Putting is one of the fastest ways to lower your scores in golf.
Every putt you save is directly off your scorecard.
That’s why choosing the right putter matters far more than many golfers realise, especially for higher handicap players.
Over the years, I’ve seen plenty of golfers invest heavily in drivers, irons, and fairway woods while still using an old putter they’ve had for 10 or 15 years.
Often they say:
“I’ve got confidence in it.”
But sometimes that confidence is simply familiarity, not necessarily performance.
Modern putter technology has improved dramatically, particularly when it comes to:
- alignment
- forgiveness
- face technology
- stability
- consistency
And for many golfers, changing putters can genuinely make the game easier.
Why Putting Matters So Much
Most golfers trying to lower their handicap lose more shots on the greens than they realise.
Common mistakes include:
- poor alignment
- inconsistent speed control
- pushing or pulling short putts
- three putting too often
- struggling with confidence over the ball
The good news is that putting doesn’t require massive swing speed or athleticism to improve.
Sometimes the right putter setup alone can immediately help golfers start the ball on line more consistently.
This is one of the reasons golfers trying to improve their scoring often start paying far more attention to putting and short game. If you’re currently trying to lower your scores, our guide on how to break 90 in golf is also worth a read.
Why Mallet Putters Often Work Best for High Handicappers
For the average to higher handicap golfer, I generally believe mallet putters are often the best option.
The biggest reason is alignment.
Over many years of coaching, I’ve seen countless golfers struggle to aim correctly with smaller blade-style putters that have very limited alignment assistance.
Once the putter is aimed poorly, golfers often start making compensations:
- changing the stroke path
- manipulating the face
- steering the putter
- losing confidence
That’s why good alignment aids can make such a huge difference.
A putter that helps you aim naturally and confidently can simplify the entire putting stroke.
For many golfers, combining:
- strong alignment lines on the putter
- a line on the golf ball
- and a simple setup routine
can dramatically improve consistency.
If you’re unsure whether a blade or mallet putter suits you best, check out our guide on blade vs mallet putters.
Forgiveness Matters in Putters Too
A lot of golfers think forgiveness only matters in drivers or irons.
But it matters in putters as well.
Higher MOI (moment of inertia) putters help reduce twisting on off-centre strikes, which means:
- better distance consistency
- improved speed control
- more stable feel
- fewer dramatic misses
This is one of the reasons larger mallet putters have become so popular across all levels of golf, including on professional tours.
Softer Feel vs Firmer Feel
Putter feel is very personal.
Some golfers prefer a firmer, clickier feel off the face, while others prefer something softer and smoother.
Personally, I’ve always preferred a softer-feeling putter face.
For many golfers, softer inserts can help with:
- feel
- confidence
- distance control
- overall comfort at impact
There’s no perfect answer here, but finding a putter that gives you confidence is incredibly important.
Modern Putter Technology Is Better Than Many Golfers Think
One thing I see regularly is golfers using very old putters while upgrading every other club in the bag.
Meanwhile, modern putters now offer:
- significantly improved alignment systems
- more forgiving head shapes
- better face technology
- improved roll characteristics
- more stability through impact
For golfers struggling on the greens, modern putter technology can absolutely help.
Odyssey Putters Continue to Impress
I’ve always had a soft spot for Odyssey putters.
They’ve consistently been one of the market leaders in putter design and continue to produce models that genuinely help everyday golfers.
One range that stands out particularly for higher handicap golfers is the Odyssey Square 2 Square Putters.
These putters are designed to help golfers:
- return the face more consistently
- improve alignment
- reduce excessive face rotation
- simplify the stroke
For golfers who struggle with pushing, pulling, or manipulating the putter face, these styles of putters can be very helpful.
We’re also seeing growing interest in zero torque style putters more broadly because of the stability benefits they can offer during the stroke.
You can view our range of Odyssey Putters here
What About Scotty Cameron Putters?
Scotty Cameron putters remain some of the most iconic putters in golf and are loved by golfers all over the world for their feel, craftsmanship, and performance.
While many better players gravitate toward Scotty Cameron blades, the range also includes forgiving mallet options that can suit a wide range of golfers.
If you’d like to learn more, check out our guide to choosing a Scotty Cameron putter
You can view our range of Scotty Cameron Putters here.
Putter Length Is More Important Than Many Golfers Realise
Length plays a big role in setup and posture.
If a putter is too long or too short, golfers often compensate with:
- poor posture
- awkward hand position
- excessive wrist movement
- inconsistent strike location
A properly fitted putter length can help golfers feel much more natural and athletic over the ball.
Getting Fitted for a Putter Can Make a Huge Difference
A proper putter fitting is often overlooked.
But it can help identify:
- your natural stroke style
- preferred head shape
- alignment preferences
- ideal putter length
- setup tendencies
- face control patterns
Sometimes golfers are only one or two small changes away from becoming dramatically better putters.
Final Thoughts
The best putter for a high handicap golfer is usually the one that:
- inspires confidence
- helps with alignment
- feels stable through impact
- improves consistency
- simplifies the stroke
Putting doesn’t need to look perfect.
You simply need to hole more putts and avoid unnecessary mistakes.
And for many golfers, the right putter can genuinely help make that happen.
FAQs
Are mallet putters better for high handicappers?
For many golfers, yes. Mallet putters often provide better alignment assistance and more forgiveness on off-centre strikes.
Does putter technology actually make a difference?
Absolutely. Modern putters offer significant improvements in alignment, forgiveness, face technology, and stability compared to older models.
What putter brands are good for high handicappers?
Odyssey continues to be one of the standout brands thanks to its forgiveness, alignment features, and wide range of head shapes.
Should I use a blade or mallet putter?
Most higher handicap golfers tend to benefit from the forgiveness and alignment features of mallet putters, although personal preference still matters.
Is getting fitted for a putter worth it?
Yes. A putter fitting can help identify the best head shape, length, and setup style for your stroke and tendencies. You can book here .
Happy golfing
Scott Pickett
PGA Professional
Founder - Golf 360
Mount Maunganui
