From banned drivers to ultra-short putters and major brand deals – 2025 was a big year for golf equipment.
The 2025 golf season delivered plenty of drama on the course, but the gear used by the pros also made waves. From controversial rule tests to bold innovations and surprising success stories, here are the equipment highlights that grabbed the most attention this year.
McIlroy’s Driver Fails the Test
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 PGA Championship got off to a rocky start when his driver failed a USGA test. The clubface was deemed too flexible, no fault of McIlroy’s, but rather a result of wear from thousands of swings. With the club no longer conforming to regulations, McIlroy had to switch drivers just before teeing off at a major.
TaylorMade Qi4D: Early Tour Appearances
Later in the year, TaylorMade made headlines with its new Qi4D driver series. Spotted in play at the Abu Dhabi playoffs before the official release, the models included a Core version with four weights and a low-spin LS variant. The early use by pros underscored how closely they’re involved in product development and how quickly new gear hits the competitive scene.
Unusual Putters and Big Moves
Philippe Gariepy turned heads with a 58 cm putter – shorter than a pitching wedge. Inspired by a fun round with a child’s club, he cut down his Scotty Cameron, finding the deep stance improved his green reading and control. It was one of the quirkiest gear stories of the year.
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s clutch birdie putt on 18 brought massive attention to L.A.B. Golf and its zero-torque, lie-angle-balanced DF3 putter. The design minimizes face twisting and boosts forgiveness. Following Spaun’s success, L