How to Read Golf Putting Greens: A Detailed Guide
Reading greens effectively is crucial for improving your putting game, though remember that distance control takes precedence over break reading for overall putting success.
Golfer reading green slope
Essential Steps to Read Golf Greens:
- Initial Assessment
- Begin reading the green from a distance while approaching
- Observe major slopes and drainage areas
- Note the general lie of the land
Reading Putting Greens - Stand low to the ground to note the breaks in the green
- Get the Right Perspective
- Position yourself low to the ground behind the ball
- Walk the entire length of your putt
- View the putt from multiple angles, including behind the hole
Reading Putting Greens - Putts will break more in the second half where the ball speed is slower
- Focus on the Second Half
- Pay extra attention to slopes in the latter half of the putt
- Remember that break influence increases as ball speed decreases
- Account for greater break effect when the ball slows down
Reading Putting Greens - Make sure to putt high up the break enough
- Common Mistake to Avoid
- Most golfers underestimate break by approximately 50%
- Choose a target point at the top of the slope
- Focus on hitting your putt to the identified target point
Remember: A well-paced putt with approximate line will typically end up closer than a perfectly lined putt with poor speed control.