
Zero Torque putters have seen a major boom over the last year or so, but what are they and what are the benefits of using them?
Golf clubs continue to evolve and zero torque putters are the latest trends with the innovative designs helping to maintain the putter face square to the stroke path throughout the swing.
The concept is achieved by aligning the shaft axis directly through the center of gravity (CG) of the putter head, effectively eliminating torque-induced twisting.
As a result, any of the zero torque putter heads on the market naturally resist rotation and promote a more consistent and accurate stroke – to ultimately help you hole more putts.
Benefits of Zero Torque Putters
The primary benefit of Zero Torque putters lies in their ability to reduce face rotation during the stroke, leading to improved accuracy and consistency, particularly on short putts.
By minimizing the influence of torque, the putters help golfers maintain a square face at impact which is crucial for starting the ball on the intended line.
The zero torque technology is especially advantageous for players who struggle with face control or have inconsistent putting strokes.
Aligning the shaft through the putter’s center of gravity (CG) significantly impacts feel by creating a sensation of enhanced stability and balance.
Because torque-induced twisting is nearly eliminated, golfers experience less face rotation throughout the stroke, resulting in a smoother, more controlled motion.
The feel is often described as neutral or balanced, allowing the golfer to more easily maintain a square face at impact.
This leads to greater confidence and a noticeable reduction in tension, particularly during pressure putts or when consistency matters most.
It is important to note that all zero torque models are designed in mallet style and not available as blade heads.
Zero Torque Putters For Sale
A number of manufacturers now offer zero torque putters, although it was initially L.A.B. Golf who started the ball rolling in the new innovation.
Odyssey have followed with their Square 2 Square series and PXG and Evnroll also have models available in the sector.
L.A.B. Golf DF 2.1
The L.A.B. Golf DF 2.1 is a standout in the zero torque category, utilizing Lie Angle Balance (L.A.B.) technology to maintain a square face throughout the stroke.
Its distinctive design, featuring a large mallet head CNC milled from 6061 aircraft aluminum, may appear unconventional but delivers exceptional stability and forgiveness.
This putter has gained traction on professional tours, with players like Richard Bland achieving significant victories using it.
Improved consistency, particularly on putts within 10 feet, is provided by the DF 2.1 with the putter’s ability to reduce torque and promote a smoother stroke the big factor in its popularity.
PXG Allan
The PXG Allan putter also features Zero Torque Balance Technology, aligning the shaft axis just above the center of gravity to minimize torque during the stroke.
This design results in a “toe-up” toe hang, aiding in keeping the putter face square to the target line.
The putter also features a modern mallet aesthetic with a unique neck position, contributing to its stability and balance.
It is noted its consistent performance even on off-center strikes, as well as a soft yet responsive feel at impact.
Evnroll ZERO Z5s
The Evnroll ZERO Z5s combines traditional aesthetics with zero torque performance with FaceForward Technology aligning the shaft through the center of gravity and reducing face rotation during the stroke.
The putter is 100% milled from 303 stainless steel and incorporates Evnroll’s SweetFace technology, which ensures consistent ball speeds across the face.
This model offers exception stability, particularly on longer putts, and alignment aids which include a central alignment scheme with two dots and a cavity sight line.
Odyssey Ai-ONE Square 2 Square
Odyssey’s Ai-ONE Square 2 Square series, including models like the Jailbird, #7 and Double Wide and features a center-shafted design with a forward press to promote a square face at impact.
The putters incorporate Ai-One smart face technology for improved distance control and a stroke-balanced design that minimizes face rotation.
The putters are extremely easy to align and effective in maintaining a square face throughout the stroke, leading to increased confidence and consistency on the greens.
Odyssey have also introduced the Max and Max Stripe putters, which are very similar in design the L.A.B. DF 2.1 model.
Bettinardi Antidote Putters
The SB1 blade and SB2 mallet are the two models in the Bettinardi Antidote series, which is the first zero torque models from the brand.
The putters feature Bettinardi’s Simply Balanced technology that ensures the face remains square throughout the stroke for maximum control and consistency on the greens.
The SB1 has a classic wide-bodied blade design with curved bumpers and a thick topline and a precision-milled body made from 303 Stainless Steel for premium feedback and control.
The SB2 reverses material roles with a 6061 aluminum body paired with a 303 stainless steel face insert.
Bettinardi’s F.I.T. face milling technology removes 55% of the face material for a softer feel at impact without sacrificing responsiveness.
Zero Torque vs Toe-Hang or Face-Balanced Putters
Zero Torque putters excel in stability and consistency, especially under pressure, while traditional designs rely more heavily on stroke type and personal preference.
Zero Torque putters offer distinct advantages in performance compared to traditional designs:
Zero Torque Putters
- Minimal face rotation due to torque reduction.
- Enhanced consistency in stroke mechanics, especially beneficial for players with inconsistent face control.
- Easier to keep the putter face square at impact, improving directional accuracy on shorter putts.
Toe-Hang Putters
- Designed for an arced putting stroke; the face naturally rotates open and closed during the swing.
- Provides feel-based feedback, beneficial for players who rely on natural wrist action or have more pronounced arcs.
Face-Balanced Putters
- Suited for straight-back-and-through strokes.
- Less torque than toe-hang but still experiences subtle rotation.
- Easier to square the face than toe-hang but may not match the stability of Zero Torque putters.
James is an avid golfer and reviews golf equipment and new gear for GolfReviewsGuide.com as well as providing the latest golf news. You will find him on a golf course wherever possible.
Get more golf news, reviews and the latest equipment launches. Join our Reddit community for daily updates.