A putting putter is chosen around your putting motion and preferred feel, while a throwing putter is used for approaches or short drives. These are playing roles rather than separate equipment classes, and manufacturers market some putter molds for both putting and approach shots.
Choose a putter around the job you need and the way the mold feels in your hand. Putting and throwing putters are role descriptions rather than a fixed split between molds; some manufacturers explicitly market a mold for putting and approach shots.
Compare the roles
| Role | What to decide |
|---|---|
| Putting | Choose a mold whose rim and feel suit your putting grip and repeatable release. |
| Throwing | Compare the manufacturer’s approach or short-drive description and flight notes. |
| Both roles | Check whether the mold is sold for putt-and-approach use, then decide if one feel works for your routine. |
Innova describes its putt-and-approach category as providing control for short drives and midrange shots. Discraft also groups models under “Putt and Approach” and publishes individual mold specifications. Those labels help identify intended use, but do not make every mold behave the same.
One mold or two?
One mold can keep the grip familiar across putts and approaches. A second mold can make sense when you want a different feel or a different maker-described flight for throwing. There is no required number; compare the role each disc fills before adding another.
Check the exact mold details
Read the model’s own flight notes, dimensions or profile where the manufacturer provides them. Compare plastic choices and available weights on the exact product page, since options differ by mold. Use the flight number explanation from that same brand when comparing discs.
Related guides
Official sources
Checked November 4, 2026.
Common questions
What is the difference between a putting putter and a throwing putter?
The labels describe how a player uses a putter mold. Some molds are marketed for both putting and approach shots, so check the manufacturer’s description and the role you want it to fill.
Can I use one putter for putting and throwing?
Yes, a single mold can be used in both roles if its feel and flight suit your choices. Manufacturers list putt-and-approach molds, but the final split depends on the player's preferences.
Should my throwing putter be a different plastic?
Compare the maker’s plastic options for the same mold and choose by the feel and product details you prefer. Plastic names and availability differ by manufacturer.