Everything about the putter sensation L.A.B. Golf
How does the technology work, where does it really make the biggest difference and why should you have one in your bag? We take a look at the popular and much-discussed putter brand L.A.B. Golf together with our expert Johan Blom.
What is the background of the L.A.B. Golf brand?
– L.A.B. Golf was founded in 2018 in Oregon, USA, where they still manufacture their clubs. They had a vision to create a putter that works with you instead of against you. Perhaps a bit bold, but that was their vision, and since 2018, quite a lot has happened.
What's so special about the technology?
- The idea is to create a putter with zero torque. "Zero torque" has become a collective term for this type. Previously, there were two ways to categorise putter weighting: toe-hung or face balanced. Now there's a third; zero torque. This places the centre of gravity in the middle of the putter, directly below the shaft. As shown in the image below, a centre-shafted putter where the shaft is positioned well behind the strike face with a centred centre of gravity. This means the putter should swing straight consistently, eliminating the torque on the clubhead to keep the strike face square through impact, suitable whether you have a slight arc or a neutral putting stroke.
We've talked about zero torque before, but L.A.B. is somehow the pioneer in this putter technology?
– Yes, you could say they're leading the development. They started in 2018, and before that, we saw a couple of other brands testing this concept, similar technology but called "toe up" then. But since 2018, L.A.B. has been at the forefront with other brands trying to keep up. They have patents on this "Lie Angle Balance" technology, so others must try to copy them within permissible limits.
Can you elaborate on what L.A.B. is really about?
– The idea is to let the putter do the work consistently. You essentially set up the same way every time, regardless of which L.A.B. model you choose, maintaining the same setup before taking the clubhead back and through, letting the putter do the work. Since it's designed to stay square throughout the stroke, you eliminate the need to focus on whether you're square or doing something different. It should be as simple as possible so you can be like a robot on the greens.
If you're used to putting by feel rather than technique, it sounds like L.A.B. might not be quite compatible with that?
– It's a bit of an adjustment. It's different looking down at this compared to a blade putter, for example, and it takes some time to get used to. The major advantage is noticeable on putts within five metres, where you tend to hole more. On the downside, if anything, the distance control might take a bit longer to master. That requires more practice.
They have a very distinctive appearance?
– Yes, they started with a model called DF2 which was incredibly large, which they then scaled down to DF3, Direct Force 3. It still doesn't look quite like a standard putter, but this is something L.A.B. has been working on continuously, finding models that are more visually appealing. This technology is so special that you can't just put it into any putter; it needs to be a specific type of putter head. But as they release new models, they're getting closer and closer to traditional putters.
What about the shaft and grip on L.A.B.?
– There's a significant difference when you're standing over the ball. We've seen centre-shafted putters before, but now it's set back from the face, and the larger the L.A.B. model, the further back the shaft is positioned. The putter also has a natural shaft lean, which varies between different models - it could be half a degree or two degrees. Then you have this grip that's drilled at an angle, which L.A.B. also has patented. Together, the shaft and grip naturally create forward press. Instead of having to find it yourself to get good topspin on the ball for a smooth roll, you can simply place it down and need minimal manipulation.
So "stability" is the right word when it comes to L.A.B.?
– Yes, absolutely. Having a square clubhead at impact is crucial to being a good putter. It's something many struggle with when putting. We've all stood over those 1-1.5 metre putts thinking we should make them but questioning "am I square now, what's my lie angle really?". This technology largely eliminates those thoughts.
How about Tour usage?
– L.A.B. has had quite an interesting strategy in showcasing their brand. Instead of starting by signing Tour players, they initially gained visibility through YouTubers and influencers. From what I've heard, they don't pay any players to use their products - they've sent out many samples, and those who've tried them have liked them and spoken positively about them. This, in turn, has sparked interest among Tour players. They now have representatives showcasing products on tours, and we've seen Adam Scott, Will Zalatoris, Lucas Glover, Rickie Fowler, Phil Mickelson - quite a few have switched to L.A.B.. Even on developmental tours like Hotel Planner and others, many players are putting these in their bags.
What customisation options are available?
– Overall, the customisation options with L.A.B. are incredible. They offer standard, armlock, and broomstick options. You can get different sight lines. Six different grips to choose from. You can essentially customise it exactly how you want.
Finally, the price tag - generally quite high for L.A.B. putters?
– Yes, they do cost a fair bit. You're paying for a lot of technology. It's craftsmanship. When they manufacture these putters by hand, they pass through five to ten people in their factory because there's extreme precision required to get all weights in the right place and ensure all putters meet their tolerances. It has a higher price tag, and golf equipment in general isn't cheap, but you can look at it differently. Take an expensive driver today, around £600. You might hit a driver ten times in a round. A putter about 35 times, maybe more. So really, where is the money better spent? On an expensive driver or an expensive putter? It's easier to save three shots on the greens than from the tee.
