Many golfers generally can’t read greens. It takes playing experience to know the subtle breaks, determine which way the grass is bending, and learn the proper way to plumb-bob. Even color-blindness can prevent you from getting an accurate read. But there’s a possible solution, thanks to technology: GolfLogix — a company best-known for its GPS devices and apps — this month unveiled the “Putt Breaks” feature in its GPS app (free for 30 days, then $5/month). It’s essentially an interactive version of those green-break diagram guidebooks that PGA Tour pros have their caddies reference during tournaments. I’ve tried it out during three rounds, thus far. And I have mixed feelings about its effectiveness. First of all, it’s rather cumbersome plotting the position of your ball and the pin on the phone screen, every time you get to the green. Secondly, while the reads are pretty accurate on greens lying on relatively flat holes, the app doesn’t seem to account for ocean breaks and large greenside hills that undoubtedly influence a ball’s roll. And third of all, it really does make you lazy about not learning how to read greens on your own. Assessing slopes and speed helps make golf challenging. But on the other hand, it may well help you lower score and have more fun. And I’m always in favor of that.
