What Is Stimp in Golf

Introduction to Golf Courses and Stimp

Lets get real, when you play golf the putting green plays a vital role in your score. The speed at which a golf ball rolls on the putting surface—known as green speed—can drastically affect the outcome of a putt. To measure this speed accurately, golf course superintendents use a simple device called a stimpmeter.

The stimpmeter features a V-shaped groove that guides the ball in a straight, consistent manner. It resembles a yardstick, usually 36 inches long, with a notch near one end that holds the ball. When the device is slowly raised, the ball releases from the notch and rolls down the groove at a known velocity.

Golf courses rely on stimpmeter readings to determine how fast their greens are and to make adjustments to maintain consistent play. This tool is a crucial tool for maintaining fair and competitive conditions, and it's widely accepted by the United States Golf Association (USGA).

History and Development of Stimpmeter

The stimpmeter was created in the 1930s by Edward Stimpson, a former amateur golfer who wanted to standardize the way green speeds were evaluated. Originally crafted from wood, the device was later refined and made from aluminum for more precise use.

The USGA acceptance of the stimpmeter came in 1976, officially endorsing it as the standard for measuring green speed. Since then, it has become a staple on golf courses worldwide, especially during professional tournaments where consistency is key.

Over time, notable figures like Frank Thomas, a former technical director at the USGA, have contributed to the development and standardization of the stimpmeter, enhancing its design for more accurate and repeatable results.

How Stimpmeter Works

The stimpmeter works by placing a golf ball in the notch at the top of the V-shaped channel. As you slowly raise the tapered end to a 20-degree angle, the ball releases from the start point and travels down the 36-inch ramp.

The ball rolls across a flat part of the green, and the distance it travels, in feet, is known as the Stimp reading. Because the device produces a known velocity, it helps to achieve accurate and repeatable stimpmeter readings across different conditions and locations on the green.

This allows many golfers to better prepare for each course, adjusting their putting approach to match the speed of the green.

Determining Green Speed

To determine the green speed, golf course superintendents roll three balls from the stimpmeter down the same line and measure the distance they each travel. The average stimpmeter reading of the three is used as the final result.

Then, the same procedure is repeated in the opposite direction to account for any slope or inconsistencies in the putting surface. The two measurements are averaged to give a reliable stimpmeter reading.

Typical readings range from 8 to 10 feet, though lightning fast greens at championship events may exceed 13 feet. Slower greens, usually found on public or lower-maintenance courses, may have readings around 6–7 feet.

Measuring Green Speed

The process of measuring green speed involves:

1. Finding a flat part of the putting green
2. Placing a tee at the start point
3. Releasing a ball from the notch of the stimpmeter
4. Measuring the distance the ball rolls in feet
5. Repeating the process with two more balls
6. Taking the average of the distances
7. Repeating the process in the opposite direction
8. Averaging the two measurements to get the final stimp rating

This procedure ensures that green speeds are measured with consistency and fairness, despite varying weather conditions and course setups.

Stimp Rating and Its Importance

The stimp rating—measured in feet—is essential for both course management and player performance. A high stimp rating means the green is faster, while a low rating indicates it’s slower.

Fast greens are more challenging, as even a slight miscalculation can send a putt well past the hole. This makes the stimp rating critical information for golfers, especially when preparing for tournaments or adapting to unfamiliar golf courses.

Golf course superintendents use these ratings to determine how green speeds are affecting play and make maintenance decisions accordingly.

Creating Your Own Stimpmeter

While official devices are available, you can create your own stimpmeter using basic materials:

A straight board or PVC pipe, 36 inches in length

• A notch cut at one end to hold the ball
• An incline set to a 20-degree angle

By releasing the ball from the notch and measuring how far it travels, you can calculate your own stimp reading, helping local courses or backyard greens achieve better consistency.

Understanding Stimpmeter Readings

A proper stimpmeter reading reveals how far a golf ball travels on the putting surface from a controlled launch. Longer rolls mean faster greens; shorter rolls mean slower conditions.

For example:

• 6–8 feet: Slow
• 9–10 feet: Average
• 11+ feet: Fast or tournament-ready

Understanding stimpmeter readings allows golfers to adjust their putting style—on fast greens, softer strokes are required, while slower greens demand more force.

USGA Acceptance and Standards

The USGA has standardized the use of the stimpmeter with detailed procedures, including:

• Using a flat surface
• Rolling three balls
• Repeating in the opposite direction
• Averaging the results for an accurate stimp rating

This uniform process ensures fairness across all golf courses and is vital for tournament play. The USGA acceptance has helped transform the stimpmeter from a homemade tool to a recognized measurement standard.

Taking a Stimp Reading

To take a stimp reading, follow these steps:

1. Choose a level area at least 10–12 feet long
2. Place a tee at the start point
3. Set a ball in the notch of the stimpmeter
4. Slowly raise the device until the ball rolls
5. Repeat with two more balls
6. Measure the distances and average them
7. Repeat in the opposite direction
8. Average the two results to get the final stimpmeter reading

This method helps determine the true speed of the green, accounting for natural slope and surface variations.

Stimpmeter Work and Maintenance

For the stimpmeter to function correctly, it requires regular maintenance:

• Clean the V-shaped groove to prevent debris buildup
• Store the device in a dry area
• Inspect the notch and edges for wear
• Calibrate regularly to maintain a known velocity
• Follow USGA guidelines to ensure consistency

Proper care ensures the device remains a crucial tool for golf course superintendents and delivers accurate stimpmeter readings every time.

Conclusion

Understanding what Stimp is in golf and how the stimpmeter works provides valuable insight into the game’s finer details. The stimp rating plays a crucial role in determining the green speed, directly impacting how a golf ball rolls and how golfers approach each putt.

For golf course superintendents, the stimpmeter is an essential tool that helps achieve accurate and consistent green conditions. For golfers, being aware of stimpmeter readings allows for better preparation, smarter putting strategies, and improved performance on the course.

Whether you're a casual player, a competitive golfer, or someone managing a golf course, having a grasp of stimp readings and green speed can make all the difference. By understanding this simple yet effective device, you can better appreciate the science and skill that goes into every putt on the green.