PuttOut AirBreak Putting Green Review: Worth the Hype?
Are you searching for a way to practice breaking putts indoors?
The PuttOut AirBreak Putting Mat might be the solution you’ve been searching for. Because here’s the thing, most putts aren’t flat on the course.
Yet, the overwhelming majority of indoor putting mats are flat and don’t allow us to practice breaking putts. While there are some mats you can buy contours and accessories to create curving putts, they aren’t very practical. I once bought a BirdieBall mat with these features and rarely used it and took up extra space too.
PuttOut clearly saw the need in the market and created the one of a kind AirBreak. As soon as I tested it at the 2024 PGA Show, I was instantly impressed. Keep reading to learn more about this one of a kind indoor putting mat that can transform your game.
PuttOut AirBreak Putting Mat Review
Let’s start with the design, as it’s nothing like any of their competitors. This is not an indoor mat you just roll out and start putting. Instead, there is a bit of a process, but overall pretty easy to set up. Here's what it looks like when you unbox.
How the PuttOut AirBreak Works
After taking all the parts out, it's time to construct the indoor putting green.
- Unfold the platform: Start by unfolding the platform pieces and aligning correctly (the instructions make this wicked easy).
- Unroll the mat: Unroll the mat (which is a good speed, not too fast or too slow) and attach to the platform.
- Inflate the airbags: Inflate the airbags by stepping or pressing on them to create the desired result. For example, if you’re a right-handed golfer and want to work on your left to right putts, raise the bags on the left side.
- Position the stance platform: Once the mat is set up, place the platform next to the green (works for right or left-handed golfers) which is where you’ll stand. Avoiding stepping on the mat/platform itself, as it’s not meant to be walked on.
- Download the app: You can also download the PuttOut green reading app, which also turns into a level to help you understand the amount of break in a putt. You don’t need to use this every time you practice, but it’s a nice option to learn more about breaking putts.
- Start practicing: Test the break created by the airbag and make adjustments as needed.
This straightforward setup allows you to quickly create realistic putting scenarios and tailor your practice to your specific needs. Other features include the ball stop barrier to catch errant putts and a good-sized travel bag. This makes it easy if you intend to take it to a friend's house or with you to a simulator.
Pros and Cons
Like any putting mat, there are some pros and cons - let’s get into them:
Pros
Overall, I think the pros outweigh the cons when it comes to AirBreak. Here’s why:
- Finally, I can practice breaking putts. No other putting mat has any similar feature to this as you can practice left to right, right to left, downhill, uphill, and a mix of putts. Simply change the airbag settings and you can practice any type of putt from close range for more confidence on the course.
- Durable construction: There’s no doubt it’s one of the most expensive indoor putting greens, but it’s also very durable. It should last for a long time, making it worth the higher price tag.
- Easy to set up: I was a little intimidated when the package arrived, but after unboxing realized how easy it was to set up. The instructions are clear and you’ll start rolling putts in no time.
- Perfect length: Unlike other indoor putting mats, there is only one length to choose from. But it’s long enough that you can practice the most crucial putts (inside 8 feet) which will directly impact your scoring on the course.
- Any surface works: Whether you’re putting on concrete, carpet, or hardwood floor, there’s no issue. Thanks to the raised platform, you can use this mat on every type of surface.
- Automatic ball return: This putting mat also offers an automatic ball return, which makes it more convenient for regular use.
Cons
While PuttOut got a lot right, there are some downsides to address:
- Harder to store: one of the biggest downsides to this indoor putting mat is the larger size. While you can roll up the carpet itself, you can’t easily store the platform the green sits on. It does fold up pretty easily
- Higher price tag: It’s one of the more expensive putting mats, but since it’s so versatile, it’s worth it in my opinion.
- No visual aids: I don’t mind the lack of putting aids (as I think it’s more realistic to putting on actual greens) but some users like this.
- Slightly awkward setup: My biggest complaint is that it feels like I have to stand a little too far away from the ball. It’s a little awkward as you’re standing on a raised platform and feel like I have to reach slightly.
Comparison to Other Putting Mats
After being a golf writer since 2017 I’ve been fortunate enough to test just about every putting mat in golf. Here’s how the AirBreak compares to a few of my favorites:
- PrimePutt: I love the PrimePutt mats, as I think they’re the most realistic speed to most golf courses. They are also easy to roll up if you aren’t using and made with extremely durable material. Plus, they have different sizes to fit all spaces. You can learn more with my PrimePutt mat review or if you're ready to invest in this mat, use the code WICKEDSMART to save 10%.
- Breaking Ball Putting Mat: This of the few putting mats that does allow you to practice breaking putts. While it’s a flat surface, you can use the custom golf balls that simulate curving putts. It’s not as good as the AirBreak, but a lot cheaper and a decent option for most golfers. Plus, they have a 7.5 foot and 11 foot option - both have built in distance markers too.
- BirdieBall Putting Mat: I’m not a huge fan of this one for one reason - it was too fast. The green (which is made of foam) was like putting on glass. While I wish I had the chance to putt on Augusta surfaces, it’s just not the case with most courses in Arizona (or anywhere for that matter).
I’ve never bought the Perfect Practice (or similar ones) as I hate mats that have a rise at the end. I don’t think this is effective for putting practice, and signals more mini golf vibes than putting on the course.
Pairs Well With Other PuttOut Products
Another perk with this new mat is that it works nicely with other products they offer.
- PuttOut Devilball: A fantastic putting aid that requires you to hit a perfect putt, or you’ll get instant feedback. Plus, there are different levels to make it harder or easier for all types of golfers.
- PuttOut Premium Pressure Putt Trainer: A challenging but effective putting aid that has won numerous awards. The ramp rejects bad putts and returns good ones for better feedback about your pace and accuracy.
- PuttOut Compact Putting Mirror: This is a low cost and easy to use mirror that will help get your eyes positioned properly.
I also use it with the Putting Thing by WhyGolf (which is one of best putting aids in golf).
Closing Thoughts
As you can tell, the AirBreak Putting Mat is not like most indoor putting greens. The pros far outweigh the cons and can help you practice breaking putts indoors.
It works great with training aids, easy to use, and will help your confidence soar on the greens.
