Expert consensus review
Cleveland HB SOFT 2 Putter Review
One of the best-value putter lines: Speed Optimized Face milling for consistent distance and nine stroke-matched head shapes for about $160.
What we like
- Speed Optimized Face Technology evens out ball speed on mishits
- Nine blade, mallet, and hybrid designs matched to straight or slight-arc strokes
- Consistent swing feel across models and shaft lengths
- $159.99 for a Model 11 is far below premium milled putters
What to weigh
- Not a fully milled premium putter
- Some models may not suit players who like a very soft insert feel
- Choosing the right model and length still matters
- Black finish models cost more ($199.99 for Model 11 Black)
Scorecard
How scores are built- Distance 8.8
- Forgiveness 8.9
- Accuracy 8.7
- Feel 8.5
- Ease of use 9.0
- Value 9.5
- Build 8.5
This review weighs the manufacturer specifications, independent testing from across the golf equipment world, and long-term owner feedback, then scores the product against its closest alternatives. It is not presented as a GolfTested lab measurement.
Quick answer
Cleveland’s HB SOFT 2 putters are some of the best-value putters available. Every model uses Speed Optimized Face Technology, with tightly grouped grooves in the center that spread toward the heel and toe to normalize ball speed. The lineup includes nine designs matched to straight or slight-arc strokes, and the popular Model 11 costs $159.99 at Dunlop.
Choose by stroke
Cleveland pairs each head with the hosel, toe hang, alignment system, and grip that suit a stroke type.
- Straight stroke: mallets such as Model 11, a winged mallet with a single-bend hosel and three-line alignment.
- Slight arc: blade and hybrid shapes such as Model 1 and Model 8S.
- Handsy stroke: try the counterbalanced HB SOFT 2 Model 11 CB.
Cleveland also says each model has a consistent swing feel across lengths because it tuned counterbalance weights for standard lengths and uses equally weighted stock grips.
Verdict
HB SOFT 2 delivers smart face technology and stroke-matched fitting at a price most golfers can justify. For many players, it is the best putter value available.
How we built this review: manufacturer specifications (official product page), independent testing from respected golf equipment reviewers, and long-term owner feedback, weighed against the closest alternatives.
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Alternatives
