Why Odyssey’s new Tri-Hot putter is a steal
At $549, Odyssey’s new S2S Tri-Hot putter is the most expensive option in the company’s retail lineup, priced at least $50 more and one of the most expensive retail putters the company has ever released.
So naturally, there will always be critics who complain that putters are too expensive.
But on last week’s episode of GOLF’s Complete Equipped, Callaway Tour content manager Johnny Thompson explained why putters are so expensive and why you should see for yourself whether the performance benefits are worth it.
The S2S Tri-Hot putters feature a new low-torque putter front shaft arrangement that sets up more like a traditional putter without a noticeable launch or any shaft tilt. This is achieved by using a lightweight aluminum rear piece and 140 grams of tungsten in the front piece to push the CG forward.
Odyssey Tri-Hot Square 2 Square #7 Custom Putter
We’ve got zero torque going forward. Odyssey’s new S2S TRI-HOT putter series is a revolution in the “zero torque” category. By using a multi-material construction, we are able to move the center of gravity of these putters far enough forward to allow the shaft to enter the clubhead on the top line, eliminating the need for a shaft lean, thus eliminating one of the biggest barriers to entry for this style of putter. Forward CG and Hosel Position By moving the CG forward, we are able to position the hosel locating pin on the top line, closer to the face than a typical “zero torque” putter, resulting in a more natural, intuitive and comfortable setup position. MULTI-MATERIAL CONSTRUCTION By strategically using aluminum, steel and over 140 grams of tungsten, we’ve been able to design a “zero torque” putter that places more than 80% of its weight below the top line and allows us to have a forward center of gravity and socket position. New FRD Grooves This new forward roll design has deeper, more aggressive grooves. It features a 19° slope which, combined with the dual-layer design, improves the forward roll of the face.
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Also available in: Odyssey
“They require a lot of technology to make the putter free of shaft lean and pilling, and in a sense like a traditional center pole setup, just like it requires expensive raw materials, the cost alone is high,” Thompson said. “One hundred and forty grams of tungsten is very expensive.
“Then shaping it into something that can accommodate all the inserts, it’s expensive.”
Thompson explained that the Odyssey isn’t trying to move away from the more consumer-friendly price points the brand has been known for over the years, but it has the benefits to make the price worthwhile.
“Just like we don’t want everyone to run out and buy Square2Square Tri-Hot. We understand, but it’s a premium product,” he added. “We want them to see that. You know, I tell people, I’m like, ‘Hey, you’re going to make more putts.’ That means you’re going to cash in more skins, but you’re going to win more bets. It all brings the balance back.”
