Golfers putt in different ways. Some swing the putter on a gentle arc, opening slightly on the way back and closing on the way through. Others keep the putter face square to the line, moving it straight back and straight through. Both styles can be excellent, but they work best with different putters and different feels. Understanding your stroke helps you choose the right equipment and practise effectively.
The two main stroke types
| Arcing stroke | Straight back and through | |
|---|---|---|
| Path | Moves slightly inside the line on the backstroke and through-stroke | Stays close to the target line |
| Face | Opens slightly going back, square at impact, closes after | Stays square to the line throughout |
| Feel | Natural, like a small golf swing | Mechanical, precise |
| Suits | Golfers with a flowing, rotational stroke | Golfers who like a simple, square feel |
| Typical putter | Toe-hang putters (blades, some mid-mallets) | Face-balanced putters (many mallets) |
Most golfers have at least a slight arc, because the putter shaft is angled and you stand to the side of the ball. A "straight" stroke usually has a very small arc.
How to identify your stroke
- Film yourself from above or face-on while putting along a line. Read golf swing video analysis.
- Use an arc board or putting track to see your natural path.
- Notice your misses: arc strokes with a face-balanced putter may feel resistant; straight strokes with a lot of toe hang may feel unstable.
Matching your putter
Toe hang
Balance the putter shaft on your finger. If the toe points down, it has toe hang; if the face points up, it is face-balanced.
- Strong arc: more toe hang (blades and some mid-mallets).
- Slight arc: a little toe hang.
- Straight stroke: face-balanced (many mallets).
Read how to choose a putter.
Length and lie
Correct length and lie help your eyes sit in the right place and the putter sole sit flat, supporting a consistent path. Read golf club lie angle and length.
Drills
For arc strokes
- Arc board: practise along a curved guide to feel a consistent arc.
- Gate drill: place tees at the toe and heel to ensure centred contact.
For straight strokes
- Rail or two clubs: lay two clubs parallel, slightly wider than your putter head, and stroke between them.
- Mirror: use a putting mirror to check eyes and shoulders.
For both
- Gate drill for start line: tees a few inches ahead of the ball. Read how to hole more short putts.
- Distance ladder for pace. Read golf practice games.
Common mistakes
- Forcing a straight stroke when your natural motion is an arc, causing manipulation with the hands.
- Rolling the face too much in an arc stroke.
- Using the wrong putter for your stroke type.
- Changing your stroke too often.
Frequently asked questions
Is an arc or straight putting stroke better?
Neither. Both work well when consistent and matched to the right putter.
What putter suits an arcing stroke?
Usually a putter with some toe hang, such as a blade or mid-mallet.
What is a face-balanced putter?
A putter whose face points upwards when the shaft is balanced on your finger, suiting straighter strokes.
How can I find out my stroke type?
Film your stroke from above, use an arc board, or have a putter fitting.
The bottom line
Whether your stroke arcs or moves straight back and through, the keys are a consistent path and a square face at impact. Identify your natural stroke, match your putter's toe hang to it and practise with drills that reinforce it. For more putting help, read how to putt: the fundamentals.