Odyssey Stroke Lab Black putters Review

The first Stroke Lab Black Putters, Ten and Bird of Prey, both super-high MOI mallets, were introduced in the fall of 2019.

But new models unveiled in January include two proven blades, ONE and Double Wide; two proven mallets, SEVEN and Rossie; and a new mallet shape, the R-Line Arrow.

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In addition to their sleek black finish, Stroke Lab Black Putters also feature Odyssey’s new Microhinge Star insert, with firmer feel and brighter sound while promoting forward-spin at impact for smooth roll.

Stroke Lab shaft technology saves 40 grams, made possible by an innovative new multi-material shaft design that combines a graphite body with a steel tip to net out at just 75 grams. Odyssey engineers redistributed the saved 40 grams by adding 10 grams to the head, and 30 grams to the grip, essentially rebalancing the putter.

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The effect of Stroke Lab’s innovative weight distribution on a golfer’s stroke is dramatic. Odyssey studies indicate it improves the consistency of backswing length, face-angle at impact, head speed through impact and tempo. Feel for the putterhead becomes more acute, helping the golfer repeat the same, smooth stroke time after time.

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Dozens of Tour pros have put Stroke Lab Putters in play, including Phil Mickelson, Xander Schauffele, Francesco Molinari, Danny Willett, Branden Grace, Adam Hadwin, Kevin Kisner and Retief Goosen.

The entire line including Stroke Lab Black TEN, Bird of Prey, ONE, Double Wide, SEVEN, Rossie R-Line Arrow will be available at retail in Europe from January 30, 2020.

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Verdict: Odyssey Stroke Lab Black R-line Arrow

Odyssey are masters at reinventing tour-proven head shapes with a new insert, new alignment or new shaft tech. But the R-line Arrow is a brand new model for 2020 and we loved it, and can see it becoming a firm favourite in future line-ups.

The good sized head is teamed with a long, single sightline and an arrow-shaped cavity which pushes focus on to your intended impact location. We loved the smaller Stroke Lab Pistol grip, too; it’s sharper, more defined edges sit better in the creases of your hands, giving a much better sense of control over the putter.

For us the slightly firmer Microhinge star insert will also be good for putting on UK greens year-round. This was the only mallet our test pro wanted to keep for himself.