Brian Harman made headlines at the Valero Texas Open this week when he added TaylorMade’s Spider 5K-ZT Prototype putter to his bag. Despite his throwback gear setup, Harman’s new putter aligns with a popular trend on Tour. This change paid off immediately, as Harman gained more than 5.3 strokes on the field with his new putter, propelling him to his fourth PGA Tour win.
Harman’s decision to switch to the Spider 5K-ZT putter was based on its zero torque design and more upright lie angle. This new model made it easier for him to line up and aim his shots, freeing up his stroke and improving his putting performance. Harman noted that he had struggled with putting from 10 to 20 feet in the past, despite having a strong iron game. With the Spider 5K-ZT, he was able to capitalize on crucial shots and secure victory at the Valero Texas Open.
While TaylorMade has been relatively quiet about the specifics of the Spider 5K-ZT design, Harman’s success with the putter has likely caught the attention of other players on the Tour. It wouldn’t be surprising to see more pros testing out this new prototype in upcoming events, such as the upcoming major at Harbour Town. Harman’s success serves as a testament to the impact that the right equipment can have on a player’s performance on the course.
In addition to his new putter, Harman’s bag features clubs that are mostly four years old or older, showcasing his preference for older gear. He still plays the 2017 Titleist Pro V1 golf ball, which he switched to after a memorable experience at the Zurich Classic team event in 2018. Harman’s unique gear setup, combined with his recent success at the Valero Texas Open, highlights the importance of finding equipment that works best for individual players and can enhance their performance under pressure.
Harman’s victory at the Valero Texas Open not only solidified his position in the PGA Tour but also disrupted the Masters dreams of other pros competing in the event. His exceptional performance with the Spider 5K-ZT putter showcased the impact of equipment changes on players’ game and the potential for innovation to drive success on the Tour. As Harman continues to fine-tune his gear setup and adapt to new technologies, his journey serves as a reminder of the continuous evolution of equipment in the world of professional golf.
