TaylorMade has once again expanded their iconic Spider range with the X Proto Short Slant putter. This is certainly what you’d call a statement piece, with a limited-edition blend of performance and style making it one of the most sought-after putters on the market. Originally a Tour exclusive, Spider Tour X Proto is now available in limited quantities.
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The putter was initially for Scottie Scheffler’s transition from blade to mallet. This design isn’t just rare, it’s already sold out on TaylorMade’s website. And it’s not hard to see why. Here’s our full review of the TaylorMade Spider X Protocol Small Slant putter…
NCG SUMMARY
TaylorMade’s Spider X Proto Short Slant is a stunning, high-performance hybrid putter born from Tour demands and crafted with blade users in mind. It delivers the stability of a mallet with the feel and feedback of a blade, thanks to smart CG positioning and a milled face.
I have to say, I do think this limited-edition putter is one of the most desirable putters ever made.
PROS
- Perfect for blade-to-mallet transitioners
- Excellent feel
- Impressive short-putt stability and forgiveness
CONS
- Good luck trying to get your hands on one!
First Impressions
Visually, I think the Spider X Proto Short Slant is a masterpiece. With an all-black finish, a bronze sole plate, bronze weights, and a bronze TaylorMade badge on the back, it’s easily one of the slickest mallets out there. From the black shaft to the black Super Stroke grip, this putter just oozes class and style that belongs on tour.
It’s definitely an aesthetically striking putter, there’s no doubt about it. The contrast between the black top-line and white sightline frame gives an immediate boost in alignment confidence. And while the visual appeal is high, the real test is always in the stroke.
When it’s in your hands, people notice. And behind the ball, it looks even better.
NCG Verdict
Unlike most mallets, the Spider X Proto Short Slant was engineered to replicate the feel and swing characteristics of a blade putter. This unique concept stems from Scheffler’s desire to gain the alignment and forgiveness benefits of a mallet, without sacrificing the familiar feel of a blade. The solution? A forward centre of gravity and a specially milled face, there is no Pure Roll insert here.
This forward CG design means more face rotation, just like a blade, while retaining enough forgiveness thanks to the classic Spider mallet shape. It’s this thoughtful engineering that makes it an ideal transition putter for blade loyalists.
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The absence of the insert and inclusion of a milled face delivers an unmistakably crisp feel at impact. I found that the ball seemed to pop off the face with authority, giving the impression of added speed, which inspires aggressive, confident strokes.
That feel is matched by its precision. The true path alignment system, although subtly integrated in all-black here with no contrasting white alignment aid, helps you line up with confidence. What struck me was how well I could set up and start putts online, even under match conditions, without any warm-up time.
Additionally, I found the putter performed exceptionally well on short putts. Off-centre strikes were also relatively forgiving, more so than with a traditional blade, albeit not quite on par with the most forgiving Spider models.
Final Verdict
Overall, if you are a blade user considering swapping to a mallet, or simply wanting the best of both worlds, then the TaylorMade Spider X Proto Short Slant really is a good option. It’s tour-inspired, beautifully balanced, and undeniably one of the most visually striking putters available today.
There is just one problem, the matter of getting your hands on one. They are like gold dust and it’s not hard to see why.
TaylorMade Spider X Proto Small Slant Putter Review: The Details
Available: Now
RRP: £399
More information: TaylorMade website
