From banned drivers to ultra-short putters and major brand deals – 2025 was a big year in golf equipment.
The 2025 golf season delivered plenty of action on the course, but it was also a standout year for gear. From controversial rule checks to bold innovations and surprising success stories, the tools of the trade often stole the spotlight. Here’s a look at the equipment stories that made waves in 2025.
McIlroy’s Driver Fails the Test
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 PGA Championship campaign began with a surprise: his driver failed a USGA test due to excessive face flexibility. The issue wasn’t cheating—it was wear and tear. After thousands of swings, even top-tier drivers can exceed legal limits. McIlroy had to switch drivers just before the major, highlighting how even the best players face unexpected gear challenges.
TaylorMade Qi4D: Tour-Ready Before Launch
Later in the year, TaylorMade grabbed attention with its unreleased Qi4D drivers spotted during the Abu Dhabi playoffs. The lineup included models like the Core with four weights and the LS for low spin. Whether or not players used them in competition, it showed how quickly prototypes move from lab to leaderboard—and how involved pros are in development.
Short Putters, Big Impact
Philippe Gariepy turned heads with a putter shorter than a pitching wedge—just 58 centimeters. Inspired by a kids’ club during a casual round, he cut down his Scotty Cameron for better control and a lower stance to read greens. It was unconventional, but effective—a reminder that sometimes, less is more.
Spaun’s Putt Sparks $200M L.A.B. Golf Deal
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s birdie on 18 didn’t just make headlines—it boosted L.A.B.