Unveiling Vice Golf's New Putters

Vice Golf, a brand widely recognized for its premium golf balls, has ventured into the realm of golf clubs with the release of their new VGP01 and VGP02 putters. In a detailed video review on the H.I.T GOLF channel, hosted by Rick Shiels, these putters are put through rigorous testing to evaluate their design, feel, and performance on the greens. The video, posted on October 17, 2024, offers an insightful look into whether these new offerings from Vice Golf can compete in the highly competitive putter market.

Design Breakdown of VGP01 and VGP02

Starting with the VGP01, the video highlights its classic blade-style design, which appeals to golfers who prefer a traditional look at address. The putter features a sleek finish and precise alignment aids, crafted to inspire confidence during setup. Moving to the VGP02, this model showcases a mallet-style head, offering a higher moment of inertia for added forgiveness on off-center strikes. Both putters are equipped with CNC-milled faces, which Vice Golf claims enhances feel and consistency in ball roll.

Performance Testing on the Greens

During the performance segment around the halfway point of the video, the host tests both putters on a variety of putts, ranging from short tap-ins to longer lag putts. The VGP01 demonstrates a soft yet responsive feel, providing excellent feedback on each stroke. Its design seems tailored for players with an arcing stroke, allowing for precise control over the ball's path. On the other hand, the VGP02 impresses with its stability, particularly on mishits, making it a potential game-changer for golfers seeking consistency over aesthetics.

Feel and Sound Comparison

Towards the latter part of the review, around the 8-minute mark, attention shifts to the auditory and tactile feedback of each putter. The VGP01 produces a crisp sound at impact, which pairs well with its firm feel, giving golfers a clear sense of connection with the ball. Conversely, the VGP02 offers a slightly muted sound, which might appeal to those who prefer a softer impact sensation. This difference in feedback could influence a golfer’s choice depending on personal preference for sensory input during play.

Final Thoughts on Value and Fit

The video wraps up with a discussion on the overall value and target audience for these putters. Both the VGP01 and VGP02 are positioned as high-quality options that don't carry the hefty price tag of some premium brands, aligning with Vice Golf's reputation for affordability without sacrificing performance. The VGP01 might suit golfers with a more traditional approach, while the VGP02 could be ideal for those prioritizing forgiveness and stability in their putting game.