Putter Face Alignment and Path of the Putting Stroke

Putter face alignment is critical when putting—it’s considered the most critical factor in starting the ball on the intended line. Studies show that over 80% of a putt’s direction is determined by the putter face angle at impact, while the rest comes from the path of the stroke.

The slightest misalignment of the putter face (as little as 1 degree) can cause a putt to miss, especially on longer putts. For example:

• 1-degree misalignment can lead to a 2-inch miss on a 10-foot putt.
• 2-degree misalignment can lead to a 4-inch miss on the same putt, which could easily be the difference between making and missing.

The path of your putting stroke also plays a crucial role in determining the direction, consistency, and overall accuracy of your putts. It works together with face angle to dictate where the ball starts and how well it holds the intended line.

Three Main Putting Stroke Paths

Straight-Back, Straight-Through (SBST)

• The putter moves straight back and straight forward, keeping the face square to the target line.
• Often used with face-balanced putters (which resist opening/closing).
• Works best with minimal arc strokes and a level setup.
• Pros: Simple and consistent, great for short putts.
• Cons: Can feel unnatural since putters naturally move on a slight arc.

Slight Arc (Most Common)

• The putter moves slightly inside on the backswing, returns to square at impact, and moves slightly inside again on the follow-through.
• Matches the natural movement of the shoulders.
• Best suited for toe-balanced putters that help keep the face square along the arc.
• Pros: Natural, smooth, and easy to repeat.
• Cons: Requires proper timing to square the face at impact.

Strong Arc (More Pronounced Inside-to-Inside Path)

• A deeper arc where the putter moves significantly inside on the backswing and follow-through.
• Often used by players with more hand and wrist action in their stroke.
• Works best with heavily toe-weighted putters to match the natural rotation.
• Pros: Can generate a strong feel and rhythm.
• Cons: High risk of face misalignment at impact, leading to more inconsistency.

How Path Affects the Putt

• Path + Face Angle = Start Direction → The face angle at impact contributes ~80% to the start line, but the path still plays a key role.
• Off-Line Path = Pushed or Pulled Putts → If your stroke moves too far inside or outside without proper face correction, the ball won’t start on the intended line.
• Inconsistent Path = Speed & Distance Issues → A poor path can lead to inconsistent contact, affecting distance control.

What’s the Best Path for You?

• If you naturally keep the putter straight, SBST might work best.
• If your stroke arcs slightly, embrace it and use a putter suited to that motion.
• If you have a strong arc, ensure your putter face squares up at impact consistently.