While lightweight clubs can help golfers gain distance, many choose to go the opposite route with their putters. Is heavier better when it comes to the flat putter stick? It depends on your stroke.

Heavy-headed putters offer a distinct advantage for golfers with quick strokes and those who suffer from the dreaded “yips.” The extra weight restricts the small muscles of the hands, promoting a smoother stroke controlled by the arms and shoulders.

For the same reason, a heavier putter is ideal for golfers whose nerves betray them on the greens. The downsides to a heftier putter? You may lose a little feel on long putts, or struggle to control speed on faster greens.

How heavy is heavy? It varies by manufacturer. The head of Thomas Golf’s AT-71 putter, for example, tips the scales at 368 grams. Others on the market weigh over 400 grams.

Thomas Golf Putters
Traditional, Mid-Length/Belly & Long Putters

If you currently own a putter with a standard-weight head (320-340 grams), you can experiment by adding magnets or lead tape to the back or bottom of the blade. You can play this way, too, without violating USGA rules.