“The putting doesn’t have to absorb” – or so says LAB Golf – but is their method of madness too far to catch on for the masses?
LAB pretty golf have created a fascinating debate, with their Lie Angle Balance technology promising effortless alignment and more accurate shots. However, their unconventional appearance, center-shaft design and high price leave many players divided. While some swear these players have revolutionized their game, others find it too restrictive and the aesthetic too far from traditional.
Are LAB shooters a game-changing innovation or just a flashy fad? Whether you’re a fan or a skeptic, we want to hear your thoughts. Which side of the LAB fence are you on? Let the debate begin!
About LAB Putters
It should come as no surprise that this is our first introduction “Polarizing product.”
There have been many pieces on LAB equipment written by the MyGolfSpy staff. Here are some things to read:
LAB stands for Lie Angle Balance. The extremely short version is that LAB shooters are balanced, so the shooter’s face wants to stay pointed at the target. Toe-hung, face-balanced putters do not, so the stroke must compensate for the twist the putter wants to make. LAB shooters reduce this and allow the hands to do less and the shooter to naturally do more work. Sounds simple enough, right? So why are they polarizing?
Why LAB Putters are creating buzz
After all, professional travel creates equipment noise. People like or want to use the same equipment that professionals use. LAB putters have been around for a while, but it wasn’t until pros like Adam Scott, Will Zalatoris, Lucas Glover, Ben An and Phil Mickelson started using them that they caught the attention of the masses.
Add in the fact that if they’ve worked for those pros who have been known to struggle with placement at times, they surely should at least be an option for us, right?
The polarizing argument
LAB are not traditional, to put it mildly. The original DF2.1 is called some, ah, interesting the names. It cannot be denied that it is unique. of LAB MEZZ MAX it’s their take on a traditional fanged-style shot, but it still looks very different. Then we have the LINK.1, which is a slim blade (my current player) and yet still has the unique twist of being in the center. Finally, there’s the new DF3, which is an updated version of the DF2.1, offering similar styling in a smaller package that may be more appealing to many. Is their appearance too unpleasant for you to ever use one?
So the look is different, but, with four models, there should be one to suit every golfer’s eye, right? Well, all LAB gauges are center-axis, which for many people is a turn-off. Why? I’m not sure, but if you are, let us know.
Perhaps the biggest reason for their polarization is the broom offer. Without getting into the anchoring debate, the sweeper method looks different, plays different, and definitely stands out on the course. What do you think of the long version?
There is also the price. A stock LAB meter goes for $400 and custom options can go for much more. Is it worth the investment?
Finally, we have the feel – not the face feel, but the stroke feel. Because of the way they are built, we often hear that they feel like they are on rails. While it’s great for some golfers, many don’t like it as they feel it constricts or fights against their natural swing. Have you ever tried one? If so, what did you think?
The opposite side
While opinions matter, facts are facts and, for many golfers, LAB golfers help them make more putts. They believe in the technology and feel that the drawbacks of price and style do not detract from the other advantages that these devices offer.
Your opinion
I really like my LAB shot. Despite this, I have never used a DF2.1 because it’s a bit “out there” for me too. So instead of ME showing you why LAB shooters may be the latest advancement in deployment technology, I want to hear from you – LAB converts! Let us know why you made the switch and how/if these beauties have transformed your game. Do you like the unconventional look? Do you find the expression simpler and more effective? Share your experiences in the comments.
For those of you who are still skeptical, your perspective is just as important. What’s stopping you? The look, the price, the feel, something else? Let’s start a lively discussion and really dig into what makes these people so disruptive.
Which side of the LAB fence are you on? Tell us and join the conversation!
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