Britannica Sources used in this answer

Why do golfers use a putter on the green?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Golfers use a putter on the green because it is a straight-faced club specifically designed to roll the ball across the closely mowed turf toward the hole.12

While other clubs are used for long-distance shots or approach shots that may involve pitching or chipping, the putting green is maintained to allow for a smooth, consistent roll. By using a putter, a player can execute a controlled stroke—known as a putt—to shove or gently push the ball into the hole.13