In the world of golf instruction, few equipment variables are as underrated—and yet as influential—as the Lie Angle and Head Weight of the putter. While concepts like alignment, grip, green reading, or tempo are commonly discussed, these two technical parameters operate quietly in the background, often determining the success or failure of a golfer's stroke.
This look into putter fitting explains why customizing both Lie Angle and Head Weight is not just for professionals—it’s a foundational step for any golfer seeking consistency, confidence, and results on the green.
Lie Angle: The Hidden Determinant of Direction and Contact
Lie Angle is the angle between the shaft and sole of the putter. Most putters are built with a default angle (e.g., 70°), but unless that matches your setup and posture, it can harm your stroke.
A misfit Lie Angle affects:
Example:
Even a 1° error can cause a miss from 8 feet. Yet most golfers have no idea what their lie angle is—or if it suits their dynamic stroke.
Putter Head Weight: The Engine of Tempo and Roll
If Lie Angle is the steering system, Head Weight is the engine. It determines how your stroke flows and how efficiently energy is transferred to the ball.
A well-fitted head weight promotes:
Too light = twitchy, handsy stroke.
Too heavy = sluggish feel and timing issues.
Systems like Puttalyze, Quintec, and SAM PuttLab help identify your ideal specs and remove guesswork.
Most Golfers Are Unaware of These Specs
Ask a golfer their lie angle or head weight, and most won’t know. Even skilled players often adapt to ill-fitted gear, resulting in:
The outcome? Putting becomes unpredictable—despite good technique.
Fitting Unlocks Natural Performance
When Lie Angle and Head Weight are fitted correctly:
You eliminate compensation and unlock your stroke’s natural flow. It’s the fastest way to turn putting from a guessing game into a scoring weapon.