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Jack Backhouse brings you the low down on the Cleveland Frontline Elite RHO Putter – a great performing putter now available at great discounted prices
In the increasingly saturated world of high-tech putters, Cleveland Golf released the high-tech Frontline Elite RHO. Designed to deliver tour-level technology at a refreshingly accessible price point, this model sets its sights on players craving performance without the premium price tag. But how does it actually fare on the green? Let’s take a look in our Cleveland Frontline Elite RHO putter review…
The Cleveland Frontline Elite RHO is a putter that punches well above its weight. With forward-thinking tech, reliable performance, and unmatched value, it’s a top contender for golfers looking to improve their putting without splashing out on a tour-priced model. It may not offer luxury finishes across the board, but where it counts, on the greens, it’s as good as many double-the-price rivals.
PROS
Excellent alignment aid improves confidence and accuracy
Consistent ball speed across the face
Outstanding value for the level of technology included
Adjustable weights allow for custom fitting
Performs particularly well on both short and long putts
CONS
Slightly awkward resting position when placed on the ground
Cleveland Frontline Elite RHO Putter Review: First Impressions
Let’s not beat around the bush, if the shape looks familiar, it’s because it is. To me, I can see a lot of visual similarities between the RHO and the iconic TaylorMade Spider. That high-MOI mallet shape is beloved for a reason. It inspires confidence, particularly on short putts, and offers exceptional alignment benefits. The long alignment line running through the centre of the head makes aiming an intuitive process, which immediately stands out as a strong suit.
There’s plenty going on in the head design, and it’s clear Cleveland hasn’t skimped on the tech. The combination of intricate face milling, strategically positioned sole weights, and a bold alignment aid gives the RHO a premium look that belies its modest price.
NCG Verdict
Cleveland has gone all-in on performance-enhancing features. The RHO putter boasts a forward centre of gravity, achieved through tungsten weighting in both the sole and the face insert itself. Yes, even the face insert is a weight. This forward CG setup is designed to improve accuracy on off-centre strikes, reducing face twisting and helping the ball stay closer to your intended line.
Then there’s the Speed Optimised Face Technology. This incorporates groove spacing, which varies across the face, with tighter patterns in the centre and wider grooves towards the heel and toe. As a result it helps to promote a more consistent ball speed across the face, whilst improving pace control even on mis-hits. For players struggling with distance consistency, especially on long putts, I think it’s a subtle but effective boost.
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Additionally, adjustable sole weights and counterbalance options in the grip makes the Cleveland Frontline Elite RHO putter very fittable. Whether you’re working with a fitter or tweaking things yourself, there’s real scope to make this putter suit your stroke style.
I tested it on the greens at Sandmoor Golf Club, which revealed what I thought were some standout traits. First of all, aiming was a breeze thanks to the bold visual cues. Short putts felt automatic, a product of both the mallet’s stability and the crisp feedback from the face. On longer efforts, the consistent roll and reliable distance control was noticeable. You really do get the feeling the putter is working with you.
I also found the feel from the insert was solid without being harsh, and while the oversized grip might not be to everyone’s taste, it certainly contributes to a stable stroke. I do think the grip will feel a bit too square and bulky for more traditionalists.
Final Verdict
Overall, there’s a lot to like about the Cleveland Frontline Elite RHO putter. It’s a thoughtfully engineered, technology-packed putter that offers real performance gains for a fraction of what some premium models demand.
Although, I must say, It’s not perfect. I thought the headcover feels a bit budget, and for me the putter’s resting posture on the ground can appear slightly awkward. But these are mere small quibbles in the grand scheme of everything.
It will deliver a dependable roll and custom-fit potential, without the pain of a luxury price tag. The Frontline Elite RHO is a seriously compelling option.
Cleveland Frontline Elite RHO Putter Review: The Details
