L.A.B. Golf’s Game-Changer: The New OZ.1i HS Putter

So, guess what? L.A.B. Golf has flipped the script on putters by introducing a new model that isn’t center-shafted! Yep, you heard right! The “HS” in the OZ.1i HS stands for “heel-shafted.” This bold move has raised a lot of eyebrows, but does it mean they’ve ditched their signature Lie Angle Balance technology? Absolutely not!

Before we dive into this new heel-shafted marvel, let’s give you the scoop on what makes L.A.B. Golf’s Lie Angle Balanced putters different from others out there.

What’s the Deal with Lie Angle Balance?

A common misconception rolling around is that L.A.B. Golf putters have zero torque. But that’s not the whole picture. They actually do have torque — which is crucial for squaring the putter head during your stroke. Think about it: if they were truly zero-torque, you could balance the head at any position, and that’s just not how it works.

Instead, these putters are designed to achieve the right torque profile at a specific lie angle. If you mess with that, you’ll need different weights to keep it balanced. Here’s the cool part: every single putter L.A.B. Golf makes is hand-balanced. That’s right! This attention to detail means no two putters are alike, ensuring your club feels just right in your hands.

Time to Talk About the OZ.1i HS

Alright, let’s finally get into the nitty-gritty of the OZ.1i HS. The switch to a heel-shafted design required L.A.B. Golf to rethink their balancing approach. What you’re holding is a putter that’s not only different in looks but also in feel. Picture this: Grab a pen and hold it from the middle. Pretty balanced, right? Now hold it from the end, and watch it tip away. That’s the difference L.A.B. has tackled here with their new design!

Meet the HS Riser System

Unlike traditional putters that use a "hosel," L.A.B. calls this putter’s shaft attachment a "riser." You might wonder why that matters. Well, to achieve that Lie Angle Balance, they needed to position shafts at varying angles while keeping them pointed at the same place on the putter head. Each angle needs a different riser length – longer risers push higher angles toward the center, while shorter ones handle lower angles.

This clever engineering lets you customize your putter while still benefiting from L.A.B. Golf’s unique technologies. It’s pretty groundbreaking if you ask me!

Why the Heel-Shafted Move?

So, why go through all this hassle? Speculation alert: L.A.B. likely wanted to design a more classic-looking putter. Their center-shafted models have unique designs that some golfers find hard to get behind. Some folks just aren’t fans of those quirky designs, even if they’re technically impressive.

The new OZ.1i HS keeps all the tech that golfers love but offers a more traditional aesthetic. With a more classic look, the HS aims to attract golfers seeking performance without compromising on style.

Getting Fitted with the OZ.1i HS

A few weeks ago, I visited L.A.B. Golf’s HQ in Creswell, Oregon, and it was a treat! They offer fitting sessions that are crucial, especially since the lie angle matters greatly for this putter. I went through a fitting process, and it was fascinating to see just how precise they can get with the measurements.

They even offer a free remote fitting service, making it easy for folks to get accurate information quickly. It’s kind of neat knowing you can get fitted correctly from the comfort of your home!

Customization Galore

One of the cool things about L.A.B. Golf is all the customization options you can choose from. Beyond shaft length, the alignment markings are well thought out. You can opt for various thicknesses and designs to make your putter truly yours.

I went for a classic racing stripe alignment scheme that mirrors vintage muscle cars. And while I initially had my heart set on purple, I ended up choosing a stylish blue instead!

Comparing the New OZ.1i HS with the Original

Even though the new OZ.1i HS and the original OZ.1i share a name, they play differently. The repositioned shaft and tweaks to the head geometry change the game. Personally, I found the HS more enjoyable to play with.

Not only does the alignment feel more intuitive, but the entire experience is better. The thin top edge of the HS makes it easier to focus on your target, compared to the bulkier original version.

New Shaft Options

Oh, and let’s chat about the new Diamana shaft option! L.A.B. Golf introduced a couple of new shafts that fall neatly between the stiffest and the most flexible. The only way to find the right fit for your game? Take them for a spin! Remember, the price tag doesn’t always define which shaft will suit your style.

Why You’ll Fall for the OZ.1i HS

Honestly, when I first saw the OZ.1i HS, my reaction was a bit ‘meh.’ But once I got my hands on it? Game changer! The shift to a heel-shaft and all that balance engineering made a world of difference in feel and performance.

If you’ve got the original and love it, no need to change. But if you were on the fence before, the OZ.1i HS might be the blend of tech and look you’ve been waiting for.

L.A.B. Golf is clearly committed to innovation, and I, for one, can’t wait to see what they’ll come up with next — as long as they include some purple options!

You can explore both stock and custom models over at LabGolf.com. Trust me, this putter is worth every ounce of your attention; it may just change the way you think about putting.