Odyssey, owned by Callaway Golf, emerged in 1990. By the mid-'90s, its Rossie line became tremendously popular among professionals and recreational players. Touring pros like Nike Faldo, Tom Watson and a score of others won several PGA tournaments using Odyssey putters. The Odyssey Rossie and Dual Force lines quickly became some of the most sought-after putters on the market. In 2009, the company continues to sell putters worldwide, while more than 35 Tour pros use clubs from the Odyssey family. The White Hot series consists of 28 putters from two lines: White Hot Tour and White Hot XG series.
White Hot Tour
The White Hot Tour series consists of two putters. The Tour #1 putter is a heel-to-toe weighted classic offset blade, available in 33- 34- and 35-inch shafts. The signature Odyssey "elastomer" face insert is fit inside a stainless steel body. The sole is fit with weight ports that optimize the clubhead's weighting. The White Hot Tour #2 CS is a center-shafted blade, also available with 33- 34- and 35-inch shafts, the elastomer insert and the sole weight ports. Both putters are coated with a bronze finish.
White Hot XG
The White Hot XG Series includes 21 designs, including the "Sabertooth" and "2-Ball" putters. Two-ball putters are known for their perimeter weighting and unique alignment system, where the ball lines up with two golf ball-shaped elastomer markings set in the crowns. The White Hot XG also includes the White Hot Rossie putters, which are modified versions of the original Rossie line from the 1990s.
Technology
Odyssey White Hot putters are known for their soft carbon stainless steel and brushed finishes that almost completely eliminate glare at set up. Each club also boasts the hard rubber face inserts (elastomers), which are designed using the same technology the company uses to create its multi-layered golf balls.
Performance
Some White Hot models suit some players better than others. Regardless of which design will fit your needs, all White Hot putters are extremely responsive and comfortable. The face inserts allow the ball to roll true with a minimal amount of skid, making Odyssey a leading putter among touring pros--these putters have chalked up more than 45 victories in 2009 to date.
Price
In August 2009, most retailers aren't moving very far from the White Hot line's per-club manufacturer's suggested retail price. Most outlets tend to sell the newer lines for prices in the $120 to $180 range, depending on the model. They are also heavily traded on the used market.
About The Author
Jim Hagerty is a freelance writer and journalist. In addition to the hundreds of Web-based articles to his credit, he's a staff writer for "The Rock River Times," where he covers arts and entertainment, outdoors and human interest news events. Hagerty holds a Bachelor of Science in public relations and journalism from Northern Michigan University in Marquette.
