Golf manufacturers are constantly navigating the ever-winding road of balancing riding a successful design with continually evolving and innovating. Perhaps no company knows that struggle better than Odyssey Golf.
In 2022 Odyssey was the number one putter on every single Tour. More interesting than that? They did it with 70% of the play being from non-sponsored golfers. In fact, that has been the story for about 12 years, when Odyssey re-established themselves as alpha in the putter world. We took a deep dive into the dominance of Odyssey Golf, here.
No putter company has done a better job of listening to consumer desires and thus being willing to bring back massively popular innovations like White Hot while still pushing forward. So, with that history it is no wonder that in 2023 we are seeing the return of Versa from Odyssey Golf. Oh, and that moment 12 years ago when they re-took the throne? That coincided with Versa.
The Versa Effect
If you look back on the Versa and its introduction in 2013, you will see an interesting tale. Among internet golfers and self-proclaimed purists, the designs were source of significant debate and discussion. The “striped” look was a love it or leave it kind of release for many, however, what if I told you that in 2022 there was a Versa in play on a Tour over 1,100 times?
You see, in putting, alignment is King, and even those who are the absolute 1% of golfers on the planet like having easy and accurate feedback on it. That is why Versa was created. The zebra look has a rhyme and a reason as internal testing from Odyssey has shown that the black and white contrasting lines are so effective at showing even the most minute face alignment woes that it is 67% more effective than a putter without it.
The tagline “The Path to Better Alignment is Black and White” centers around that data, and rightfully so. While so many focus on pace, if your alignment is off even fractions of degrees, the best pace in the world still won’t prevent you from missing your target significantly. So yes, Versa is back, but if you paid attention to the return of White Hot with the OG release, then you should already know it is returning with much needed improvements and streamlining.
2023 Odyssey Versa Putters
Odyssey is quick to admit that when Versa made its debut in 2013 there were some issues with it, not so much in performance, but rather the overall package. Part of that was too many models and too many line variations (parallel and perpendicular options) that were confusing to the golfer and cumbersome for retailers to get a clear message across. So, in 2023 there are five head shapes and eight models coming to retail.
Yes, the One and Double Wide are present, as is the Seven with DB and S versions. They are also joined by the new Three T which takes its shaping base from the Toulon Atlanta (with some massaging) as well as the Twelve, a shape that at its root is a “filled in” Seven and possesses the only parallel B/W/B alignment scheme of the release.
One aspect which will undoubtedly aid Versa in re-emerging on the scene with amateurs is the inclusion of the striking Red Stroke Lab shaft which absolutely stands out visually almost as much as it does in terms of performance. Another, however, is using the true White Hot insert, and not the more firm variation utilized back in 2013 which may have been more polarizing than the look ever was.
Finally, based on early images we have seen and Odyssey’s telling of the story themselves, the aesthetics are being done to the proper level this time around. Every shape has a premium finish with specific attention paid to the transition of the colors to keep crisp and clean visuals. Additionally, forward weights on the sole help optimize the stability and CG of the putters ensuring they live up to the Odyssey standard of performance.
The Details
Versa isn’t going to be for everyone, it wasn’t last time around and there is nothing which says it will be drastically different in 2023. However, for those who do struggle with face alignment and give the contrasting visual a chance, they will likely fall head over heels for what it does to their scores. If you love it, you will love it, that is part of the beauty of Versa. The putters will be available for purchase 2/10/23 with a price of $259.99.
How is your putting alignment? Could Versa help give your putting a triumphant return like the one Odyssey hopes it makes in 2023? Comment below or jump into the conversation on the THP Community and share your thoughts on the Versa comeback!
[QUOTE=”goalie, post: 11443809, member: 5611″]
As a right handed putter that’s left eye dominant, the 3T or 7 Versa alignment did the same thing. I loved the shape of the 12, but the alignment direction was less awesome for me.
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Maaaannn my 2022 tri hot double wide is almost brand new but I definitely need to try the Versa version now that I learned about my left eye dominant alignment issues. Have a feeling my putter collection is about to get a little more out of control when I go hit these.
Interesting that there’s much less toe hang in the Versa model though, I would have thought it would be similar specs. Will be interesting to see if I fit better with a different Versa model than I did with the tri Hot.
[QUOTE=”jvbart, post: 11445351, member: 52290″]
Maaaannn my 2022 tri hot double wide is almost brand new but I definitely need to try the Versa version now that I learned about my left eye dominant alignment issues. Have a feeling my putter collection is about to get a little more out of control when I go hit these.
Interesting that there’s much less toe hang in the Versa model though, I would have thought it would be similar specs. Will be interesting to see if I fit better with a different Versa model than I did with the tri Hot.
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The 3T has a slant neck with some toe hang. That’s what I’m rolling right now as I wait for the snow to melt…….
I’m amazed how well I can aim this putter and how often I actually hit my spot. I feel an odd sense of security knowing my putter is providing all the help I could ask for. The rest is up to me.
I have to say, I am really liking the Versa alignment setup.
The strong difference in color change black to white makes for a much easier alignment when putting.
The white hot insert is as good as expected. Comes off very smooth and the roll is great, but the alignment is where this putter shines. Add in some different ball alignment options like the Triple Track and it’s almost impossible to not have your putt aligned to start where you want.
Many know I am an armlock player, but the Versa is making me consider things. Ok, Callaway I need a Versa 12 in armlock. We couldn’t do it before (weight issue) let’s find a way to make it happen.
Bumping this thread back up because the Versa alignment continues to help in putting.
Had a nice little bend on a 10 footer and like I said prior add in the ball alignment like Triple Track and it’s like a cheat code to help alignment.
You always feel better when putting well.
These are $25 off at Golf Galaxy and maybe other places as well.
The Versa was on fire this past round.
I was doing a lot of chipping to the green, so my numbers are a little skewed, but 6 one putts and only 1 three putts yesterday for a total of 31. I’ll take that number every round.
I continue to like how the 12 lines up the ball and most of us know the white hot insert is very consistent off the face.
Been struggling with my putter… I make some putts, but also missing some putts I should be making as well as some really poor lag putting. This is usually what happens when I get my alignment out of whack, so busted out the putter mirror this week and spent some time making sure I am in a constant and proper set up (I was drifting away from the ball which led to a very big arc on my path… which led to push/pulls ads well as poor contact on longer putts).
Today I 3 putted the 3rd hole (blasted first putt 10′ past) but ended up with 8 1 putts and a total of 29….. and a couple of those were from off the green. The Versa 3T sits so great to my eye, and combined with triple track, I made some lengthy putts. Highlight was a 35′ or so putt that was downhill with about 18″ of left to right break that I rolled in for birdie on the 17th hole to close out our fourball match. The 20′ downhill right to left putt on 14 for par (and to win the hole) was also really nice.
Going to make sure I keep the mirror in the bag and get some rolls in with it at least a couple times a week.
I need to get my hand on a Versa 7
I’d love to try the 7, as I’m trying to find something with a little more toe hang than my CS BigT Versa. Also, non-CS mallets will fit my putter covers better (priorities :p)
I am still a big believer in Arm-Lock, but the Versa 12 has been very good for me these last few rounds.
Just a smooth stroke and so easy to line to your target.
Averaging about 32 putts with the Versa so far this year.
I won a versa 7s at an outing on Monday. As much as I love my of Taylormadd spider black, this one has me intrigued. Love the feel just need to add some heavier weights.
Posting this one here:
[MEDIA=instagram]CtkLQ0oyrog[/MEDIA]
A Versa Jailbird Tank would be sweet. Might be a bit tough to advertise with two non-contracted players using it most prominently. What do you guys think? Is Odyssey actually thinking about bringing the “Rickie” to retail?
Just ordered my long putter experiment like Rickies.
versa Double Wide.
37”
steel shaft
Long zenergy grip
[QUOTE=”xThor, post: 11585662, member: 19092″]
Just ordered my long putter experiment like Rickies.
versa Double Wide.
37”
steel shaft
Long zenergy grip
[/QUOTE]
and so it begins.. lol
[QUOTE=”xThor, post: 11585662, member: 19092″]
Just ordered my long putter experiment like Rickies.
versa Double Wide.
37”
steel shaft
Long zenergy grip
[/QUOTE]
I have the O-Works Double wide versa that I extended to 38” a few years back, absolutely love it. I’ve been playing putters at 38”-39” for quite some time, and really like it.
Missed the whole Versa alignment thing. Only finally found out about it as a result of the Jailbird thread. I think a 7 DB would suit me, but, naturally, that’s the one Versa putter my LGS does not have in stock in my shaft length 😡
I still have mine that I picked up in 2016. It’s staying in the bag.
Went to Golf Galaxy and rolled most of the Versa and Tri-Hot line. The surprise of the bunch that I was able to start and hold my line was the Versa 1. Really like the extra help with alignment Versa gives and it didn’t feel like it too any extra effort to get the 1 square and through with my stoke.
I’m not usually a blade guy but the 1 is on serious ponder mode now.
I will admit it, the tour success of this one has me curious. Hoping a local spot has a 7 to roll some with.
[QUOTE=”Scooby45, post: 11609307, member: 62865″]
I will admit it, the tour success of this one has me curious. Hoping a local spot has a 7 to roll some with.
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I know I struggle with alignment. The Versa helps.
Callaway gift card has been put to good use and Versa One is on the way.
Got to roll the #1 today for the first time. I’ve almost exclusively played mallets since I got back into the game 10 or 12 years ago so this is quite the departure from my norm, but as I mentioned a few posts ago, I rolled most of the Versa and Tri-Hot series and the #1 was the winner for me.
What stood out to me when I tested it and when I rolled it on the practice green today and for the 7 holes I was able to get in is that the black and white contrasting colors do their job as a visual alignment aid in an easy to use way while not being distracting. Not only is it easy for me to use, based on my small sample size, it works. I’m coming from a SeeMore Si3, which has the RST alignment aid and less toe hang than the #1.
I have a tendency to set up with the face closed and then try to manipulate it back to square at impact. The Versa alignment gives me the affirmation I am set up correctly. A quick check and know if I need to make any adjustments. I noticed I was able to start and hold my line more consistently.
I rolled it with the Triple Track Chrome Soft XLS and the USA TruTrack. I found the USA TruTrack to suit my eye better and like watching how it rolls.
I am not sure if it’s the Versa design or if the blade length is actually shorter, but it doesn’t appear to be super long, which I have never liked with blades. The last blade I rolled for any sort of time was the Swag Handsome Too, which I was not crazy about how long it looked from toe to heel.
There appears to be ample feedback with the Versa. I could tell when I missed it slightly on the toe side. Much has been said about the White Hot Insert. I don’t think I can add much to the conversation other than to say feel is such a subjective thing and it feels firmer than what I am used to.
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That’s a good looking #1.
[QUOTE=”War Eagle, post: 11622261, member: 6727″]
That’s a good looking #1.
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Yes it is. Simple but looks good.
[QUOTE=”Jeff Spicoli, post: 11622288, member: 10545″]
Yes it is. Simple but looks good.
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I like the idea of a blade putter, especially the #1. Closest I can get to rolling one is my #1W.
If they ever made a #1 triple wide, I would love it!
[QUOTE=”War Eagle, post: 11622295, member: 6727″]
I like the idea of a blade putter, especially the #1. Closest I can get to rolling one is my #1W.
If they ever made a #1 triple wide, I would love it!
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If it’s working, stick with it.
For whatever reason, I was rolling the #1 better than the Double Wide and the Triple Wide Tri-Hot
[QUOTE=”Jeff Spicoli, post: 11622347, member: 10545″]
If it’s working, stick with it.
For whatever reason, I was rolling the #1 better than the Double Wide and the Triple Wide Tri-Hot
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Manifested. I didnt even know there was a triple wide in existence?! Havent see one at any of the local places here.
Now I have a need for a #1-3wide.
Had my first full round with the Versa #1 yesterday. According to ShotScope, I was .53 strokes gained putting yesterday compared to a 0 handicap. My average for the last 1 ronds has been minus .57. I rolled in a putts of 12, 22, 17, and 8 feet, which is outside the norm for me. I did have 2 3 putts. One of those I started out 58 feet away so that’s not the end of the world. The other was from 20 feet–I had a total lapse of concentration on the first putt.
Coming from a mallet, I can feel the mishits more, especially on long putts when I don’t hit it perfectly center. The ease of alignment is such an aid for me and it’s a nice quick check before putting.
I played 9 last night and based off ShotScope had 3.8 strokes gained putting with a benchmark of 0 handicap. Picking up the Versa coincided with me getting a lesson, so I am benefitting from the lesson and the benefit of the alignment aid of the Versa and possibly a honeymoon period with a new club. That being said, the first few times out with it speak for themselves. I had a 16-footer for par on 1, 9-foot birdie on two, avoided a three putt from 43 feet on 4, and snuggled it up close from 29 feet on 9. The insert is taking some getting used to. I am used to a softer feel, but I am definitely getting the feedback on solid vs off-center putts.
My #7 has performed well on the practice putting green so much so it has earned a place in the bag for my next round. Bumping my Toulon Garage Daytona Beach and Garage Las Vegas is a big deal.
[QUOTE=”noodle3872, post: 11631180, member: 56″]
My #7 has performed well on the practice putting green so much so it has earned a place in the bag for my next round. Bumping my Toulon Garage Daytona Beach and Garage Las Vegas is a big deal.
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That’s because the #7 is the best putter design in the history of golf.
Does three good putting rounds in a row count as a trend? I‘m in Pinehurst this weekend so will have another three rounds to play and hoping I can continue the good putting I’m seeing so far with the #1. Shotscope is such a benefit for digging into the performance. I had 28 putts today. I opted In a few cases to putt rather than chip as well but they were off the green. Anyway, I officially had 28 putts for the round with no 3 putts. The greens were tricky and I confidently made some tricky downhill putts and some with substantial break.
The performance analysis vs a 0 handicap is that I was 3.03 strokes gained for the round, which is a huge improvement from everything I have seen prior to the #1. To repeat myself, the alignment just flat out works for me and frees me up to focus on the line, speed, and stroke. I am feeling confident and relaxed on the greens, which is a big change from earlier this year.
A little update on the Versa #1.
Last five rounds strokes again with the putter compared to a scratch golfer (I’m currently a 3.3 according to the USGA):
3.03
-1.92
-2.02
-.35
1.98
That average is .15, which is pretty darn fantastic for me. In 2022, which was a solid year of putting for me, I averaged -1.70.
For the last 5 rounds, I am gaining .09 strokes from 10-20 feet and .23 strokes from 20-30. Losing .03 from less than 10 and .14 from 30+. I am not hitting the ball well right now and the putter has been the most stable part of my game. I am making a few putts from the 15 foot range per round, which I was not before and my confident from 5 feet and in is high right now.
You are killing it with that putter, dude. Impressive.
[QUOTE=”War Eagle, post: 11642603, member: 6727″]
You are killing it with that putter, dude. Impressive.
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Thank you, sir. I would have never thought the #1 would work so well for me if I had not rolled just about every single putter in the Versa and Tri-Hot line. The lesson certainly helped, but I did not see the same level of success with the SeeMore I was rolling before this switch.
Right when I get the flatstick figured out, the rest goes to poo. Go figure.
[QUOTE=”Jeff Spicoli, post: 11642620, member: 10545″]
Thank you, sir. I would have never thought the #1 would work so well for me if I had not rolled just about every single putter in the Versa and Tri-Hot line. The lesson certainly helped, but I did not see the same level of success with the SeeMore I was rolling before this switch.
Right when I get the flatstick figured out, the rest goes to poo. Go figure.
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That’s how it always happens!
I like my 1W, but rolled a 1 double wide at the store the other day, and reeaalllly liked it. They did not have the Versa model in stock, but definitely want to give it a go.
[QUOTE=”War Eagle, post: 11642627, member: 6727″]
That’s how it always happens!
I like my 1W, but rolled a 1 double wide at the store the other day, and reeaalllly liked it. They did not have the Versa model in stock, but definitely want to give it a go.
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You like ’em thick, I get it.
[QUOTE=”Jeff Spicoli, post: 11642631, member: 10545″]
You like ’em thick, I get it.
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Facts are facts.
[QUOTE=”Scrap22, post: 11661088, member: 15054″]
In case there is any question, The VERSA TWLEVE should not be overlooked!!!! Loving center shaft!!!
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but do you like the Odyssey Versa 12? :unsure:
:LOL:
[QUOTE=”Scrap22, post: 11662574, member: 15054″]
It’s definitely a love affair with it right now. It just feels so great to feel good about putting again.
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I’d love to feel that way, especially after my last round! I hope it lasts a long time for you! (y)
I’m still rolling the #1 well. With the fitting at the Grandaddy coming up in 4 months, I’m curious to see how good I was at a self-fit and obviously wondering what Odyssey has in store for us.
This one is interesting.
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[QUOTE=”blugold, post: 11679814, member: 3249″]
This one is interesting.
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Wonder if that will ever come to retail
[QUOTE=”Jeff Spicoli, post: 11679853, member: 10545″]
Wonder if that will ever come to retail
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Lol, not for us peasants.
[QUOTE=”blugold, post: 11679814, member: 3249″]
This one is interesting.
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Who dat? I like it.
[QUOTE=”El Rayo X, post: 11663496, member: 12075″]
I just ordered a 12 CS.
Had been experimenting with CS using a Cleveland HB 10.5 C and liked the set up, but wanted a little higher MOI and wider face.
Toss up between the Bettinardi Innovai 6.0 CS as i’m not usually an insert guy, and Odyssey
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Well, this experiment is about to end.
While I aligns well I need more loft and the CS model can’t be bent because the neck is too short, according to my local club guy and Cally.
3* doesn’t work as I have a bit of press ( Was fit to 4-4.5*)
I also find the distance control to be incosistent on longer putts.
May go with the Bettinard Innovai 6.0 CS instead.:unsure:
With the 2x trade bonus in going with Cally right now, it’s worth more than I paid for it (y):unsure:….. May go toward a Paradym Driver
I’m still getting along with the #1 really well. Distance control has been really good and the Versa has helped so much with my alignment.
My Versa 12 CS is really in a groove. I have been using the claw grip all year and the entire setup is perfect for my stroke. I love the feel of the White Hot insert. Love the alignment, too. It is cemented in the bag.