TaylorMade Spider ZT Putter Review: Lighter Feel, Zero Torque, Serious Control
TaylorMade Spider ZT Putter Review: GolfMagic tests out the latest TaylorMade Spider and one of the best new zero torque putters in the game.
Excellent performance on short putts
Consistent strike across the face
Toe up design might not be for everyone
Towards top end for price
Key Features:
- Low torque design unique sole shaping: The KBS putter shaft is bored directly toe-ward near the CG at a 1° shaft lean with 25mm onset behind the face allowing golfers to realise the benefits of a new stable, toe up design.
- Unique sole shaping: New and improved sole shaping to work specifically with this unique hosel configuration, engineers worked tirelessly to find new ways to improve accuracy from the moment the putter is placed behind the ball.
- Spider stability: Combining high density stainless steel and low-density aerospace quality aluminum provides the perfect foundation for a design that is high MOI and allows for a shaft orientation that sits closer to the face.
- Milled True Path Alignment: Based on tour player feedback, we were tasked to find a new premium alignment system. Building on the classic TaylorMade True Path™ technology, milled lines the width of the golf ball were added helping golfers properly index to centre face.
- Pure Roll Insert: Made from a combination of Surlyn and aluminum, the black Pure Roll™ insert creates a softer feel. Grooves are angled at 45° to encourage optimal forward roll as well as better sound, feel and overall roll characteristics.
It’s not often that a putter manages to stop me in my tracks before I’ve even rolled a ball with it, but the TaylorMade Spider ZT, did exactly that. This is without question one of the best zero torque putters around right now.
From the moment I took it out of the bag, I was genuinely taken aback by just how good it looked. A striking light blue tone, highlighted subtly with the Spider imprint design and wrapped in a stealthy black body, makes this putter one of the most visually interesting putters I’ve tested in recent years. But it’s not all about the looks—thankfully, the performance backs it up and this is easily one of the best putters in the game today.
The ZT stands for "Zero Torque", and the mission here is clear: create a forgiving, balanced, and intuitive putter that feels natural through the stroke while offering all the benefits of modern engineering.
I spent time with the Spider ZT from TaylorMade both on the putting green and out on the course to find out whether it truly delivers on that promise.
Let's dive in...
Player Level
This is a putter aimed at golfers looking for the performance of zero torque without the chunkiness or the overtly mechanical feel that can come with some competitors’ models. I’d say it best suits players who enjoy shaping their own stroke rhythm rather than being locked into a set path by the weight of the club. If you're typically comfortable with blade putters but want the benefits of a mallet, this could well be your middle ground.
Looks and Feel
The Spider ZT is a visual stunner.
TaylorMade has blended tech and aesthetic in a way few brands manage.
That light blue face, etched with a spider web graphic, is bordered by sleek black aluminium wings and a precision-milled body.
It’s modern, mechanical, and clean—all without looking busy.
I particularly liked the triangular weight structure on the sole because it adds to the putter’s visual symmetry and complements the “spider-like” feel of its overall design.
The blacked-out shaft and white semi-pistol grip round off a really sophisticated look.
Altogether, the ZT has the kind of presence that makes you want to roll putts with it before you've even considered the specs.
In terms of feel, the centre of gravity is 23mm behind the face, and TaylorMade has drilled the shaft directly into that central balance point.
You notice it straight away—it creates a very neutral, grounded stroke that feels like it’s helping you along, rather than directing you.
Performance and Forgiveness
Here’s where the Spider ZT really comes into its own.
From five to 10 feet, I felt totally in control.
The TaylorMade Spider ZT putter helps you find and hold your line, and it takes a lot of the guesswork out of the shorter putts. It feels incredibly stable and repeatable from these ranges, which are arguably the most crucial distances in putting.
Where many zero torque putters tend to lose a bit of feel on longer lag putts, the Spider ZT surprised me.
One of my usual gripes with this category is that the face often stays too square through the stroke, making it harder to gauge pace and body rotation on lengthy putts. Not here. The Spider ZT gave me the same confidence and stroke fluidity as I get with my go-to blade.
That’s down in part to the lighter weight. This isn’t a heavy, cumbersome zero torque weapon—it’s lighter than similar offerings from Odyssey or L.A.B. Golf. And that’s a good thing. It lets you swing freely, build your own tempo, and still feel the benefit of high-tech forgiveness. Rather than being forced into a robotic motion, you’re supported by the weighting, not dictated by it.
Strike, Sound and Roll
The insert is made from a blend of Surlyn and aluminium, which produces a firmer feel at impact than many mallet players might be used to. It’s not soft and muted—it's more of a satisfying click, similar to what you’d expect from a blade.
For me, this brought a lot of feedback, especially on longer putts. But if you're someone who prefers a softer, quieter roll, this firmer sensation may take some adjustment.
Roll consistency across the face was excellent. Even putts hit slightly off-centre retained a lot of their intended pace and direction. The only noticeable drop-off came when striking from the extreme heel or toe—although frankly, if you’re doing that regularly, it’s not the putter, it’s you.
Toe-Up Design: Love or Hate?
One small quirk is the toe-up design. Because of the weight distribution, the toe does sit a little above the ground at address. For me, that wasn’t an issue—I naturally set up with lower hands and have always preferred that look. But if you're used to a flat-soled putter at address, it might take a bit of getting used to.
Should You Buy It?
If you’ve ever been tempted by zero torque putters but felt put off by their weight or robotic feel, the Spider ZT is absolutely worth a look. It bridges the gap between modern tech and intuitive feel brilliantly. It’s packed with subtle but meaningful innovations, from the CG placement to the material choice, and it’s refreshingly user-friendly.
This isn’t just a putter for tour pros or putting nerds. It’s a genuine all-rounder that could suit a wide range of handicaps—particularly those who want a stable mallet that still feels like a natural extension of the hands.
Verdict
The TaylorMade Spider ZT putter is a standout addition to the zero torque category.
With its stunning looks, intelligent design, and lighter weight, it delivers both style and substance.
It excels on short putts, holds up on longer ones, and feels great in the hands.
The feel might be firmer than some expect, and the toe-up design may split opinion, but overall, this is one of the most complete and enjoyable mallet putters I’ve tested this year.