Putter-type golf club with front surface having dynamic bumpers

Abstract

A putter-type golf club head includes a front with an array of dynamic bumpers designed to amplify the elastic response of the putter head, enabling sufficient dynamic launch and greater topspin in a golf ball at impact. Each dynamic bumper extends perpendicular to a loft plane from a bumper base end to a bumper free end. The bumper free end is angled and further includes a bumper tip region that compresses and deflects upon contact with the golf ball, transitioning from an initial, uncompressed state to a deflected state. The bumper tip regions of the array of dynamic bumpers cooperate to form a dynamic striking surface that promotes greater topspin and an efficient transition to true roll. This allows the golf ball to stay on its intended line and maintain consistent speed on various putting surfaces, to improve putting accuracy and reliability.

Description

PUTTER-TYPE GOLF CLUB WITH FRONT SURFACE HAVING DYNAMIC BUMPERSFIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to golf club heads and, more particularly, face surfaces of putter-type golf club heads.CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This claims the benefit of U.S Provisional Application No. 63,868,984, filed August 22, 2025, U.S Provisional Application No. 63 / 841,934, filed July 10, 2025, and U.S Provisional Application No. 63 / 712,353, filed October 25, 2024, the contents of which are fully incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0003] An ideal putt occurs when the golfball has topspin, where ball has forward rolling over itself along a path to the hole. Topspin promotes a smoother transition into forward roll, mitigating the impact of imperfections in the putting surface. Putts that have topspin more quickly after impact, will maintain a consistent trajectory and path to the hole, thereby improving precision and reliability across different conditions. Backspin, on the other hand, disrupts the initial forward motion of the ball. A putt with backspin is less stable and will have increased skidding and / or bouncing, delaying forward roll. Consequently, backspin increases susceptibility to putting surface irregularities, such as grain, slope, or debris, and compromises directional accuracy and distance control to the hole.

[0004] Many conventional putters incorporate strike face features, such as grooves, milling patterns, surface texturing, and inserts, to enhance the elastic response between the putter head and the golfball at impact. While these strikeface features increase friction and compressive interaction, for the purpose of energy transfer and feel, they also impart backspin by frictionally compressing the ball into the ground surface.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] To facilitate further description of the embodiments, the following drawings are provided in which:

[0006] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a putter-type golf club head with an insert removed to show a well.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a putter-type golf club head comprising an insert with circular dynamic bumpers according to an embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of the putter-type club head of FIG. 2.

[0009] FIG. 4 is a toe elevation view, in cross-section, of the putter-type club head of FIG. 2.

[0010] FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of an insert according to the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration depicting a sequence of mechanical interactions within a dynamic system of an array of dynamic bumpers with a golfball, according to the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 7 is an enlarged, side elevation view in cross-section of the putter-type club head of FIG. 4.

[0013] FIG. 8 is an enlarged side elevation view of a dynamic bumper according to an embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 9 is a front elevation view of an insert having dynamic bumpers according to an additional embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 10 is an enlarged side elevation view, in cross-section, of the insert having dynamic bumpers of FIG. 9.

[0016] FIG. 11 is an enlarged side elevation view of a dynamic bumper of FIG. 9.

[0017] FIG. 12 is an enlarged side elevation view of the dynamic bumpers of FIG. 11 showing both an initial state in solid line and a deflected state in phantom lines.

[0018] FIG. 13 is an enlarged, perspective view of an insert having dynamic bumpers in the form of circular posts according to an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 14 is an enlarged, perspective view of an insert having dynamic bumpers in the form of square posts according to an embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 15 is a front elevation view of an insert having dynamic bumpers according to an additional embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 16 is an enlarged perspective view, in cross-section, of the insert of FIG. 15.

[0022] FIG. 17 is an enlarged side elevation view, in cross-section, of the insert of FIG. 15.

[0023] FIG. 18 is a graph comparing two blade-type putter heads with respect to backspin rate at varying putt length distances.

[0024] FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of a blade-type putter head used for testing according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of the blade-type putter head of FIG. 19 with an alternative insert.

[0026] FIG. 21 is a graph comparing two blade-type putter heads with respect to spin rate at 10 feet.

[0027] FIG. 22 is a graph comparing two blade-type putter heads with respect to spin rate at 25 feet.

[0028] FIG. 23 is a graph comparing two-blade-type putter heads with respect to the vertical launch at 10 feet.

[0029] FIG. 24 is a graph comparing two-blade-type putter heads with respect to the vertical launch at 25 feet.

[0030] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention. The same reference numerals in different figures denotes the same elements.

[0031] The figures illustrate various embodiments of a putter-type golf club head in various views. The features discussed below are demonstrated on putter-type golf club head 100. For ease ofdiscussion, the features shown on putter-type golf club head 100 are applicable to various embodiments of the club head according to the present invention. Any one or more of the features described in the various embodiments below can be used in combination with one another. Further, while different embodiments may comprise different numbering schemes (i.e. Ixx, 2xx, 3xx numbering schemes, etc.) similar elements are numbered similarly between embodiments (i.e. putter-type golf club head 100 comprises a crown 112 and a sole 114, whereas club head putter-type golf club head 200 comprises a crown 212 and a sole 214).DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Putter-type golf club heads are disclosed herein having a front recessed surface with an array of dynamic bumpers that form the intended contact area of a putter face. The dynamic bumpers amplify the elastic response of the putter head in a direction that reduces or eliminates frictional compression and instead generates greater topspin at impact. Each dynamic bumper is disposed in a front well of the putter face and extends forward of a front recessed surface. Furthermore, each dynamic bumper comprises a bumper base end coupled to the club head and a bumper free end opposite the bumper base end. The bumper free end comprises a contact surface with a contact surface upper end, a contact surface lower end soleward of the contact surface upper end, and a bumper tip region 130 defining a contact surface apex 128.

[0033] which dynamically interacts with the ball. The multiple contact surface apieces of the dynamic bumper array cooperate to form a unified striking surface that impart an upward tangential force to the golfball, thereby providing topspin, and more specifically leading to forward roll of the putter golfball.

[0034] Each dynamic bumper has an angled contact surface with a tip region that efficiently transfers energy, improves vertical launch, and increases topspin. When viewed in cross-section, the contact surface lower end is positioned closer to the sole and extends farther from the bumper base end than the contact surface upper end. As a result, the tip region will deflect generally soleward and into the putter face at impact, thereby to store elastic energy in the dynamic bumper. As the dynamic bumper returns to the initial state, the stored energy is released into the golfball along a force vector, projecting the golfball upwards and forwards. The upward direction increases vertical launch, while the forward direction propels the ball to roll forward, driving the ball towards the hole. Thecombination of upward launch and directional force generates topspin, reduces backspin, and improves roll consistency.I. Definitions

[0035] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms “include,” and “have,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

[0036] The terms “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “over,” “under,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments of the invention described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

[0037] The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “couples,” “coupling,” and the like should be broadly understood and refer to connecting two or more elements or signals, electrically, mechanically and / or otherwise.

[0038] The term “geometric centerpoint,” or “geometric center” of the strike face, as used herein, can refer to a geometric centerpoint of the strike face perimeter, and at a midpoint of the face height of the strike face. In the same or other examples, the geometric centerpoint also can be centered with respect to an engineered impact zone, which can be defined by a region of grooves on the strike face. As another approach, the geometric centerpoint of the strike face can be located inaccordance with the definition of a golf governing body such as the United States Golf Association (USGA).

[0039] The term “ground plane,” as used herein, can refer to a reference plane associated with the surface on which a golfball is placed. The ground plane can be a horizontal plane tangent to the sole at an address position.

[0040] The term “loft plane,” as used herein, can refer to a reference plane that is tangent to the geometric centerpoint of the strike face.

[0041] The “leading edge” of the club head, as described herein, can be identified as the most sole-ward portion of the strike face perimeter.

[0042] An “XYZ” coordinate system of the golf club head, as described herein, is based upon the geometric center of the strike face. The golf club head dimensions as described herein can be measured based on a coordinate system as defined below. The geometric center of the strike face defines a coordinate system having an origin located at the geometric center of the strike face. The coordinate system defines an X axis, a Y axis, and a Z axis. The X axis extends through the geometric center of the strike face in a direction from the heel to the toe of the fairway-type club head. The Y axis extends through the geometric center of the strike face in a direction from the top rail to the sole of golf club head. The Y axis is perpendicular to the X axis. The Z axis extends through the geometric center of the strike face in a direction from the front end to the rear end of the golf club head. The Z axis is perpendicular to both the X axis and the Y axis.

[0043] The XYZ coordinate system of the golf club head, as described herein defines an XY plane extending through the X axis and the Y axis. The coordinate system defines XZ plane extending through the X axis and the Z axis. The coordinate system further defines a YZ plane extending through the Y axis and the Z axis. The XY plane, the XZ plane, and the YZ plane are all perpendicular to one another and intersect at the coordinate system origin located at the geometric center of the strike face. In these or other embodiments, the golf club head can be viewed from a front view when the strike face is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the XY plane. Further, in these or other embodiments, the golf club head can be viewed from a side view or side cross-sectional view when the heel is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the YZ plane.

[0044] The term “putter,” can, in some embodiments, refer to a putter-type club head having a loft angle less than 10 degrees. In many embodiments, the loft angle of the putter can be between 0 and 5 degrees, between 0 and 6 degrees, between 0 and 7 degrees, or between 0 and 8 degrees. For example, the loft angle of the club head can be less than 10 degrees, less than 9 degrees, less than 8 degrees, less than 7 degrees, less than 6 degrees, or less than 5 degrees. For further example, the loft angle of the club head can be 0 degrees, 1 degree, 2 degrees, 3 degrees, 4 degrees, 5 degrees, 6 degrees, 7 degrees, 8 degrees, 9 degrees, or 10 degrees. The putter-type golf club head can be a blade type putter, a mid-mallet type putter, a mallet type putter.

[0045] While the present disclosure focuses on a putter-type golf club, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be applicable to other types of golf club such as a, a wedge-type golf club, or an iron-type golf club.

[0046] Other features and aspects will become apparent by consideration of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details or embodiment and the arrangement of components as set forth in the following description or as illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of supporting other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. It should be understood that the description of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the disclosure from covering all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.II. General Description of a Putter-Type Golf Club Head

[0047] The putter-type golf club heads disclosed herein have a front surface with an array of dynamic bumpers. The dynamic bumpers can be integral with the body of the putter-type golf club head, or may be separately formed in an insert that is subsequently coupled to the body. The puttertype golf club head is generally understood to comprise the club head, a shaft, and a grip. The club head is configured to receive the shaft, and the grip is secured to the shaft.

[0048] An array of dynamic bumpers may be provided on any type of putter-type golf club, such as a blade, mid-mallet, or mallet-style putter head. In particular, the dynamic bumpers may be provided on the putter-type golf club head, as shown in FIGS 1-4. The putter-type golf club head 100 comprises a body 101 and a hosel 102 configured to receive the shaft. The body 101 includes a crown 112, a sole 114, a top rail 109 adjacent to the crown 112 and defining a top edge 113, a leading edge 103 adjacent to the sole 114, a toe 104, and a heel 106 opposite the toe 104. In an address position, the crown 112 and the top rail 109 form a top of the club head, and the sole 114 forms a bottom of the club head. More specifically, the sole 114 defines a sole surface oriented tangent to a ground plane 1010 when the club head is in the address position. The body 101 additionally includes a front 115 including a front leading surface 105 that extends around a perimeter of the front 115 and is substantially planar along the loft plane. Accordingly, the front leading surface 105 may be angled relative to a vertical plane extending upwards from the leading edge 103 when the putter-type golf club head 100 is at an address position. A front recessed surface 107 is disposed rearwardly of the front leading surface 105. Furthermore, a recessed sidewall 108 extends between the front leading surface 105 and the front recessed surface 107, wherein the front recessed surface 107 and the recessed sidewall 108 define a front well 111. The front leading surface 105 further comprises a geometric centerpoint.III. Dynamic Bumper Elements

[0049] An array of dynamic bumpers 120 are disposed in the well 111 at the front 115 of the putter-type golf club head 100 to amplify elastic response and generate greater topspin at impact with a ball 1045. The dynamic bumper 120 deforms upon impact, temporarily storing energy. As the dynamic bumper 120 returns to the initial state, the store energy is released to the ball as kinetic energy in a direction aligned with the intended target. In this manner, the dynamic bumpers 120 reduce energy loss and backspin and instead impart dynamic loft and topspin to the ball so that the ball 1045 more quickly transitions to forward roll along the intended path to the hole.

[0050] The dynamic bumpers 120 are disposed in the front well 111 and extend forward of the front recessed surface 107. Structure and / or materials make the dynamic bumpers 120 sufficiently flexible to deflect at impact with the golfball 1045. The dynamic bumpers 120 extend forward in a direction substantially perpendicular to the loft plane. Each dynamic bumper 120 comprises a dynamicbumper body 124, that extends parallel to a ground plane. In some embodiments, the angle at which the dynamic bumpers 120 extend can be described relative to a bumper axis 121. When viewed in cross-section, as portrayed in FIG. 8, the bumper axis 121 is a longitudinal axis extending through a midpoint of the dynamic bumper body 124. The bumper axis 121 extends in a direction perpendicular to the loft plane. This configuration permits each dynamic bumper 120 to undergo controlled deflection and rapid rebound to efficiently transfer stored elastic energy along a force vector to the ball, thereby reducing compression and increasing topspin, as observed in FIG. 6.

[0051] Each dynamic bumper 120 comprises a bumper base end 122 positioned on an opposite end of a bumper free end 123, designed to allow lateral deflection while preserving the structural integrity of the dynamic bumper 120. Specifically, the bumper base end 122 is disposed nearest the front recessed surface 107, and further secures the dynamic bumper 120 to the front recessed surface 107. Without the bumper base end 122, the body 124 of the dynamic bumper 120 would be compromised, and the dynamic bumper 120 would fail to effectively transfer energy into the golfball 1045.

[0052] Each dynamic bumper 120 further includes a bumper free end 123, opposite the bumper base end 122, that engages the ball. The bumper base end 122 is located toward a distal end of the dynamic bumper body 124, and includes a contact surface 125 that directly interacts with the golfball during impact. In FIG. 8, the contact surface 125 is oriented at an angle al relative to the loft plane of the putter-type golf club head 100. The angle al contributes to downward deflection of the dynamic bumper 120 at impact, so that the return energy delivered along a force vector to the ball 1045 has an upward tangential force that promotes topspin and more efficient forward roll.

[0053] In some embodiments, only a portion of the contact surface 125 will deflect at impact. More specifically, with reference to FIG. 8, the contact surface 125 comprises a contact surface upper end 126 and a contact surface lower end 127. The contact surface lower end 127 defines a contact surface apex 128 128, which is the point on the contact surface 125 that is farthest away from the bumper base end 122. Conversely, the contact surface upper end 126 comprises a contact surface nadir 129, which is the point on the contact surface 125 that is closest to the bumper base end 122.

[0054] The portion of the contact surface 125 that deforms at impact is defined herein as a bumper tip region 130. The bumper tip region 130 is located at the contact surface lower end 127, and includesthe contact surface apex 128. The contact surface apex 128 is positioned forward of the contact surface upper end 126, so that the contact surface 125 is inclined to face upward. Angle al directly impacts the size of the bumper tip region 130. A larger angle al reduces the effective contact area of bumper tip region 130, thereby concentrating the impact forces over a smaller area and increasing the degree of elastic deformation of the dynamic bumper 120. In some embodiments, a larger angle al can range between 70 and 90 degrees. In other embodiments, a larger angle al can range between 70 and 75 degrees, 75 and 80 degrees, 80 and 85 degrees, or between 85 and 90 degrees. In contrast, a smaller angle al increases the effective contact area of bumper tip region 130, distributing the impact of forces over a broader area of bumper tip region 130, thereby limiting peak displacement and load absorption. In some embodiments, a smaller angle al can range between 0 to 20 degrees. In other embodiments, a smaller angle al can range between 0 and 5 degrees, 5 and 10 degrees, 10 and 15 degrees, or between 15 and 20 degrees.

[0055] The contact surface 125 angle impacts the magnitude and direction of the resulting force imparted by the dynamic bumpers 120 on the ball 1045. More specifically, the contact surface 125 has an initial state, in which the bumper tip region 130 is uncompressed with the contact surface apex 128 positioned at a first distance forward of the bumper base end 122 and a first elevation. Upon impact, the contact surface 125 moves to a deflected state, in which the bumper tip region 130 is compressed toward the bumper base end 122 such that the contact surface apex 128 is positioned at a second distance forward of the bumper base end 122 and a second elevation. The second distance is defined by how much the contact surface apex 128 compresses towards the bumper base end 122 along the bumper axis 121. Alternatively, the second elevation is defined by how much the dynamic bumper 120 bends downwards, or, more specifically, perpendicular to the bumper axis 121. In preferred embodiments, the second distance is less than the first distance and the second elevation is below the first elevation.

[0056] Peak displacement is measured along a resultant displacement vector generally along a line between the initial apex position and the deflected apex position. This resultant vector represents peak displacement of the contact surface apex 128 from its initial position. The peak displacement can range from 0.005 in. to 0.035 in. In some embodiments, the peak displacement can range between 0.005 in. to 0.015 in., 0.015 in. to 0.025 in., or between 0.025 in. and 0.035 in. In alternative embodiments, the peak displacement can range from 0.02 in. to 0.035 in. In alternative embodiments, the compressiondisplacement can range from 0.025 in. to 0.035 in. In alternative embodiments, the peak displacement can range from 0.025, 0.026, 0.027, 0.028, 0.029, 0.030, 0.031, 0.032, 0.033, 0.034, or 0.035 inches.

[0057] The dynamic bumpers 120 impart an elastic force in a tangential direction as the bumper tip region 130 returns to the initial state. The tangentially-directed force generates top spin, reduces frictional compression, and mitigates the effects of putting surface imperfections. A bumper sidewall 131 may extend between the bumper base end 122 and the bumper free end 123. In some embodiments, the bumper sidewall 131 defines a perimeter and a projected area of the dynamic bumper 120. Specifically, the projected area defines a surface area over which a particular dynamic bumper 120 is disposed. In some embodiments, the projected area of each dynamic bumper 120 can range between 0.25 mm2to 2.00 mm2. In some embodiments, the projected area of each dynamic bumper 120 can be 0.25 mm2to 0.50 mm2, 0.50 mm2to 0.75 mm2, 0.75 mm2to 1.00 mm2, 1.00 mm2to 1.25 mm2, 1.25 mm2to 1.50 mm2, 1.50 mm2to 1.75 mm2, or 1.75 mm2to 2.00 mm2. In some embodiments, the projected area of each dynamic bumper 120 can be 0.50 mm2, 0.55 mm2, 0.60 mm2, 0.65 mm2, 0.70 mm2, 0.75 mm2, 0.80 mm2, 0.85 mm2, 0.90 mm2, 0.95 mm2, 1.00 mm2, 1.05 mm2, 1.10 mm2, 1.15 mm2, 1.20 mm2, 1.25 mm2, 1.30 mm2, 1.35 mm2, 1.40 mm2, 1.45 mm2, or 1.50 mm2. Any of the dynamic bumper embodiments described below comprise projected areas similar to the projected area described herein.

[0058] The projected area further defines a dynamic bumper shape that permits sufficient post flexibility, to enable a desired elastic response, provide the necessary vector force for dynamic loft and topspin, thereby reducing backspin for more efficient forward roll. For example, the dynamic bumper shape can be a square, a rectangle, a parallelogram, a diamond (or rhombus), a circle, a triangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, or any other suitable geometrical shape. In some embodiments the dynamic bumper shape can be a shape having one continuous side, one arcuate side and one linear side, three sides, four sides, five sides, six sides, seven sides, eight sides, nine sides, or ten sides.

[0059] The dynamic bumpers 120 may have a shape that promotes deflection at impact. In particular, circular or arcuate-shaped dynamic bumpers may increase flexing or bending, while square, rectangular, or other shapes comprising straight edges and comers are more resistant to flexing or bending. In some embodiments, the dynamic bumpers 120 comprise the same shape. In additionalembodiments, the dynamic bumpers 120 comprise different shapes. Examples of shapes are described in further detail below.

[0060] Additionally, each dynamic bumper 120 is composed of a material specifically selected to complement the geometric structure. The interplay between the shape and its material helps achieve a controlled and predictable displacement at impact. This combination governs the extent to which the bumper flexes, bends, or compresses, thereby influencing the overall energy transfer and elastic behavior during contact.

[0061] While a certain amount of deflection is desired, too much deflection may decrease performance. Accordingly, shape and material may be selected to obtain the desired about of deflection. For instance, in embodiments where the dynamic bumper 120 features a circular or arcuate shape, which increases flexibility, a stiffer material may be to obtain a more controlled elastic response. Conversely, in embodiments utilizing square or rectangular geometries, which are fundamentally more rigid, a more elastic or compliant material may be selected to introduce the necessary degree of flexion. This tailored material-shape pairing ensures that each dynamic bumper 120 maintains structural integrity while delivering the desired mechanical performance during impact with the golfball 1045.

[0062] Adjacent dynamic bumpers 120 are spaced with an inter-bumper spacing from each other to ensure uniform distribution across the front of the putter-type golf club head 100. The inter-bumper spacing defines the shortest distance measured between the bumper sidewalls 131 of adjacent dynamic bumper 120, measured in a plane parallel to the loft plane. The inter-bumper spacing may vary depending on the embodiment. Moreover, the inter-bumper spacing may be constant or may vary across the array of dynamic bumpers 120. In some embodiments, the inter-bumper spacing of each dynamic bumper 120 can be 0.005 inches to 0.100 inches. In some embodiments, the inter-bumper spacing can be 0.005 to 0.020 inches, 0.020 to 0.040 inches, 0.040 to 0.060 inches, 0.060 to 0.080 inches, or 0.080 to 0.100 inches. In some embodiments, the inter-bumper spacing can be 0.020 inches, 0.025 inches, 0.030 inches, 0.035 inches, 0.040 inches, 0.045 inches, 0.050 inches, 0.055 inches, 0.060 inches, 0.065 inches, 0.070 inches, 0.075 inches, 0.080 inches, 0.085 inches, 0.090 inches, 0.095 inches, or 0.100 inches. In some embodiments, the inter-bumper spacing is 0.035 inches. Any of the dynamic bumper embodiments described below comprise inter-bumper spacings similar to the interbumper spacing described herein. This spacing allows the plurality of dynamic bumpers 120 to make even, direct contact, thereby preventing the golf ball from straying off the intended line. Any of the dynamic bumper embodiments described below may comprise the inter-bumper spacing described herein.

[0063] The array of dynamic bumpers 120 can be arranged in any pattern and oriented in any direction. In some embodiments, the pattern includes linearly oriented rows and columns. For example, the rows may be oriented parallel to a horizontal reference axis extending through the geometric centerpoint of the front surface. In additional embodiments, the rows may be offset by an angle of plus or minus 0 degrees to 90 degrees from the horizontal reference axis. In some embodiments, the rows are offset from the horizontal reference axis by + / - 10 degrees, + / - 20 degrees, + / - 30 degrees, + / - 40 degrees + / - 45 degrees, + / - 50 degrees, + / - 60 degrees, + / - 70 degrees, + / - 80 degrees, or + / - 90 degrees. In other embodiments the rows are offset from the horizontal reference axis by + / - 30 degrees, + / - 31 degrees, + / - 32 degrees, + / - 33 degrees, + / - 34 degrees, + / - 35 degrees, + / -36 degrees, + / - 37 degrees, + / - 38 degrees, + / - 39 degrees, + / - 40 degrees, + / - 41 degrees, + / - 42 degrees, + / - 43 degrees, + / - 44 degrees, + / - 45 degrees, + / - 46 degrees, + / - 47 degrees, + / - 48 degrees, + / - 49 degrees, or + / - 50 degrees.

[0064] In even further embodiments, the dynamic bumper array can be arranged in a pattern of arcuate or curved rows and columns. For example, the rows can be concave with respect to the leading edge 103, concave with respect to the top edge 113, concave with respect to the toe 104, or concave with respect to the heel 106.IV. Materials and Manufacturinga. Materials of the Putter-Type Golf Club Head

[0065] The dynamic bumpers 120 comprise a dynamic bumper material selected to provide desired deflection. As noted above, material selection may be coordinated with structure. In some embodiments, where the dynamic bumpers 120 are provided integrally with the putter head, the dynamic bumper material is the same as the head material. For example, the putter-type golf club head can be cast or forged to form the overall components of the putter which include the head, the hosel, and the shaft. The body of the putter-type golf club head, as described above, can comprise one ormore body materials that allow the putter-type golf club head to withstand various playing conditions. Any body material(s) is compatible with the plurality of dynamic bumpers disclosed herein. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the body can be formed by one or any combination of the following materials: 8620 alloy steel, S25C steel, carbon steel, maraging steel, 17-4 stainless steel, 303 stainless steel, 304 stainless-steel, stainless-steel alloy, tungsten, aluminum, aluminum alloy, ADC-12, or any metal suitable for creating a putter-type golf club head body.b. General Description an Insert

[0066] Alternatively, the dynamic bumpers 120 may be separately formed in an insert 116 that is subsequently coupled to the putter-type golf club head 100. In some embodiments, the insert 116 can be located at the geometric center of the putter-type golf club head 100. In some embodiments, the insert 116 can cover the entirety of the front leading surface 105 of the putter-type golf club head 100. The insert 116 includes an insert base 117 to support the dynamic bumpers 120. The insert base 117 has an interior surface 134 coupled to the front recessed surface 107 of the head, and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface 134. The array of dynamic bumpers 120 extend forward of the insert base 117 and are disposed in the front well 111 when the insert 116 is coupled to the head. Furthermore, the insert 116 comprises a top surface 118, a bottom 119 surface opposite the top surface 118, a right surface 132, and a left surface 133 opposite the right surface 132. The insert 116 may be adhered, welded, or otherwise secured to the front recessed surface 107.

[0067] The insert 116 may include bond-promoting structures to facilitate adhering, such as with epoxy. For example, a plurality of distribution ribs 135 formed around the perimeter surface of the insert base 117 facilitate uniform epoxy flow during the assembly (see FIG. 5). Each distribution rib 135 comprises a protruding top surface 136 configured to increase the effective surface area and allow more epoxy to contact the insert 116. The plurality of distribution ribs 135 may extend from the interior surface 134, top surface 118, bottom surface 119, right surface 132, left surface 133 of the insert 116 or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the insert 116 comprises two or more distribution ribs 135. In other embodiments, the insert 116 comprises four or more distribution ribs 135. In other embodiments, the insert 116 comprises six or more distribution ribs 135.

[0068] As observed in FIG. 5, the plurality of distribution ribs 135 can comprise one or more rib shapes to facilitate even epoxy distribution during assembly. For example, the plurality of distributionribs 135 may comprise a circular, semi-circular, rectangular, square, triangular, polygonal, or any other suitable shape. Collectively, the varied configurations of the plurality of distribution ribs 135 enhance the insert’s functionality by promoting consistent epoxy flow and ensuring precise alignment during assembly.

[0069] Each distribution rib 135 comprises a rib thickness measured from its respective insert surface to the top surface 136 of the distribution rib 135. In particular, the distribution ribs 135 positioned along the interior surface 134 comprise a rib thickness measured from the interior surface 134 of the insert 116 to the top surface 136 of the distribution rib 135 in a direction perpendicular to the loft plane. Additionally, the distribution ribs 148 positioned along the top 118 and bottom 119 surfaces comprise a rib thickness measured from the top 118 or bottom 119 surfaces, respectively, to the top surface 136 of the distribution rib 135 parallel to the loft plane. Further, the distribution ribs 135 positioned along the right 132 or left surfaces 133 comprise a rib thickness measured from the right 132 or left surfaces 133, respectively, to the top surface 136 of the distribution rib 135 parallel to the ground plane. For each of these embodiments, the rib thickness can be between 0.005 inch and 0.010 inch. In some embodiments, the rib thickness can range between 0.005 inch and 0.006 inch, 0.006 inch and 0.007 inch, 0.007 inch and 0.008 inch, 0.008 inch and 0.009 inch, or between 0.009 inch and 0.010 inch. In exemplary embodiments, the rib thickness is 0.007 inch to increase the effective surface area, allowing more epoxy to contact the insert 116 within the well 111.c. Materials of the Insert

[0070] The insert 116, as previously described, comprises one or more lightweight, resilient materials characterized by their elastic properties, which are selected to enhance flexibility, reduce overall weight, and improve the functional performance. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the insert 116 can be formed by one or any combination of the following materials: aluminum, stainless steel, copper, thermoplastic co-polyester elastomer (TPC), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic urethane (TPU), steel, nickel, TPU / aluminum, TPE / aluminum, plastic / metal screen insert, polyethylene, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyisobutylene, polyvinyl chloride, PEBAX®, or any other desired insert material. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the insert 116 can be formed by one or any combination of the following materials: steel, steel alloys, tungsten, tungsten alloys, aluminum, aluminum alloys, titanium, titanium alloys, vanadium, vanadium alloys,chromium, chromium alloys, cobalt, cobalt alloys, nickel, nickel alloys, other metals, other metal alloys, composite polymer materials, or any other desired insert material.

[0071] In some embodiments where the insert material is PEBAX®, the insert material can comprise different compounds that correspond to different Shore D hardness values, polyether percentages, polyamide percentages, tensile moduli, and yield stresses. In some embodiments, the Shore D hardness ranges from 25 to 95. In other embodiments, In some embodiments, the Shore D hardness can be 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, or 95.

[0072] PEBAX® is a polyether block amide that is a thermoplastic elastomer made of a flexible polyether and rigid polyamide. In some embodiments, the insert 116 comprises a PEBAX ® 4533 SP 01 resin (Arkema, Paris France), with a Shore D hardness of 46 and a flexural modulus of 12,475 psi (86 MPa). In some embodiments, the insert 116 can comprise a PEBAX ® 5533 SA 01 MED resin with a Shore D hardness of 54 and a flexural modulus of 24,660 psi (170 MPa). In some embodiments, the insert 116 can comprise or a PEBAX ® 6333 SA 01 MED resin with a Shore D hardness of 64 and a flexural modulus of 41,335 psi (285 MPa). In alternative embodiments, the insert 116 comprises a PEBAX ® with a Shore A hardness value between 75 to 83. In other embodiments, the insert 116 comprises a PEBAX ® with a Shore A hardness value between 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, or 83.d. Manufacturing of Putter-Type Golf Club Head and Insert

[0073] Different manufacturing processes can be utilized in the art to form the body 101 of the putter-type golf club head 100 with the plurality of dynamic bumpers 120, or an insert 116 comprising a plurality of dynamic bumpers 120. The plurality of dynamic bumpers 120, as in any of the embodiments presented herein, can be milled utilizing a CNC milling machine or through electrical discharge machining (EDM). The plurality of dynamic bumpers 120 can be milled at the desirable height, angle, and spacing between each of the dynamic bumpers.

[0074] The plurality of dynamic bumpers 120, as in any of the embodiments presented herein, can also be printed layer by layer using 3D printing. In a preferred embodiment, a maximum height of the plurality of dynamic bumpers 120 are 3D printed at a maximum height of 0.02 inches.

[0075] Alternatively, injection molding is an alternative manufacturing process that can provide the most accurate results. A mold of the insert 116 and / or body 101 of the putter-type golf club head 100 with the plurality of dynamic bumpers 120 can be machined utilizing a traditional machining system, or EDM machining. The mold comprises the dynamic bumpers 120 in the insert 116. Once the plurality of dynamic bumpers 120 has been created in the mold, the injection molding and extrusion flow polymer, such as PEBAX, cover the mold to create the finalized product. By selecting any of the previously disclosed materials, and heating them into a molten composition, the molten material can be injected into the manufactured mold. The insert 116 can be attached and extruded out as the insert 116 to the putter head by epoxy or other affixing means. The mold is subsequently cooled, which allows the material to solidify in order to create a final product that comprises the insert 116 and / or body 101 of the putter-type golf club head 100 with the plurality of dynamic bumpers 120. The insert 116 can then be taped, epoxy, attached by mechanical means such as snap in, or any other attachment means within a front well 111 of a putter-type golf club head 100.V. Block Dynamic Bumpers

[0076] In some embodiments, a putter-type golf club head comprises an array of dynamic bumpers 220 each having a rectangular block-like shape with an arcuate bumper tip region 230, as shown in FIGS. 9-12. As described above, the plurality of dynamic bumpers 220 are configured to laterally deflect, store elastic energy, and then release the stored energy into the golf ball 1045. Providing a rectangular block-like shape and arcuate bumper tip region 230 increases structural strength to resist premature energy dissipation that may reduce efficient energy transfer into the golf ball 1045. The rectangular block-like shape geometry increases structural strength by increasing the cross-sectional area and reducing stress concentrations during impact. The curvature of the arcuate bumper tip region concentrates elastic energy at the point of contact, more effectively transmitting kinetic energy during impact. The combination of a robust, block-like base and a curved tip enables the bumper to maintain structural integrity and deliver a solid, rigid feel at impact, while enhancing the efficiency of energy transfer to the golfball. As such, the plurality of dynamic bumpers increase topspin, creates dynamic loft, reduces skid, and improves golfball roll consistency.

[0077] Similar to the dynamic bumper described above, each dynamic bumper 220 extends forward of the front recessed surface 107 along a bumper axis 221 perpendicular to the loft plane andcomprises a bumper base end 222, a bumper free end 223, and a sidewall 231. In this example, the sidewall 231 includes left, right, and bottom sidewall regions. The bumper base end 222 comprises a contact surface 225 having a contact surface upper end 226 and contact surface lower end 227. The contact surface lower end 227 defines a bumper tip region 230 and includes a contact surface apex 228. The contact surface apex 228 is positioned forward of the contact surface upper end 226, so that the contact surface 225 is inclined to face upward. The bumper free end 223 further defines a contact surface angle on (relative to the loft plane) and deflects upon contact with the golfball 1045 during a putting stroke, described in greater detail below.

[0078] The bumper tip region 230 of the contact surface lower end 227 defines a maximum distance Li of the dynamic bumper 220. The distance Li is measured from the bumper base end 222 to the contact surface apex 228 parallel to the bumper axis 221. In some embodiments, Li can range between 0.010 inches to 0.025 inches. In many embodiments, Li can range between 0.010 to 0.015 inches, 0.015 to 0.020 inches, or between 0.020 to 0.025 inches. In some embodiments, LI can be 0.010 inches, 0.011 inches, 0.012 inches, 0.013 inches, 0.014 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.016 inches, 0.017 inches, 0.018 inches, 0.019 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.021 inches, 0.022 inches, 0.023 inches, 0.024 inches, or 0.025 inches. In other embodiments, Li can be greater than 0.025 inches. Additionally, the contact surface upper end 226 defines a minimum distance L2 of the dynamic bumper 220. The distance L2 is measured from the bumper base end 222 to the contact surface upper end 226 parallel to the bumper axis 221. In preferred embodiments, the bumper base end 222 and the contact surface upper end 226 are coincident, such that the contact surface upper end 226 defines a minimum distance L2 of 0, as observed in FIG. 11. In other words, the bumper base end 222 and the contact surface upper end 226 extend forwards of the front recessed surface 107 at the same point. In this configuration, each dynamic bumper 220 exhibits a substantially triangular profile when viewing the dynamic bumper 220 from a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the loft plane, as shown in FIG. 11. As such, the dynamic bumper 220 comprises a shorter moment arm and stiffer profile, allowing the dynamic bumper 220 to deform elastically without compromising stability.

[0079] Further, the bumper tip region 230 of the contact surface lower end 227 comprises a radius of curvature, that distributes impact forces evenly and reduces stress concentrations. This configuration enhances durability while preserving the transfer of elastic energy and producing topspin at impact. The radius of curvature can be measured along the bumper tip region 230 between thecontact surface lower end 227 and its adjacent sidewall 231 (oriented towards the sole 114). In some embodiments, the bumper tip region 230 comprises a radius of curvature between 0.001 inch and 0.010 inch. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature can be between 0.001 inch and 0.002 inch, 0.002 inch and 0.003 inch, 0.003 inch and 0.004 inch, 0.004 inch and 0.005 inch, 0.005 inch and 0.006 inch, 0.006 inch and 0.007 inch, 0.007 inch and 0.008 inch, 0.008 inch and 0.009 inch, or between 0.009 inch and 0.010 inch.

[0080] The bumper base end 222 has rectangular blockdike shape, taken at a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the bumper axis 221. The rectangular block-like form provides directional stiffness, controlling lateral deflection. Uncontrolled lateral deflection could lead to premature energy dissipation and reduce efficient energy transfer into the golfball 1045. Instead, the dynamic bumper 220 enhances structural reinforcement to provide sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golf ball 1045 to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0081] The dynamic bumpers 220 can be arranged in a staggered brick-like array as shown in FIG.9. Specifically, the array of dynamic bumpers 220 comprises a first horizontal row of dynamic bumpers 220, each centered on a first row vertical center line. Additionally, the array of dynamic bumpers 220 comprises a second horizontal row of dynamic bumpers 220, each centered on a second row vertical center line. The first and second horizontal rows are arranged such that each first row vertical center line is laterally offset from each second row vertical center line, thereby forming the staggered brick-like array of dynamic bumpers 220. This staggered brick-like array allows for a uniform distribution and repetition of dynamic bumpers 220 across the front 115, ensuring consistent spacing and alignment throughout. The staggered, brick-like array furthermore optimizes the dynamic bumper 220 contact at impact with the golf ball 1045. A conventional cartesian array may result in contact points aligning with the junctions between multiple dynamic bumpers 220. Instead, the staggered brick-like array ensures that any point of impact aligns with the contact surface 225 of an individual dynamic bumper 220. Aligning the point of impact with the contact surface 225 of each individual dynamic bumper 220 enhances impact consistency across various impact locations of the front recessed surface 107.

[0082] The rectangular shape and rounded bumper tip region 230 shortens a moment arm and stiffens a structural profile of the dynamic bumper 220. To further enhance the performance of the dynamic bumper 220, the contact surface 225 of the dynamic bumper 220 may comprise a steeper contact surface 225 angle ai (an angle i of at least 30 degrees) to increase deflection. In some embodiments, for example, the contact surface 225 angle i can be between 30 degrees and 60 degrees relative to the loft plane. In some embodiments, the contact surface 225 angle ai can be between 30 degrees and 35 degrees, 35 degrees and 40 degrees, 40 degrees and 45 degrees, 45 degrees and 50 degrees, 50 degrees and 55 degrees, or between 55 degrees and 60 degrees. In some embodiments, the contact surface 225 angle al can be 30 degrees, 31 degrees, 32 degrees, 33 degrees, 34 degrees, 35 degrees, 36 degrees, 37 degrees, 38 degrees, 39 degrees, 40 degrees, 41 degrees, 42 degrees, 43 degrees, 44 degrees, 45 degrees, 46 degrees, 47 degrees, 48 degrees, 49 degrees, 50 degrees, 51 degrees, 52 degrees, 53 degrees, 54 degrees, 55 degrees, 56 degrees, 57 degrees, 58 degrees, 59 degrees, or 60 degrees relative to the loft plane. In preferred embodiments, the contact surface 225 angle ai can range from 40 degrees to 45 degrees. This contact surface 225 angle ai works in concert with the rigid structure to promote controlled lateral deflection during impact, allowing the dynamic bumper to effectively store and release elastic energy along a force vector to the ball. Therefore, integrating both the rectangular shape, rounded bumper tip region 230, and steeper contact surface 225 angle i allows the dynamic bumper to maintain structural integrity and enable sufficient lateral deflection. This controlled impact provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golfball 1045 to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0083] Each dynamic bumper 220 may additionally be formed of the putter head body or insert elastic material that encourages lateral deflection during impact with a golf ball 1045. In some embodiments, the dynamic bumper 220 may be formed of any one of the polymeric materials described above having a lower Shore D hardness value (less than 54) and thus, greater flexibility. In preferred embodiments, the dynamic bumper 220 may be formed of a PEBAX ® 4533 SP 01 resin (Arkema, Paris France), with a Shore D hardness of 46 and a flexural modulus of 12,475 psi (86 MPa). The elastic material cooperates with the rigid geometry, allowing the dynamic bumper 220 to effectively store and release elastic energy. Therefore, integrating both the rectangular shape, rounded bumper tip region 230, and flexible material allows the dynamic bumper 220 to maintain structuralintegrity while enabling sufficient lateral deflection. This controlled impact provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golfball 1045 to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0084] Furthermore, each dynamic bumper 220 may be configured with a reduced length L3 to enhance lateral deflection during impact with a golfball. When viewing each dynamic bumper from a front view, the length L3 can be measured from a toeward-most edge of the contact surface 225 to a heelward-most edge of the contact surface 225, as shown in FIG. 9. In many embodiments, L3 can range between 0.040 inches to 0.120 inches. In preferred embodiments, L3 is 0.070 inches. In other embodiments, L3 can range between 0.040 to 0.050 inches, 0.050 to 0.060 inches, 0.060 to 0.070 inches, 0.070 to 0.080 inches, 0.080 to 0.090 inches, 0.090 to 0.100 inches, 0.100 to 0.110 inches, or between 0.110 to 0.120 inches. In other embodiments, L3 can be 0.040 inches, 0.041 inches, 0.042 inches, 0.043 inches, 0.044 inches, 0.045 inches, 0.046 inches, 0.047 inches, 0.048 inches, 0.049 inches, 0.050 inches, 0.051 inches, 0.052 inches, 0.053 inches, 0.054 inches, 0.055 inches, 0.056 inches, 0.057 inches, 0.058 inches, 0.059 inches, 0.060 inches, 0.061 inches, 0.062 inches, 0.063 inches, 0.064 inches, 0.065 inches, 0.066 inches, 0.067 inches, 0.068 inches, 0.069 inches, 0.070 inches, 0.071 inches, 0.072 inches, 0.073 inches, 0.074 inches, 0.075 inches, 0.076 inches, 0.077 inches, 0.078 inches, 0.079 inches, 0.080 inches, 0.081 inches, 0.082 inches, 0.083 inches, 0.084 inches, 0.085 inches, 0.086 inches, 0.087 inches, 0.088 inches, 0.089 inches, 0.090 inches, 0.091 inches, 0.092 inches, 0.093 inches, 0.094 inches, 0.095 inches, 0.096 inches, 0.097 inches, 0.098 inches, 0.099 inches, 0.100 inches, 0.101 inches, 0.102 inches, 0.103 inches, 0.104 inches, 0.105 inches, 0.106 inches, 0.107 inches, 0.108 inches, 0.109 inches, 0.110 inches, 0.111 inches, 0.112 inches, 0.113 inches, 0.114 inches, 0.115 inches, 0.116 inches, 0.117 inches, 0.118 inches, 0.119 inches, or 0.120 inches. A shorter dynamic bumper length L3 cooperates with the rigid geometry, allowing the dynamic bumper to effectively store and release elastic energy. Therefore, integrating both the rectangular shape, rounded bumper tip region 230, and reduced length L3 allows the dynamic bumper 220 to maintain structural integrity while enabling sufficient lateral deflection. This controlled impact provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golf ball to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.VI. Circular Dynamic Bumpers

[0085] In other embodiments, a putter-type golf club head comprises a plurality of dynamic bumpers 320 each having a circular or semi-circular shape, as shown in FIG. 13. Providing a circular or semi-circular shape enhances dynamic bumper flexibility, allowing the dynamic bumper 320 to laterally deflect, store elastic energy, and transfer that energy into the golfball. As such, the plurality of dynamic bumpers 320 generates increased topspin, reduces skid, and improves golf ball roll consistency.

[0086] Similar to the dynamic bumpers described above, each dynamic bumper 320 extends forward of the front recessed surface 107 along a dynamic bumper axis perpendicular to the loft plane. Each circular or semicircular dynamic bumper comprises a bumper base end 322, a bumper free end 323, and a bumper sidewall 331 therebetween. The bumper free end 323 comprises a contact surface 325 having a contact surface upper end and contact surface lower end, defining a bumper tip region. The bumper tip region further includes a contact surface apex positioned forward of the contact surface upper end, so that the contact surface 325 is inclined to face upward. The bumper free end 323 further defines a contact surface angle <12 and deflects upon contact with the golfball during a putting stroke, described in greater detail below.

[0087] Circular and semicircular dynamic bumper embodiments share similar contact surface lower regions or, more specifically, bumper tip regions that define a maximum distance Li (as described above) of the dynamic bumper. In some embodiments, Li can range between 0.010 inches to 0.025 inches. In many embodiments, Li can range between 0.010 to 0.015 inches, 0.015 to 0.020 inches, or between 0.020 to 0.025 inches. In some embodiments, Li can be 0.010 inches, 0.011 inches, 0.012 inches, 0.013 inches, 0.014 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.016 inches, 0.017 inches, 0.018 inches, 0.019 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.021 inches, 0.022 inches, 0.023 inches, 0.024 inches, or 0.025 inches. In other embodiments, Li can be greater than 0.025 inches.

[0088] The circular and semicircular dynamic bumper embodiments differ, however, in how their contact surface upper regions relate to the bumper base end 322. For both the circular and semicircular dynamic bumper embodiments, the contact surface upper region defines a minimum distance L2 (as described above) of the dynamic bumper. In some circular dynamic bumper embodiments, L2 can range between 0.01 inches to 0.05 inches. In some circular dynamic bumper embodiments, L2 can range between 0.01 to 0.02 inches, 0.02 to 0.03 inches, 0.03 to 0.04 inches, or between 0.04 inchesand 0.05 inches. In preferred circular dynamic bumper embodiments, L2 is 0.02 inches. In this configuration, each circular dynamic bumper 320 exhibits a substantially trapezoidal profile when viewing the dynamic bumper 320 at a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the loft plane. As such, the circular dynamic bumper has a longer moment arm and a more flexible profile, in comparison to other shapes, which increases deflection of the dynamic bumper 320. On the other hand, the bumper base end 322 and the contact surface upper end of semicircular dynamic bumper 320 embodiments are coincident, such that the contact surface upper end defines a minimum distance L2 of 0. Similar to the dynamic bumper, each semicircular dynamic bumper exhibits a substantially triangular profile when viewing the dynamic bumper 320 from a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the loft plane. As such, the semicircular dynamic bumper comprises a shorter moment arm and stiffened profile, allowing the dynamic bumper 320 to deform elastically without compromising stability. In either case, the circular and semicircular dynamic bumpers enhance energy transfer into the golf ball, which provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golfball to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0089] As described above, the sidewall defines a perimeter and a dynamic bumper circular or semicircular shape, taken at a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the bumper axis at the bumper base end. Dynamic bumpers with arcuate geometries lack straight edges or sharp comers, allowing impact stresses to distribute more evenly across the front of the body. This uniformity causes the dynamic bumpers to be more flexible under lateral forces. As such, the circular or semicircular form provides directional flexibility, permitting lateral deflection and efficient rebounding. This supports the storage and release of elastic energy into the golf ball, providing sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golf ball to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0090] The circular or semicircular shape of the dynamic bumper results in a more flexible structural profile. To further enhance performance of the dynamic bumper, the contact surface 325 of the dynamic bumper may comprise a smaller contact surface angle on (an angle on of less than 45 degrees). In some embodiments, for example, the angle on can be between 10 degrees and 45 degrees relative to the loft plane. In some embodiments, the top surface angle on can be between 10 degrees and 15 degrees, 15 degrees and 20 degrees, 20 degrees and 25 degrees, 25 degrees and 30 degrees, 30 degrees and 35 degrees, 35 degrees and 40 degrees, or between 40 degrees and 45 degrees. In someembodiments, the angle on can be 10 degrees, 11 degrees, 12 degrees, 13 degrees, 14 degrees, 15 degrees, 16 degrees, 17 degrees, 18 degrees, 19 degrees, 20 degrees, 21 degrees, 22 degrees, 23 degrees, 24 degrees, 25 degrees, 26 degrees, 27 degrees, 28 degrees, 29 degrees, 30 degrees, 31 degrees, 32 degrees, 33 degrees, 34 degrees, 35 degrees, 36 degrees, 37 degrees, 38 degrees, 39 degrees, 40 degrees, 41 degrees, 42 degrees, 43 degrees, 44 degrees, or 45 degrees relative to the loft plane. In preferred embodiments, the angle ai can range from 40 degrees to 45 degrees. This top surface angle 012 works in concert with the more flexible structure to promote controlled lateral deflection during impact, allowing the dynamic bumper to effectively store and release elastic energy along a force vector to the ball without premature energy dissipation. Therefore, integrating both the circular or semicircular shape and a flatter top surface angle 0.2 allows the dynamic bumper 320 to maintain structural integrity and enable sufficient lateral deflection. This controlled impact provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golfball to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0091] Each dynamic bumper may additionally be formed of the putter head body or insert elastic material that controls lateral deflection during impact with a golf ball. In some embodiments, the dynamic bumper may be formed of any one of the polymeric materials described above having a higher Shore D hardness value (greater than 54) and thus, greater rigidity. In preferred embodiments, the dynamic bumper may be formed of a PEBAX ® 6333 SA 01 MED resin with a Shore D hardness of 64 and a flexural modulus of 41,335 psi (285 MPa). The more rigid elastic material cooperates with the flexible geometry, allowing the dynamic bumper 320 to effectively store and release elastic energy. Therefore, integrating both the circular or semicircular shape and rigid material allows the dynamic bumper to maintain structural integrity while enabling sufficient lateral deflection. This controlled impact provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golfball to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0092] Furthermore, each dynamic bumper 320 may have an increased diameter Di to control lateral deflection during impact with a golf ball. When viewing each dynamic bumper from a front view, the diameter Di can be measured from a toeward-most point of the contact surface 325 to a heelward-most point of the contact surface 325, as shown in FIG. 13. In many embodiments, Di can range between 0.040 inches to 0.120 inches. In some embodiments, Di can range between 0.040 to 0.050 inches, 0.050 to 0.060 inches, 0.060 to 0.070 inches, 0.070 to 0.080 inches, 0.080 to 0.090inches, 0.090 to 0.100 inches, 0.100 to 0.110 inches, or between 0.110 to 0.120 inches. In many embodiments, DI can be 0.040 inches, 0.041 inches, 0.042 inches, 0.043 inches, 0.044 inches, 0.045 inches, 0.046 inches, 0.047 inches, 0.048 inches, 0.049 inches, 0.050 inches, 0.051 inches, 0.052 inches, 0.053 inches, 0.054 inches, 0.055 inches, 0.056 inches, 0.057 inches, 0.058 inches, 0.059 inches, 0.060 inches, 0.061 inches, 0.062 inches, 0.063 inches, 0.064 inches, 0.065 inches, 0.066 inches, 0.067 inches, 0.068 inches, 0.069 inches, 0.070 inches, 0.071 inches, 0.072 inches, 0.073 inches, 0.074 inches, 0.075 inches, 0.076 inches, 0.077 inches, 0.078 inches, 0.079 inches, 0.080 inches, 0.081 inches, 0.082 inches, 0.083 inches, 0.084 inches, 0.085 inches, 0.086 inches, 0.087 inches, 0.088 inches, 0.089 inches, 0.090 inches, 0.091 inches, 0.092 inches, 0.093 inches, 0.094 inches, 0.095 inches, 0.096 inches, 0.097 inches, 0.098 inches, 0.099 inches, 0.100 inches, 0.101 inches, 0.102 inches, 0.103 inches, 0.104 inches, 0.105 inches, 0.106 inches, 0.107 inches, 0.108 inches, 0.109 inches, 0.110 inches, 0.111 inches, 0.112 inches, 0.113 inches, 0.114 inches, 0.115 inches, 0.116 inches, 0.117 inches, 0.118 inches, 0.119 inches, or 0.120 inches. An expanded dynamic bumper diameter Di cooperates with the more flexible geometry, allowing the dynamic bumper 320 to effectively store and release elastic energy. Therefore, integrating both the circular or semicircular shape and expanded diameter Di allows the dynamic bumper 320 to maintain structural integrity while enabling sufficient lateral deflection. This controlled impact provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golf ball to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.VII. Square Dynamic Bumpers

[0093] In further embodiments, a putter-type golf club head comprises a plurality of dynamic bumpers 420 each having a square shape, as shown in FIG 14. As described above, the plurality of dynamic bumpers 420 are configured to laterally deflect, store elastic energy, and then release the stored energy into the golfball. Providing a square shape enhances structural reinforcement, allowing the dynamic bumper to resist premature energy dissipation that may reduce efficient energy transfer into the golfball. As such, the plurality of dynamic bumpers 420 generate increased topspin, reduced skid, and improve golfball roll consistency.

[0094] Similar to the dynamic bumpers, described above, each dynamic bumper 420 extends forward of the front recessed surface 107 along a bumper axis perpendicular to the loft plane andcomprises a bumper base end, a bumper free end, and four bumper sidewalls 431 therebetween. The bumper base end comprises a contact surface 425 having a contact surface upper end and contact surface lower end, defining a bumper tip region 430. The bumper tip region 430 defines a contact surface apex positioned forward of the contact surface upper end, so that the contact surface 425 is inclined to face upward. The bumper base end further defines a contact surface angle on and moves upon contact with the golfball during a putting stroke, described in greater detail below.

[0095] The bumper tip region of the contact surface lower end defines a maximum distance Li (as described above) of the dynamic bumper 420. In some embodiments, Li can range between 0.010 inches to 0.025 inches. In many embodiments, Li can range between 0.010 to 0.015 inches, 0.015 to 0.020 inches, or between 0.020 to 0.025 inches. In some embodiments, Li can be 0.010 inches, 0.011 inches, 0.012 inches, 0.013 inches, 0.014 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.016 inches, 0.017 inches, 0.018 inches, 0.019 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.021 inches, 0.022 inches, 0.023 inches, 0.024 inches, or 0.025 inches. In other embodiments, Li can be greater than 0.025 inches. Additionally, the contact surface upper end defines a minimum distance L2 (as described above) of the dynamic bumper 420. In some embodiments, the bumper base end and the contact surface upper end are coincident, such that the contact surface upper end defines a minimum distance L2 of 0. In this configuration, each dynamic bumper 420 exhibits a substantially triangular profile when viewing the dynamic bumper from a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the loft plane. In other embodiments, however, the bumper base end and the contact surface upper end are non-coincident, defining a distance L2 between 0.01 inches to 0.05 inches. In some dynamic bumper embodiments, L2 can range between 0.01 to 0.02 inches, 0.02 to 0.03 inches, 0.03 to 0.04 inches, or between 0.04 inches and 0.05 inches. In preferred dynamic bumper embodiments, L2is 0.02 inches. In this configuration, each dynamic bumper 420 exhibits a substantially trapezoidal profile when viewing the dynamic bumper at a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the loft plane. In either case, the square dynamic bumpers enhance energy transfer into the golfball, providing sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golfball to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0096] As described above, the bumper base end has square shape, taken at a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the bumper axis. The square form provides directional stiffness, controlling lateral deflection. Uncontrolled lateral deflection, on the other hand, could lead to premature energy dissipation and reduce efficient energy transfer into the golf ball. Instead, the dynamic bumper 420enhances structural reinforcement to provide sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golf ball to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0097] The square shape of the dynamic bumper 420 results in a shorter moment arm and a stiffer structural profile. The contact surface 425 of the dynamic bumper 420 may comprise a steeper contact surface angle cu (an angle ai of at least 30 degrees) to further enhance performance of the dynamic bumper. In some embodiments, for example, the contact surface angle on can be between 30 degrees and 60 degrees relative to the loft plane. In some embodiments, the contact surface angle on can be between 30 degrees and 35 degrees, 35 degrees and 40 degrees, 40 degrees and 45 degrees, 45 degrees and 50 degrees, 50 degrees and 55 degrees, or between 55 degrees and 60 degrees. In some embodiments, the contact surface angle ai can be 30 degrees, 31 degrees, 32 degrees, 33 degrees, 34 degrees, 35 degrees, 36 degrees, 37 degrees, 38 degrees, 39 degrees, 40 degrees, 41 degrees, 42 degrees, 43 degrees, 44 degrees, 45 degrees, 46 degrees, 47 degrees, 48 degrees, 49 degrees, 50 degrees, 51 degrees, 52 degrees, 53 degrees, 54 degrees, 55 degrees, 56 degrees, 57 degrees, 58 degrees, 59 degrees, or 60 degrees relative to the loft plane. In preferred embodiments, the contact surface angle on can range from 40 degrees to 45 degrees. This contact surface angle on works in concert with the rigid structure to promote controlled lateral deflection during impact, allowing the dynamic bumper to effectively store and release elastic energy along a force vector to the ball. Therefore, integrating both the square shape and steeper contact surface angle on allows the dynamic bumper to maintain structural integrity and enable sufficient lateral deflection. This controlled impact provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golfball to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0098] Each dynamic bumper 420 may additionally be formed of the putter head body or insert elastic material that encourages lateral deflection during impact with a golfball. In some embodiments, the dynamic bumper 420 may be formed of any one of the polymeric materials described above having a lower Shore D hardness value (less than 54) and thus, greater flexibility. In preferred embodiments, the dynamic bumper may be formed of a PEBAX ® 4533 SP 01 resin (Arkema, Paris France), with a Shore D hardness of 46 and a flexural modulus of 12,475 psi (86 MPa). The elastic material cooperates with the rigid geometry, allowing the dynamic bumper to effectively store and release elastic energy. Therefore, integrating both the square shape and flexible material allows the dynamic bumper 420 tomaintain structural integrity while enabling sufficient lateral deflection. This controlled impact provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golfball to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0099] Furthermore, each dynamic bumper may be configured with a reduced length L3 to enhance lateral deflection during impact with a golfball. Similar to the length L3 described above, the length L3 can be measured from a toeward-most edge of the contact surface 425 a heel ward-most edge of the contact surface, as shown in FIG. 14. In many embodiments, L3 can range between 0.020 inches to 0.060 inches. In preferred embodiments, L3 is 0.050 inches. In other embodiments, L3 can range between 0.020 to 0.025 inches, 0.025 to 0.030 inches, 0.030 to 0.035 inches, 0.035 to 0.040 inches, 0.040 to 0.045 inches, 0.045 to 0.050 inches, 0.050 to 0.055 inches, or between 0.055 to 0.060 inches. In many embodiments, L3 can be 0.020 inches, 0.021 inches, 0.022 inches, 0.023 inches, 0.024 inches, 0.025 inches, 0.026 inches, 0.027 inches, 0.028 inches, 0.029 inches, 0.030 inches, 0.031 inches, 0.032 inches, 0.033 inches, 0.034 inches, 0.035 inches, 0.036 inches, 0.037 inches, 0.038 inches, 0.039 inches, 0.040 inches, 0.041 inches, 0.042 inches, 0.043 inches, 0.044 inches, 0.045 inches, 0.046 inches, 0.047 inches, 0.048 inches, 0.049 inches, 0.050 inches, 0.051 inches, 0.052 inches, 0.053 inches, 0.054 inches, 0.055 inches, 0.056 inches, 0.057 inches, 0.058 inches, 0.059 inches, or 0.060 inches. A shorter dynamic bumper length L3 cooperates with the rigid geometry, allowing the dynamic bumper 420 to effectively store and release elastic energy. Therefore, integrating both the square shape and reduced length L3 allows the dynamic bumper to maintain structural integrity while enabling sufficient lateral deflection. This controlled impact provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golf ball to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.VIII. Beam Dynamic Bumpers

[0100] In alternative embodiments, a putter-type golf club head comprises a plurality of dynamic bumpers 520 each having a beam-like shape, an arcuate bumper tip region 530, and a high-density cover 536, as shown in FIGS. 15-17. Each dynamic bumper 520 comprises an elongated beam-like shape, that extends horizontally across the front 115. In some embodiments, each dynamic bumper 520 can extend substantially across the entire front 115 of the putter-type golf club head. In other embodiments, each dynamic bumper 520 can extend partially across the front 115 of the putter-typegolf club head. As described above, the plurality of dynamic bumpers 520 are configured to laterally deflect, store elastic energy, and then release the stored energy into the golfball. Providing a beamlike shape, arcuate bumper tip region 530, and high-density cover 536 enhances structural reinforcement, allowing the dynamic bumper to resist premature energy dissipation that may reduce efficient energy transfer into the golf ball. The beam-like shape also provides a uniform design to promote consistent energy transfer for impacts across the front recessed surface 107. As such, the plurality of dynamic bumpers 520 generate increased topspin, reduce skid, and improve golfball roll consistency. Furthermore, the high-density cover 536 attenuates vibrations at impact, resulting in a muted sound and dampened response at impact.

[0101] Similar to the dynamic bumpers, described above, each dynamic bumper 520 extends forward of the front recessed surface 107 along a bumper axis 521 perpendicular to the loft plane and comprises a bumper base end 522, a bumper free end 523, and four bumper sidewalls 531 therebetween. The bumper base end 522 comprises a contact surface 525 having a contact surface upper end 526 and contact surface lower end 527, defining a bumper tip region 530. The bumper tip region 530 includes a contact surface apex 528. The contact surface apex 528 is positioned forward of the contact surface upper end 526, so that the contact surface 525 is inclined to face upward. The bumper base end 522 further defines a contact surface angle ou and moves upon contact with the golf ball during a putting stroke, described in greater detail below.

[0102] The bumper tip region 530 of the contact surface lower end 527 defines a maximum distance Li (as described above) of the dynamic bumper 520. In some embodiments, Li can range between 0.010 inches to 0.025 inches. In many embodiments, Li can range between 0.010 to 0.015 inches, 0.015 to 0.020 inches, or between 0.020 to 0.025 inches. In some embodiments, LI can be 0.010 inches, 0.011 inches, 0.012 inches, 0.013 inches, 0.014 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.016 inches, 0.017 inches, 0.018 inches, 0.019 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.021 inches, 0.022 inches, 0.023 inches, 0.024 inches, or 0.025 inches. In other embodiments, Li can be greater than 0.025 inches. Additionally, the contact surface upper end 526 defines a minimum distance L2 (as described above) of the dynamic bumper 520. In preferred embodiments, the bumper base end 522 and the contact surface upper end 526 are coincident, such that the contact surface upper end 526 defines a minimum distance L2 of 0. In this configuration, each dynamic bumper 520 exhibits a substantially triangular profile when viewing the dynamic bumper from a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the loft plane, as shown inFIG. 17. As such, the dynamic bumper comprises a shorter moment arm and stiffer profile, allowing the dynamic bumper 520 to deform elastically without compromising stability.

[0103] Further, the bumper tip region 530 of the contact surface lower end 527 has a radius of curvature, that evenly distributes impact forces and reduces stress concentrations. This configuration enhances durability while preserving transfer of elastic energy to produce topspin. The radius of curvature can be measured along the bumper tip region 530 between the contact surface lower end 527 and the most soleward sidewall of the four sidewalls 531. In some embodiments, the bumper tip region 530 comprises a radius of curvature between 0.001 inch and 0.010 inch. In some embodiments the radius of curvature can be between 0.001 inch and 0.002 inch, 0.002 inch and 0.003 inch, 0.003 inch and 0.004 inch, 0.004 inch and 0.005 inch, 0.005 inch and 0.006 inch, 0.006 inch and 0.007 inch, 0.007 inch and 0.008 inch, 0.008 inch and 0.009 inch, or between 0.009 inch and 0.010 inch.

[0104] As described above, the bumper base has a beam-like shape, taken at a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the bumper axis 521, as observed in FIGS. 16 and 17. As described above, each dynamic bumper 520 comprises an elongated beam-like shape that extends horizontally across the front 115. The beam-like shape provides directional stiffness, controlling lateral deflection. Uncontrolled lateral deflection could lead to premature energy dissipation and reduce efficient energy transfer into the golf ball. Instead, the dynamic bumper 520 enhances structural reinforcement to provide sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golf ball 1045 to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0105] The beam-like shape of the dynamic bumper 520, combined with its rounded bumper tip region 530, results in a shorter moment arm and a stiffer structural profile. To further enhance performance of the dynamic bumper 520, the contact surface 525 of the dynamic bumper may comprise a steeper contact surface 525 angle on (an angle on of at least 30 degrees). In some embodiments, for example, the contact surface 525 angle ai can be between 30 degrees and 60 degrees relative to the loft plane. In some embodiments, the contact surface 525 angle on can be between 30 degrees and 35 degrees, 35 degrees and 40 degrees, 40 degrees and 45 degrees, 45 degrees and 50 degrees, 50 degrees and 55 degrees, or between 55 degrees and 60 degrees. In some embodiments, the contact surface angle ai can be 30 degrees, 31 degrees, 32 degrees, 33 degrees, 34 degrees, 35 degrees, 36 degrees, 37 degrees, 38 degrees, 39 degrees, 40 degrees, 41 degrees, 42 degrees, 43 degrees, 44degrees, 45 degrees, 46 degrees, 47 degrees, 48 degrees, 49 degrees, 50 degrees, 51 degrees, 52 degrees, 53 degrees, 54 degrees, 55 degrees, 56 degrees, 57 degrees, 58 degrees, 59 degrees, or 60 degrees relative to the loft plane. In preferred embodiments, the contact surface 525 angle on can range from 40 degrees to 45 degrees. This contact surface 525 angle ai works in concert with the rigid structure to promote controlled lateral deflection during impact, allowing the dynamic bumper 520 to effectively store and release elastic energy along a force vector to the ball. Therefore, integrating both the rectangular shape, rounded bumper tip region 530, and steeper contact surface 525 angle on allows the dynamic bumper 520 to maintain structural integrity and enable sufficient lateral deflection. This controlled impact provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golf ball 1045 to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0106] Each dynamic bumper 520 may additionally be formed of the putter head body or insert elastic material that encourages lateral deflection during impact with a golf ball 1045. In some embodiments, the dynamic bumper 520 may be formed of any one of the polymeric materials described above having a lower Shore D hardness value (less than 54) and thus, greater flexibility. In preferred embodiments, the dynamic bumper 520 may be formed of a PEBAX ® 4533 SP 01 resin (Arkema, Paris France), with a Shore D hardness of 46 and a flexural modulus of 12,475 psi (86 MPa). The elastic material cooperates with the rigid geometry, allowing the dynamic bumper to effectively store and release elastic energy. Therefore, integrating both the rectangular shape, rounded bumper tip region 530, and flexible material allows the dynamic bumper 520 to maintain structural integrity while enabling sufficient lateral deflection. This controlled impact provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golfball 1045 to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0107] Furthermore, the dynamic bumpers 520 may comprise a plurality of high-density covers 536 that attenuate unwanted vibrations at impact, enhancing both sound and feel. In particular, the covers 536 are positioned atop the free ends 523 of the dynamic bumpers 520, extending along both the upper and lower contact surfaces 526, 527. These covers 536 are formed of a cover material with a greater density than the underlying polymer. As such, the high-density covers 536 interact directly with the golf ball 1045 and the putter head body, dampening high-frequency vibrations while preserving the tactile feedback essential for precision putting. This results in a smoother impact feel and sound, characterized by a desirable muted and low-pitched tone. The cover material may be ametallic material including, but not limited to, 8620 alloy steel, S25C steel, carbon steel, maraging steel, 17-4 stainless steel, 303 stainless steel, 304 stainless-steel, stainless-steel alloy, tungsten, aluminum, aluminum alloy, ADC-12, or any combination thereof. The cover materials may additionally be a non-metallic material including, but not limited to thermoplastic co-polyester elastomer (TPC), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic urethane (TPU), polyethylene, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyisobutylene, polyvinyl chloride, PEBAX®, or any combination thereof. By integrating the covers 536 across the bumper free ends 523, this construction further ensure consistent energy transfer and directional control, aligning with the broader benefits of the beam-like dynamic bumpers 520. Therefore, the high-density covers 536 further promote controlled impact that provides sufficient dynamic loft and forward topspin roll for the golfball 1045 to more efficiently convert a forward roll and overcome any frictional impedance upon impact.

[0108] Furthermore, each dynamic bumper 520 may be configured with an expanded length L3 to provide a uniform striking surface and promote consistent energy transfer to the golfball 1045. When viewing each dynamic bumper 520 from a front view, the length L3 can be measured from a toeward-most edge of the contact surface 525 to a heelward-most edge of the contact surface, as shown in FIG.15. In many embodiments, L3 can range between 1.0 inch to 5.0 inches. In some embodiments, L3 can range between 1.0 inch to 1.5 inches, 1.5 inches to 2.0 inches, 2.0 inches to 2.5 inches, 2.5 inches to 3.0 inches 3.0 inches to 3.5 inches, 3.5 inches to 4.0 inches, 4.0 inches to 4.5 inches, or between 4.5 inches to 5.0 inches. Discrete, isolated dynamic bumpers 520 may contribute to uneven impact force distribution and inconsistent golf ball roll 1045. Instead, the expanded length L3 of the dynamic bumpers 520 ensures the golfball contacts a uniform surface at impact, reducing variability in launch angle and spin for impacts across the striking surface. Therefore, integrating both the beam-like shape with an expanded length L3 allows the dynamic bumper 520 to maintain structural integrity and produce a predictable impact response.

[0109] Benefits

[0110] The plurality of dynamic bumpers described herein provides numerous advantages with respect to the performance of a putter-type golf club head. Incorporation of the plurality of dynamic bumpers into the putter-type golf club head enables a reduction in backspin while facilitating a higher launch angle, all while maintaining a consistent static loft of the putter face. This improved launchcondition results in diminished skidding during the initial phase of a putt, heavily reducing frictionally compression, and more efficiently converting to a forward roll.

[0111] A pure rolling motion enhances distance control, directional stability, and overall predictability of the putt. These benefits are particularly advantageous across a wide range of green conditions. Subsequently, the plurality of dynamic bumpers could allow for higher center of gravity putter designs without adversely affecting launch conditions. Accordingly, the plurality of dynamic bumpers offers significant technical advantages in improving both ball launch characteristics and design flexibility, contributing to superior performance outcomes for the putter-type golf club head.EXAMPLESI. Example 1: Back Spin Rate by Putter with Insert with Plurality of Dynamic Bumpers vs Backspin Rate by Putter with Planar Insert

[0112] Golf ball spin performance characteristics of an exemplary blade-style putter head comprising an insert with circular dynamic bumpers (SR49, see FIG. 19) were compared to those of a control blade-style putter head comprising an insert with a smooth planar finish devoid of dynamic bumpers (SR51, see FIG. 20). Both the SR49 and SR51 inserts were formed of the same polymeric material (PEBAX). Additionally, both inserts were positioned at an identical contact region in their respective putter head. The two club heads differed, however, because the exemplary putter head comprised the SR49 insert with circular dynamic bumpers, and the control putter head comprised the planar SR51 insert devoid of dynamic bumpers. Furthermore, using a putting pendulum analysis was performed to obtain the backspin rate (RPM). The SR49 insert was positioned such that the apex of each bumper was oriented toward the sole and comprised a top surface angle of 45, as described above.

[0113] Spin performance characteristics of the exemplary and control blade-style putter heads were determined via a putting pendulum analysis. Using a putting pendulum device ensures each stroke was delivered with uniform force and direction, and eliminates human inconsistency and inaccuracy. The pendulum device was set up for a series of putts of varying lengths. Golf ball spin was also determined. A blade-style putter was used for the SR49 insert, featuring a plurality of circular dynamic bumpers. A control blade-style putter was used for the planar SR51 insert. The exemplary and control putters performed 5 putts at the following 5 distances: 5 feet, 10 feet, 15 feet, 25 feet, and35 feet. The analysis measured the backspin rate (RPM) of golf balls immediately following impact for a total of 25 putts. Each putt was measured for average backspin rate at the prescribed distance for both the exemplary and control blade-style putter heads.

[0114] The exemplary and control putter heads produced contrasting backspin rate results, demonstrating that the dynamic bumpers contribute to a reduction in backspin across putts of varying lengths. The test results are displayed in the bar graph of FIG. 18. The backspin rate values for exemplary putter head with the SR49 insert are shown on the left bars of the graph, and the backspin rate values for control putter head with the SR51 insert are shown on the right bars of the graph. Positive backspin rate values signify that the golfball had back spin upon impact. Negative backspin rate values signify that the golf ball had topspin upon impact with the respective putter head. The exemplary putter head produced average backspin rates of -28.1, -10.1, and -5.4 RPMs on the 5, 10, and 15 foot putts, respectively, which demonstrated that the SR49 insert generated top spin onto the golfball. On the other hand, the control putter head produced average SR51 produced backspin rates of 8.2, 46.3, and 63.8 RPMs for the 5, 10, and 15 foot putts, respectively, which demonstrated that the insert in this putter increased the amount of backspin as the putt length increased.

[0115] Furthermore, the exemplary putter head produced backspin rates of 2.9 RPM and 5.1 RPM, for the longer putts measuring 25 and 35 feet, respectively. These backspin rates were significantly lower than the backspin rates of the control putter head. In particular, the control putter head exhibited substantially higher backspin rates of 77 RPM and 81.7 RPM for the same putt distances over the exemplary putter head, clearly demonstrating that the SR51 insert induced a much greater degree of backspin. Comparative analysis reveals that the SR49 insert of the exemplary putter head reduced backspin relative to the SR51 insert of the control putter head by approximately 96% at 25 feet and by approximately 93% at 35 feet. The SR49 insert trend suggests a nonlinear, potential decrease in backspin magnitude as a function of increasing ball speed. These findings suggest that at higher ball speed, herein associated with longer putt distances, the dynamic bumpers undergo a greater elastic deformation. This increased deflection allows the dynamic bumpers to absorb and redistribute impact energy more effectively, thereby reducing the frictional compression impacted to the ball during contact. The result is an exponential reduction of backspin, which contributes to a smoother transition from initial ball contact to forward roll, reducing skidding and enhancing distance control. In stark contrast, the SR50 insert shows a more linear exponential increase in backspin across the samedistances. This behavior implies this insert comprises a less responsive impact surface, which does not adapt as effectively in variations in ball speed, resulting in less efficient energy transfer and higher residual backspin. Reducing backspin rates on a putt is highly valuable for a golfer’s game, as this is crucial for achieving a true roll and reducing unwanted bounce when the golfball comes off the putter face. This example demonstrates the effectiveness of a dynamic bumper over a non-bumper face for backspin control and positive roll efficiency.II. Example 2: Drop Ball Test

[0116] Putter face inserts with various dynamic bumper embodiments were tested for their impact behavior and ball spin via a ball drop simulation using an LS-DYNA explicit solver. All the inserts were formed of the same polyether block amide material (PEBAX). However, each insert comprised a different dynamic bumper embodiment having a unique diameter, top surface angle, and height combination. For each simulation, a visco-elastic golfball was dropped from a fixed height onto the front side of the inserts at an initial velocity of 5.68 MPH, perpendicular to the front side. All inserts were fixed in place to prevent any movement in all degrees of freedom. This included constraints against translation along the X, Y, and Z axes, as well as rotation about each axis, ensuring the inserts could not shift, tilt, or twist during the simulation. The LS-DYNA explicit solver captured the contact event between the golfball and the inserts, calculating the insert’s transient deformation and response during impact. Additionally, the solver computed the resulting topspin rate (RPM) of the golf ball following impact, providing insight into how different insert embodiments affected spin generation. The ball spin comparison was made between: (1) a first control insert with a smooth planar finish devoid of dynamic bumpers; (2) a second control insert with fly wheel milling devoid of dynamic bumpers; (3) an insert with circular dynamic bumpers having a 0.07 in. diameter, a 14 degree top surface angle relative to the loft plane, and a 0.02 in. height; (4) an insert with circular dynamic bumpers having a 0.08 in. diameter, a 30 degree top surface angle relative to the loft plane, and a 0.02 in. height.; and (5) an insert with circular dynamic bumpers having a 0.07 in. diameter, a 30 degree top surface angle relative to the loft plane, and a 0.02 in. height. Each of inserts (3), (4), (5) Table I below summarizes the golfball spin statistical data collected.Table I. Golf Ball Spin Comparison DataClub Head Dynamic Dynamic Dynamic Spin (RPM)Bumper Bumper Top BumperDiameter (in.) Surface Angle Height (in.)(degrees)Insert 1 N / A N / A N / A 75Insert 2 N / A N / A N / A 100Insert 3 0.07 14 0.02 100Insert 4 0.08 30 0.02 179Insert 5 0.07 30 0.02 287

[0117] As can be seen from Table I, insert 5, having circular dynamic bumpers with a 0.07 in. diameter, a 30 degree contact surface angle, and a 0.02 in. height, has a noticeably higher golf ball spin measurement over the control inserts and other circular bumper insert designs. As the dynamic bumper decreased its’ diameter and increased its’ top surface angle (14° vs 30°). This spin value corresponds with the amount of topspin the golf ball produces upon impact with the insert. In particular, the dynamic bumpers of insert 5 produce greater topspin than the other insert designs because of the smaller diameter and greater top surface angle. The smaller diameter provides the dynamic bumper with increased flexibility to displace and in turn translate a greater elastic force into the golf ball. A smaller diameter means the dynamic bumper has less cross-sectional area, which generally makes the dynamic bumper body less stiff. This reduces stiffness allows the dynamic bumper to deform more easily upon impact, increasing its peak displacement. Higher displacement means the bumper can store more elastic potential energy during compression. Conversely, increasing the diameter of the dynamic bumper enlarges its cross-sectional area, thereby enhancing its structural stiffness. The resulting rigidity restricts deformation during impact, leading to lower peak displacement and diminished elastic energy storage. As a result, the energy imparted to the golfballis less dynamic, reducing rebound efficiency. Additionally, the increased top surface angle permits a greater tangential force and a reduced normal force to be transferred into the dynamic bumper body upon impact with the golfball.

[0118] A greater elastic force transfer equates to greater golfball topspin, as reflected in the results above. The increased tangential force and reduced normal force causes the dynamic bumper to deflect more, store greater elastic energy, and translate a greater tangential force into the golf ball. As previously mentioned, an increased tangential force transfer causes greater golf ball topspin. Greater topspin allows the golf ball to travel smoothly over imperfections in the putting surface without veering offline or producing an inconsistent speed. Thus, it is advantageous for a player to have a putter insert that produces increased top spin in the golf ball, as shown by insert 5 and its specific bumper configuration.III. Example 3 : Backspin Rate

[0119] A putting pendulum analysis was performed to obtain and the backspin rate (RPM) for a plurality of dynamic bumpers for the embodiment of this invention. A positive RPM value signifies that the golf ball has backspin upon contacting a putter head, while a negative RPM value signifies that the golf ball has topspin upon contacting the putter head. The backspin rate of a golf ball dramatically impacts the ability of a putt to hold its intended line and roll smoothly over imperfections in a putting surface. A first blade-style putter head (hereafter “SR49”) shown in FIG. 19, comprised an insert having circular dynamic bumpers as described above in embodiment 300. The insert in the SR49 putter was positioned such that the bumper tip region each dynamic bumper was closer to the sole. A second blade-style putter head (hereafter “SR50”) shown in FIG. 20 comprised an insert similar to SR49, but instead the insert in the SR50 putter was alternatively positioned such that the bumper tip region of each dynamic bumper was closer to the crown (axially rotated 180 degrees relative to the SR49 putter insert).

[0120] During the putting pendulum test 18 putts were performed at 10-feet (mid-range) and 18 putts were performed at 25-feet (long range) for a total of 72 putts. The different insert orientations of the SR49 and SR50 putters produced opposing backspin rate results, proving that different dynamic bumper configurations affect the spin of a golf ball upon impact with the putter strike face. The 10-foot putt test results are displayed in the bar graph of FIG. 21 , and 25-foot putt test results are displayedin the bar graph of FIG. 22. For both bar graphs, the backspin rate values for SR49 are shown to the left and the backspin rate values for SR50 are shown to the right.

[0121] The 10-foot putts struck with the SR49 putter had an average backspin rate of -37 RPM (i.e., 37 RPM of topspin) and the 25-foot putts struck with the SR49 putter head had an average backspin rate of -29.1 RPM (i.e., 29.1 RPM of topspin). Alternatively, the 10-foot putts struck with the SR50 putter had an average backspin rate of 29.1 RPM and the 25-foot putts struck with the SR50 putter had an average backspin rate of 88.5 RPM.

[0122] These results show that insert configuration of the SR49 putter consistently generates topspin in a golfball for both mid-range and long putts. On the other hand, the results show that the alternative insert configuration of the SR50 putter consistently generates backspin in a golfball upon impact with the putter strike face. Such different results can be attributed to the different force directions applied by the circular dynamic bumper configurations of the SR49 and SR50 putters to a golfball at impact. The circular dynamic bumpers of SR49 deliver an impact force oriented away from the ground plane that in turn generates topspin on the golf ball. The impact of the ball with SR49 launches the ball higher, allowing the ball to enter forward rolling quicker. Therefore, the dynamic bumper orientation of SR49 prevents immediate skidding or bouncing in the golf ball (caused by backspin) and influences the golf ball to efficiently enter its true roll phase. A golf ball in a true roll phase can travel smoothly over imperfections in the putting surface without veering offline or producing an inconsistent speed.

[0123] The circular dynamic bumpers of SR50, on the other hand, deliver an impact force oriented towards the ground plane, enhancing the friction between the putter face and the golfball to produce increased backspin. As the circular dynamic bumpers of SR50 deliver a greater impact force (for longer length putts), the friction increases between the putter face and golfball increases. The impacted ball with SR50 experiences higher frictional compression against the ground. Such enhanced friction between the putter face and the golf ball produces greater amounts of backspin in the golf ball, as shown by the significantly elevated SR5025-foot putt backspin rate. In turn, the increased backspin rate causes the golfball to skid and / or bounce after impact as it travels to the hole.

[0124] Generating topspin in a golfball upon impact with the putter strike face promotes improved and more consistent putting performance. By producing topspin, the putter strike face can cause a golfball to undergo a rolling motion quickly after impact towards the target line. When the golfball starts rolling sooner after impact with the putter strike face, the golfball is more likely to hold its intended line and be less affected by imperfections in the putting surface. This is especially important on longer length putts, where the golf ball travels a greater distance and therefore has increased chances of encountering ball marks, debris, or other imperfections along the putter surface. On the other hand, producing backspin causes the golfball to skid or hop for a greater amount of time after impact with the putter strike face. Intermittent or unstable contact with the putting surface causes the golf ball to be more likely to travel off the intended line, produce inconsistent speed, and be negatively affected by marks or depressions in the green. Such roll dynamics can most negatively affect the performance of longer length putts, where the golf ball travels a greater distance and has increased chances of encountering putting surface imperfections. Thus, it is advantageous for a player to have a putter that translates an upward impact force and produces top spin in the golfball, as shown by the SR49 putter and its specific dynamic bumper configuration.IV. Example 4: Vertical Launch

[0125] Vertical launch was studied on dynamic bumpers. A putting pendulum analysis was performed on putters with the dynamic bumpers described herein to study their effect on vertical launch (degrees) of the golfball. A positive vertical launch angle value signifies that the golfball has a launch angle directed away from the ground plane upon contacting a putter head. A negative vertical launch angle value signifies that the golf ball has a launch angle directed toward the ground plane upon contacting the putter head. The positive vertical launch angle of a golfball dramatically impacts the ability of a putt to hold its intended line, maintain ball speed, and roll smoothly over imperfections in a putting surface. The SR49 and SR50 blade-style putters, as shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 and described above, were used in conjunction with the pendulum test. During the putting pendulum test, 18 putts were performed at 10-feet (mid-range), and 18 putts were performed at 25-feet (long range) for a total of 72 putts.

[0126] The 10-foot putt test results are displayed in the bar graph of FIG. 23, and 25-foot putt test results are displayed in the bar graph of FIG. 24. For both bar graphs, the vertical launch values for SR49 are shown to the left and the vertical launch values for SR50 are shown to the right. The 10-foot putts struck with the SR49 putter obtained a 4.7° vertical launch angle and the 25-foot putts struckwith the SR49 putter obtained a 3.3° vertical launch angle. Alternatively, the 10-foot putts struck with the SR50 putter obtained a 0.0° vertical launch angle and the 25-foot putts struck with the SR50 putter obtained a 3.1° vertical launch angle. Such different vertical launch angle results can be attributed to the different force directions applied by the circular dynamic bumper configurations of the SR49 and SR50 putters to a golfball at impact. These variations in vertical launch angles, specifically, a 4.7° launch for the SR49 versus 0.0° for the SR50 at 10 feet, and 3.3° versus 3.1° respectively at 25 feet, highlight the influence of each putter’s dynamic bumper configuration on the direction and magnitude of force applied at impact, with SR49 consistently producing higher vertical launch.

[0127] As described above, the circular dynamic bumpers of SR49 deliver an impact force oriented away from the ground plane that generates a scooping motion, facilitates an upward trajectory that propels the ball higher and increases vertical launch angle in the golfball. An increased vertical launch angle, as produced by SR49, pushes the ball higher in the air to enable roll over and prevents immediate skidding or bouncing in the golf ball (caused by a lower vertical launch angle) and influences the golfball to efficiently enter its true roll phase. A golfball in a true roll phase can travel smoothly over imperfections in the putting surface without veering offline or producing an inconsistent speed.

[0128] The circular dynamic bumpers of SR50, on the other hand, deliver an impact force oriented towards the ground plane and therefore impart a downward angle of attack into the golf ball. This inherently decreases the vertical launch angle of the golf ball, aligning with the significantly lower SR50 vertical launch angle values in the results. In turn, the decreased vertical launch angle produced by the insert configuration of SR50 pushes the ball downward with backwards spin and thereby enhancing the friction between the golf ball and the putting surface immediately after impact. The enhanced friction prevents the golfball from efficiently entering its true roll phase, thereby causing the golfball to skid and / or bounce as it travels across the putting surface.

[0129] Generating a greater vertical launch angle in a golfball upon impact with the putter strike face promotes improved and more consistent putting performance. By producing an increased vertical launch angle, the putter strike face can cause a golf ball to undergo a rolling motion quickly after impact towards the target line. When the golf ball starts rolling sooner after impact with the putter strike face, the golfball is more likely to hold its intended line and be less affected by imperfectionsin the putting surface. On the other hand, a low vertical launch angle causes the golf ball to skid or hop immediately after impact and continue to skid or hop for a greater amount of time after impact with the putter strike face. Intermittent or unstable contact with the putting surface causes the golfball to be more likely to travel off the intended line, produce inconsistent speed, and be negatively affected by marks or depressions in the green. Thus, it is advantageous for a player to have a putter that translates an upward impact force and produces a greater vertical launch angle in the golf ball, as shown by the SR49 putter and its specific dynamic bumper configuration.IX. Example 5: Feel and Speed Control of Putter Comprising Dynamic Bumpers

[0130] A survey-based test was conducted to evaluate golfers’ preferences regarding putter feel and distance control, focusing on two blade-style putter heads with different dynamic bumper embodiments. Both a first putter (hereafter referred to as “Putter A”) and a second putter (hereafter referred to as “Putter B”) featured face inserts formed of the same PEBAX material and positioned identically within their respective putter heads. Putter A and Putter B differed, however, because the face insert of Putter A comprised circular dynamic bumpers, and the face insert of Putter B comprised square dynamic bumpers. Participants were asked to hit 20 putts with each putter head, testing them across a range of putt distances and green breaks to simulate realistic on-course conditions. Participants were then asked to provide comments on the impact feel and perceived control over distance with Putter A and Putter B.

[0131] The results revealed a split in player preferences, underscoring the importance of customizable face geometry in putter head design. All participants observed that the inserts of both Putter A and Putter B produced increased topspin, noting that the golf ball transitioned into true roll more quickly after impact. However, some participants reported that the circular dynamic bumpers of Putter A felt too soft at impact, leading to inconsistent distance control. These participants thus favored the square dynamic bumpers of Putter B, which offered a firmer impact feel and improved speed regulation. Conversely, other participants preferred the softer response of the circular dynamic bumpers over the more rigid square dynamic bumpers. As such, these participants found Putter A to be more forgiving and better suited to their stroke tempo than Putter B. This divergence highlights that dynamic bumper geometry plays a critical role in shaping impact feel and performance. By tailoring dynamic bumper shaping, manufacturers can cater to individual preferences for feel and speed control,while maintaining the benefits of enhanced topspin across all dynamic bumper designs. Nevertheless, the design alteration catered more to delivery and feel preference, while both inserts consistently produced enhanced topspin.

[0132] Replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes reconstruction and not repair. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with regard to specific embodiments. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to ocm3ur or become more pronounced, however, are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all of the claims, unless such benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are stated in such claim.

[0133] Moreover, embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not dedicated to the public under the doctrine of dedication if the embodiments and / or limitations: (1) are not expressly claimed in the claims; and (2) are or are potentially equivalents of express elements and / or limitations in the claims under the doctrine of equivalents.CLAUSES

[0134] Clause 1: A putter-type golf club head, comprising: a putter body, including: a crown; a sole opposite the crown; a top rail adjacent to the crown defining a top edge; a leading edge adjacent to the sole; a heel; a toe opposite the heel; and a front, including: a front leading surface extending around a perimeter of the front and being substantially planar along a loft plane angled relative to a vertical plane extending upward from the leading edge when the putter-type golf club head is at an address position; a front recessed surface disposed rearwardly of the front leading surface; and a front sidewall extending between the front leading surface and the front recessed surface, wherein the front recessed surface and the front sidewall define a front well; and an array of dynamic bumpers disposed in the front well, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises: a bumper sidewall extending along a bumper axis, oriented perpendicular to the loft plane, from a bumper base end, disposed nearest the front recessed surface, to a bumper free end opposite the bumper base end, wherein the bumper free end comprises: a contact surface with a contact surface upper end and a contact surface lower end; and a bumper tip region located at the contact surface lower end and defining a contact surface apex positioned forward of the contact surface upper end wherein the contact surface is movable upon impact with a ball between: an initial state, in which the bumper tip region is uncompressed with the contact surface apex positioned at a first distance forward of the bumper base end and a first elevation; and a deflected state, in which the bumper tip region is compressed toward the bumper base end such that the contact surface apex is positioned at a second distance forward of the bumper base end and a second elevation, wherein the second distance is less than the first distance and the second elevation is below the first elevation; wherein the bumper tip regions of the array of dynamic bumpers cooperate to form a dynamic striking surface of the front of the putter body.

[0135] Clause 2: The putter-type golf club head of clause 1, wherein the array of dynamic bumpers is provided integrally on an insert, the insert comprising an insert base having an interior surface coupled to the front recessed surface and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface; and the array of dynamic bumpers extends forward of the exterior surface of the insert base.

[0136] Clause 3 : The putter-type golf club head of clause 2, wherein the front has a front perimeter defining a front surface area AFS; the insert base has an insert base perimeter defining an insert base surface area AIBS; and the insert base surface area AIBS is 50%-80% of the front surface area AFS.

[0137] Clause 4: The putter-type golf club head of clause 2, wherein the dynamic bumpers are formed of a dynamic bumper material.

[0138] Clause 5 : The putter-type golf club head of clause 4, wherein the dynamic bumper material is selected from a group of dynamic bumper materials comprising thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic urethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyisobutylene, or PEBAX.

[0139] Clause 6: The putter-type golf club head of clause 1, wherein the contact surface apex deflects a peak displacement distance, between the initial state and the deflected state, of 0.005 to 0.035 in.

[0140] Clause 7: The putter-type golf club head of clause 1, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises a bumper shape, taken at a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the bumper axis at the bumper base end.

[0141] Clause 8: The putter-type golf club head of clause 6, wherein the bumper shape is selected from a group of dynamic bumper shapes comprising circular, semi-circular, ellipsoidal, or arcuate.

[0142] Clause 9: The putter-type golf club head of clause 1, wherein the array of dynamic bumpers is distributed in a repeating hexagonal grid pattern.

[0143] Clause 10: The putter-type golf club head of clause 1, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers is spaced from an adjacent dynamic bumper by a distance of no more than 0.035 in.

[0144] Clause 11: The putter-type golf club head of clause 1, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises a bumper height measured from the bumper base end to the contact surface apex, in a direction parallel to the bumper axis, of less than or equal to 0.015 in.

[0145] Clause 12: The putter-type golf club head of clause 1, wherein the contact surface upper end is coincident with the bumper base end.

[0146] Clause 13: The putter-type golf club head of clause 1, wherein the contact surface is oriented at an angle al relative to the loft plane.

[0147] Clause 14: A putter-type golf club head, comprising: a putter body, including: a crown; a sole opposite the crown; a top rail adjacent to the crown defining a top edge; a leading edge adjacent to the sole; a heel; a toe opposite the heel; and a front, including: a front leading surface extending around a perimeter of the front and being substantially planar along a loft plane angled relative to a vertical plane extending upward from the leading edge when the putter-type golf club head is at an address position; a front recessed surface disposed rearwardly of the front leading surface; a front sidewall extending between the front leading surface and the front recessed surface, wherein the front recessed surface and the front sidewall define a front well; and an insert, comprising: an insert base having an interior surface coupled to the front recessed surface and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface; and an array of dynamic bumpers extending forward of the insert base and disposed in the front well, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises: a bumper base end adjacent the exterior surface of the insert base; and a bumper free end having: a contact surface with a contact surface upper end and a contact surface lower end; and a bumper tip region located at the contact surface lower end and defining a contact surface apex positioned forward of the contact surface upper end; wherein the contact surface is movable upon impact with a ball between: an initial state, in which the bumper tip region is uncompressed with the contact surface apex positioned at a first distance forward of the bumper base end and a first elevation; and a deflected state, in which the bumper tip region is compressed toward the bumper base end such that the contact surface apex is positioned at a second distance forward of the bumperbase end and a second elevation, wherein the second distance is less than the first distance and the second elevation is below the first elevation; wherein the bumper tip regions of the array of dynamic bumpers cooperate to form a dynamic striking surface of the front of the putter body.

[0148] Clause 15: The putter-type golf club head of clause 14, wherein the array of dynamic bumpers comprises: a first horizontal row of dynamic bumpers, wherein each dynamic bumper of the first horizontal row of dynamic bumpers is centered on a first row vertical center line; and a second horizontal row of dynamic bumpers, wherein each dynamic bumper of the second horizontal row of dynamic bumpers is centered on a second row vertical center line.

[0149] Clause 16: The putter-type golf club head of clause 15, wherein each first row vertical center line is laterally offset from each second row vertical center line to form a staggered pattern of dynamic bumpers.

[0150] Clause 17: The putter-type golf club head of clause 14, wherein the dynamic bumpers are formed of a dynamic bumper material selected from a group of dynamic bumper materials comprising thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic urethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyisobutylene, orPEBAX.

[0151] Clause 18: The putter-type golf club head of clause 14, wherein the bumper base end of each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises an elongated, rectangular shape.

[0152] Clause 19: The putter-type golf club head of clause 14, wherein the bumper tip region of each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises a radiused tip.

[0153] Clause 20: The putter-type golf club head of clause 14, wherein the contact surface is oriented at an angle al relative to the loft plane.

[0154] Clause 21: A putter-type golf club head, comprising: a putter body, including: a crown; a sole opposite the crown; a top rail adjacent to the crown defining a top edge; a leading edge adjacent to the sole; a heel; a toe opposite the heel; and a front, including: a front leading surface extending around a perimeter of the front and being substantially planar along a loft plane angled relative to a vertical plane extending upward from the leading edge when the putter-type golf club head is at an address position; a front recessed surface disposed rearwardly of the front leading surface; a front sidewall extending between the front leading surface and the front recessed surface, wherein the front recessed surface and the front sidewall define a front well; and an insert, comprising: an insert base having an interior surface coupled to the front recessed surface and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface; and an array of dynamic bumpers extending forward of the insert base and disposed in the front well, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises: a bumper base end adjacent the exterior surface of the insert base; and a bumper free end having: a contact surface with a contact surface upper end and a contact surface lower end; and a bumper tip region located at the contact surface lower end and defining a contact surface apex positioned forward of the contact surface upper end; wherein the contact surface is oriented at an angle al relative to the loft plane; and wherein the contact surface is movable upon impact with a ball between: an initial state, in which the bumper tip region is uncompressed with the contact surface apex positioned at a first distance forward of the bumper base end and a first elevation; and a deflected state, in which the bumper tip region is compressed toward the bumper base end such that the contact surface apex ispositioned at a second distance forward of the bumper base end and a second elevation, wherein the second distance is less than the first distance and the second elevation is below the first elevation; wherein the bumper tip regions of the array of dynamic bumpers cooperate to form a dynamic striking surface of the front of the putter body.

[0155] Clause 22: The putter-type golf club head of clause 17, wherein the angle al is 40 to 45 degrees relative to the loft plane.

[0156] Clause 23: A putter-type golf club head, comprising: a putter body, including: a crown; a sole opposite the crown; a top rail adjacent to the crown defining a top edge; a leading edge adjacent to the sole; a heel; a toe opposite the heel; and a front, including: a front leading surface extending around a perimeter of the front and being substantially planar along a loft plane angled relative to a vertical plane extending upward from the leading edge when the putter-type golf club head is at an address position; a front recessed surface disposed rearwardly of the front leading surface; a front sidewall extending between the front leading surface and the front recessed surface, wherein the front recessed surface and the front sidewall define a front well; and an insert, comprising: an insert base having an interior surface coupled to the front recessed surface and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface; and an array of dynamic bumpers extending forward of the insert base and disposed in the front well, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises: a bumper base end adjacent the exterior surface of the insert base; and a bumper free end having: a contact surface with a contact surface upper end and a contact surface lower end; and a bumper tip region located at the contact surface lower end and defining a contact surface apex positioned forward of the contact surface upper end; wherein the contact surface is movable upon impact with a ball between: an initial state, in which the bumper tip region is uncompressed with the contact surface apex positioned at a first distance forward of the bumper base end and a first elevation; and a deflected state, in which the bumper tip region is compressed toward the bumper base end such that the contact surface apex is positioned at a second distance forward of the bumper base end and a second elevation, wherein the second distance is less than the first distance and the second elevation is below the first elevation; wherein the bumper tip regions of the array of dynamic bumpers cooperate to form a dynamic striking surface of the front of the putter body; and wherein the bumper base end of each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises an elongated rectangular shape.

[0157] Clause 24: A putter-type golf club head, comprising: a putter body, including: a crown; a sole opposite the crown; a top rail adjacent to the crown defining a top edge; a leading edge adjacent to the sole; a heel; a toe opposite the heel; and a front, including: a front leading surface extending around a perimeter of the front and being substantially planar along a loft plane angled relative to a vertical plane extending upward from the leading edge when the putter-type golf club head is at an address position; a front recessed surface disposed rearwardly of the front leading surface; a front sidewall extending between the front leading surface and the front recessed surface, wherein the front recessed surface and the front sidewall define a front well; and an insert, comprising: an insert base having an interior surface coupled to the front recessed surface and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface; and an array of dynamic bumpers extending forward of the insert base and disposed in the front well, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises: a bumper base end adjacent the exterior surface of the insert base; and a bumper free end having: a contact surface with a contact surface upper end and a contact surface lower end; and a bumper tip region located at the contact surface lower end and defining a contact surface apex positioned forward of the contact surface upper end; wherein the contact surface is movable upon impact with a ball between: an initial state, in which the bumper tip region is uncompressed with the contact surface apex positioned at a first distance forward of the bumper base end and a first elevation; and a deflected state, in which the bumper tip region is compressed toward the bumper base end such that the contact surface apex is positioned at a second distance forward of the bumperbase end and a second elevation, wherein the second distance is less than the first distance and the second elevation is below the first elevation; wherein the bumper tip regions of the array of dynamic bumpers cooperate to form a dynamic striking surface of the front of the putter body; and wherein the bumper base end of each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises a semi-circular shape.

[0158] Clause 25: A putter-type golf club head, comprising: a putter body, including: a crown; a sole opposite the crown; a top rail adjacent to the crown defining a top edge; a leading edge adjacent to the sole; a heel; a toe opposite the heel; and a front, including: a front leading surface extending around a perimeter of the front and being substantially planar along a loft plane angled relative to a vertical plane extending upward from the leading edge when the putter-type golf club head is at an address position; a front recessed surface disposed rearwardly of the front leading surface; a front sidewall extending between the front leading surface and the front recessed surface, wherein the frontrecessed surface and the front sidewall define a front well; and an insert, comprising: an insert base having an interior surface coupled to the front recessed surface and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface; and an array of dynamic bumpers extending forward of the insert base and disposed in the front well, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises: a bumper base end adjacent the exterior surface of the insert base; and a bumper free end having: a contact surface with a contact surface upper end and a contact surface lower end; and a bumper tip region located at the contact surface lower end and defining a contact surface apex positioned forward of the contact surface upper end; wherein the contact surface is movable upon impact with a ball between: an initial state, in which the bumper tip region is uncompressed with the contact surface apex positioned at a first distance forward of the bumper base end and a first elevation; and a deflected state, in which the bumper tip region is compressed toward the bumper base end such that the contact surface apex is positioned at a second distance forward of the bumper base end and a second elevation, wherein the second distance is less than the first distance and the second elevation is below the first elevation; wherein the bumper tip regions of the array of dynamic bumpers cooperate to form a dynamic striking surface of the front of the putter body; and wherein the bumper base end of each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises an elongated beam-like shape.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A putter-type golf club head, comprising:a putter body, including:a crown;a sole opposite the crown;a top rail adjacent to the crown defining a top edge;a leading edge adjacent to the sole;a heel;a toe opposite the heel; anda front, including:a front leading surface extending around a perimeter of the front and being substantially planar along a loft plane angled relative to a vertical plane extending upward from the leading edge when the putter-type golf club head is at an address position;a front recessed surface disposed rearwardly of the front leading surface; and a front sidewall extending between the front leading surface and the front recessed surface, wherein the front recessed surface and the front sidewall define a front well; and an array of dynamic bumpers disposed in the front well, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises:a bumper sidewall extending along a bumper axis, oriented perpendicular to the loft plane, from a bumper base end, disposed nearest the front recessed surface, to a bumper free end opposite the bumper base end, wherein the bumper free end comprises:a contact surface with a contact surface upper end and a contact surface lower end; anda bumper tip region located at the contact surface lower end and defining a contact surface apex positioned forward of the contact surface upper endwherein the contact surface is movable upon impact with a ball between: an initial state, in which the bumper tip region is uncompressed with the contact surface apex positioned at a first distance forward of the bumper base end and a first elevation; anda deflected state, in which the bumper tip region is compressed towardthe bumper base end such that the contact surface apex is positioned at a second distance forward of the bumper base end and a second elevation, wherein the second distance is less than the first distance and the second elevation is below the first elevation;wherein the bumper tip regions of the array of dynamic bumpers cooperate to form a dynamic striking surface of the front of the putter body.

2. The putter-type golf club head of claim 1, wherein:the array of dynamic bumpers is provided integrally on an insert, the insert comprising an insert base having an interior surface coupled to the front recessed surface and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface; andthe array of dynamic bumpers extends forward of the exterior surface of the insert base.

3. The putter-type golf club head of claim 2, wherein:the front has a front perimeter defining a front surface area AFS;the insert base has an insert base perimeter defining an insert base surface area AIBS; and the insert base surface area AIBS is 50%-80% of the front surface area AFS.

4. The putter-type golf club head of claim 2, wherein the dynamic bumpers are formed of a dynamic bumper material.

5. The putter-type golf club head of claim 4, wherein the dynamic bumper material is selected from a group of dynamic bumper materials comprising thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic urethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyisobutylene, orPEBAX.

6. The putter-type golf club head of claim 1, wherein the contact surface apex deflects a peak displacement distance, between the initial state and the deflected state, of 0.005 to 0.035 in.

7. The putter-type golf club head of claim 1, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises a bumper shape, taken at a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the bumper axis at the bumper base end.

8. The putter-type golf club head of claim 7, wherein the bumper shape is selected from a group of dynamic bumper shapes comprising circular, semi-circular, ellipsoidal, or arcuate.

9. The putter-type golf club head of claim 1, wherein the array of dynamic bumpers is distributed in a repeating hexagonal grid pattern.

10. The putter-type golf club head of claim 1, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers is spaced from an adjacent dynamic bumper by a distance of no more than 0.035 in.

11. The putter-type golf club head of claim 1, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises a bumper height measured from the bumper base end to the contact surface apex, in a direction parallel to the bumper axis, of less than or equal to 0.015 in.

12. The putter-type golf club head of claim 1, wherein the contact surface upper end is coincident with the bumper base end.

13. The putter-type golf club head of claim 1, wherein the contact surface is oriented at an angle al relative to the loft plane.

14. A putter-type golf club head, comprising:a putter body, including:a crown;a sole opposite the crown;a top rail adjacent to the crown defining a top edge;a leading edge adjacent to the sole;a heel;a toe opposite the heel; anda front, including:a front leading surface extending around a perimeter of the front and being substantially planar along a loft plane angled relative to a vertical plane extending upward from the leading edge when the putter-type golf club head is at an address position;a front recessed surface disposed rearwardly of the front leading surface; a front sidewall extending between the front leading surface and the front recessed surface, wherein the front recessed surface and the front sidewall define a front well; and an insert, comprising:an insert base having an interior surface coupled to the front recessed surface and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface; andan array of dynamic bumpers extending forward of the insert base and disposed in the front well, wherein each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises:a bumper base end adjacent the exterior surface of the insert base; and a bumper free end having:a contact surface with a contact surface upper end and a contact surface lower end; anda bumper tip region located at the contact surface lower end and defining a contact surface apex positioned forward of the contact surface upper end;wherein the contact surface is movable upon impact with a ball between: an initial state, in which the bumper tip region is uncompressed with the contact surface apex positioned at a first distance forward of the bumper base end and a first elevation; anda deflected state, in which the bumper tip region is compressed toward the bumper base end such that the contact surface apex is positioned at a second distance forward of the bumper base end and a second elevation, wherein the second distance is less than the first distance and the second elevation is below the first elevation;wherein the bumper tip regions of the array of dynamic bumpers cooperate to form a dynamic striking surface of the front of the putter body.

15. The putter-type golf club head of claim 14, wherein the array of dynamic bumpers comprises:a first horizontal row of dynamic bumpers, wherein each dynamic bumper of the first horizontal row of dynamic bumpers is centered on a first row vertical center line; anda second horizontal row of dynamic bumpers, wherein each dynamic bumper of the second horizontal row of dynamic bumpers is centered on a second row vertical center line.

16. The putter-type golf club head of claim 15, wherein each first row vertical center line is laterally offset from each second row vertical center line to form a staggered pattern of dynamic bumpers.

17. The putter-type golf club head of claim 14, wherein the dynamic bumpers are formed of a dynamic bumper material selected from a group of dynamic bumper materials comprising thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic urethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyisobutylene, or PEBAX.

18. The putter-type golf club head of claim 14, wherein the bumper base end of each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises an elongated, rectangular shape.

19. The putter-type golf club head of claim 14, wherein the bumper tip region of each dynamic bumper of the array of dynamic bumpers comprises a radiused tip.

20. The putter-type golf club head of claim 14, wherein the contact surface is oriented at an angle al relative to the loft plane.

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