Perfect Practice RainDrop
The concept of “putting strings” is nothing new in the world of golf as it’s one of the most tried and true practice tools of all time. As long as I remember going to the golf course, I’ve seen people using them as part of their putting practice routines. But I tell you what, they look like a such a pain to deal with. Golfers pulling a string wrapped around some sort of stick out of their bag, unraveling it, getting the distance right, wrapping any excess string back up, and repeat the process if they move to a new location. You’re looking at multiple minutes to get the setup right. Just not worth the hassle to me. BUT NOT with the Perfect Practice RainDrop retractable putting string designed with premiere putting coach, Matt Killen. It literally takes seconds to setup and you’re off and practicing.
Setup
Setup might be the most significant selling point of the Perfect Practice RainDrop putting aid. The hardest part is determining the line/break of your putt before you set it up. Once you have the line, all you have to do is stick to loose stake through the hole in the RainDrop device, put that stake in the ground, and pull the stake already attached to the string to the end of your line and stick it in the ground. The string will pull tight and you’re ready to go. There is a string lock on the bottom of the RainDrop if necessary, but I usually don’t need to use it. Be aware, the fit of the stake through the hole in the RainDrop is somewhat snug so don’t be alarmed when it takes a little force. This fit keeps the RainDrop from swiveling around at all while you use it.
It’s worth pointing out that taking the RainDrop down is just as easy. Simply pull the stakes out of the ground and let the string retract. Then just pop it all back into its soft carrying case and throw it in your golf bag.
Performance
Let’s talk about performance in this section from two perspectives. First, I’ll address the operation of the Perfect Practice RainDrop itself. Both of the stakes are solid and easy to push into the ground. They definitely aren’t susceptible to being bent unless you are really abusive with them. Being in a bag pocket won’t do any damage either as long as a golf cart doesn’t run it over. The string is extremely sturdy and durable so it will last for a long time. When pulling and retracting the string, it’s smooth and clean. There won’t be bunching up inside the device or difficulty getting the string back in.
As far as practicing, a “putting string” is a classic practice aid. Using a straight string really helps you get an idea of how you’re addressing the ball and if you’re starting putts on your intended line. You can use the string as not only a sight line, but also an alignment aid for your body position. If I had one critique, I’d like the string to be a little brighter or thicker so it stood out a little more visually, but it’s not a deal breaker.
A real benefit is that the string doesn’t have any sag. By staying nice and tight, you get a true straight line to work with and don’t run the risk of the line interfering with your putter during the stroke. It may seem silly to mention this, but the taut line is also nice because it doesn’t wave in the breeze at all as your practicing. With a string that isn’t super tight, you may be standing over it as it sways in the wind. Don’t underestimate how nice it is to not have to deal with that!
Final Thoughts – Perfect Practice RainDrop Retractable Putting String
Matt Killen’s Perfect Practice RainDrop is a nice and practical take on a classic “putting string” training aid. The ease of setup, sturdy design, and compact footprint make it a “straight to the point” practice option for any golfer. The higher price tag might be geared a little more toward the more serious golfer, but I assure you that if you like the “string starting line” concept, this is a far better option than the DIY setups you’re going to throw together. It’s a sound investment that’s easy to use, effective, and will last you for years to come.
