Green speed is measured today in the same fashion as yesteryear; using a ‘stimpmeter.’ This is a 3 foot long grooved and notched board that rolls a golf ball in a consistent manner, applying the same force each time. The distance the ball rolls on a flat surface is measured and that is the green speed reading (in feet). The readings on sloped surfaces increase dramatically. Golf architects almost never design a flat green (for the simple reason of drainage). Even a flat green like our par 5 9th hole has slope to help remove surface water.
A Word About Green Speed…
