather conditions.
    • Example: Innova GStar

Putter Profiles

Overstable

  • Characteristics: Tends to fade left (for RHBH throws) at the end of its flight.
  • Best for: Windy conditions or hyzer putts.
    • Example: Prodigy PA-1

Stable/Neutral

  • Characteristics: Flies straight with minimal fade.
  • Best for: Most general putting needs.
    • Example: Latitude 64 Pure

Understable

  • Characteristics: Tends to turn right (for RHBH throws) at lower speeds.
  • Best for: Anhyzer putts or beginners with slower arm speeds.
    • Example: Dynamic Discs Swan

Finding Your Match

Consider Your Technique

  • Spin Putt: If you use a spin putt, a lower-profile and slightly understable putter might suit you best.
  • Push Putt: For a push or "loft" putt, a higher-profile and more overstable disc is often better.

Test Multiple Options

  • Field Testing: Try out various putters in an open field to assess their flight characteristics.
  • Circle Testing: Practice putting from various distances within the circle to gauge comfort and accuracy.

Evaluate Comfort

  • The best putter for you should feel comfortable in your hand. The grip should feel natural, and the disc should instill confidence.

Conclusion

The perfect putter for you is a blend of the right shape, plastic, and profile that suits your specific putting style. It's a highly personal choice and one that can make a significant impact on your game. Spend some time trying out different options, and consider what elements are most crucial for your style of play. With the right putter in your bag, you'll find that making those crucial shots becomes second nature, leading to lower scores and more enjoyable rounds.