From banned drivers to ultra-short putters and million-dollar deals – 2025 was a big year for golf equipment.
While the 2025 golf season delivered plenty of thrilling moments on the course, it was the gear that often stole the spotlight. From controversial rule tests to bold innovations and surprising success stories, here’s a look back at the equipment stories that had everyone talking.
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—likely caused by wear over time from thousands of pro-level swings. Not a case of cheating, but a reminder of how gear evolves under pressure. Forced to switch drivers just before a major, McIlroy’s situation sparked widespread discussion about equipment longevity and testing protocols.
TaylorMade Qi4D: Tour Gear Before Launch
Later in the year, TaylorMade grabbed attention again when unreleased Qi4D drivers were spotted in the bags of top pros during the Abu Dhabi playoffs. The new lineup included models like the Core with four adjustable weights and the LS designed for low spin. Whether they were used in competition or not, the early sightings highlighted how closely tour players are involved in product development—and how quickly new tech hits the course.
Short Putters, Big Impact
Philippe Gariepy turned heads with a putter shorter than a pitching wedge—just 58 centimeters long. Inspired by a fun round using a child’s club, Gariepy cut down his Scotty Cameron to create a unique tool that gave him better control and helped him read greens more effectively. His deep stance and unconventional setup proved that sometimes, less really is more.
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s dramatic birdie putt on the 18th hole didn’t just boost his profile—it also