The 2025 golf year delivered big gear headlines—from banned drivers and ultra-short putters to major brand shakeups.
While 2025 brought thrilling moments on the course, it was also a landmark year for golf equipment. From controversial rule tests to bold innovations and unexpected success stories, here are the gear highlights that had the golf world talking.
McIlroy’s Driver Fails the Test
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 PGA Championship started with unexpected drama. During a routine equipment inspection, his driver failed the USGA’s conformity test due to excessive face flexibility—likely from wear over time, not foul play. With thousands of swings logged, even the best clubheads can change. McIlroy had to switch drivers just days before the Major.
TaylorMade Qi4D: Tour-Ready Before Release
Later in the season, TaylorMade made waves with the early appearance of its Qi4D driver series during the Abu Dhabi playoffs. Tour pros were spotted testing the unreleased models, including the Core with four adjustable weights and the low-spin LS. The real story? How quickly prototypes make it into elite competition and how closely pros work with manufacturers.
Short and Sweet: Gariepy’s 58cm Putter
What does a 6’4\” golfer do with a putter shorter than an umbrella? Philippe Gariepy showed us. Inspired by a fun round using a child’s club, he cut down his Scotty Cameron to just 58 cm. The deep stance helped him read greens better, and the short shaft gave him more control. It may look odd, but it worked—and turned heads all season.
Spaun’s Putt Puts L.A.B. Golf on the Map
J.J. Spaun’s birdie on the 18th at the U.S. Open didn’t just boost his score