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How to Regrip Your Golf Putter

ByMichael Reeves

← Golf Equipment | Golf Clubs


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Quick answer

  • Regripping your putter is a straightforward DIY job that refreshes your feel and control on the greens.
  • It involves removing the old grip, prepping the shaft, and installing a new one with tape and solvent.
  • Doing it yourself saves cash and lets you dial in your preferred grip feel.

Who this is for

  • Anyone whose putter grip feels slick, worn out, or just plain wrong. If you’re slipping on the greens, this is for you.
  • Golfers who like to tinker and save a few bucks on club maintenance. It’s not rocket science, and the satisfaction is pretty sweet.

What to check first for your Putter Regrip

  • Got the right new grip? Make sure it’s the size and style you want. They make ’em for blades and mallets, and the feel is totally different. Check the specs or what feels good in your hands.
  • Got your supplies? You’ll need grip solvent (or mineral spirits), double-sided grip tape, and a vise with a shaft clamp. Don’t skimp on the solvent; you’ll need plenty.
  • Is the shaft clean? Old tape and gunk gotta go for the new grip to stick right. A clean shaft is non-negotiable for a solid bond.
  • Do you have a utility knife? Sometimes those old grips are stubborn. A sharp blade is your friend, but be careful.
  • A clean workspace. You’ll be using solvent, so find a spot where a little spill won’t cause a scene.

Step-by-step plan: How to Put a Grip on a Putter

1. Secure the putter. Clamp your putter in a vise, making sure the shaft clamp is snug but won’t crush the shaft. You want it solid, not splintered. A good grip starts with a stable club. Mistake: Over-tightening the vise. This can warp or even crack your shaft. You just need it to stay put.

2. Strip the old grip. Slather the old grip with grip solvent – really soak it. Then, try to slide it off. If it’s stubborn, carefully slice it off lengthwise with a sharp utility knife. Work slowly and keep the blade angled away from the shaft itself. Watch that shaft, though. Mistake: Cutting into the putter shaft. A nick here can weaken the shaft and is a real bummer.

3. Clean the shaft. Now for the messy part. Use more solvent and a clean rag to wipe away all the old grip tape and any sticky residue. You want that shaft to be as smooth and clean as a freshly Zambonied ice rink. Roll the tape off in strips, using solvent to loosen any stubborn bits. Mistake: Leaving any old tape behind. Any remnants will create bumps and prevent the new grip from adhering properly.

4. Apply grip tape. Take your double-sided grip tape and wrap it around the shaft, starting from the butt end (where your hands will be) and working your way down. Overlap each layer by about half the width of the tape. Smooth it out as you go to avoid air bubbles or wrinkles. Mistake: Not covering the shaft completely or leaving wrinkles. This leads to an uneven feel and potential peeling later on.

5. Prep the new grip. This is where the magic happens. Pour a generous amount of grip solvent into the new putter grip. Swirl it around to coat the inside thoroughly. You want it slick, like a waterslide for your grip. Mistake: Not using enough solvent. Too little solvent means the grip will stick to the tape before it’s fully on, creating a mess and a bad fit.

6. Install the new grip. Now, quickly slide the solvent-lubricated grip onto the tape-covered shaft. Aim to get it straight the first time. Align any logos or alignment aids perfectly with the putter face. Once it’s on, give it a gentle twist to ensure it’s seated correctly. Mistake: Misaligning the grip. If it’s crooked, your putter face will be off-line during your stroke, leading to missed putts. It’s much harder to adjust once it starts to set.

7. Let it set and cure. Now comes the hardest part: patience. Let the grip dry and cure for at least a few hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the solvent to evaporate completely and the double-sided tape to bond securely to both the shaft and the grip. Mistake: Trying to putt with it too soon. The grip might feel okay, but it won’t be fully bonded and could slip or feel mushy.

How to Regrip Your Putter: Common Mistakes

  • Not removing all old tape — Why it matters: This is a big one. Leftover residue creates lumps and bumps under the new grip, leading to an uneven feel and potentially poor adhesion. Your putter’s feel will be compromised. — Fix: Be meticulous. Scrape and solvent until the shaft is perfectly smooth. It’s worth the extra few minutes.
  • Insufficient solvent — Why it matters: The grip gets stuck halfway down the shaft, tears, or won’t seat properly. You end up fighting with it, and it’s just a frustrating mess. — Fix: Don’t be shy with the solvent. Pour enough into the grip to coat the inside thoroughly, and make sure the tape on the shaft is also well-lubricated.
  • Grip not aligned correctly — Why it matters: This is a classic mistake that directly impacts your game. If the grip is twisted, your putter face will be off-square at impact, leading to directional control issues. — Fix: Take your time during installation. Line up any logos or markings precisely with the putter face before you start sliding the grip on. A quick check from above is essential.
  • Using the wrong kind of tape — Why it matters: Standard masking tape or duct tape won’t provide the right tackiness, thickness, or bonding properties. It might stretch or peel, ruining the installation. — Fix: Always use specialized double-sided golf grip tape. It’s designed for this exact purpose and is readily available at golf shops or online.
  • Not letting it cure long enough — Why it matters: The grip might feel stuck on, but the bond isn’t fully cured. This can lead to the grip slipping in your hands during a stroke or feeling squishy and unresponsive. — Fix: Patience is a virtue here. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for drying time, which is usually at least 24 hours for optimal results. Resist the urge to test it out too soon.
  • Over-tightening the vise clamp — Why it matters: Putter shafts, especially graphite ones, can be delicate. Overtightening can crush, crack, or permanently damage the shaft, rendering your putter useless. — Fix: Apply just enough pressure to hold the putter securely. The rubber clamp should create a firm grip without deforming the shaft. You should be able to wiggle the putter slightly if you pull hard, but it shouldn’t move during the regripping process.
  • Using the wrong solvent — Why it matters: Some solvents might not evaporate cleanly, leaving a residue that can affect the grip’s performance or longevity. Others might be too harsh and damage the grip material. — Fix: Stick with dedicated grip solvent or mineral spirits. These are proven to work effectively and safely with golf grips and tape. Avoid household cleaners or degreasers unless you’re absolutely sure they’re compatible.

FAQ

  • How often should I regrip my putter?

You should consider regripping your putter every 1-2 years, or whenever you notice wear, slippage, or a loss of tackiness. It really depends on how much you play, the conditions (like sweaty hands or playing in the rain), and how much you baby your flatstick. If it feels slick or you’re losing confidence, it’s time for a change.

  • What is the difference between a blade putter grip and a mallet putter grip?

Blade putter grips are generally thinner and more rounded, offering more feel and feedback. They often have a distinct taper. Mallet putter grips are typically larger and often flatter on the front, designed to reduce wrist action and promote a more stable, pendulum-like stroke. Some have a pistol shape, others are more paddle-like. The choice comes down to personal preference and your putting stroke style.

  • Can I use WD-40 instead of grip solvent?

While WD-40 might work in a pinch to help slide a grip on, it’s not ideal and not recommended for long-term use. WD-40 can leave an oily residue that might not evaporate cleanly and could potentially degrade the grip material over time. Grip solvent is specifically designed to evaporate cleanly, allowing the tape to bond properly and the grip to perform as intended. Stick with proper grip solvent or mineral spirits if you can.

  • How do I know if my putter grip needs replacing?

Feel is key. If it feels hard, slick, cracked, or if your hands slide around on it during your stroke, it’s definitely time for a change. Look for visible signs of wear, like shiny spots, worn-out textures, or small tears. A putter grip is your direct connection to the clubhead, so maintaining that connection is crucial for consistent putting.

  • Do I need a special vise for this?

A standard vise with a rubber shaft clamp is perfect. The clamp is essential because it protects your putter shaft from being damaged by the metal jaws of the vise. You don’t need anything fancy, just a reliable vise that can hold the club steady. Just don’t crank down on it too hard; firm but not crushing is the goal.

  • Can I reuse my old grip?

Generally, no. Once a grip is removed, it’s usually stretched and distorted. Trying to put it back on will likely result in a loose, sloppy fit that won’t perform well. Plus, the internal structure might be compromised. It’s always best to use a new grip for a fresh, secure feel.

  • How long does a regripped putter need to cure before I can use it?

Most grip manufacturers recommend letting the grip cure for at least 24 hours. This ensures the solvent has completely evaporated and the double-sided tape has formed a strong, permanent bond. While it might feel dry to the touch sooner, giving it a full day will prevent any potential slippage or issues down the line.

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