From banned drivers to ultra-short putters and million-dollar deals – 2025 was a big year in golf equipment.
The 2025 golf season delivered plenty of excitement on the course, but it was also a standout year for gear. From controversial rule tests and cutting-edge innovations to bold individual choices, here are the equipment stories that captured the most attention.
McIlroy’s Driver Fails the Test
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 PGA Championship campaign began with unexpected drama. His driver failed a USGA conformity test due to excessive face flexibility—an issue caused not by cheating, but by wear over time. After thousands of swings, even the best clubheads can change. McIlroy had to switch drivers just before a major championship, raising questions about equipment durability and testing protocols.
New Tech and Bold Moves
Later in the year, TaylorMade made waves with its Qi4D driver series. Spotted in the bags of pros like McIlroy and Fleetwood during the Abu Dhabi playoffs, the models included the Core with four weights and the low-spin LS. Though not yet officially released, their early appearance highlighted how quickly new tech reaches the tour—and how involved players are in development.
One of the quirkiest stories came from Philippe Gariepy, who wielded a putter shorter than a pitching wedge—just 58 cm. Inspired by a fun round using a child’s club, he cut down his Scotty Cameron and found that the low stance improved his ability to read greens and control the stroke. Sometimes, less really is more.
Spaun’s Putt Sparks a $200M Deal
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s dramatic birdie putt on the 18th hole didn’t just make headlines—it propelled his putter brand, L.A.B. Golf, into the spotlight. His Direct Force