Measuring putter length like a golf pro involves a combination of precise technique, understanding your body mechanics, and attention to detail to ensure the putter complements your natural putting stroke. Unlike simply measuring the total length of the putter from grip to clubhead, professional fitting takes into account how you stand, your arm length, wrist-to-floor distance, and even your posture to customize a putter that feels natural and maximizes control on the greens. To start measuring like a pro, first adopt your typical putting stance. Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart, bend slightly from the hips as if addressing a ball, and let your arms hang naturally by your sides. This posture is important because it mimics your actual putting setup and influences the ideal putter length.
Next, measure the distance from the floor to the crease of your wrist — this is often referred to as the wrist-to-floor measurement. It helps establish a baseline for how long your putter shaft should be. For example, a wrist-to-floor measurement around 32 to 34 inches typically aligns with a standard putter length, but taller golfers or those with longer arms might require a longer shaft to avoid hunching or stretching. Then, have someone assist you by holding the putter in your normal grip position while you’re in your putting stance. The putter should rest lightly on the ground with the sole flat, and the grip end should reach roughly to your mid-thigh or just above, allowing your arms to hang naturally without excessive bend or extension.
A critical professional tip is to ensure your eyes are positioned directly over or just inside the ball when you look down in your stance. This alignment is crucial because it improves your ability to aim accurately and execute a smooth stroke. If the putter length causes your eyes to be too far forward or backward relative to the ball, adjustments need to be made. Professionals often use a plumb line or alignment sticks during fitting sessions to check this visual relationship. Additionally, observe your arm angle; your forearms should be roughly parallel to the ground or slightly angled, enabling a pendulum motion with minimal wrist breakdown.
Finally, test the feel of the putter with the proposed length by making several practice strokes. A putter that is too long will make you extend your arms uncomfortably, potentially causing inconsistency, while a putter too short may cause you to hunch and restrict your stroke freedom. By combining these steps—measuring wrist-to-floor, checking posture and eye alignment, and testing the feel of the putter in a natural stance—you can measure your putter length like a golf pro, setting yourself up for more accurate, confident putting on the course.
Details at: https://ricksgolfshop.com/how-to-measure-putter-length/