Belly Putter Grips: A Guide to Better Putting

Belly putter grips, a unique and often debated approach to putting, have become increasingly popular among golfers seeking improved accuracy and consistency. These grips, characterized by their extended length and placement on the golfer’s stomach, offer a distinct advantage by providing a more stable platform for the putter and reducing hand movement during the stroke.

From their historical origins to their impact on professional golf, belly putter grips have sparked both fascination and controversy. This guide explores the benefits, drawbacks, and nuances of using a belly putter grip, providing insights for golfers of all levels.

Belly Putter Grip Basics

The belly putter grip, also known as the “cross-handed” or “saw grip,” is a unique putting technique that involves gripping the putter with the dominant hand below the shaft and the non-dominant hand above. This unconventional grip has gained popularity among golfers seeking to improve their putting accuracy and consistency.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The belly putter grip offers several potential advantages, including:

• Improved Stability:By anchoring the putter to the body with the lower hand, the belly putter grip promotes a more stable putting stroke, minimizing unwanted movement and improving consistency.
• Reduced Tension:The grip can help reduce tension in the arms and shoulders, leading to a smoother and more controlled putting stroke.
• Increased Accuracy:The stability and control offered by the belly putter grip can result in a more consistent and accurate putting stroke, especially for golfers who struggle with conventional putting techniques.

However, the belly putter grip also has some drawbacks:

• Unconventional:The grip is considered unconventional and may take time to master. It may feel awkward or uncomfortable at first, and some golfers may find it difficult to adapt to.
• Limited Flexibility:The grip’s stability can limit flexibility and make it harder to adjust to different green slopes and break lines.
• Rule Changes:The use of anchored putting strokes, including the belly putter grip, was banned by the USGA and R&A in 2016, making it illegal in professional and amateur tournaments. This rule change has significantly impacted the popularity of the belly putter grip.

Gripping a Belly Putter

To grip a belly putter effectively, follow these steps:

1. Position the Putter:Place the putter across your belly, with the shaft running diagonally from your non-dominant hand to your dominant hand. The putter head should be positioned below your belly button, and the shaft should be roughly parallel to your chest.
2. Dominant Hand Grip:Grip the putter shaft with your dominant hand, placing your thumb on top of the shaft and your fingers wrapped around the grip. The dominant hand should be placed below the shaft, closer to your belly button.
3. Non-Dominant Hand Grip:Place your non-dominant hand on top of the shaft, above your dominant hand. Your fingers should be pointing towards the putter head, and your thumb should be resting against the shaft.
4. Adjust and Practice:Experiment with the positioning of your hands and the angle of the shaft to find the most comfortable and effective grip. Practice your putting stroke with the belly putter grip to develop muscle memory and improve consistency.

Types of Belly Putter Grips

Belly putter grips are designed to provide a more stable and consistent putting stroke, and there are several types of grips available to cater to different preferences and putting styles. These grips offer a variety of features and benefits, and choosing the right grip can make a significant difference in your putting accuracy and confidence.

Grip Styles and Suitability

Belly putter grips can be categorized into several different styles, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. These styles offer a range of options for players to find the grip that best suits their putting stroke and preferences.

• Pistol Grip: The pistol grip is a popular choice for belly putters, as it provides a firm and secure hold on the club. This grip style resembles a pistol, with the thumb resting on top of the grip and the other fingers wrapping around the bottom.

  The pistol grip offers a high degree of control and stability, making it suitable for players who prefer a more traditional putting stroke.

• Straight Grip: The straight grip is another popular option for belly putters, and it offers a more neutral and relaxed grip.

  This grip style involves holding the club with the hands aligned straight, with the thumbs pointing down the shaft. The straight grip promotes a more natural and relaxed putting stroke, making it suitable for players who prefer a smoother and more controlled swing.

• Reverse Grip: The reverse grip is a less common but effective option for belly putters, and it offers a unique feel and control. This grip style involves holding the club with the hands reversed, with the left hand on top of the right hand.

  The reverse grip can help to promote a more consistent and controlled swing, making it suitable for players who want to try a different grip style.

Popular Belly Putter Grips and Manufacturers

There are many different belly putter grips available on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some popular examples of belly putter grips and their manufacturers:

• SuperStroke Flatso 2.0 Belly Putter Grip: The SuperStroke Flatso 2.0 Belly Putter Grip is a popular choice for players who prefer a firm and secure grip. This grip features a flat design with a textured surface, which provides a secure and comfortable grip.
• Lamkin Sink Fit Belly Putter Grip: The Lamkin Sink Fit Belly Putter Grip is another popular choice for players who prefer a comfortable and secure grip.

  This grip features a soft and tacky feel, which provides a secure grip without feeling too bulky.

• Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360 Belly Putter Grip: The Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360 Belly Putter Grip is a popular choice for players who prefer a traditional grip style. This grip features a classic design with a soft and comfortable feel.

Benefits of Belly Putter Grips

Belly putter grips are a popular choice among golfers of all skill levels, offering a range of advantages that can significantly enhance putting performance. These grips provide a more stable and controlled putting stroke, leading to improved accuracy and consistency.

Putting Accuracy

Belly putter grips can improve putting accuracy by promoting a smoother and more consistent stroke. The longer grip length allows golfers to maintain a more stable hand position throughout the putting stroke, reducing the risk of hand tremors or wrist movements that can throw off the line.

A study published in theJournal of Applied Biomechanics* found that golfers using belly putter grips exhibited a significant reduction in hand movement variability compared to those using traditional grips. This improved stability translates into more accurate putts, as the putter head travels along a more consistent path towards the target.

Consistency and Distance Control, Belly putter grips

Belly putter grips can also help improve consistency and distance control. The extended grip length allows golfers to maintain a more consistent tempo and rhythm during the putting stroke. This, in turn, leads to more consistent distances, reducing the number of putts that come up short or roll past the hole.

For example, a golfer using a belly putter grip may find it easier to consistently sink 10-foot putts, whereas a golfer with a traditional grip may struggle to achieve the same level of consistency.

Stress and Tension Reduction

Belly putter grips can help reduce stress and tension during putting. The longer grip length allows golfers to keep their upper body more relaxed, reducing the amount of tension in their arms and shoulders. This relaxed posture can lead to a more fluid and natural putting stroke, allowing golfers to focus on their target and execute the putt with confidence.

Choosing the Right Belly Putter Grip

Finding the perfect belly putter grip is crucial for maximizing your putting performance. It involves considering various factors that align with your unique playing style and preferences.

Hand Size and Grip Strength

The size of your hands and grip strength play a significant role in determining the ideal belly putter grip. For golfers with larger hands, a wider grip with a thicker diameter might provide a more comfortable and secure hold. Conversely, golfers with smaller hands may benefit from a narrower grip with a thinner diameter for better control and maneuverability.

Grip strength also influences the grip selection. A stronger grip allows for a firmer hold, while a weaker grip may require a grip with a softer material for enhanced comfort.

Putting Technique

Your putting technique significantly impacts the selection of a belly putter grip. For instance, golfers with a more traditional putting stroke might prefer a grip that promotes a straight backswing and follow-through. Conversely, golfers who use a more unconventional putting stroke might find a grip that allows for more flexibility and freedom of movement more suitable.

Grip Material

The material of the belly putter grip plays a crucial role in feel and performance. Different materials offer varying levels of comfort, grip, and durability. Some popular materials include:

• Rubber:Offers a firm grip and durability, often found in traditional grips.
• Leather:Provides a softer feel and better grip in damp conditions, typically used in premium grips.
• Synthetic Leather:Combines the softness of leather with the durability of rubber, offering a cost-effective alternative.

Grip Length

The length of the belly putter grip determines the distance from the putter head to your hands. Longer grips allow for greater control and stability, while shorter grips offer more maneuverability. Consider the length that provides the most comfortable and balanced stance during your putting stroke.

Grip Weight

The weight of the belly putter grip influences the overall weight of the putter and its feel during the stroke. A heavier grip can provide more stability and control, while a lighter grip offers a more responsive feel.

Grip Shape

The shape of the belly putter grip impacts the feel and control during the putting stroke. Some common shapes include:

• Straight:Offers a classic and straightforward grip for traditional putting strokes.
• Contoured:Provides a more comfortable and ergonomic grip for a wide range of hand sizes.
• Pistol:Designed for a more secure grip, often used by golfers with smaller hands.

Checklist for Choosing the Right Belly Putter Grip

To ensure you select the most suitable belly putter grip, consider the following checklist:

1. Hand Size and Grip Strength:Measure your hand size and assess your grip strength to determine the ideal grip width and diameter.
2. Putting Technique:Analyze your putting stroke and choose a grip that complements your technique.
3. Grip Material:Consider the feel, grip, and durability offered by different materials, such as rubber, leather, or synthetic leather.

4. Grip Length:Experiment with different lengths to find the one that provides the most comfortable and balanced stance.
5. Grip Weight:Choose a grip weight that feels comfortable and provides the desired level of stability and control.
6. Grip Shape:Select a grip shape that aligns with your hand size and provides a secure and comfortable grip.

Belly Putter Grips in Professional Golf

Belly putter grips have been a topic of debate and discussion in professional golf for years. Some golfers find them advantageous, while others criticize their use. The debate centers around whether these grips provide an unfair advantage or are simply a legitimate tool for improving putting performance.

Professional Golfers Who Use Belly Putter Grips

Professional golfers who use belly putter grips have achieved notable success on the PGA Tour. These golfers have found that the belly putter grip provides them with greater consistency and accuracy on the greens.

• Adam Scott:The Australian golfer is one of the most prominent users of a belly putter. He has won numerous tournaments, including the Masters Tournament, using this grip.
• Bernhard Langer:The German golfer, a two-time Masters champion, is another notable player who has used a belly putter grip throughout his career. He has found it particularly helpful in maintaining consistent putting distance and direction.
• Vijay Singh:The Fijian golfer, a three-time major champion, also used a belly putter grip during his career. He credited the grip for helping him achieve a high level of putting consistency.

Impact of Belly Putter Grips on Professional Golf Tournaments

Belly putter grips have had a significant impact on professional golf tournaments, both in terms of player performance and the rules governing their use.

• Increased Putting Consistency:Many players who have adopted the belly putter grip have seen a significant improvement in their putting consistency. This has led to lower scores and improved performances in tournaments.
• Controversies and Rule Changes:The use of belly putter grips has been a source of controversy in professional golf. Some players and fans believe that the grip provides an unfair advantage. The PGA Tour, in response to these concerns, has implemented rules restricting the use of belly putters in major tournaments.

Controversies Surrounding Belly Putter Grips

The use of belly putter grips has been a subject of debate and controversy in professional golf. Critics argue that the grip provides an unfair advantage, while proponents believe it is a legitimate tool for improving putting performance.

• Unfair Advantage Argument:Critics argue that the belly putter grip allows players to control the clubhead with more stability and consistency, resulting in more accurate putts. This, they argue, gives players who use the grip an unfair advantage over those who do not.

• Legitimate Tool Argument:Proponents of the belly putter grip contend that it is simply a tool that helps players improve their putting technique. They argue that the grip allows for a more consistent and stable stroke, which leads to improved accuracy and distance control.

Belly Putter Grips for Beginners

The belly putter grip, with its extended shaft, can be a game-changer for many golfers, particularly beginners struggling with consistency and putting distance control. It provides a unique feel and mechanics, offering potential benefits such as improved stability, a smoother putting stroke, and increased accuracy.

However, transitioning to a belly putter grip requires a learning curve, and understanding the fundamentals is crucial for maximizing its benefits.

Adapting to the Belly Putter Grip

The belly putter grip’s extended shaft and unique feel require a deliberate approach to adapt. The key is to find a comfortable and consistent grip that allows for a smooth, pendulum-like putting stroke.

• Practice with a Short, Smooth Stroke:Begin by focusing on a short, smooth stroke, maintaining a stable posture and a consistent grip pressure. Avoid excessive force or jerky movements.
• Find the Right Grip Position:Experiment with different grip positions until you find one that feels natural and allows for a balanced swing. Some golfers prefer a higher grip position, while others prefer a lower one.
• Maintain a Stable Body Position:Avoid excessive movement in your upper body during the putting stroke. Focus on a stable stance, using your lower body to generate power while maintaining a steady upper body.

Resources and Tutorials for Learning

Numerous online resources and tutorials can guide beginners in mastering the belly putter grip. These resources often include:

• Videos:YouTube offers a plethora of instructional videos demonstrating proper grip technique, stance, and stroke mechanics for belly putters. Look for videos from reputable instructors or professional golfers.
• Articles:Golf publications and websites provide detailed articles and guides on belly putter grip basics, including tips for beginners. Seek out articles from respected golf experts and coaches.
• Online Courses:Several online golf instruction platforms offer comprehensive courses that cover belly putter grip techniques, including detailed video lessons, drills, and practice routines.

Tips for Beginners Using a Belly Putter Grip

• Start with a Familiar Putter:Begin with a putter you are already comfortable with and gradually transition to a belly putter. This allows for a smoother learning curve and helps avoid overwhelming yourself with too many changes at once.
• Focus on Consistency:The key to success with a belly putter grip is consistency. Strive for a smooth, repeatable stroke that minimizes variations in your grip pressure, stance, and swing path.
• Practice Regularly:Consistent practice is essential for mastering any golf skill, and the belly putter grip is no exception. Dedicate time to practicing your grip, stance, and putting stroke to build muscle memory and improve your accuracy.
• Seek Professional Guidance:If you are struggling to adapt to the belly putter grip, consider seeking professional instruction from a golf coach. A qualified coach can assess your technique, provide personalized feedback, and help you overcome any challenges.

Belly Putter Grips

The belly putter grip, a unique style of putting grip, has a long and fascinating history in the world of golf. Its evolution has been marked by innovations, advancements in technology, and the influence of some of golf’s most prominent figures.

This journey reveals the compelling story of a grip that has challenged conventional putting techniques and continues to intrigue golfers today.

Evolution of Belly Putter Grips

The origins of the belly putter grip can be traced back to the early days of golf, where unconventional putting methods were often employed. However, the modern belly putter grip, as we know it, emerged in the latter half of the 20th century.

It is widely believed that the first golfer to popularize the belly putter grip was Arnold Palmer, who used it in the 1960s. Palmer, known for his powerful drives and aggressive putting style, found that the belly putter grip provided him with more control and consistency on the greens.The 1970s saw the rise of other prominent golfers who embraced the belly putter grip, including Sam Sneadand Gary Player.

These players, renowned for their exceptional putting skills, further validated the effectiveness of the belly putter grip. The grip gained significant traction in the 1980s and 1990s, with golfers like Bernhard Langer, Tom Watson, and Greg Normanusing it to achieve success on the professional tour.

Key Innovations and Advancements

The evolution of the belly putter grip has been closely intertwined with advancements in golf technology. In the early days, belly putter grips were often rudimentary, with simple extensions attached to standard putter grips. However, over time, manufacturers began to develop more sophisticated and ergonomic belly putter grips, incorporating materials like rubber, leather, and synthetic materialsfor better grip and comfort.One of the key innovations in belly putter grip technology was the development of adjustable length extensions.

This innovation allowed golfers to customize the length of their belly putter grips to suit their individual height and putting style. Adjustable extensions provided golfers with greater flexibility and control, enhancing their ability to find the perfect putting stroke.

Famous Golfers and their Belly Putter Grip Stories

The belly putter grip has been used by a wide array of golfers, each with their own unique story about how the grip impacted their game. Here are a few notable examples:

• Bernhard Langeris one of the most successful golfers to have used a belly putter grip. He won numerous tournaments, including two Masters Tournaments, with his signature belly putter. Langer’s success with the belly putter grip helped to further solidify its legitimacy in the golfing world.

• Tom Watson, a legend in the sport of golf, also found success with the belly putter grip. Watson, known for his smooth putting stroke, credits the belly putter grip with helping him maintain consistency and accuracy on the greens.

• Greg Norman, known as the “Great White Shark,” also used a belly putter grip during his career. Norman, a powerful and aggressive golfer, found that the belly putter grip helped him control his putting stroke and reduce the tendency to pull his putts.

FAQ Summary

Are belly putter grips legal in professional golf?

Yes, belly putter grips are legal in professional golf. However, they have been the subject of some debate and controversy over the years.

Do belly putter grips actually improve putting?

While there is no guarantee that belly putter grips will improve everyone’s putting, many golfers find that they provide increased accuracy, consistency, and distance control.

Are belly putter grips suitable for all golfers?

Belly putter grips are not necessarily suitable for all golfers. The extended length and unique grip position can take some getting used to and may not be comfortable for everyone.

How do I choose the right belly putter grip?

The best belly putter grip for you will depend on your hand size, grip strength, and putting technique. It’s important to try different grips and find one that feels comfortable and allows you to stroke the ball consistently.