Tips for Putting on Fast Greens

Fast greens can test even the most experienced golfers. With slick, quick surfaces, putts require precision, a soft touch and a solid understanding of how speed and slope affect the ball’s path. A slight misjudgment can lead to a missed opportunity — or a dreaded three-putt. Here are tips to help navigate fast greens with confidence and control.

Prioritize Speed ControlSpeed is the most important factor when putting on fast greens. Because the ball rolls farther with less force, golfers must focus on pace rather than power. A putt hit too firmly can run well past the hole, while one struck too softly may stop short and leave a tricky second putt.

Use a smooth, compact stroke to control speed. Many players benefit from a shorter backswing with a steady follow-through. Practicing from various distances will help fine-tune your feel.

Lag putting drills can also help. Try aiming to stop the ball within a three-foot circle around the hole from longer distances. This can improve both speed awareness and confidence in avoiding three-putts.

Read the Green ThoroughlyBreaks and slopes are more pronounced on fast greens, making green reading even more critical. Study the putt from multiple angles and pay attention to the grain, contours and elevation changes.

Look for the high point of the green — it often indicates the direction of the break. On slick surfaces, downhill putts will break more sharply and require an extra-light touch. Uphill putts may still be quick but will generally break less.

Visualizing the full path of the putt — from the face of your putter to the hole — can help commit to a line and speed, improving consistency.

Use a Light Grip and Steady StrokeTension is your enemy on fast greens. A tight grip can lead to a jerky or rushed stroke. Instead, use a lighter grip pressure to promote a more relaxed, rhythmic motion.

A smooth, pendulum-like stroke powered by your shoulders — not your hands — often produces the best results. Keep your wrists quiet and your tempo steady. Focus on staying still through the stroke, especially with your head and eyes.

Staying balanced and centered promotes better contact and roll, both of which are crucial on fast greens.

Adopt a Smart, Patient ApproachPutting on fast greens requires mental discipline. While staying confident is important, so is knowing when to play conservatively. Rather than going aggressively at every putt, aim to leave yourself in position for an easy second putt — especially on long or sharply breaking attempts.

Patience is also key. Fast greens can be frustrating, and it's easy to lose focus after a miss. Stay composed, stick to your process and trust your read and stroke.

The Bottom LinePutting on fast greens demands touch, precision and a calm mindset. By focusing on speed control, reading greens carefully, maintaining a soft grip and smooth stroke, and approaching each putt with smart strategy, you’ll improve both your confidence and results on quick surfaces.

Fast greens are a challenge, but they also offer a chance to elevate your putting game. Embrace the test — and with practice, it can become a strength.