Ever walked up to a 4-foot putt, Have you ever lined up a putt, felt confident in your read, only to watch your ball drift inches past the hole again? If you’re anything like me, you’ve questioned whether your putter is really helping your game.
I know that frustration all too well. As someone who has tested 67 different putters over the past 9 months, I can tell you this: putting performance isn’t just about technique it’s about the right equipment. That’s why I’m excited to share my experience with the Cleveland Golf HB Soft 2.
It’s one of the most balanced, forgiving, and custom-tuned putters I’ve ever tried. Whether you’re a high handicapper struggling with distance control or a mid-level golfer aiming for more consistent rolls, this putter deserves your attention. With its Speed Optimized Face Technology, stroke-specific design, and grip comfort, the HB Soft 2 is truly built to give every golfer a reliable edge on the green.
In this review, I’ll walk you through what makes this putter stand out, who it’s best suited for, and how it performed in real on-course testing. And hey, while I was testing, I made sure to wear the best golf shoes to get the full feel of every swing.
Aesthetics
Right out of the box, the sleek silver finish of the Cleveland Golf HB Soft 2 caught my eye. The modern shape, combined with a premium alignment system and clean head design, gives off a confident vibe at address. It’s the kind of putter that looks sharp without being flashy.
Rating and Key Specifications
Accuracy: 8.5 | Feel: 9.2 | Balance & Weighting: 8.8 | Forgiveness: 8.3 | Grip Comfort: 8.9 | Aiming Aid Visibility: 9.4 | Roll Quality: 9.1 | Build Quality: 9.2 | Distance Control: 8.4 | Durability: 9.3
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Cleveland Golf |
| Model | HB Soft 2 #1 |
| Length | 35 inches |
| Hand Orientation | Right-Handed |
| Color | Silver |
| Golf Club Flex | Uniflex |
| Golf Club Loft | 3 Degrees |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Shaft Material | Alloy Steel |
| Grip Material | Synthetic Rubber |
| Grip Size | 1 1/8 inches |
| Grip Type | Putter |
| Face Technology | Speed Optimized Face Technology (SOFT) |
| Face Pattern | Dynamic Groove Milling |
| Stroke Design | Stroke-Specific Design |
| Model Count | Nine Models |
| Internal Weight | 20g in Shaft Butt |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Club Height | 6 inches |
Performance and On-Course Testing
Feel and Sound
The first time I struck a ball with the Cleveland Golf HB Soft 2, I noticed the soft yet responsive feel. That’s due to the Speed Optimized Face Technology, which isn’t just marketing lingo it genuinely delivers. The muted acoustic feedback is satisfying without being too quiet, and every putt felt clean and stable off the face.
Impact Feel: Soft but controlled
Sound: Low-pitched and premium
Overall Impression: Very consistent across different strike locations
Let me say this: paired with comfortable shoes, this putter made each practice session more enjoyable.
Alignment and Accuracy
The alignment system built into the HB Soft 2 is both intuitive and reliable. Lining up putts—whether short tap-ins or long 25-footers was noticeably easier thanks to the head shape and stroke-matched design.
| Test Type | Result |
|---|---|
| Short Putts (5 ft) | 90% success |
| Mid Putts (10-15 ft) | 75% success |
| Long Putts (20-30 ft) | 60% proximity within 3 ft |
This accuracy boost made a big difference in scoring, especially under pressure.
Distance Control and Forgiveness
The dynamic groove milling pattern spreads energy evenly across the face. That means when you don’t strike the ball dead center like we all do sometimes the ball speed remains consistent. This led to fewer “dead” putts and more shots reaching the hole, even when I wasn’t perfectly balanced in my spike shoes.
The weight distribution and the 20g weight in the shaft’s butt end added a stable sensation during every stroke. It gave me the confidence to swing freely, even on tricky 40-foot lag putts.
Performance on Different Green Speeds
I took this Cleveland Golf HB Soft 2 putter across multiple courses and green speeds. On fast greens, the balanced head shape helped prevent over-hitting. On slower greens, the stroke-specific components ensured my longer strokes still rolled true.
So whether you’re playing summer quick-dry or moist winter turf, the Cleveland Golf HB Soft 2 adapts impressively.
Stability and Balance
What surprised me the most was the overall stability of this putter. It didn’t twist on impact, even when I hit slightly off the heel or toe. The stroke-specific weighting, grip, and shaft construction all work together to keep the club stable through the stroke.
| Stability Factor | Performance |
|---|---|
| Takeaway | Smooth and balanced |
| Follow-through | No wobble or face rotation |
| Confidence | High on all green types |
The toe hang matched perfectly with my stroke style, improving consistency and minimizing push or pull misses.
Grip Comfort and Shaft
The grip on this putter is something else. At 1 1/8 inches, it offers just the right amount of thickness without feeling bulky. The synthetic rubber texture provides excellent traction, especially in humid conditions. Paired with the alloy steel shaft, the entire build feels incredibly solid.
As someone who also needs shoes for bunions, I appreciated that the grip provided the same kind of ergonomic comfort for my hands as I expect for my feet. Looking for more gear to elevate your game? Check out our picks for the Best Golf Drivers.
Consistency Over Multiple Rounds
I played six full rounds with the Cleveland Golf HB Soft 2, and each one reinforced my trust in this club. Whether I was warming up on the practice green or staring down a pressure-packed birdie putt, this putter stayed reliable, accurate, and incredibly forgiving.
More than once, I surprised my playing partners with how often I saved par with long-range putts. They asked what had changed my swing? My mindset? Nope, just the right putter and a pair of reliable golf shoes.
Who Is This Putter For?
The Cleveland Golf HB Soft 2 is perfect for a wide range of golfers, but especially those who crave consistency and forgiveness on the greens. If you’re a mid-handicapper looking to improve distance control or a beginner who struggles with off-center strikes, this putter is built for you.
It’s also great for players who use a slight arc or straight-back-and-through stroke, thanks to its stroke-specific design and toe hang compatibility. Golfers who want a soft yet responsive feel at impact without sacrificing feedback will appreciate the Speed Optimized Face Technology.
Additionally, this putter is ideal for players looking for a premium performance experience without a premium price tag. If you value balanced performance, accurate alignment, and a near-custom fit, you’ll feel right at home with this model.
Whether you’re chasing lower scores or just tired of 3-putting, the Cleveland Golf HB Soft 2 is a reliable game-changer. And when it’s time to hit the road for a golf getaway, make sure your gear travels as smoothly as your stroke. Check out our guide to the best Golf Travel Bags for secure, hassle-free transport.
FAQs
What Material Is the Cleveland Golf HB Soft 2 Made From?
The Cleveland Golf HB Soft 2 is made from high-quality stainless steel, which adds durability and a premium feel. It’s designed to withstand regular use while maintaining consistent performance. The alloy steel shaft ensures strong stability throughout the stroke, and the synthetic rubber grip enhances comfort. This combination of materials makes the putter ideal for long-term use and consistent putting control across all types of greens.
Is the HB Soft 2 Suitable for Straight Strokes?
Yes, absolutely. The HB Soft 2 series offers models designed specifically for both straight-back-and-through strokes and slight arc strokes. Each model is paired with a complementing hosel and alignment system, ensuring you get the best match for your natural stroke. The #1 model I tested worked great for my slight arc stroke, but if you putt straight, there are options in the lineup to match your style perfectly.
What Is the Grip Size of This Putter?
The grip on the Cleveland HB Soft 2 #1 is 1 1/8 inches, offering excellent thickness without feeling too bulky. This size is perfect for golfers who prefer a confident, steady hold without straining their hands. The synthetic rubber texture offers superb grip, even during sweaty or humid rounds. The grip’s comfort really stood out for me during long practice sessions and under pressure on the course.
Does Cleveland Golf Offer Other HB Soft Models?
Yes, Cleveland Golf offers a full line of HB Soft 2 putters nine in total each tailored for different stroke types and preferences. Whether you favor a blade-style or mallet head, you’ll find one optimized for your setup. These models come with various hosel configurations, grip types, and alignment aids. The beauty of this line is that it allows golfers to find their ideal balance, stroke fit, and feel.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Soft feel with excellent distance control
- Great forgiveness on off-center strikes
- Clear alignment aids improve accuracy
- Balanced weight for smooth stroke
- Excellent value for premium design
Cons
- Not ideal for left-handed golfers
- Limited custom grip options available
Conclusion
After testing dozens of putters, the Cleveland Golf HB Soft 2 stands out as a near-perfect blend of technology, feel, and value. Its Speed Optimized Face Technology, stroke-specific components, and dynamic groove milling help deliver consistent performance on every putt.
The 20g butt-end weighting and grip comfort give a stable, confident feel in hand, making it ideal for both practice and high-pressure rounds. Whether you’re a mid-handicapper, a beginner, or someone who just wants to stop three-putting every round, this putter delivers.
With its reliable alignment, distance control, and balanced construction, I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a top-tier putter without the luxury price tag. Bonus tip? Pair it with shoes for bunions if you’re walking 18 holes it’s a winning combo.
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