In the world of golf, there exists a fascinating tool known as insert putters.
These unique clubs have garnered much attention from enthusiasts and professionals alike, but what exactly are they?
Insert putters are specialized golf clubs designed with a soft, lightweight material inserted into the face of the putter.
This material comes in various forms, such as metal, rubber, or resin, and aims to enhance the feel and responsiveness of the golf ball upon impact.
Join us as we explore the world of insert putters, their advantages, and how they can improve your golfing game.
Review contents
Overview
Insert putters are a type of golf club specifically designed for putting. They feature an insert in the clubface, which is a softer material than the rest of the putter. This insert is usually made of materials like rubber or urethane and is designed to enhance feel and feedback, as well as improve roll and distance control.
Some insert putters also offer customization options, allowing golfers to create a putter that suits their playing style. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of insert putters, the different types of inserts used, popular brands and models, and how to choose the correct insert putter for you. We will also discuss maintenance and care tips for insert putters and answer frequently asked questions.
Definition of Insert Putters
Insert putters, as the name suggests, are golf putters that have an insert in the clubface. The insert is a softer material placed into the clubface to enhance certain aspects of putting. This insert is typically made of materials like rubber or urethane and is designed to improve feel, feedback, roll, and distance control.
Purpose of Insert Putters
The purpose of inserting putters is to give golfers a better feel and feedback when putting. The softer insert in the clubface absorbs some vibrations upon impact, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable feel.
This enhanced feel allows golfers to control their strokes better and gain a better sense of the ball. The insert also helps to improve roll and distance control, as it effectively grips the ball and imparts more spin, leading to a more accurate roll and increased accuracy.
Types of Insert Putters
Several types of insert putters are available in the market, each offering unique characteristics and benefits. Some popular types of insert putters include:
1. Rubber Inserts
Rubber inserts are one of the most common inserts used in putters. They provide a soft and responsive feel, offering excellent feedback to the golfer. Rubber inserts also help reduce vibrations and dampen the impact, resulting in a smoother stroke and better control.
2. Urethane Inserts
Urethane inserts are known for their outstanding feel and responsiveness. They offer a slightly firmer feel compared to rubber inserts but still provide an excellent balance between softness and responsiveness. Urethane inserts are trendy among golfers who prefer a more traditional feel and enjoy the stability it offers during the stroke.
3. Metal Inserts
Metal inserts are a less common but noteworthy type of insert found in putters. These inserts are typically made of materials like aluminum or stainless steel. Metal inserts offer a firmer feel and a distinct sound upon impact. They are favored by golfers who prefer a crisp and solid feel during their stroke.
Advantages of Insert Putters
Using an insert putter can offer several advantages for golfers. Let’s explore some of the key benefits:
1. Enhanced Feel and Feedback
The softer insert in the clubface of an insert putter significantly improves the feel and feedback during the putting stroke. Golfers can better sense the contact with the ball and better understand their stroke. This enhanced feel allows for more precise and controlled putting.
2. Improved Roll and Distance Control
The softness of the insert material facilitates better grip and improved spin on the ball. As a result, insert putters offer more excellent roll and distance control. The increased backspin enables the ball to roll more smoothly and consistently, reducing skidding and hopping on the green.
3. Customization Options
Many insert putters offer customization options, allowing golfers to tailor their putters to their unique preferences. Golfers can choose from different insert materials, sizes, shapes, and groove patterns to find the perfect combination that suits their putting style. This customization can greatly enhance a golfer’s comfort and confidence on the putting green.
Disadvantages of Insert Putters
While insert putters offer many benefits, there are also a few potential drawbacks that golfers should consider:
1. Adjustment Period
Switching to an insert putter may require an adjustment period for some golfers. The feel and feedback of insert putters can differ from traditional putters without inserts. It may take some time to get accustomed to the softer feel and altered sound of an insert putter. However, with practice and patience, most golfers are able to adapt and achieve improved putting performance.
2. Cost Considerations
Insert putters tend to be more expensive compared to traditional putters. The additional cost is primarily due to the inserts’ materials and the available customization options. Golfers need to consider their budget and weigh the potential benefits against the higher price tag of insert putters.
3. Limited Availability
Depending on the brand and model, insert putters may have limited availability compared to traditional putters. Not all golf stores may carry a wide selection of insert putters, making it more challenging to find the perfect fit. However, the growing popularity of insert putters has led to increased availability in recent years, with many brands offering their insert putters online.
Different Inserts Used in Putters
Insert putters utilize various types of inserts to achieve different performance characteristics. Let’s explore the different factors associated with the inserts used in putters:
1. Materials Used in Inserts
The choice of materials for the insert dramatically impacts the feel and performance of the putter. Rubber and urethane are the most common materials used due to their softness and responsiveness. As mentioned earlier, metal inserts provide a different feel and sound, offering a more rigid impact.
2. Groove Patterns
Inserts can feature different groove patterns on the clubface, which can affect the roll and distance control of the putt. Some inserts have a smooth surface, while others incorporate grooves or milled lines to grip the ball better and impart more consistent spin. Golfers can choose the groove pattern that suits their preferred roll and control.
3. Insert Thickness
The thickness of the insert also plays a role in the overall feel and feedback of the putter. Thicker inserts provide a softer, more cushioned feel, enhancing feedback and reducing vibration. Thinner inserts, on the other hand, offer a firmer feel and may cater to golfers who prefer a crisper impact.
How to Choose the Right Insert Putter
Choosing the right insert putter can significantly impact your putting performance. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:
1. Consider Your Putting Style
Take into account your putting style and preferences. Consider factors such as the firmness of the insert, groove pattern, and Thickness that align with your stroke and feel preferences. A rubber or urethane insert may be more suitable if you prefer a softer feel and more excellent feedback. A metal insert may be a better fit if you prefer a firmer and crisper impact.
2. Try Different Inserts
If possible, try out different insert putters before making a purchasing decision. Visit a golf store or a putting green and test out various inserts to get a firsthand feel of the options available. This will give you a better sense of the most comfortable insert and suit your stroke.
3. Seek Professional Advice
Consulting with a professional club fitter or golf instructor can provide valuable insights. They can analyze your stroke mechanics and recommend the right insert putter based on your needs and preferences. Their expertise can help you make an informed decision and improve your overall performance.
Maintenance and Care
To keep your insert putter in optimal condition, follow these maintenance and care tips:
Cleaning the Insert
Regularly clean the insert of your putter to remove any dirt or debris that may affect its performance. Use a soft cloth or a toothbrush with mild soap and water to gently scrub the insert. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials that may damage the insert.
Replacing Worn Inserts
Over time, inserts can wear down and lose their performance qualities. If you notice a significant deterioration in the feel or roll of your putts, it may be time to replace the insert. Consult with the manufacturer or a professional club fitter to ensure you select the appropriate replacement insert for your putter model.
Storage Tips
Store your insert putter in a cool and dry place to prevent damage. Avoid extreme temperature conditions and exposure to excessive moisture. Additionally, consider using a headcover to protect the clubface and insert from any potential scratches or dings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions golfers have about insert putters:
1. What is the purpose of an insert putter?
The purpose of an insert putter is to provide golfers with enhanced feel, feedback, roll, and distance control during their putting strokes. The softer insert material absorbs vibrations and grips the ball better, resulting in a smoother stroke and improved accuracy.
2. Do all putters have inserts?
No, not all putters have inserts. Traditional putters typically feature a solid metal face without an insert. Insert putters are designed to offer additional benefits in terms of feel and performance compared to traditional putters.
3. Can inserts be customized?
Yes, many insert putters offer customization options. Golfers can choose from different insert materials, groove patterns, and insert thicknesses to tailor their putters to their specific preferences and putting styles. Customizing the insert can help golfers achieve optimal feel and performance.
Conclusion
Insert putters are popular among golfers looking to elevate their putting performance. The soft insert material offers enhanced feel, feedback, roll, and distance control. With customization options, golfers can find the correct insert putter to match their preferences and playing style.
While there may be an adjustment period and higher costs associated with insert putters, their benefits make them a valuable tool for any golfer serious about improving their putting game.
So, consider giving an insert putter a try and experience the difference it can make on the greens. Happy putting!
