Ping G5i Craz-E Putter Review

When it comes to Ping, the first thing that crosses most people's mind is their putter line. They are by far the most well established putter manufacturer in the industry, boasting designs that have been replicated by every other manufacturer. Ping broke their own mold when it came to the Craz-E putter, a goofy looking mallet putter that drew strange looks where ever it was played. I am an assistant PGA Pro and am constantly being asked about putters and what style should be used, I always answer that comfort and feel are the most important parts of putting, it boils down to personal preference. This aside, I'll tell about my personal experience with the G5i Craz-E putter and how it stacked up to my expectations.

The G5i Craz-E Putter is no different; it still has the flat, square shaped mallet with a semi circular tail. There are several differences between the G2i and G5i versions; the most substantial is the dual durometer insert. The outer layer is the same insert as in the G2i putter with a firmer insert in the center. This insert is designed to provide the soft feel of the original putter but also to provide some audible feedback to the player. It follows along the lines of the White Steel putter from Odyssey. Ping has also updated the grip, going with a dual textured Winn grip that has just the right level of tackiness and softness to feel comfortable in your hands. The alignment aid is slightly enhanced as well, with the crescent shaped top rail and dual colored top insert make it easy to square the face to the target. I tried the double bend with a full shaft offset; it is also available in a plumber neck, center shaft, belly, and long shaft options. Corresponding with the release of the G5i putter line, Ping has also sent out a fitting putter to all of their licensed accounts, it is the first self fitting putter system in the industry, you can determine the perfect length and lie angle for your putter.

Now when it comes to how the club performs on the course, I spent a few hours on the practice green and tried to get used to the feel and roll of the Craz-E. The first thing that I noticed was that the putter head lined up immediately when placed on the ground. The alignment aid and the putter head frame the ball very nicely at address. The only thing that I can say negative about this putter is that it is a little too light for my liking, I prefer a heavier putter and with the Monza Corza from Taylor Made, you can alter the weight of the putter through the interchangeable weights.