Retro Review: Ping Zing Putter

Overview:

The Ping Zing putter holds a special spot as the fourth design from the iconic Karsten Solheim, the mastermind behind Ping. Hot on the heels of the perimeter-weighted Anser, the Zing took that concept and gave it a smoother, more flowing vibe. Launched in the late 1970s, this blade-style putter blends classic roots with a punchy personality, offering a fresh take on the Anser’s legendary shape with softer, more rounded lines.

The Tech:

The Zing builds on the perimeter-weighting tech that made the Anser a hit, but it dials things up a notch. Picture a slimmed-down middle with the weight pushed out to the edges—more stability, less twist on those off-center hits. Crafted from manganese bronze (think copper-zinc with a dash of manganese, aluminum, and iron), it rocks a dull bronze finish that’s tough against corrosion and cuts glare like a champ. Karsten handpicked this alloy for its killer feel and quality, delivering a “lively off the face” sensation that golfers can’t get enough of.

The Look:

This putter’s got some personality—it’s toe-heavy, clocking in at a 21° gravity angle (toe hang, for the gearheads). The head’s surprisingly light, likely thanks to the magnesium in the mix, but don’t let that fool you—it still pops off the face with a satisfying thunk at impact. After a little warmup, we put it through its paces: 10 shots from 3, 6, and 12 feet, averaged out for a casual snapshot of its performance. Check the numbers below—scores are just a rough guide, not a one-size-fits-all deal.

The Test:

The Ping Zing is a very Toe heavy putter, measuring in at a 21° Gravity Angle (Toe Hang). The head of the club is also light weight, probably the result of the magnesium in the alloy. Even though the head is light, it has quite a bit of pop off of the face, coupled with a solid thunk at impact.

After some warmup time, 10 shots were taken from each distance, and averaged out into the table below. Score numbers are for reference only, and not indicative of everyone's performance using this putter.

Distance (ft)	Average Score
3	1.4
6	1.5
12	1.9

The Conclusion:

The Ping Zing putter is a gem that blends brains and beauty. It takes the perimeter-weighting magic of its predecessors and wraps it in a curvier, more laid-back package that still delivers on the green. That manganese bronze finish isn’t just for looks—it brings a soft, lively feel that’s hard to beat, paired with a lightweight head that packs a surprising punch. Sure, it’s a little toe-heavy and takes a moment to get comfy with, but once you’re dialed in, it’s a reliable partner for sinking putts. Whether you’re a gear nerd or just love a classic, the Zing’s mix of retro style and solid performance makes it a standout worth swinging.