Are fast greens really more difficult to putt?

[Mike_Clayton]

There aren't many bumpy greens now - but by far the hardest greens to putt are fast, bumpy greens.

[Erik J. Barzeski]

also IMO and without data to prove anyone else’s theories wrong.

I shared some of the results of some studies above: people putt overall on faster greens.

Golf would be cheaper, play would be faster, and the game more sustainable if green speeds maxed out at 10-10.5

Very few greens actually get to that speed. You should shave that a foot or so.

[Craig Sweet]

Eric, that is why I said "maxed out" at 10 or 10.5   I think many golfer that brag they play on greens that stimp 11-12 would be shocked to learn they are actually 9 or 10.

[Ian Andrew]

It's slightly harder, but chipping from rough is way harder on fast greens.
I always thought that was the biggest impact of fast greens.

[Thomas Dai]

Most players have an aspect of their game that they are noted for being good at or is a particular strength.
It might be long hitting, it might be short game, it might be course management.
I've not met many amateurs however, who are renowned for their putting and yet so many amateur golfers seem to want fast greens.
Firmness and trueness of roll over speed.
atb

[Ian_L]

My theory:


- Lag putting is easier on slower greens because small differences in speed are magnified less.


- Short putts are easier on faster greens because the ball is moving slower at the hole, which makes the hole effectively bigger (less likely to lip out if the ball is moving slower).


Ready to be proven wrong by someone with data!

I love this method….float a theory without data, and then only be willing to be proven wrong with data.

It was meant as a lighthearted comment acknowledging that I have no idea what I’m talking about. Not discarding anyone else’s theories. Like you, I really like Chris Hughes’ thought on “hit.”

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