Which club fitting characteristic most influences a golfer's ability to control putt distances?

The ability to control putt distances is most influenced by swing weight, which refers to the feel of the club during the stroke. Swing weight affects how heavy or light the club feels in the hands, which can significantly impact how smoothly a golfer can bring the putter back and through, as well as their ability to make consistent strikes on the ball.

A properly balanced putter allows the golfer to have better feel and feedback, which is essential for assessing distance. If the swing weight is too light or too heavy, it can lead to a lack of control and inconsistency in distance judgment. This makes it difficult for the golfer to develop a reliable putting stroke that translates to accurate distance control.

Other characteristics, while important in general club fitting, do not have the same direct impact on distance control. Grip size is more about comfort and can influence how well a golfer can hold and manipulate the club during a swing. Shaft length can affect posture and alignment, while lie angle is more relevant for ensuring that the putter strikes the ball consistently on line. However, these factors do not primarily determine a golfer's ability to gauge and execute appropriate distances during putting.