Revitalized.
That’s how TaylorMade describes its Spider Tour Series line of five mallets, most noted for their forgiveness, helping some of the best roll a few more 10-footers in when needed.
Described by Brian Bazzel, TaylorMade’s Vice-President of Product Creation as “a handful of models that will help golfers putt better,” he notes that mallets have gained popularity because they simply outperform other options: “Mallets can provide a performance element that blades simply can’t do,” he explains.
Incorporating new technology into the line and introducing two new models—the TourV and TourS—TaylorMade is giving its much-vaunted line a refresh.
Key Technologies
Incorporating Tech
TaylorMade is using some key elements found in other products in the Tour series putters. While each putter is made with multi-material construction designed to make it highly forgiving with great moment of inertia, you’ll see HYBRAR Echo Damper used as well. HYBRAR is found in distance irons to limit unwanted vibrations.
Pure Roll
It was in the original Spider X and was so successful that TaylorMade is incorporating Pure Roll inserts into Tour Series. Molded from a Surlyn material, the insert delivers a soft yet responsive feel with grooves that are angled 45° downward to help impart better topspin and an end-over-end roll.
True Path
The alignment system found in TaylorMade putters over the last four years is prominent in the Tour Series. TaylorMade found most golfers hit putts off the toe, and True Path helped them find the centre of the putter more often.
Aesthetics
The line comes in Gunmetal PVD (which stands for physical vapor deposition) that enhances the putter and makes them more durable (no more chipping!). The PVD coating also creates a barrier that helps protect the surface during those long practice sessions.
Options
The Tour, Tour X, and Tour Z come with two hosel options—a slant No. 3 hosel for more toe hang, ideal for those with more arc in their strokes, and a straight back version.
Tour Series
Spider Tour
With significantly higher MOI than the previous Spider Tour, this is a great option for those seeking the traditional Spider look.
Spider Tour X
Designed to convert blade players to mallets, the CG is farther forward on this version, allowing for more rotation.
Spider Tour Z
Sitting low, this version puts an emphasis on True Path. For golfers who really want to focus on alignment, this is an ideal option.
Spider Tour V
Eliminating the wing structure, this is the smallest putter in the line. One of the new options in the Tour Series, this is aimed at golfers with the most rotation in their stroke. Only available in a double-bend shaft.
Spider Tour S
Coming in the spring of 2024, this offers a heavier and larger head and counter-balanced grip, with 35 and 38-inch offerings. Only available in a double-bend shaft.