Zero-Torque Putters Review: History, Specs & Why They're So Popular

In golf, almost every putt counts—especially the short ones. Zero-torque putters have exploded in popularity in recent years. These putters promise less twist (torque), more stable putt faces, and greater consistency—from professionals to amateurs. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what this technology is all about, how it has developed historically, what types of putters exist, and why zero-torque putters are in such high demand.

The History of the Putter: From Wood to High-Tech

  • The origins go back to the 16th century in Scotland, with the so-called “putting cleeks”, roughly shaped wooden putters. 

  • Transition to metal heads in the late 19th century, when manufacturers like Robert Forgan began producing metal putters. 

  • In the 20th century, technological innovations such as steel shafts, new weight distributions, and perimeter weighting led to putters becoming increasingly precise and controllable. Brands like Ping (Karsten Solheim) played a major role in this. 

  • Modern developments include inserts, high-MOI (“Moment of Inertia”) putters, SuperFace technologies, balancing options such as face-balanced or toe-hang, etc. This evolution is currently culminating in zero-torque designs.

Zero-Torque Putter: Definition & Functionality

Definition : A putter with a shaft positioned and head designed to minimize twisting (rotation/torsion) of the putter during the swing. The goal is a square face (perpendicular to the ball) at every contact.

Technical features:

  • Lie-Angle Balanced or Toe-Up Balance: The putter “hangs” so that the shaft runs through the center of gravity. 

  • Avoid toe hang (excess weight towards the toes), which can promote twisting.

  • More stable rolling behavior, less lateral changes during face alignment or impact.

Putter types in comparison: Blade, Mallet & Zero-Torque

There are different types of turkeys that differ in shape, weight, balance and responsiveness:

type

Features & Benefits

Disadvantages

Blade Putter

Slim head, traditional, good feedback, popular with purists.

Low MOI, less stable on inaccurate swings.

Mallet Putter

Larger head, more weight rear/perimeter, better stability and alignment.

Can be harder to control, sometimes feeling sluggish.

Zero-Torque / Toe-Up Balanced

Very high stability, minimized twisting, especially helpful with slightly unsteady strokes or hand errors.

Higher price; takes some getting used to; design often takes some getting used to.

Statistics & test results: Convincing numbers

Some key findings from tests and studies:

  • In a comprehensive test conducted by MyGolfSpy in 2025 , 17 zero-torque putters were evaluated over more than 10,000 putts . The winner (LAB Golf OZ.1i) demonstrated top performance across all distances. 

  • The difference between the best and worst putts for medium putts in the test was around 6.2 points PuttView Handicap . 

  • In tests, zero-torque putters often perform on par with the best blade and mallet models when it comes to medium and longer putts. 

  • Brands like LAB Golf have seen rapid growth since around 2018. Numerous tour pros, including names like Adam Scott, Brian Harman, and others, have added zero-torque putters to their bags. 

Why Zero-Torque Putters Are So Popular Among Golfers

  • Consistency & Error Reduction : Less twisting means the putter face is more stable at impact ⇒ better directional control.

  • Mental advantage : If you have confidence in your alignment, you approach the putt with more calm – the psychological factor counts heavily in putting.

  • Professional feedback & marketing : Tests show clear performance values ​​– golfers compare data (PuttView handicap etc.) and recognize the advantage.

  • Pressure to innovate & brand : Brands like LAB, TaylorMade, Odyssey, and others are investing heavily in zero-torque technology and increasing its visibility. Demand among tour players is further increasing it.

  • Access for amateurs : Although expensive, zero-torque putters are becoming increasingly popular among amateur golfers thanks to demo days, fittings, and better availability.

Zero-torque putters aren't a short-term trend—they combine technical innovation with measurable performance advantages. Those seeking more consistent putts, better alignment, and less twist will find these models a real competitive advantage. For golfers of all skill levels, those willing to embrace the new design and get a good fitting can significantly improve their putting performance with zero-torque putters.