Golf Tips - How to Select the Right Length of Putter

Whenever you walk into any of the golf retail stores, there is going to be a wide array of putters to look at and choose from. One of the more important points in choosing the right putter is the length. You can have a belly putter, long putter, or the conventional style putter.

So, which length is the right one for you? It's all going to depend on you and what you like. Most every golf store will have a practice green that allows you to test out any putter. Try the different lengths and see which one gives you the best feel.

Here's a quick rundown on the three different types.

Conventional/Standard Putter

When selecting any putter, this one should be your first choice. It utilizes the most ideal putting posture and allows you to make a smooth stroke to the cup.

So, what is the ideal putting position? Without having a club in your hands, lean over the ball so you can get a good look at the line of your putt. Now, let your arms hang down and bring your hands together. Now, you just found your putting position. This will be the position you'll use with any standard putter.

What makes golfers want to use a long putter for? Because they begin to have wrists that won't stay still. Too much wrist action is also known as having the "yips". This is why you'll see some PGA pros using the belly putter.

Belly Putter

In order to reduce the wrist action, golf makers came out with the belly putter. It allows the top of the putter to rest in the abdomen, thereby giving you better balance and added stability. It helps takes wrist action out of the stroke, but it comes with the price of having reduced feel and added difficulty in judging distances.

Long Putter

This is the longest of putters made and it completely takes the wrists out of your stroke. You'll maintain a completely upright stance and stroke the putt with a pendulum action. It's also much easier on anyone with a bad back.

Again though, because of its length you'll lose a lot of feel and distance control. You'll really need to practice with it to build confidence and control. For anyone with a severe case of the yips, the long putter is your only hope to improve your game.