From banned drivers to ultra-short putters and million-dollar deals — 2025 was a big year in golf equipment.
While 2025 delivered plenty of action on the course, it was also a year full of buzzworthy gear stories. From controversial rule tests to bold innovations and standout personalities, here’s a look back at the equipment that made headlines.
McIlroy’s Driver Fails the Test
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 PGA Championship campaign began with a surprise: his driver failed a conformity test. The USGA found the face too flexible, pushing it beyond the legal limit—not due to tampering, but natural wear from thousands of swings. Forced to switch drivers just before a major, McIlroy’s situation highlighted how even elite gear can evolve over time.
TaylorMade’s Qi4D Drivers Make Early Tour Appearance
Later in the year, TaylorMade stirred excitement with the early appearance of its Qi4D driver series during the Abu Dhabi Playoffs. Though not yet officially released, the models—including the Core with four weights and the low-spin LS—were spotted in the bags of top players. The sighting underscored how closely tour pros are involved in product development and how quickly new gear hits the competitive scene.
Unusual Putters and Big Business
Philippe Gariepy turned heads with a putter shorter than a pitching wedge—just 58 cm long. Inspired by a fun round with a child’s club, he cut down his Scotty Cameron and found the deep stance helped him read greens better. The ultra-short shaft also gave him more control, proving that unconventional solutions can sometimes lead to better performance.
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s dramatic birdie on the 18th hole brought attention to his L.A.B. Golf putter, featuring zero-torque and lie-angle balance. The Direct Force