Since around 2000, golf club manufacturers have been much more creative in using different materials in the face of putters. By using materials other than steel, club designers are better able to move weight around the clubhead in order to improve the feel and performance of the club. However, many composite faces create some issues for players that can affect their performance on the greens and their confidence in their putting abilities.
The Lack of Response at Impact
Perhaps the biggest problem with composite face putters is that it is difficult to get feedback from impact. Old putters were made out of one material that was consistent throughout the face, giving the players automatic feedback after impact by the sound and vibration coming through the club. According to Stina Sternberg, a "Golf Digest" instructor, composite faces were initially very soft but have since become firmer, offering feedback that is in line with traditional steel heads. If you're having an issue with the feedback and lack of response at impact, look for composite faces that are firmer.
The Sound of Impact
Another problem with composite face putters is finding the right sound off the face at impact. According to Sternberg, sound is highly correlated to feel, and new golf ball technology makes finding the right sound in a putter face much more difficult than in the past. As golf ball technology has changed, composite face inserts have gotten firmer, meaning that if you are using an old composite face putter, the sound coming from impact could be muffled and not give you the feel you are looking for on the greens.
Dealing With Large Putter Heads
In addition to sound and feel, another issue with composite face putters is that designers are better able to move the center of gravity deeper and lower in the clubhead. This often results in mallet-style putters that are much different is shape, size and feel from traditional putter heads. However, mallet style putters with a low center of gravity reduce shaft twisting, which results in less skid with a truer roll. If a large mallet feels too clunky and big for your eye, try finding a composite face blade putter with a low center of gravity to get the same type of results without sacrificing a traditional look.
Finding the Right Putter for You
The best way to find the putter that works best for you is to get custom fitting in order to measure your stroke and the roll of the ball after impact. Custom fitting can help you find which type of design will work best and eliminate some of the problems that new composite-faced putters can create if they aren't fit for the right golfer. Once you have been properly fit, the club fitter can lead you to a group of designs that will work best for your stroke and you can find the one that gives you confidence along with the right weight and sound at impact.
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