Jun 2nd 2025
Golfers often describe putters with varied terms—ranging from “soft like butter” to “clicky like a keyboard.” But what exactly creates these differences, and how do you choose the best putter for your game? At The Golf Exchange, we’ve broken down the essentials so you can understand exactly what makes a putter feel right for you.
The Science Behind Putter Feel
The feel of a putter largely depends on two main components: materials and inserts. Modern putters often incorporate specialized inserts, crafted from unique materials and designed with grooves to fine-tune their sensation at impact.
Comparing Popular Putter Inserts
Here’s a quick breakdown of some popular putters and their distinct feel:
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Ping Scottsdale Series: Features a thermoplastic elastomer insert, providing a notably softer feel perfect for golfers who prefer a gentle, muted feedback at impact.
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Odyssey AI-One Insert: Combines a urethane face with an aluminum backing, maintaining a soft feel while adding structural firmness—ideal for those who prefer a balanced sensation.
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TaylorMade Pure Roll Insert: Crafted from urethane with 45-degree downward grooves, positioned right in the middle—offering both softness and solid feedback for consistent roll and improved accuracy.
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Odyssey AI-One Milled Insert: Made from milled titanium, this insert provides a firm, crisp feedback similar to classic milled putters but includes the forgiveness associated with insert technology.
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Ping PLD Series: Fully milled from 303 stainless steel, it represents the firmest option, delivering maximum feedback and responsiveness—a preferred choice among many traditionalists and skilled players.
How to Choose the Right Feel
Selecting the best putter feel isn’t simply about preference—it’s about performance, too. If you feel like you’re hitting putts firmly yet consistently coming up short, you may benefit from a firmer insert. Conversely, if your putts feel overly aggressive or jumpy off the face, opting for a softer insert may enhance your consistency.
However, even with these performance considerations, feel ultimately reigns supreme. Every golfer is unique, and the ideal putter feel varies widely from person to person.
The Golf Exchange Advantage
Still unsure which putter is best for you? There’s no substitute for hands-on experience. Visit The Golf Exchange, where our expert staff—with over 400 years of combined full-time golf experience—is ready to help you find the perfect putter.
With six convenient locations between Lexington, KY and Dayton, OH, you can easily try a wide variety of putters firsthand. Our personalized fitting approach ensures you walk away confident that you’ve selected the right putter for your game.
Ready to Discover Your Perfect Putter?
Experience the difference for yourself. Come into your local Golf Exchange store today and test various putters to find your ideal match. Our team is here to ensure you make a choice you’ll feel confident about on every green.
[Visit The Golf Exchange and Find Your Perfect Putter Today]