Ping’s new lineup, the Cadence TR putters, use two different inserts, allowing golfers to choose between a more traditional “standard” weight, or a heavier version of the same head across all seven models. A standard putter has a blue aluminum insert, whereas the heavier putters have a black steel insert between 25 and 33 grams.

Ping Cadence TR putters use two different inserts fit for stroke tempo.

Using their popular iPing app, Ping recorded over seven million (yes, seven million) putts from golfers of all skill levels and from all around the world. What they found was a consistency in downswing times (which didn’t vary that much). But the difference in backswing times - which set the rhythm of the stroke - tended to vary quite a bit. Confused? Think of it this way. Heavier putters, in general, help you sink more short putts, but may leave you struggling to control speed and distance, whereas lighter putters will help improve distance control and feel on longer putts at the expense of having you make either a longer stroke, or harder strike to move the ball the approximate distance. As with every club from the driver to the putter, there is one common denominator: feel. Simply stated, the more opportunities you have to find comfort, the more likely you are to find confidence.

The high MOI Ketch putter benefits from steel sole plate that varies in thickness.

All Ping Cadence putters have TR (True Roll) and variable depth grooves. The new line offers three new models: the Anser W, the Rustler and a center shafted mini-mallet called the Tomcat C. The line also offers the classic Anser 2, Anser 2 CB (Counter-Balanced), B65 and, perhaps the most interesting of them all, the Ketsch, which jumped to the top of most independent putter rankings based on performance. It’s quite possible that the Ketch remains the highest rated mallet ever tested.

I had the opportunity to roll all seven models, rotating back and forth between standard and heavy head options. There is a very distinguished feel between the two. Some of this can be chalked up by the difference in insert material. Some of it has to do with either weight or feel. I simply loved the Anser 2 and Ketsch, to the point where I couldn’t decide which one would go in the bag. Both models have a distinct look and feel, but similar performance. The feel is amongst the best, if not the best of any insert, or non-milled putter head I have used. Whichever model and putter weight you choose, you can rest assured Ping has put forth their best technology to date in order to help you putt your best, and thus “Play your Best”.