The Resurgence of Center-Shafted Putters on the PGA Tour

In the ever-evolving world of golf, trends often come full circle, and the resurgence of center-shafted putters is making waves on the PGA Tour. A notable example is Matthieu Pavon, who recently clinched victory using a 10-year-old center-shafted PING Scottsdale TR model, joining the ranks of players like Mackenzie Hughes embracing this classic design.

Grayson Murray’s LAB putter, though not strictly face-balanced, falls into the center-shafted category based on its address look. The likes of LAB Golf’s Mezz.1 Max and the new DF3 are also gaining attention for their center-shafted appeal, indicating a growing trend on the green.

This week at Pebble Beach, nearly every putter company showcased a center-shafted option on the practice green, reflecting a shift from just a few years ago when discovering such putters required a keen eye. Manufacturers are now actively expanding their offerings, catering to both Tour players and retail golfers alike.

But why the resurgence of center-shafted putters? Most are face-balanced, aligning the face directly upward when held by the shaft. This design aids golfers who prefer a minimal putter arc during their stroke, ensuring better and more consistent ball alignment.

Geometry and aiming also play a crucial role. To achieve face balance in a center-shafted putter, symmetry from heel to toe is essential. For golfers relying on the leading edge or outside geometry for aiming, the center-shafted putter simplifies the process.

For golfers struggling with alignment or possessing a reduced arc putting stroke, adopting a center-shafted putter could be the key to fewer putts and improved overall scores. As the PGA Tour sees an increasing number of victories with these classic designs, it’s clear that center-shafted putters are making a remarkable comeback in the world of golf.