Grain
Shot Types
Explained Simply
The direction the grass blades on the green grow. Putting with the grain is faster; putting against it is slower.
Example
“Bermuda grass greens in the South often have heavy grain. If the grass looks shiny (toward you), you're putting into the grain — the putt will be slower.”
Why it matters
Grain can be as important as slope for pace. Ignore it and you'll often leave short or blow putts past the hole.
Common beginner mistake
Not factoring in grain, especially on Bermuda grass courses common in warmer climates.
Related
casual
Shot Types
Related
- Read (Reading the Green)Assessing the slope, grain, and surface of the green to predict which direction your putt will curve (break).
- BreakThe curved path a putt travels due to the slope of the green. A putt 'breaks' (turns) toward the low side of the green.
- Green (Putting Green)The closely mowed area of grass surrounding the hole where you putt. The hole (cup) is always on the green.
