I never considered the benefits of open stance putting until now. My backstroke stats were not as consistent as I’d like. I thought I’d try a setup that some great putters used. The results have been eye opening.
Right from the beginning I’ll say that this may not be for everyone.
Here is what moving my front foot slightly back did for my putting.
The ball is on the target line
My front foot is open to that line
I feel less restricted when I putt. In other words, my arms take over the stroke. I’m less likely to get my hands involved.
The feeling I get is just a more comfortable one. I feel like I’m over my feet. Plus, I see the hole and target line better.
It also has done a lot to fix my issues with backstroke length and path.
Negatives
While it feels much more comfortable and easy to square my shoulders, I have a tendency to move my eyes back too far.
Why? You feel more centered over your feet and your eyes move back.
I’ve had to favor my left side to keep my eyes in the right place.
You can also open your stance too much. Some people suggest starting with your front foot back 6 inches.
Having an open stance can cause you to pull the ball.
If you try this, move your front foot around until you find the right amount.
Good Result
After about a week of measuring stats, they have improved quite a bit.
Before, I was in trouble for about the first 3 or 4 putts. Now, I’m really close to square at impact right out of the gate.
The biggest gains are seeing my line better, a more fluid putting stroke and more consistent putting metrics.
What made me try open stance putting?
I was watching a Brad Faxon video. Faxon was describing Ben Crenshaw, Jack Nicklaus, and others using “kind of an open stance.”
Faxon says Ben Crenshaw would open his stance pretty far open when practicing prior to hitting the ball. Crenshaw would look at the hole while doing so and get a feel for the necessary stroke for the putt.
He then putted with a open stance. I believe Brad Faxon does a well.
The word “slightly” might be a good one in describing how open your stance should be.
Toe open toward target slightly… about a ball
I needed to experiment. So, I started pretty far open and settled on moving my front foot back about an inch or so with my toe slightly toward the target.
(Note: In the image above, the ball is on the target line. My front foot is open to that line.)
It’s amazing…I see right down the target line. I started rolling one after another right at the hole.
My ball position is still off my front heel. My left eye is over the ball. (Note: I’m right eye dominant)
Conclusion
Is open stance putting right for everyone? Nope.
However, if you feel constricted in a square setup, are having trouble seeing the line or are having trouble with your stats give it a try.
I did and it made putting more comfortable, more fun and I’m making more putts.