Reading a putting green can be challenging, but it’s an important skill for any golfer to master.
Here are some tips to help you read a green:
1. Look at the slope: Look for the slope of the green and try to identify any high or low areas. High areas will cause the ball to roll faster, while low areas will slow it down.
2. Check the grain: Look at the direction of the grass blades, this will give you an idea of how the ball will roll. Grass that is growing towards you will slow the ball down, while grass that is growing away from you will speed it up.
3. Look for undulations: Look for any subtle breaks or undulations in the green that could affect the ball’s roll.
4. Check the weather conditions: The green will play differently depending on the weather conditions. For example, a dry green will be faster than a damp green.
5. Check the speed: Use a stimpmeter to determine the speed of the green.
6. Practice: It’s important to practice reading greens and to get a feel for how the ball will roll on different types of greens. Turn up to the course at least 30 mins before and practice on the course practice to get a general read on the conditions.
7. Watch other players: Watch other players putt, this can give you an idea of the breaks and speed of the green.
By considering these factors, you can develop a better sense of how the ball will roll on the green and make more accurate putts.
