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Do Spike Marks Really Affect Putts? What Golfers Should Know

A viral clip claims spike marks hardly change a putt’s roll. We examine when that’s true, when it’s not, and what the Rules allow.

A short video posted by NUCLR GOLF has reignited a familiar debate: “Spike marks don’t really affect putts.” For golfers who regularly face late-afternoon greens scarred by foot traffic, that assertion may sound optimistic. The reality sits somewhere in between. On well-prepared greens and at certain ball speeds, minor imperfections may be negligible. In other scenarios, spike marks can be the difference between center cup and a frustrating lip-out.

Spike marks: what they are and what the Rules allow

Spike marks are small raised or torn areas on the putting surface caused by golf shoe spikes or careless foot movement. While traditional metal spikes are rare at most clubs today, soft spikes and scuffed soles still leave marks and light impressions, especially after heavy play or in softer conditions.

Since the 2019 modernization of the Rules of Golf, players are permitted to repair damage on the putting green, including spike marks (Rule 13.1c). That means you may tap down or smooth clear damage on your line, provided you don’t unreasonably delay play. You should avoid overdoing it—repair the damage quickly and reasonably, and don’t attempt to “mold” a new line into the turf. Natural imperfections or normal wear are not considered repairable damage, but obvious spike marks are.

When spike marks may not matter

On smooth, firm greens with consistent grass growth, a rolling ball at a healthy pace tends to stay stable over small surface blemishes. For medium-length putts where the ball retains enough speed until the last few revolutions, tiny disruptions often have minimal practical effect. That’s especially true when the mark is not directly on the chosen start line, or when the putt’s break and pace make the contact glancing rather than square.

Good maintenance, morning conditions, and tightly mown surfaces reduce the profile of any scuffs. If your pace is decisive—rolling the ball a comfortable distance past the hole if it misses—the ball is less likely to be thrown off by a shallow mark compared to a die-at-the-hole attempt.

When spike marks do matter

As the day wears on, traffic increases and moisture changes. On Poa annua or mixed surfaces late in the day, small tufts and scuffs can make the surface “bumpier.” Soft or wet greens exaggerate the depth of foot impressions and spike marks. Downhill putts that must be hit softly, or short, straight putts struck at near capture speed, are most vulnerable—small deflections then represent a larger fraction of the ball’s remaining energy and can nudge it offline.

Marks directly on the start line are the real concern. A raised lip that catches a dimple just before the hole can impart a slight hop or deflection. On fast greens with significant slopes, even a subtle nudge late in the roll can turn a make into a miss.

Practical takeaways for club golfers

  • Repair what you can: Under Rule 13.1c, quickly tap down obvious spike marks on your line before you putt. Be efficient—repair, don’t remodel.
  • Match pace to conditions: On bumpier afternoon greens, a firmer, confident pace can mitigate tiny deflections. On downhill or slick surfaces, accept that precision rises and give yourself margin on read and aim.
  • Start line discipline: If a mark sits on your intended start line, repair it first. If it remains questionable, adjust your spot or start line fractionally.
  • Read traffic patterns: Areas around popular hole locations, walk-off paths, and high-traffic zones accumulate more surface blemishes. Expect more interference late in the day.
  • Mind your shoes and steps: Keep your feet quiet around the hole. Most clubs discourage metal spikes; soft spikes and smooth footwork protect the surface for everyone.

So, do spike marks “really” affect putts?

Often less than our frustrations suggest—but not never. On fresh, well-prepared greens and with assertive pace, many spike marks won’t meaningfully change the outcome. On worn, soft, or late-day surfaces—especially for delicate, slow-speed rolls—they can. The good news: the Rules now allow you to address obvious damage. Combine that with sound green-reading and pace control, and you’ll keep more putts on line.

Suggested additional embeds (trusted sources):

  • USGA: Video explainer on repairing damage on the putting green (Rule 13.1c).
  • The R&A: Guidance on 2019 Rules changes affecting putting greens.
  • PGA TOUR: Examples of late-round putting on trafficked greens.