PING Goes to New Lengths with Adjustable Putter Shaft

PING today became the first major golf company to introduce a USGA-approved adjustable-length belly putter shaft. The adjustable putter shaft, offered exclusively with the Nome™ 405 putter, allows the player to self-adjust the length within a 9-inch range to optimise performance.

“At PING, custom fitting is our priority, and with the popularity of belly putters we saw a unique fitting opportunity because shaft length is so critical to performance,” said John A. Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO. “Adjustability is key because the standard 42-inch belly putter fits a narrow range of people. When the shaft is too long or too short, it alters your distance from the ball, your eye position, and the path of your stroke. Adjustability lets you experiment until your posture is comfortable and your eyes are over the ball, which helps you make a consistent stroke and solid impact. We’re pleased to have USGA approval of this easy-to-use, innovative technology. Golfers are going to find it will help improve their putting.” 

Length can be adjusted from 37.5 to 46.5 inches. The player changes the length using a PING adjustment tool that threads into a locking ring on the shaft. Turning the tool loosens the ring, allowing the shaft to slide telescopically. The player then adjusts the shaft to the desired length. Turning the adjustment tool in the opposite direction and removing it locks the ring and secures the shaft so it’s ready for play.

As one more fitting step, the shaft is available in three different bends to match Straight, Slight Arc, and Strong Arc stroke types. This coincides with PING’s Fit for Stroke™ putter-fitting concept.

The Nome model is a timely choice for the adjustable putter shaft. It had a recent PGA Tour win even prior to its official launch. PING Pro Hunter Mahan used a standard-length Nome 355 putter to win the WGC-Accenture Match Play in February. Mahan said the Nome’s alignment aids gave him confidence in his aim. “I felt I could make just about any putt I looked at.” Since the victory, more PING pros have put a Nome putter in their bags. Players are being introduced to the adjustable putter shaft in the Nome 405 putter at this week’s Shell Houston Open.  

Product Details & Technical Specifications:

Availability: May 1, 2012

The lower portion of the shaft is steel, the upper portion beneath the grip is graphite. The locking ring is made from 17-4 stainless steel.

The Nome head is precision milled from high-grade aluminum and finished with a durable nano nickel coating. A lightweight aluminum frame and tungsten sole weighting optimise the CG and the MOI.

The mallet-style head features a black alignment bar and white contrasting sightline. The Winn AVS 21-inch belly grip is standard. Lie is adjustable +- 2 degrees from standard.