If you're a golfer who’s ever questioned whether a futuristic putter can truly improve your stroke, then this review is for you.
We recently got our hands on the LAB Golf DF3! A club that’s turning heads for both its unique design and its bold promises: straighter putts, even with imperfect strokes.
We’ve all had those days on the green where nothing drops and confidence disappears. So we were curious if this thing could actually make a difference.
Key Takeaways
If you don't have the time to read our full review, here are the main things you should know about the Lab Golf DF3 putter!
- Seriously soft feel off the face — buttery, smooth, and super stable
- Customization options galore, from grip shape to head finish
- Higher price point (~$650 fully customized)
- Feels easier to control even on mishits
- A steep shift from blade putters, but surprisingly intuitive
But if you prefer watching reviews in video format here is the full-length review we did on our YouTube channel!
Is the LAB Golf DF3 Putter Worth The Hype?
First Impressions: Something Special (and Weird) in Your Hands
Right out of the box, the DF3 doesn’t look like any putter you’ve used. It feels futuristic, even experimental — but in a good way.
The offset shaft and unique head design make it feel unusual at first glance, yet somehow it feels natural once you start rolling putts.
We tested two custom DF3s with the LAB Xacra shafts and Press 1.3 XL grips. Arvo's came in blue; Carl’s was grey. Both felt ultra-balanced and extremely stable through the stroke.
After two putts Carl even said - “Feels like I've been putting with it for two years”
Feel & Alignment: Instantly Different
The softness is the first thing you notice. If you're used to firm-faced putters, the DF3 might feel muted at first.
But the feedback is still there — it just feels more refined. What stood out the most was how well off-center hits stayed on line. Even heel and toe strikes rolled true.
Arvo mentioned how the Press grip helped align the putter face naturally at setup. It’s a feature that encourages better mechanics without conscious effort.
The result? A feeling of confidence at address that’s rare with new gear, like we had when we first tested the HackMotion Wrist Sensor.
Comparison: LAB DF3 vs Odyssey 10 Mallet
To see how the DF3 stacks up against a familiar favorite, we brought in an Odyssey 10 Mallet with a Superstroke grip — Carl’s longtime favorite.
After a few putts with each, the results were clear:
- The Odyssey delivered a firmer, more traditional feel with slightly better sound.
- Confidence at address was notably higher with the LAB.
- The DF3 offered better forgiveness and directional control, especially for off-center strokes.
While both are great options, the DF3 felt like a modern upgrade to a classic concept — with added stability and customization.
Challenges: Lip-Outs and Closest to The Pin
To really test the DF3, we did two challenges:
1. Nastiest Lip-Out Challenge
We aimed for the most dramatic near-miss — the kind that haunts your dreams.
While Carl had a near 180° spin-out, Arvo’s attempts barely kissed the cup. The DF3’s forgiveness made it almost too good, it just wanted to go in.
2. Closest to The Pin
From across the green, both players tested their control and feel. Consistency wasn’t perfect due to operator error.
But the DF3’s large face made it easy to line up and commit. Distance control was steady once adjusted for green speed.
Pros & Cons
Before we wrap, here’s how the DF3 stacks up once you’ve spent a full session with it.
✅ Pros
- Super soft, stable feel
- Forgiving on heel and toe strikes
- Custom fit online in minutes
- Unique design turns heads
- Great for straight-back-straight-through strokes
❌ Cons
- Pricey (~$650 fully customized)
- Limited grip options (especially for larger grips with flat faces)
- Unusual look might not suit traditionalists
But this is just if we really start nitpicking. Realistically, it is a great putter, the biggest issue is just the price point.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about your putting and willing to invest in a tool that makes a tangible difference in alignment and consistency, the LAB Golf DF3 is worth considering.
It’s not cheap, but what you get is more than just a flashy head — it’s a full package designed to improve the most important part of your game.
For anyone making the switch from a blade to mallet, this might feel like a big jump — but it's a leap you won't regret.