Davis Riley, a rising star on the PGA Tour, recently won the Charles Schwab Challenge, his first individual title. In an interview with Golf Digest’s equipment editor, E. Michael Johnson, Riley discussed his Titleist equipment, the adjustments he makes based on swing changes, and an unexpected improvement he discovered regarding his footwear. Riley made a switch to the Pro V1x Left Dot golf ball in the fall of last year but returned to the Pro V1 for better launch conditions and spin with his iron combination. He praised the stability of the Pro V1 in crosswinds and its performance overall.
When it comes to his driver, Riley has experimented with adjustability features to fine-tune his ball flight. He has found that positioning the weight a click towards the heel helps prevent hanging-right misses, improving his start lines off the tee. He highlighted the versatility of his Titleist TSR3 driver, allowing him to customize the center-of-gravity location and alter ball flight based on desired shot shape. Riley emphasized the importance of matching equipment to swing changes and shared how his driver settings have evolved to support modifications he’s made to his swing.
Riley’s iron set features a mix of models, with a significant change being the replacement of 620 CBs with T100s for more consistent spin numbers and better control of apex height. He also uses a T200 3-iron for its performance similar to a utility iron but with a more appealing look at address. Riley carries two lob wedges, each with unique grind characteristics to suit different turf conditions he encounters on tour. These wedges have been instrumental in improving his play around the greens and overall wedge performance since his rookie year.
In terms of putters, Riley uses the Scotty Cameron Phantom X 7.2 mallet for its square lines and exceptional alignment features. He believes that feeling comfortable and confident with his putter setup is crucial for successful putting. Additionally, Riley shared an interesting anecdote about his footwear change, prompted by a friend’s observation that his shoes were too big. After switching to properly fitted shoes, Riley noticed a significant improvement in stability, particularly when loading his right side during the swing. This unexpected adjustment had a notable impact on his game.
Riley also discussed his fondness for golf training aids and shared a humorous story of setting up a makeshift driving range in his apartment with fellow golfer Will Zalatoris during the COVID lockdown. Despite the unconventional setup and potential neighbor complaints, Riley and Zalatoris enjoyed the experience as avid golf enthusiasts. This dedication to their craft highlights the passion and commitment these young players have for the game. Riley’s journey to success on the PGA Tour showcases the importance of equipment customization, swing adjustments, and continuous improvement in all aspects of the game.
