Rory McIlroy’s TaylorMade Spider Tour X putter – and why it might work for you
The TaylorMade Spider putter was launched back in 2008 with a huge emphasis on stability.
The more stable the putter head, the easier it is to maintain ball speed on off-centre putts and the more likely it is to keep the face square.
Rory McIlroy switched to the TaylorMade Spider Tour X putter (BUY IT HERE) at the start of this year.
He tested various versions of the new-look putter at the Tour Championship and veered towards the Tour X due to the look and the slightly shallower face angle compared to his previous Hydro Blast.
With the Spider Tour X putter there are weights in the sole rather than in the wings like his previous model and McIlroy also preferred the darker gunmetal finish – it is also available in copper and black.
There have been periods where McIlroy has experimented with a blade putter but this particular mallet shape certainly appears to suit his stroke and, while he infamously missed those two short putts down the stretch to blow victory in this year’s US Open, he still gained over two-and-a-half shots on the field on the greens that week.
Come the end of the season McIlroy would rank 42nd overall for Putting Average and, more notably, in 15th spot from inside 15 feet.
How the Spider Tour X putter work for you
– We hear a lot about forgiveness and MOI in putters but the Spider Tour X excels in this department. The putter’s weight is concentrated around the perimeter which offers more of that forgiveness on mishits and keeping the speed up on the off-centre strikes. There is minimal twisting which is very noticeable from short range.
– The alignment has been refined through TaylorMade’s True Path system. This uses a bold, contrasting line or shape on the putter head which makes it easier to line up your putts. It’s very simple and very effective to help create a clear visual path.
– The Pure Roll insert is made from a mix of Surlyn and it features grooves angled at 45° for optimal forward roll and better overall roll. The white insert also ensures symmetry with the white True Path alignment. So you can expect a smoother roll with less skid.
– The head is more compact to other Spider models. In appearance or historically the Spider putter can feel bulky and oversized but this is sleeker than you might imagine but is still stable and forgiving.
– Many golfers are put off by the sound of the ball on the putter face. With the Tour X a damper is positioned behind the face to help remove unwanted vibrations and deliver the type of premium sound that you are looking for from a premium putter.
READ MORE: Rory McIlroy and why he plays the TaylorMade Qi10 driver
Latest
-
EquipmentSeven things beginners should look for when buying a driver
There is a lot to take in when you are starting out in the game but one major aspect worth focusing on is getting your driver right.
-
EquipmentWhich style of putter will help you reduce strokes on the greens?
When choosing your perfect putter, there are three main styles. These different club heads boast varied qualities that will help your game.
-
Equipment5 golf accessories that will make great stocking fillers this Christmas
Here are a selection of affordable and useful products that are an absolute must-have for any golfer this Christmas.
-
EquipmentJustin Thomas hails new driver that could give him “huge advantage”
Justin Thomas has been tinkering with his driver in the offseason and it’s helped him take the lead at the Hero World Challenge.
-
EquipmentWhat golf grips do the world’s best players use?
The grip is crucial as it’s our only point of contact with the club. Here we look at the chosen grips of some of the world’s best players.
-
NewsRevealed: 5 reasons why a yellow ball could actually improve your golf
Ernie Els has been playing a yellow ball and it seems there are a good reasons why amateur golfers should follow suit.
-
NewsWhy has World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler changed his putting grip?
Scottie Scheffler’s putting has seen a variety of changes in recent years and this week he has switched to the claw grip.
-
EquipmentThe 3 best Wicked green golf balls ranked elite to bargain
Back in the 1980s lime green balls were all the rage and they’re back again to celebrate the release of the new movie of the musical Wicked.
-
VideosWATCH: Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy talk about hitting “kisser” cut with TaylorMade driver
In this video Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy talk about driving the golf ball while Nelly Korda plays the part of all of us by listening in.
-
EquipmentOn a budget? 5 websites to buy quality pre-owned golf clubs
Golf clubs can be expensive but if a new set is out of budget, there are other options to ensure you’re ready for a round on the course.