Why this former college golfer finally switched putters | Fully Fit 2026

By: Maddi MacClurg February 5, 2026

I went through six full-bag fittings to find my perfect set. Here's what I learned and why I replaced my trusty putter (and other clubs!).

GOLF

Welcome to Fully Fit 2026, GOLF’s new platform for providing you with real-golfer insights into what 2026 gear might be best suited for your game. To this end, we assembled six GOLF content creators of varying abilities and ran them through the gauntlet of six full-bag fittings (driver to putter!) at six major club manufacturers in Phoenix and Carlsbad, Calif. Our hope: that you might see shades of your own game in one of our panelists’ and take some learnings and inspiration from their fitting experiences. In this installment (below), GOLF Game Improvement Editor Maddi MacClurg runs you through her new bag. You may browse our other panelists’ 2026 dream bags here:

Panelist: Maddi MacClurg
Role at GOLF: Game Improvement Editor
Age: 30
Handicap: 5.6
Favorite non-golf hobby: Ice Hockey (playing or watching!)

About my game

I’m a former Division I golfer who now mostly plays for fun, though I’d love to eventually return to competitive golf. Since moving to NYC six years ago, I haven’t really made time to work on my game, so I’m not as good as I once was, but I like to think I haven’t completely lost it. My natural shot shape is a fade, and I’m looking for equipment with enough forgiveness to help tighten up the occasional leaky slice and reduce the power loss from off-center strikes.

Maddi MacClurg swinging — Adam Christensen/GOLF

The strongest parts of my game are at either end of the bag — driver and putter. Off the tee, I produce a very high ball flight with plenty of spin, which typically places me in the LS category for drivers and fairway woods. That said, I tend to struggle with a 3-wood, especially off the deck, so I’m interested in a more forgiving option there. With a two-club gap at the top of my bag, I’d also consider expanding into a 7- or even 9-wood.

Unlike my driver, my iron ball flight is generally lower than I’d prefer, and generating spin has been a challenge in the past. For irons, feel is far more important to me than appearance. I gravitate toward a soft, responsive feel — something that gives the sensation of the ball springing off the face — while still being designed to help launch the ball higher with more spin.

Going into this fitting, my top priority is finding a driver I truly connect with. I don’t currently love what’s in my bag, even though I hit it well and have actually gained distance since switching. I haven’t been able to pinpoint exactly what’s holding me back, which is something I’m hoping this experience will help uncover. For fairway woods, I’m ideally looking for a club I can confidently hit both off the tee and off the turf.

I’m especially excited about wedges. I’ve never been properly fit for them before, and given how personal these clubs are, I’m approaching the process with an open mind while still having a general sense of what I like. As for my putter, this one has been in the bag for 12 years and saw me through my entire college career. If there’s one club I’d be truly shocked to replace, it’s that one.

My golf goals for 2026

The big-picture objective is to break 80 in a competitive event, but getting there requires progress in several key areas along the way. In the short term, one priority is eliminating double chips. While it doesn’t happen often, it’s enough to cost me strokes, and it’s an area I know I can clean up. Having wedges that are tailored to my game will give me more confidence around the greens and — let’s be honest — who doesn’t get excited about practicing with new equipment?

Another goal is improving my iron distance control. It’s frustrating to miss a green short or sail it long, so I want to tighten up my dispersion. That starts with knowing my numbers and having a properly gapped set. Right now, there’s a noticeable gap at the top of my bag (between my 3-wood and 4-hybrid). I’d love to close that gap, whether that means adding another hybrid or exploring a more forgiving long iron that offers more control than a hybrid without sacrificing forgiveness.

My bag before Fully Fit 2026

Ball: Titleist Pro V1x
Driver: Callaway Elyte 9º (Oban Isawa Red Wood Shaft 55GMS 03 flex)
3 Wood: Callaway Elyte 15º (Oban Isawa Red Wood Shaft 55GMS 03 flex)
Hybrid: Callaway Elyte 22º (KBS TGI 55G)
Irons: Callaway Apex Ti Fusion (KBS TGI 60G)
Wedges: Callaway Opus S grind (KBS TGI 90G)
Putter: Scotty Cameron Studio Select Newport 2.5 (33 length, 4 loft, 71 lie)

What I learned from 6 fittings in 9 days!

The better question might be: what didn’t I learn? As a newly converted gear junkie, I’ll admit I didn’t have extensive equipment knowledge going into this. But after being thrown into this experience, I definitely learned a lot. The first being that six full-bag fittings in nine days takes a serious toll on your body. I wish I spent more time stretching and preparing beforehand. A lesson that fits nicely with another realization I had: you don’t need to wait for your game to be “ready” to get a club fitting. Throughout this process, I found myself wishing my swing was in a better place. But in reality, my swing and my game don’t change all that much year to year. By the end of our trip, I was kicking myself for holding onto old equipment in the past simply because I didn’t feel good enough yet or that I hadn’t practiced enough to “earn” the experience. In hindsight, it would have been money well spent — and might have even helped me level up my game sooner.

Another eye-opening takeaway was that your swing isn’t always the reason for poor contact. As an instruction editor, I am pretty conditioned to assume my problem was always my mechanics. But testing different shaft weights and flexes made something very clear: even a technically sound swing will struggle if the equipment isn’t right. When I finally found the correct shaft for my swing and delivery, it felt like the clouds parted, and I was suddenly in my old college form again.

Jake Morrow and Maddi MacClurg. Adam Christensen/GOLF

I also learned the importance of advocating for yourself in the fitting bay. That means being honest if you don’t like the look or feel of something, or asking to try a different shaft —even just out of curiosity. When you’re in a fitting, you’re paying for a collaborative process. The fitter brings expertise and you bring feedback. They can’t read your mind any more than you can be expected to know equipment nuances. Don’t be afraid to ask to hit something that sounds unconventional or wasn’t initially suggested. In a fitting, there’s no script.

That said, everything should be within reason. One theme that consistently came up in conversations with fitters was how stubborn many golfers can be about what they think they should be fit into. To that, I’ll say this: data doesn’t lie. Whether it’s ego, misinformation, or an inflated sense of self, many amateurs chase the gear the pros play, or something close to it. I can’t count how many times I’ve heard, “blades force me to play better,” on the range. But, do they? Equipment that fits your game leaves fewer shots on the course — and ultimately, isn’t that the goal?

If you decide to go through a fitting, my biggest piece of advice is simple: check your pride at the door. Speak up, experiment, and stay curious, but if the data isn’t backing it up, no amount of practice will magically make that club work for you.

My Fully Fit 2026 dream bag

Ball: Titleist Pro V1
Driver: Callaway Quantum Triple Diamond Max 9º (Denali Frost Silver 60G 6.0)
Mini Driver: TaylorMade R7 QuadMini 13.5º (Fujikura Speeder MD 5-R)*
3-Wood: Callaway Quantum Max 15º (Denali Frost Silver 60G 6.0)*
5-Wood: Callaway Quantum Max 18º (Denali Frost Silver 60G 6.0)
Hybrid: Callaway Quantum Max 21º (Denali Frost Silver 70G 6.0)
Irons: Titleist T250 Launch Spec 5 – PW (Nippon NS Pro 750 GH Neo R)
Wedges: SM11 52.08º F Grind, 56.12º D Grind, 60.10º S Grind (Nippon 850 GH R)
Putter: Scotty Cameron Studio Style Santa Fe
*Choose between Mini Driver and 3-wood depending on course/conditions

Keep scrolling for details on every club.

The 1 club I can’t live without

Hands down, the one club in my bag I can’t live without is my new Scotty Cameron Studio Style Santa Fe. Honestly, I was a bit surprised it became my favorite. After all, I’d been loyal to my old Studio Select Newport 2.5 for 14 years. Letting go of the Newport wasn’t easy, but I couldn’t ignore the feel and control I get from the Santa Fe. I love the toe hang built into this putter and the fact that it’s a blade-style design. There’s just something about that classic, old-school look that gives me confidence when I’m standing over a putt. To me, this putter is the perfect blend of tradition and performance.

Now to the rest of my bag!

Golf ball

Titleist 2025 Pro V1

Titleist Pro V1 Golf Balls

The Greatest Combination of Speed, Spin and Feel Pro V1 golf balls are the optimal premium performance choice for most players and the most played model in golf. Why Play Pro V1? Pro V1 is recommended to players who are looking for mid-trajectory flight, very low long game spin and maximum short game spin, with softer feel. Comparison to Pro V1x Due to its unique dimple pattern, Pro V1 has a lower flight than Pro V1x. A softer gradient core produces a softer feel and slightly less spin than Pro V1x.

$57.99 from Fairway Jockey

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ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore, Titleist

Why it’s in my bag: After some testing, I ultimately settled on the Pro V1. Its soft feel and controllable spin fit my short-game style perfectly. I like to get creative around the greens, so I need a ball I can rely on — one that spins when I want it to and rolls smoothly on running shots without checking unexpectedly. And that consistency carries through every part of the game. This ball is reliable off the tee, precise into the greens, and incredibly responsive on putts.

Driver

Maddi MacClurg testing at Callaway — Adam Christensen/GOLF

Head: Callaway Quantum Triple Diamond Max
Shaft: Denali Frost Silver 60G 6.0
Loft: 9º
OptiFit Setting: NS
Weights: Neutral
Length: 45.5″
Swingweight: D2

Callaway Quantum Triple Diamond Max Custom Driver

$699.99 from Fairway Jockey

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ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore, Callaway

Why it’s in my bag: Wow! This driver is fast. I was completely blown away during testing, not just by the increased speed and distance, but also by how forgiving it is. My good strikes were rewarded with explosive ball speed and a piercing ball flight that carried farther than any driver I’ve ever hit. Even my off-center hits — normally big, wipey fades — stayed relatively on line and didn’t sacrifice much speed or distance.

1 key data point: My ball speed with this driver was off the charts. I even hit LPGA-level speeds (between 145–155 mph) a few times when I really stepped on it. Even on normal swings, I picked up at least 5 mph in ball speed, and that was just during testing. Can’t wait to see how my numbers look once courses thaw out this spring.

Mini Driver*

Head: Taylormade r7 Quad Mini
Shaft: Fujikura Speeder MD 5-R
Loft: 13.5º
FCT Setting: Standard
Front weights: 4 g heel, 4 g toe
Back weights: 13 g heel, 4 g toe
Length: 43.75″
Swingweight: D4

TaylorMade R7 Quad Custom Mini Driver

PERFORMANCE FOR THE MODERN PLAYER Inspired by one of the most iconic models in TaylorMade history, the R7 Quad Mini Driver pays homage to what’s come before, while creating its own modern identity in the same breath. It’s that very modern design that incorporates proven TaylorMade technologies to give golfers versatility and playability. R7 QUAD WEIGHTING SYSTEM The new quad weighting system features four movable weights (13g x2, 4g x2) that provide the ultimate in spin management and shot shape control. Forward CG creates a penetrating flight best suited for maximizing distance whereas rear CG helps prioritize control and ease of use from the deck. Shot shape can also be fine-tuned helping create the most optimal flight. Additional weights can be purchased for a wider range of adjustability. INFINITY CARBON CROWN A new satin Infinity Carbon Crown has been added to the R7 Quad Mini Driver chassis creating a stunning look while saving weight for better mass optimization. The cosmetic package is clean, elegant, and confidence-inspiring.

$479.99 from Fairway Jockey

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ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore, TaylorMade

Why it’s in my bag: I’ve been on the hunt for a mini driver to add to my bag, and this one absolutely delivers. It’s the perfect option for windy rounds or when I’m tackling longer courses, giving me a nice balance of distance and control. I love how it launches the ball cleanly without ballooning, and it’s noticeably easier to keep in the fairway compared to a standard driver.

1 key data point: With the R7 mini driver in my hands, the launch angle felt noticeably more controlled compared to other mini drivers I have tried in the past. Thanks to the 13.5-degree loft and adjustable quad‑weighting, I can tune it to either a slightly higher, more towering launch or a flatter, penetrating flight depending on what the course conditions call for.

*I choose between Mini Driver and 3-wood depending on course/conditions

3-wood*

Head: Callaway Quantum Max
Shaft: Denali Frost Silver 60G 6.0
Loft: 15º
OptiFit4 Setting: NS
Length: 43″
Swingweight: D2

Callaway Quantum Max Custom Fairway Wood

$399.99 from Fairway Jockey

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ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore, Callaway

Why it’s in my bag: This club really surprised me. I don’t normally carry a 3‑wood. In fact, I tried one in my “old” bag and rarely used it because I just wasn’t in love with it. But during my fitting at the Ely Callaway Performance Center, I was blown away by what this one could do. I usually hit a low ball flight with 3‑woods off the deck, but this club launched nicely without feeling too “lofty.” Off-center hits still carried well, and even the occasional thin strike was totally playable. There’s a real balance here between distance and playability.

1 key data point: I was impressed by how easily this club launched the ball. The trajectory was high and penetrating without feeling like it ballooned, which instills confidence — especially if I need to carry a hazard or want to go for a green.

*I choose between Mini Driver and 3-wood depending on course/conditions

5-wood

Head: Callaway Quantum Max
Shaft: Denali Frost Silver 60G 6.0
Loft: 18º
OptiFit4 Setting: NS
Length: 42″
Swingweight: D2

Callaway Quantum Max Custom Fairway Wood

$399.99 from Fairway Jockey

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ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore, Callaway

Why it’s in my bag: When I hit this club, there was a crisp, almost effortless feel at impact that launches the ball beautifully. I really like how it responds to my swing. The Quantum Max feels hot off the face yet still very controlled. It gives me the confidence to get creative and shape shots or navigate tight fairways. With this in the bag, I don’t feel like I always have to play it safe. And I’m most excited to see how it performs in competition rounds.

1 key data point: I was really impressed with the smash factor I was getting with this club. I usually hit 5‑woods well, but this was on another level. The ball jumps off the face with effortless speed, even on swings that aren’t perfect. With that kind of efficiency, I even feel confident attacking par‑5s in two.

Hybrid

Maddi MacClurg testing clubs Adam Christensen/GOLF

Head: Callaway Quantum Max
Shaft: Denali Frost Silver 70G 6.0
Loft: 21º
OptiFit4 Setting: NS
Lie: 59.375°
Length: 40.125″
Swingweight: D2

Callaway Quantum Max Custom Hybrid

$349.99 from Fairway Jockey

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ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore, Callaway

Why it’s in my bag: I’ve never had the kind of reliability with other hybrids that the Quantum Max gives me. Standing over shots, I feel confident because I don’t have to worry about my ball speed dropping on off-center hits. It also launches the ball high with a penetrating trajectory, making it easier to carry hazards on the course. Between the forgiveness, consistent speed, and high launch, I can see this quickly becoming a club I rely on round after round.

1 key data point: I’ve always struggled with consistency when hitting hybrids, especially on off-center strikes. But, the Quantum Max was a different story. Even on shots that were slightly off the toe or low on the face, the ball still carried with consistent, predictable speed. This makes it easy to trust the club from both the fairway and off the tee. That kind of reliability will be a game-changer for me —especially in competition rounds.

Irons

Set composition: T250 Launch Spec 5-PW
Shafts: Nippon NS Pro 750 GH Neo R
Length: -1″ (36″ 7-iron)
Lie: 1° Flat (62˚ 7-iron)
Loft progression: 27/31/35/39/43/47

Titleist 2025 T250 Custom Irons

Distance never looked this pure. T250 Irons give golfers the ultimate combination of raw speed, stability, and consistency with an ultra-clean design that players love. It’s a merger of form and function, crafted for powerful performance while satisfying the eye of the most discerning golfers.   Singular Design High-strength steel construction allows powerful performance technologies to be discreetly housed within a sleek, modern design. Elevated Speed A new forged L-Face Design heightens ball speed and launch for astounding distance across the face. Enhanced Consistency Improved Max Impact Technology and a progressive groove design promote consistent carry, spin, and dispersion from any lie. High Flight & Stability Split high-density tungsten produces optimal CG with high stability for more forgiving shotmaking. Launch Spec Configuration A brand-new addition to the T-Series lineup, T250 Launch Spec provides the same technology and features the same construction as T250 but with a lighter headweight and added loft, promoting effortless launch, increased carry distance for low-flight players and more stopping power into the greens.

$215.00 from Fairway Jockey

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ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore, Titleist

Why they’re in my bag: I selected these irons because of how well they launch and spin the ball compared to other models I’ve played. The forged L‑Face with a V‑taper design helps generate a ton of ball speed and a super high launch, which really boosts my spin and stopping power into greens, something I’ve really been wanting from my irons. With these in the bag, I feel confident attacking pins and holding greens, even from longer distances.

1 key data point: I love how these irons get the ball in the air. Even on shots that aren’t perfectly struck, the forged L‑Face with V‑taper design helps produce a high, penetrating launch that still carries well and stops quickly on the greens.

Wedges

Heads: SM11 Tour Chrome
Lofts/grinds: 52.08 F Grind, 56.12 D Grind, 60.10 S Grind
Shafts: Nippon 850 GH R
Length: -1″ (34″ on 60-degree)
Lie: 1° Flat (63˚)

Titleist Vokey SM11 Tour Chrome Custom Wedge

$199.99 from Fairway Jockey

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ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore, Titleist

Why they’re in my bag: I selected the Vokey SM11 wedges because the combination of grinds gives me the versatility I want around the greens. The 52-degree features a F grind that’s great on full-swing shots. The fuller sole inspires confidence and resists digging. For my 56-degree, we went with a D grind. It gives me a blend of forgiveness and versatility, so I can open the face without fear of the leading edge digging. And the 60-degree S grind has a slightly narrower sole that feels reliable when I need to control my trajectory and spin on delicate shots.

Putter

Head: Scotty Cameron Studio Style Santa Fe
Length: 33″
Loft: 3.5º
Lie: 70º
Hosel: Flow neck
Swingweight: 2 x 35 grams
Grip: Scotty Cameron Grey Full Contact

Scotty Cameron Studio Style Santa Fe Custom Putter

$499.00 from Fairway Jockey

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SIMILAR TO: PGA Tour Superstore, Titleist

Why it’s in my bag: I selected the Scotty Cameron Studio Style Santa Fe for the feel and control it provides. The toe hang and blade-style design create a smooth, consistent roll, and the classic, old-school look gives me confidence over every putt. It strikes the perfect balance between tradition and performance.

Extras

Grips: Golf Pride Tour Wrap

Golf Pride Tour Wrap Grip

The Tour Wrap® 2G® features enhanced tackiness and a soft material for a great feel. This one-piece, simulated wrap grip combines the look and feel of luxury leather with the durability and performance of high-tack rubber.

$11.99 from Fairway Jockey

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Alignment sticks: Hazy Sticks

Hazy Golf Limited Edition

SOLD AS A SINGLE STICK Once they’re gone, they’re gone. 100% Genuine Hickory Length: 45″ / Diameter: 3/8″ Gloss Protective Coating High Quality Golf Alignment Sticks Engraved sticks include one stick with custom engraving and the other with

$25.00 from Fairway Jockey