For a gearhead, there are few places in golf more sacred than TaylorMade’s “The Kingdom” in Carlsbad. If you’re any type of equipment junkie, it’s golf’s version of a candy store; except everything is Tour-level, and the fitting experience is as good as it gets.
That’s where I found myself recently, rolling putts with TaylorMade’s new Spider ZT, alongside Patrick Baxter, TaylorMade’s Product Manager for putters. We walked through the design, the tech, and the story behind what might just be the most stable Spider yet. And then, I put it to the test.
Spoiler alert: this thing is good. Really good.
But before I get into the ZT, let’s go back to where it started for me.
I’ve been rolling a Spider since 2008
The original TaylorMade Spider launched in 2008, and I was in from day one. It was big, bad, and unlike anything else on the market. But the performance was undeniable, especially the forgiveness and roll on off-center hits. It made me look much better than I was.
Since then, I’ve had multiple generations of Spiders in the bag. The Spider Tour, the X, the GT… you name it. If there’s been a white, red, black, or silver Spider seen on Tour, chances are I’ve rolled it.
So when TaylorMade said they had a new evolution called “ZT,” I was all in.
Getting to know the Spider ZT
ZT stands for Zero Torque, and while that sounds technical, the concept is simple: the putter is designed to eliminate twisting throughout the stroke.
That’s done with a face-on-center shaft design, meaning the shaft is mounted directly behind the face, not in the heel. That center-axis construction keeps the face more stable, especially during transition and impact. (Even if you happen to miss the center of the face)
The result? Less manipulation, more square contact, and a stroke that feels smoother from takeaway to finish.
TaylorMade pairs that with their new ZT True Path alignment system and a Pure Roll insert to encourage better forward roll.
You get the familiar look of a Spider, but with a very different feel. And that’s where things got interesting.
Putting the ZT to the Test
On the practice green at The Kingdom, I rolled all three ZT models: the standard Spider ZT, the ZT Counterbalance, and the ZT Long.
Here’s how it went down:
Spider ZT (Standard)
The standard ZT is the purest expression of the Zero Torque idea. It’s more compact than most, balanced, and super easy to aim. The head shape blends some design elements from previous generations of Spider, giving fans a shape they know and love. The alignment line is long enough to inspire confidence but not so in your face that it becomes distracting.
The most noticeable thing? Stability through the stroke. Even on slight mishits, the face stayed square, and I found my putts holding the intended line with less effort. If you have a straight or slightly arcing stroke, this model will feel natural out of the gate.
Spider ZT Counterbalance (My Favorite)
This was the standout for me.
The ZT Counterbalance has a heavier grip, a longer shaft, and extra weight down low, which created a smoother tempo and gave me the best distance control of the bunch.
My rhythm instantly got better. I wasn’t thinking about my stroke, I was just focused on speed and line. The putter did the work. If you struggle with pace, get quick with the hands, or just like a little more heft, this version is dialed.
Spider ZT Long
Ah yes, the ZT Long.
This model is designed for golfers who want that locked-in, anchored feeling, without breaking any rules. It’s stable, it’s heavy, and it feels like it’s glued to the arc.
As for my results? Let’s just say it wasn’t the putter’s fault. The ZT Long and I didn’t exactly vibe… but I’ll take full responsibility. Let’s chalk that one up to operator error and a complete lack of long-putter skills. (Or putting skills in general)
Still, I can see the appeal. For players who like that feeling of a fixed path, it’s going to be a great fit.
Spider is no stranger to winning
When it comes to mallet putters, few families have been trusted by more of the world’s best than the TaylorMade Spider.
From major championships to FedEx Cups, Ryder Cups, and Olympic gold, the Spider has been in the bag for some of the biggest wins in recent memory. This shouldn’t come as any surprise; it’s been a Tour staple for over 15 years.
Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson, Jason Day, and Justin Rose have all had Spiders in the bag during some of the most successful stretches of their careers. Jason Day helped launch the Spider into the spotlight back in 2016, and it’s only grown in popularity and prestige since.
Fast forward to today, and the tradition continues.
Scottie Scheffler and Nelly Korda, the current world No. 1s on the PGA and LPGA Tours, are both trusting Spider putters in competition, and winning with them… A lot.
It’s no coincidence.
TaylorMade Spider 5K-ZT Counterbalance Custom Putter
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