The all-new Odyssey Tri-Hot 5K blade putters boast a distinct design aimed at enhancing performance by reducing side spin from off-centre hits. By positioning over 120 grams of tungsten behind the face in the toe and heel areas as well as shifting the CG forward, Odyssey state these blades offer a higher MOI than mallets. It’s a bold claim when discussing putters as the terms ‘blade’ and ‘forgiveness’ are not often used together in the same sentence.
The Tri-Hot 5K come in five different variations as well as extending into mallets in 2023 with the Rossie & Seven models. The famous ‘White Hot’ insert remains in its original formulation with the distinctive sound, feel and performance. The Red Stroke Lab Shaft has also been made stiffer which Odyssey assert has made the club more stable and consistent, while each putter is complimented with the TRI-HOT Pistol Grip.
The Collection
This collection of blades consists of a progression from the slimmest putter, known as the ‘One’, to the Two, Three, Double Wide, and ultimately, the widest of the group, the Triple Wide. Each one has differing degrees of toe hang so there’s a variation for all depending on each player’s stroke type.
The Fitting Experience
To paint the scene, I’m a mid-handicapper who has only ever bought putters straight off the shelf. I’ve never devoted serious time to improving on the greens as I believe I have far weaker areas of my game. With that said, the fitting and use of these new premium putters was genuinely eye-opening.
I was fitted by Callaway & Odyssey Custom Fit Specialist Stuart Smith, a South African pro who has played on the Sunshine and Challenge Tour. In short, a very good golfer who knows what it takes to play at a high level. We were also using the Els Club’s greens which many of you will know are some of the purest surfaces in the region.
After trialling each variant of blade from different distances, I leaned in preference towards the Triple Wide. The larger, heavier head felt like I had more stability throughout each stroke. Off-centre strikes generally didn’t stray hugely offline and after some added putting tips from Stuart, I started to feel very comfortable on the greens.
The other style of blade that I warmed towards was the Two which has 50 degrees of toe hang in comparison to the Triple Wide which has none. The club’s lightweight design provided more feedback and sensation in the hands when the face hit the ball. You knew instantly if you had hit a good putt or not. If you’re a player who wants more awareness in your fingertips, these narrower heads deserve your attention.
As an amateur with an inconsistent stroke, the ‘Wide’ models felt like they allowed for less manipulation with the hands. Toe strikes drifted, but not usually to ‘knee knocker’ territory. In all, a selection of blades that deliver what they claim and are well worth checking out.
