A zero torque putter is basically one that has a putter shaft with an axis aligned with the club head’s center of gravity. This helps eliminate twisting of the club face through the stroke, helping to keep it square at impact. The idea is that this will deliver greater consistency and overall accuracy. In other words the putter is “zero torque” because it does not twist through the stroke. 

That being said, it should seem fairly obvious that a zero torque putter could potentially benefit a golfer with a straight front-to-back stroke. A golfer whose stroke is straight could benefit from a face balanced putter that resists twisting as well as from a zero-torque shaft that does the same. 

But what about a golfer who has more of an arc to his or her swing? These golfers tend to prefer putters with a slight degree of toe hang, which encourages the putter to square at the point of impact rather than requiring the golfer to fight the natural arc of the stroke. 

Accounting for that, can a zero torque putter benefit a player with an arc to the putting stroke? The short answer is yes, but let’s take a closer look so we can understand this better.

Zero Torque Putters and an Arcing Stroke 

The thing about having an arc to your stroke is to remember that it isn’t a bad thing that needs to be eliminated. It’s just an attribute of your swing mechanics that needs to be accommodated with equipment that is well suited for it. 

In a conventional putter, the head's center of gravity sits off the shaft axis, which creates a torque that wants to rotate the face open and closed during the stroke. Toe hang uses that tendency on purpose, which is why arc players have traditionally favored it. In a zero torque putter, the shaft axis passes through the center of gravity, so the head has no built-in tendency to rotate. The face turns only as much as the golfer turns it.

A zero torque putter doesn't require a straight stroke, but it also doesn't rotate the face for you the way toe hang does. Arc players can use one successfully when they want to control face rotation themselves rather than rely on the head to release at the right time, and some find that more repeatable.

Now, this does not mean that every player with an arc to their stroke should play with a zero torque putter. Players with a more exaggerated arc to their stroke may still feel as though the shaft is somewhat restrictive. This is where a fitter can help you make decisions about what you should play with.

All the same, don’t assume out of the gate that a zero torque putter won’t work for you just because your putting stroke has a natural arc. 

Where to Learn More About Zero Torque Putters

If you landed here because you are wondering if a zero-torque putter can improve your game, you can learn more online at Breakthrough Golf Technologies, producers of ultra-stiff, industry-leading putter shafts like the Stability ONE. You can learn more about their equipment on their website or get in touch with them directly for assistance. 

For More Information About Wedge Shafts and Driver Shafts Please Visit: Breakthrough Golf Technology.