Why grip choice still matters in 2017
By mid 2017, putter grip options had expanded beyond standard rubber to include soft polymers, tacky perlon hybrids, and thin crosshatch patterns that promised cleaner release and more consistent hands pressure. The best putter grips in 2017 were evaluated mainly on how they managed feedback, reduced torque, and stayed comfortable through long rounds, rather than on bold marketing claims. This overview breaks down the key choices available at the time and how they typically perform for different hand sizes and stroke types, giving you a practical basis for narrowing options without chasing short lived hype.
Common grip materials and their feel profiles
Grip materials shape how the club feels in your hands and how much feedback you receive through the stroke. In 2017, three broad categories dominated the market, each with distinct traits and trade offs.
Standard rubber
Traditional rubber offered predictable cushioning and weather resistance, with a slightly firmer feel that many golfers preferred for mid to longer putts. It generally muted vibration and held up well in humid or wet conditions, though it could feel slicker than newer formulations and showed wear on the grip face after heavy use.
Soft synthetic polymers
Softer polymer blends became popular in 2017 for their cushioned, almost buttery sensation. They tended to quiet vibration and promote a lighter touch around the hole, but some players reported that the extra softness reduced feel for distance on longer putts and accelerated wear on the outer layer.
Tacky perlon and hybrid covers
Tacky perlon and perlon hybrid wraps emphasized grip security and a crisp, firm tactile surface. These materials helped reduce twisting and encouraged a lighter grip pressure, yet they could feel harsh on sensitive hands and delivered a more pronounced, sometimes buzzy feel on mishits.
Core construction and how it influences performance
Beyond outer material, core design and thickening geometry affect weight distribution, stability, and how the grip interfaces with your stroke. In 2017, most players chose among three core oriented profiles.
- Thin profile grips: Lower stack height and slim diameters appealed to players who wanted minimal change to their existing setup and a more direct feel through the putter face.
- Mid profile grips: Balanced cushion and control, suitable for moderate hand pressure and a neutral swing path.
- Oversize or bellbottom grips: Added palm stability and encouraged a lighter finger pressure, often favored by golfers fighting the death grip or those with larger hands.
Heavier cores and added tungsten weighting in some premium models helped maintain clubhead stability through impact, while layered or tri compound wraps aimed to combine tack surface with softer palm zones.
Sizing, diameter, and hand fit basics
Finding the best putter grips in 2017 started with matching diameter to hand size and putting style. Thicker diameters generally encouraged softer pressure and reduced active wrist action, while thinner diameters favored players who liked more directional feedback and a more active face controlling through impact.
| Diameter range (approx) | Typical feel and control effect | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| Small (about 0.570 0.600 in) | Firm feedback, more wrist hinge possible | Players with smaller hands and an active stroke |
| Mid (about 0.610 0.630 in) | Balanced cushioning and control | Average hand sizes and neutral arcs |
| Large (about 0.640 0.680 in) | Stable, lighter finger pressure | Bigger hands and golfers seeking to limit wrist action |
Surface patterns and texture trade offs
Surface texture played a major role in how securely the putter turned in the hands. In 2017, popular patterns included shallow crosshatch, vertical lines, and dimpled zones, each designed to boost traction without creating uncomfortable hot spots. A moderate, consistent pattern generally performed best on slick shafts and in cooler weather, where grip surface could become slick. More aggressive or deep patterns helped in warmer, sweaty conditions yet could highlight vibration on poor strikes. Players choosing based on feel had to weigh enhanced security against potential harshness on mis-strikes.
Practical testing steps for 2017 models
To identify the best putter grips available at the time, golfers were encouraged to run a short, focused evaluation on the putting green. Start by attaching the grip to a neutral shaft and assume your normal setup position, noting wrist angle and finger pressure. Make several 10 to 20 foot putts focusing on how the clubface feels through impact and whether the grip twists under your hands. Progress to longer putts to check if distance control remains consistent and if you can repeat the same hand position comfortably. If possible, test multiple grip types in one session to directly compare cushion, tack, and size effects on timing and confidence.
Top considerations when choosing in 2017
By aligning your grip decision with tangible performance and comfort factors rather than trends, you reduce the risk of buyer remorse and increase shot repeatability.
Pressure sensitivity and release
Select a grip that lets you maintain light, even pressure while still preventing the club from rotating in your hands during the stroke.
Comfort through fatigue
Long rounds demand consistent cushioning and a non abrasive surface to avoid callus irritation and shaking hands late in the day.
Weather and course conditions
Consider whether you often play in rain, humidity, or dry heat, and prioritize materials that handle those environments without drastic loss of traction.
Setup compatibility
Match grip thickness and core weight to your current putter, your stroke path, and any wrist action issues you are trying to manage.
Summary and next steps
In 2017, the best putter grips were defined by a blend of material comfort, consistent surface traction, and compatibility with each golfer's hand size and stroke preferences. There was no single universal winner, but options that balanced cushioning, feedback, and clubhead stability generally served the widest range of players. Use the test plan above to narrow candidates on the green, and pair the chosen grip with a stable shaft and a balanced putter head to complete a setup that supports reliable, repeatable putting.