L.A.B. Golf: The Science of the Forum Review
Putters

L.A.B. Golf: The Science of the Forum Review

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L.A.B. Golf: The Science of the Forum Review

“You’re a better putter than you think you are.” This tagline has become increasingly recognized as L.A.B. Golf’s putters appear more frequently on courses and professional tours. The key feature of these putters is the Lie Angle Balance technology designed to ensure the putter remains perfectly balanced according to each golfer’s unique lie angle. This balance is designed to eliminate torque, allowing golfers to focus purely on line and speed without worrying about manipulating the putter face.

Testing the DF3: Data in the lab

Our Forum members took a methodical, data-driven approach to testing the DF3, using advanced fitting technologies like Quintic and SAM PuttLab. These tools are highly regarded in the golf industry for providing detailed insights into putter performance, measuring everything from clubhead speed to shaft angle and the exact roll of the ball. This rigorous testing was crucial for objectively evaluating whether the DF3 could genuinely improve putting performance.

Quintic sample photo
Sam PuttLab sample photo

Is the DF3 plug and play?

L.A.B. promotes their putters as torque-free, meaning they don’t twist in your hands, a significant departure from traditional putters. Several testers found that adapting to this design required a period of adjustment. The DF3’s unique balance initially felt unfamiliar and some golfers needed time to adjust their stroke mechanics to fully benefit from the putter.

Sam Hahn, L.A.B.’s CEO, provided some insight into this adjustment process:
“While L.A.B. putters can be plug and play, oftentimes they require a bit of an adjustment. There are some fundamental setup changes… But the biggest change…is generally around the mentality…with a L.A.B. putter you just have to let it stay square, and this can tend to inspire some changes in grips, grip pressure, ball position, stance, things like that.”

This period of adjustment was crucial for the testers. While the transition was not always seamless, those who persevered found significant improvements in their putting performance, validating the putter’s unique design.

Testers’ experiences: The data tells the story

JBern’s journey

A 7.4 handicap golfer from Michigan, JBern was intrigued by the DF3’s scientific approach. However, the transition from his arm-lock putter was challenging. The DF3’s unique balance required a complete overhaul of his putting stroke, which initially led to frustration. Yet, once JBern adjusted, the benefits of the DF3 became evident in his performance metrics.

  • Before DF3: JBern averaged 34.1 putts per round, often feeling that putting was the weakest aspect of his game.
  • With DF3: After adapting to the DF3, his average putts per round dropped to 31.54.
  • Key Metrics: His one-putt percentage increased from 4.26 to 6.34 per round, while his three-putt percentage decreased from 2.28 to 1.89. Additionally, his make percentages from inside five feet (96.5%) and 10-15 feet (37.5%) reached “Tour-level” averages, although he acknowledged the need for further improvement in the five- to 10-foot range.

New putter, new story

Quote: “At first, the DF3 felt completely different from anything I’d used before. The lack of torque was almost disorienting, but as I adjusted my grip and stance, I started to see real improvements. The more I practiced, the more confident I became. Now, I set up to the ball knowing I’ve got a good chance to sink every putt.”

Additional Quote: “Comparing the data from the ‘Current Putter’ section above, my average putts per 18 holes decreased from 34.1 to 31.54. This puts me closely matching a 0 handicap golfer according to Arccos! I significantly increased the number of one putts per 18 holes from 4.26 to 6.34, which is also in line with a scratch handicap. My number of three putts per 18 holes decreased from 2.28 to 1.89.”

Final Thoughts: “Since using the LAB DF3, there is no doubt that I putt better. It was not an instant gamechanger for me… Once I made the changes, let the technology do the work, and put in a bit of practice, my confidence rose, and my performance improved.”

Mattwillgolf’s transition

A 28.5 handicap golfer from New York state, Mattwillgolf was particularly interested in improving his distance control with the DF3. He was coming from a heavy mallet-style putter and was fitted into a similarly heavy configuration of the DF3 to maintain a familiar feel. Testing the DF3 across various settings, including on-course on the Ex-Putt simulator and on a home putting green, he quickly noticed differences in performance.

  • SAM PuttLab Analysis: Early in the testing, Matt discovered he was missing the center of the face slightly towards the toe and was aiming 1.8 degrees closed with the DF3. Despite these initial findings, Matt felt confident his aim and consistency would improve as he became more familiar with the putter.
  • Key Metrics: The DF3’s superior distance control was particularly noticeable on longer putts, where Matt had previously struggled. The smoother feel and sound of the DF3 were significant improvements over his previous gamer, which he described as too firm and unforgiving.

Quote: “The DF3’s feel was a revelation. My old putter felt like a hammer, and I struggled with distance control. The DF3, on the other hand, felt incredibly smooth, and once I got used to it, I found that my misses were much closer to the hole. It’s not just about avoiding three-putts—it’s about giving myself a chance on every putt.”

Game changing improvements?

Additional Quote: “Before, I was inconsistent with distance control with my gamer. The feel was never quite right. It was just too firm for me. At times, the putter reminded me of a hammer striking a nail on longer putts. After, the feel of the DF3 still amazes me. My distance control is much improved. I now find my misses are closer to the hole.”

Final Thoughts: “My issue with putting now comes down to bad reads. I find myself saying ‘Good speed, bad read.’ The DF3 has taken the guesswork out of distance control.”

CFeddie’s data-driven insights

A 13 handicap golfer from Atlanta, CFeddie was committed to a rigorous, data-driven approach to testing the DF3. Initially, he was fitted into a 34-inch putter but was later recommended to use a longer 35-inch putter to better suit his 6’3” frame. Throughout the testing period, CFeddie meticulously tracked his performance using Arccos, The Stack Putting app and his Perfect Practice mat.

  • Arccos Data: His data revealed a noticeable improvement in his putting, particularly in his make percentage at eight feet where he almost doubled his success rate compared to his previous putter.
  • Key Metrics: The DF3’s impact was most significant in short-putt performance, an area that had been a weakness with his previous putter. Although the transition was initially frustrating, the results spoke for themselves once he adapted to the DF3.

Quote: “The first few rounds were tough. I was pushing everything right and couldn’t figure out why. But once I relaxed my grip and trusted the putter to stay square, things changed dramatically. My make percentage from 8 feet nearly doubled, and I started seeing more putts drop that would’ve missed with my old putter.”

Additional Quote: “At 8 feet, I almost doubled my make percentage with the DF3! In conclusion, these results speak for themselves. My only (small) knock is the time needed to ‘relearn’ putting—quite frankly, it was pretty frustrating at first, but I’m glad I stuck with it and the DF3, and I were able to turn a corner (and hopefully never look back).”

Final Thoughts: “Putting was always hit or miss for me, but the DF3 has brought a level of consistency that I never had before. It’s been a game-changer.”

CFhandyman’s analytical approach

A 4.9 handicap golfer from Oakville, Ont., CFhandyman approached the DF3 test with a healthy dose of skepticism. Already a strong putter, he wasn’t sure if the DF3 could outperform his well-fitted Evnroll. However, after extensive testing and a few adjustments to his stroke, he found the DF3 offered tangible benefits.

  • Pre-testing: With his Evnroll, he averaged 31.3 putts per round, with a one-putt rate of 5.4 and a three-putt rate of 0.7 per round.
  • Post-testing: After 45+ rounds with the DF3, his average putts per round dropped to 30.2, and he saw a positive 0.8 Strokes Gained difference. The DF3 also performed exceptionally well in controlled Quintic Ball Roll tests, surpassing the Evnroll in several key areas.
  • Key Metrics: CFhandyman noted a significant increase in confidence on short putts (4-6 feet), a crucial range for improving his overall scores.

Quote: “The DF3 wasn’t an immediate success. My first few rounds were frustrating, and I seriously considered switching back to my Evnroll. But I stuck with it, made a few tweaks, and the results started coming in. My confidence inside 6 feet is through the roof now. It’s almost like the putter is doing the work for me.”

Additional Quote: “Lab rat [DF3] knocked it out of the park on putter testing on Quintic and was highly recommended by my fitter. It also easily passed the eyeball test on course as well as long-term data to back it up.”

Final Thoughts: “After 45+ rounds with L.A.B. DF3, I can confidently say it has resulted in a significant increase in confidence, particularly in short-range putts. In the crucial 4 to 6 foot putts, I’ve gone from ‘I’m pretty sure I’ll make this’ to ‘I’m annoyed if I don’t make it.’”

Michael Riley’s experiment

Michael Riley, a 9.8 handicap golfer from Michigan, is an avid putter collector who tested the DF3 against his Evnroll Midlock and Edel EAS 4.0. He approached the test with a meticulous plan, collecting data from over 432 putts using ExPutt, Blast Motion and HackMotion sensors. The DF3 showed its strengths in consistency and short putts even if it didn’t dominate every category.

  • ExPutt Data: The DF3 was particularly strong on short putts where GolfSpy MPR noticed a significant improvement in face angle consistency and distance control.
  • Key Metrics: The DF3 excelled in helping him improve his performance on short to medium-length putts, which had been a primary area of focus.

Quote: “I’m a data guy, so I was looking for hard evidence. The DF3 didn’t win every category, but it shone where it mattered most—short putts. The consistency of my stroke improved, and I saw fewer big misses. It’s now my go-to putter, and I’m confident it’ll help me drop my handicap even further.”

Additional Quote: “Objectively, using Arccos’s evaluation of my SG, I am a slightly better putter with the DF3 than I was before the DF3. I remain convinced that the DF3 does precisely what L.A.B. claims for it, not only in its balance and stability through the stroke but also in the ease of alignment.”

Final Thoughts: “My L.A.B. now owns the putter slot in my bag, and I’m confident that it’s going to be a key part of lowering my scores.”

Conclusion: Is the L.A.B. DF3 worth it?

After months of rigorous testing, our Forum members unanimously agreed that the L.A.B. DF3 made them better putters. While the adjustment period varied, the long-term benefits were clear. The DF3’s innovative design and technology significantly improved putting performance, particularly for those willing to adapt their strokes.

The data supports L.A.B.’s claims and the testers’ experiences offer compelling evidence that the DF3 can be a gamechanger for golfers of all levels. Whether you’re a high-handicapper looking to improve consistency or a low-handicapper seeking that extra edge, the L.A.B. DF3 might be the perfect addition to your bag.

For a more detailed look at each tester’s journey, head over to the Forum to read the full reviews and see how the DF3 could improve your game.

L.A.B. DF3 Putter Full Reviews

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Matt Swanson is a guy who can quote Anchorman and Dumb & Dumber, but also discuss the finer points of fine art and musical theater. When not trying to film silly videos with his wife and two kids, Matt's likely to be on the course, convincing himself he's worth of his single-digit 'cap. Come say hi on the MyGolfSpy Forum - his username is "GolfSpy SAM".

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      Coulter

      1 month ago

      Great write up and work by the testers!

      Reply

      JSK

      1 month ago

      I purchased the LAB DF3 and I was fitted at a local golf shop. The fitting showed that the putters I was using were the wrong length. The lie angle also was off. Once I started putting with the correct fitting the roll was better and the club laid flat on the ground. I didn’t feel like I was fighting the stroke because it’s better balanced. I have all the top putters and you can’t discard getting fitted. When you allow the putter to swing back and forth without manipulating the swing your accuracy improves and you make more putts.

      Reply

      Paul

      1 month ago

      I too believed the hype. I Like the brand and CEO. Mezz Max for a year & a Link 1 after LAB advised to change into after I consulted LAB about my lack of progress. I’ve never been a bad putter BTW.
      Almost 2 years of practice and focus and changes made. It only got worse and worse.
      Mezz is a dog for distace control, and on short puts. Link just does not respond to “just straight up and down’, maybe its the design.
      Anyhow, back to the Rossie and back to the reliable putting of the old days

      Reply

      George

      1 month ago

      Thank you everyone. Has anyone used it with a “Belly Putter”??

      Reply

      Mike F

      1 month ago

      used to putt with the Phantom Scotty center shaft, averaged 33.8 putts per round. Since the MEZZ 1 averaging 30.2 per round….had the Mezz since March. I am amazed on the consistency of the roll and the tight dispersion to the line! A TRUE BELIEVER !

      Reply

      Kuso

      1 month ago

      Unless you can somehow anti-torque your own shoulders, arms, wrists and hands, it really doesn’t matter what you use. We’re seeing the typical honeymoon boost in adrenaline and the DESIRE to commit to the change for the new thing, when we see people say they reduced their putting numbers by a few strokes, JUST BECAUSE they are wanting to make it better, just because they are TRYING a bit more, paying attention a bit more.
      That’s why I’ve never understood that device they use to spin the putter to show that it’s supposedly zero torque, when my OWN BODY, the way my arms are connected to my shoulders and the hands to my arms – don’t work like that at all.
      So whatever “adjustments” everybody makes to ANYTHING outside of our own bodies – like buying a new car and getting used the way it bounces on bumps and the way the body adjusts to the new seats etc – is just that – adjustment period – doesn’t mean it’ll make you putt any better.
      The other thing we need to know from these tests, is what green speeds were they, what kind of grass, was it dry or wet, were the greens rolled, where were the pins placed, do these players know the course well at all.
      Can we see a side-by-side difference between their old putter and the new ones, as far as weights, lengths, face and lie angles, grip sizes and shapes, how “different” are their set ups with the new ones, how were they lined up with their old ones etc etc.
      We just watched Adam Scott with the pendulum putter at the President Cup miss all sorts of mid to short and very short putts, with this same LAB tech. And he’s a Tour Pro who practices all the time wit the things, and he’s using a pendulum!!!!
      I doubt there’s anything in the way the putter works over time that would make any difference to anybody when their own bodies would feel different month to month just with any other club in the bag or even their shoes

      Reply

      Kuso

      1 month ago

      Oh and before anybody chirps in and say that “well, it’s Adam Scott he’s never been a good putter” – well????? How does that help any of you who aren’t on Tour or a Pro any place????
      LOL

      Reply

      KR

      1 month ago

      you are far and away the most negative person on this site, the vast majority of your comments are asinine.

      Kuso

      1 month ago

      You mean I am not bamboozled by hype and advertising and what other people say 😂
      I am not sheep 🐑
      I am scientist. I need practical, empirical numbers in real world situations over a decent period of time to create a genuine data set

      Dom D

      1 month ago

      Kuso isn’t wrong, but neither is Tony or KR…been a Mezz Max Heavy Armlock user since March of 2023. Played in a US Senior Open Qualifier in 2023 and a former tour pro who i was paired with told me: “I’ve never seen anyone putt better than you.” I won my club championship in August of this year with the same putter. By September I’m putting so bad, including yipping shorties, that tomorrow’s round will be with an Odyssey Armlock. The L.A.B science is spot on. But the idea that we are human is also true. Same reason why purists don’t want computers calling balls and strikes, because the human touch matters and provides variables and vulnerabilities. L.A.B minimizes them, but nothing other than Iron Byron will take nerves and mental pressures out of your stroke.

      Tony

      1 month ago

      Hard to respond to a person who already knows everything, but I do have a LAB putter & my putting has improved. No stats other than two of the guys are I play with are getting one and a third is highly considering it after playing with me & watching me make a lot of putts. Bottomline is it works!

      Reply

      ParkerGolfer

      1 month ago

      Totally agree, my putting has improved after getting the DF2.1. The guys I regularly play with have all commented on looking at switching based on the improvements in my putting. Also started using Aim point. Both have helped out tremendously

      A

      1 month ago

      Interesting take. If you had the task of designing a putter for the first time, and no putter had ever existed, would you prefer one with zero torque or not? If as you say it doesn’t matter, then I ask whether you believe in traditional torque profile fitting…

      Reply

      Lisle W.

      1 month ago

      Great reviews!

      Reply

      Josh P

      1 month ago

      Great info and LAB has been popping up all over the place in the golf world

      Reply

      ParkerGolf

      1 month ago

      Ricky Fowler switched recently. He was using the same putter as Keegan and Clark. Wonder how that cam about

      Reply

      Chris Freitag

      1 month ago

      Fabulous and insightful review

      Reply

      ejg

      1 month ago

      Love seeing the data driven performance of a product like this to follow on after the press release hype dies down

      Reply

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