Why J.J. Spaun Benched His U.S. Open-Winning Putter

J.J. Spaun switched putters after winning the U.S. Open. Learn why he made the change and how it reflects his approach to performance and equipment.

By Marcus Bell, PGA Teaching Professional 2026-05-30

J.J. Spaun recently made headlines when he decided to bench the putter he used to capture his first major victory at the U.S. Open. While switching equipment after such a career-defining moment might seem surprising, Spaun revealed that the decision wasn’t about sentiment—it was about performance. His story offers a window into how tour players approach equipment choices, even at the highest level.

Why Did Spaun Switch Putters?

Spaun explained in an interview with GOLF.com that his U.S. Open-winning putter—a mallet-style model—started to feel inconsistent in terms of distance control. Despite helping him claim his first major title, the putter didn’t always provide the feedback he wanted on greens with varying speeds. For a player like Spaun, whose livelihood depends on precision, that was enough reason to explore other options.

“It wasn’t an easy decision,” Spaun admitted. “You get attached to a club that brought you success, but at the end of the day, you have to listen to the numbers and trust your instincts.”

The numbers Spaun referred to included his strokes gained putting statistics, which showed a slight decline in performance in the months following the U.S. Open. While he still ranked inside the top 50 on tour, he felt there was room for improvement.

What Putter Did He Switch To?

Spaun transitioned to a blade-style putter, a significant departure from the mallet he had used during his U.S. Open run. The new putter, a prototype from his equipment sponsor, features a more compact head and a softer insert designed to enhance feel. According to Spaun, the blade’s design offered better feedback on both short and long putts, allowing him to fine-tune his touch on different types of greens.

“The blade just felt more responsive,” he said. “I could immediately tell if I struck the ball off-center, which helped me make adjustments more quickly.”

This switch also aligns with a broader trend on tour, where many players are opting for blade putters to improve feel and precision, even if they sacrifice some forgiveness compared to mallets.

How Do Tour Pros Decide When to Change Equipment?

Spaun’s decision highlights the rigorous process tour players go through when evaluating equipment. Changes aren’t made on a whim; they are the result of extensive testing and data analysis. Here’s a breakdown of how Spaun likely approached his decision:

• Testing on Practice Greens: Spaun would have spent hours testing the new putter on practice greens, focusing on key metrics like distance control, alignment, and feel.
• Comparing Performance Data: Using tools like TrackMan or Quintic, he would have analyzed putts with both the old and new putters to compare launch angles, skid distance, and roll quality.
• On-Course Trials: Before committing to the switch, Spaun likely tested the new putter in practice rounds under tournament-like conditions.
• Consulting with Equipment Reps: Spaun worked closely with his equipment sponsor’s tour reps, who provided insights and made adjustments to the putter based on his feedback.

This methodical approach ensures that any change is backed by data and confidence, minimizing the risk of a mid-season slump.

What Does This Say About Spaun’s Approach to Golf?

Spaun’s willingness to bench a putter that helped him win a major speaks volumes about his mindset as a competitor. Rather than resting on his laurels, he’s constantly looking for ways to improve. This drive for excellence is a hallmark of top-tier professionals.

It also reflects a broader truth about golf: the game is always evolving. What works one week might not work the next, whether due to changes in course conditions, equipment wear and tear, or shifts in a player’s swing. Spaun’s decision to adapt rather than cling to past success is a lesson in staying forward-focused.

What Challenges Do Players Face When Switching Putters?

Changing putters mid-season isn’t without its challenges. Even with rigorous testing, there’s always an adjustment period. Here are some of the hurdles Spaun likely faced:

• Building Confidence: A new putter can feel unfamiliar at first, making it harder to commit to your stroke under pressure.
• Adapting to Different Feel: The weight, balance, and face insert of a new putter can affect how it interacts with the ball.
• Translating Success in Practice to Competition: What works on the practice green doesn’t always translate to tournament conditions, where nerves and green speeds add complexity.

Spaun acknowledged these challenges but emphasized the importance of patience. “You have to trust the process,” he said. “It’s not about instant results; it’s about long-term improvement.”

How Have Spaun’s Results Been Since the Switch?

While it’s still early days with the new putter, Spaun has already shown signs of improvement. In his first tournament after making the switch, he gained over a stroke per round on the greens compared to his season average. He also ranked inside the top 20 in putts per green in regulation, a key metric for scoring efficiency.

“It feels like I’m trending in the right direction,” Spaun said. “The putter’s doing its job, and I’m feeling more confident every week.”

It’s worth noting that equipment changes often take several weeks—or even months—to yield consistent results. For Spaun, the early returns are promising but not definitive.

What Can Amateur Golfers Learn from This?

Spaun’s story offers valuable lessons for amateur golfers. Here are a few takeaways:

• Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: If your current equipment isn’t performing, be open to trying something new. Just make sure to test thoroughly before committing.
• Focus on Performance, Not Sentimentality: It’s easy to get attached to a club that brought you success, but results should always come first.
• Trust the Data: Use tools like launch monitors or putting mats to gather objective feedback on your equipment.
• Be Patient: Adjusting to new equipment takes time. Give yourself several rounds to adapt before evaluating the change.

While most amateurs don’t have access to tour reps or extensive testing facilities, they can still adopt a similar mindset. Treat your equipment choices as part of your overall strategy, and don’t hesitate to make changes if they’ll help you improve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did J.J. Spaun switch putters after winning the U.S. Open?

Spaun felt his U.S. Open-winning putter lacked consistency in distance control, prompting him to switch to a blade-style putter that offered better feedback and touch.

What type of putter did J.J. Spaun switch to?

Spaun switched to a blade-style putter with a compact head and a softer insert, designed to enhance feel and precision.

How do tour pros decide when to change equipment?

Tour pros base equipment changes on extensive testing, performance data, and feedback from equipment reps to ensure the switch will improve their game.

What challenges do players face when switching putters?

Challenges include building confidence, adapting to a new feel, and translating practice success to tournament conditions.

What can amateur golfers learn from Spaun’s decision?

Amateurs can learn to prioritize performance over sentimentality, trust data, and be patient when adapting to new equipment.

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