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The Biggest Mistake Golfers Make When Putting from the Fringe (And How to Fix It)

📌 The Frustrating Fringe Dilemma

You’re just off the green, sitting perfectly on the fringe.

It seems like an easy putt—but then you either:

Leave it short because the fringe slows it down.

Blow it past the hole because you misjudge the transition to the green.

Hit it off-line because the grass pulls your putter face.

🚨 What’s the #1 mistake golfers make when putting from the fringe—and how can you fix it?

Let’s break it down.

⛳ The #1 Mistake: Misjudging the Speed & Transition from Fringe to Green

The biggest mistake golfers make is treating a fringe putt like a normal green putt.

✔ The fringe is thicker, slower, and can grab the ball.

✔ The transition from fringe to green changes speed suddenly.

✔ Many golfers either decelerate too much or hit it way too hard.

🚨 Reality Check: You need to treat the fringe like a separate surface—not just an extension of the green.

🔥 The Fix: How to Read & Adjust for Fringe Putts

1️⃣ Read the Fringe Like You Read the Green

✔ Don’t just read the green’s break—check how the fringe will influence speed.

✔ Look at grass grain direction—is the fringe into the grain or down-grain?

Longer fringe? More resistance. Shorter fringe? Less impact.

🚨 Key Adjustment: Be aware that fringe putts won’t roll like a pure green putt.

2️⃣ Adjust Your Stroke Based on Grass Type & Length

If the fringe is thick & long → Use a firmer stroke with extra speed.

If the fringe is short & tight → Treat it almost like a regular putt.

If the fringe is patchy or inconsistent → Expect unpredictable roll—sometimes a chip is better.

🚨 Reality Check: Every fringe is different—adjust based on conditions, not just habit.

3️⃣ Putt with More Acceleration & Less Backstroke

✔ Many golfers decelerate when they feel resistance from the fringe.

✔ Instead, use a shorter backswing with a firm, confident stroke.

Think of it like a “punch” putt—more acceleration, less lag.

🚨 Key Adjustment: A smooth, accelerating stroke prevents the fringe from killing your speed.

4️⃣ Test Your Line with a Practice Stroke

✔ Instead of guessing, test how the fringe affects the roll.

✔ Take a practice stroke alongside your ball to feel the grass resistance.

✔ This gives instant feedback on how much extra speed you need.

🚨 Reality Check: A quick feel-check before putting can save strokes.

5️⃣ If in Doubt, Consider a Hybrid or Bump-and-Run

✔ If the fringe is too thick or unpredictable, putting might not be the best option.

✔ A bump-and-run with a 7-iron or hybrid can give better control.

✔ If the fringe is extra long, a light chip might be the safest play.

🚨 Key Question: Is a putt really the best choice here, or are you forcing it?

🔬 The Ultimate Fringe Strategy: A Step-by-Step Checklist

1️⃣ Assess the Fringe – Look at grass length, grain direction, and texture.

2️⃣ Check the Transition – Where does the fringe end, and how much green do you have left?

3️⃣ Pick the Right StrokeSmooth acceleration instead of a long, lagging putt.

4️⃣ Take a Practice Stroke – Feel how the fringe affects speed before you commit.

5️⃣ Be Willing to Chip – If the lie is bad, don’t force a putt.

🚨 Reality Check: A perfect putt from the fringe starts with the right read and confident execution.

📢 What’s Your Go-To Strategy for Putting from the Fringe?

Do you always putt from the fringe, or do you mix it up with chips and bump-and-runs?

Let’s hear your thoughts! 👇

👉 Follow us on Facebook for more short-game tips & debates!

The Golf Bandit
The Golf Bandit

Hi, I'm Jan. I'm passionate about golf and have been playing for years. I love testing out new clubs and equipment, and I share my reviews right here on my blog. With access to the latest gear, I provide honest insights on how they perform on the course. I also enjoy sharing tips and tricks to help you improve your game. Thanks for visiting—hope you find something useful!

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