Top picks: Odyssey DFX and Odyssey Microhinge lead the best soft feel insert putters.
Picture this: you're on the 18th green, a two-putt for par, and the harsh click of a thin-faced putter makes you doubt the line and pace. A soft feel insert putter soothes that worry. It gives a muted sound, a plush feel, and a more forgiving roll. I’ve spent years testing putters and found that the best soft feel insert putters calm nerves, help pace control, and improve consistency on short putts for golfers of all skill levels.
Odyssey DFX Putter(Right-Handed, 2 Ball,…
DFX Insert – Our softest insert for golfers who want smooth feel and roll Premium Black Finish – A stealthy all-black head design from the body of the putter to…
Cleveland Golf HB Soft 2…
Speed Optimized Face Technology A dynamic groove milling pattern on the face of every HB SOFT 2 Putter, SOFT normalizes ball speed across an enlarged striking area—ensuring more consistent, predictable…
Odyssey Golf Microhinge Putter (Right,…
Our Best Rolling Insert Ever. The Microhinge insert delivers a soft feel and unbelievable forward roll. The hinges in this insert get the ball rolling with immediate topspin. Versa Alignment….
Odyssey DFX 2-Ball (34″)
I first picked up the Odyssey DFX 2-Ball and felt the soft insert instantly. The face insert gives a plush impact that damps sound without losing feedback. The classic two-ball alignment is easy to set up behind the ball. The oversized grip helps my hands stay quiet through the stroke.
On the green the ball rolls out smoothly. I noticed fewer skids and more true starts. The head shape and alignment make it a forgiving choice for mid-handicap players. If you want a reliable soft feel insert putter that reads greens well, this model stands out.
Pros:
- Soft face insert reduces harsh feedback on mishits
- Two-ball alignment aids setup and aim
- Oversized grip promotes a stable stroke
- Stable roll with reduced skidding on short putts
- Trusted brand with a proven design
Cons:
- May feel too soft for players who prefer firmer feedback
- Large head can be bulky for players who like blade shapes
- Limited loft options out of the box
My Recommendation
I recommend the Odyssey DFX 2-Ball for golfers who want a forgiving putter with a soft face insert. I find it best for mid-handicappers and golfers who need alignment help. The soft insert improves feel and pace, making it one of the best soft feel insert putters for calm, consistent putting.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Mid-handicap golfers | Alignment aid and forgiving head boost consistency |
| Players who prefer soft feel | Soft insert dampens sound and shock at impact |
| Those preferring oversized grips | Grip size reduces wrist action and improves pendulum stroke |
Cleveland HB Soft 2 (Model 11) 35″
The Cleveland HB Soft 2 Model 11 puts comfort first. I liked the soft elastomer insert that gives a plush feel while keeping roll tight. The head is compact but forgiving. The center shaft keeps the stroke straightforward and repeatable.
I used this putter on smooth and slightly grainy greens. The HB Soft 2 delivered consistent pace control. I saw improved distance control on lag putts and a calm feel on tap-ins. It’s a solid contender among the best soft feel insert putters.
Pros:
- Elastomer insert for gentle impact and soft sound
- Compact mallet design blends forgiveness with control
- Center shaft helps a straight-back-straight-through stroke
- Good distance control on long putts
- Lightweight feel that suits controlled strokes
Cons:
- May lack the alignment aids some players want
- Soft insert can hide subtle strike feedback for advanced players
- Slightly higher price than basic models
My Recommendation
I recommend the Cleveland HB Soft 2 Model 11 for players who want soft feedback without losing control. I find it best for players who use a straight stroke and need dependable pace. This model ranks among the best soft feel insert putters for calm distance control.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Straight-stroke players | Center shaft supports an even stroke path |
| Players wanting soft touch | Elastomer insert gives a quiet, soft hit |
| Lag-putt specialists | Stable roll aids distance control on longer putts |
Odyssey Microhinge One (34″)
The Odyssey Microhinge One blends a soft insert with a microhinge face. I noticed the ball lifts quickly and starts rolling faster. The insert keeps the sound muted. The head shape suits players who prefer a slight face-balanced feel.
On tight short putts the Microhinge One gave me a smooth, consistent roll. I liked the crisp, yet soft contact. The microhinge tech helps reduce skidding and promote topspin right from impact. It is a top pick among the best soft feel insert putters for players wanting quick roll.
Pros:
- Microhinge face promotes fast forward roll
- Soft insert keeps sound pleasant and impact forgiving
- Crank hosel gives a neutral to slight toe hang
- Great on greens with variable speed
- Secure feel with consistent ball start
Cons:
- May be too modern-looking for traditionalists
- Higher learning curve for players new to microhinge tech
- Not ideal for those who prefer heavy toe hang
My Recommendation
I recommend the Odyssey Microhinge One for players who want a quick, true roll with a soft face. I find it best for players who want to reduce skid and get immediate forward spin. This putter is clearly among the best soft feel insert putters for precise green starts.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Players wanting quick roll | Microhinge tech reduces skid and starts roll early |
| Control-focused players | Soft insert with tech improves pace control |
| Those who enjoy modern designs | Contemporary head shapes and face tech |
Odyssey DFX Seven (35″)
The Odyssey DFX Seven is a classic mallet with a soft insert that calms touch. I like the rounded shape that blends alignment and forgiveness. The oversized grip steadies my hands and helps me make smooth strokes. The insert keeps the ball’s first movement gentle.
I tested the DFX Seven on quick and slow greens. It offered a steady, muted feel and predictable roll. The design helps less consistent strokes stay on line. For golfers chasing feel and forgiveness, it’s one of the best soft feel insert putters on the market.
Pros:
- Large mallet head for forgiveness and stability
- Soft face insert reduces harsh feedback
- Oversized grip keeps hands quiet during stroke
- Reliable alignment cues for confident setup
- Consistent ball start across the face
Cons:
- May feel heavy for players who like lightweight heads
- Mallet profile may not suit blade purists
- Limited adjustable features
My Recommendation
I recommend the Odyssey DFX Seven for golfers who want forgiveness with a soft touch. I find it best for those who struggle with off-center hits and need a stable head. It ranks high among the best soft feel insert putters for dependable starts and calm acoustics.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Forgiveness seekers | Large head reduces twist on off-center hits |
| Players wanting muted impact | Insert dampens sound and shock |
| Those preferring mallet shapes | Mallet design aids alignment and stability |
Odyssey Microhinge Seven (33″)
The Odyssey Microhinge Seven brings microhinge tech to a slant neck setup. I liked how quickly the ball settled into forward roll. The soft insert keeps noise low and feel tidy. The slant neck adds a touch of toe hang for arc players.
I tested it on multi-speed greens, and it performed well across the board. The microhinge insert reduced skids and promoted true roll. If you prefer a slight arc and want a soft touch, this model is a smart pick among the best soft feel insert putters.
Pros:
- Microhinge insert boosts immediate forward roll
- Soft face reduces sound, enhancing feel
- Slant neck offers slight toe hang for arc strokes
- Stable performance on different green speeds
- Good balance between modern tech and classic feel
Cons:
- Not ideal for strictly straight-stroke players
- May be too specialized for beginners
- Slightly shorter length choices limit taller players
My Recommendation
I recommend the Odyssey Microhinge Seven for arc stroke players who want softer hits and fast roll. I find it best for golfers who need a blend of tech and feel. It stands out as one of the best soft feel insert putters for players who like roll control with a softer strike.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Arc stroke players | Slant neck gives gentle toe hang |
| Players wanting fast roll | Microhinge promotes early forward spin |
| Those preferring subtle sound | Soft insert reduces harsh impact noise |
Cleveland HB Soft 2 (Model 8) 35″
The Cleveland HB Soft 2 Model 8 is a balanced option for steady putting. I liked the soft insert that keeps feel plush while maintaining roll quality. The center shaft adds simplicity to the stroke. The head geometry helps on both straight and slightly arcing strokes.
I tried it across a variety of green speeds and saw dependable results. The soft face lets you focus on speed and line without distractions. For those hunting comfort and control, the HB Soft 2 Model 8 is a strong member of the best soft feel insert putters family.
Pros:
- Comfortable elastomer insert for a quiet, soft hit
- Balanced head suits multiple stroke styles
- Clear alignment lines to improve aim
- Good pace control on lag putts
- Light overall weight for players preferring finesse
Cons:
- Less dramatic alignment aids than some mallets
- Soft insert might reduce strike feel for elite players
- Limited finish choices
My Recommendation
I recommend the Cleveland HB Soft 2 Model 8 for golfers seeking a soft, controlled feel with straightforward setup. I find it best for those who want calm impact and consistent pace. It’s a reliable choice among the best soft feel insert putters for players who value comfort and dependability.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Players wanting simple setup | Center shaft reduces setup variables |
| Comfort-first golfers | Elastomer insert softens impact and sound |
| Lag-putt conscious players | Pace control keeps long putts closer to the hole |
FAQs Of best soft feel insert putters
What is a soft feel insert putter and why choose one?
A soft feel insert putter uses a softer material in the face. It reduces harsh sound and dampens shock. I pick these to get better touch and calm feedback on the greens. Many players find it easier to control pace with softer inserts.
Do soft feel inserts affect roll and distance?
Yes. A good soft insert reduces skidding and helps start forward roll sooner. I often see smoother roll and better distance control on lag putts. The best soft feel insert putters balance softness with a true roll.
Which stroke type benefits most from soft inserts?
Both straight and slight-arc strokes can benefit. I recommend center-shafted soft insert putters for straight strokes. For arc strokes, choose an insert with a slant or toe-hang design. The best soft feel insert putters come in shapes to suit both strokes.
How do I choose the right loft and length?
Match loft to your putting setup angle and keep the putter length so your eyes sit over the ball. I use 33–35 inches for most players and adjust loft to achieve square impact. The best soft feel insert putters are available in several lengths and lofts to match you.
Are soft feel insert putters durable?
Yes, modern inserts are durable. I recommend wiping the face after rounds to keep grit away from the insert. With care, the best soft feel insert putters last many seasons while keeping consistent feel.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want a forgiving putter with calm sound and true roll, the Odyssey DFX models are my top picks. For players who prefer a compact head and soft touch, the Cleveland HB Soft 2 models are excellent.
For faster forward roll and reduced skid, the Odyssey Microhinge options shine. Overall, the best soft feel insert putters on this list cover a wide range of needs, from alignment help to quick roll and plush feel. Choose based on stroke type and feel preference.
