From banned drivers to ultra-short putters and million-dollar deals – 2025 was a big year for golf equipment.
The 2025 golf season delivered plenty of memorable moments on the course, but it was also a standout year for the gear used by the pros. 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 an unexpected twist. His driver failed a USGA test due to excessive face flexibility—an issue not caused by cheating, but by wear and tear from thousands of swings. The club had simply aged out of compliance. Forced to switch drivers just before a major, McIlroy’s situation highlighted how even elite players must adapt quickly to equipment challenges.
New Releases and Unusual Choices
Later in the year, TaylorMade stirred buzz with its unreleased Qi4D drivers spotted in play during the Abu Dhabi playoffs. Featuring models like the Core with four weights and the low-spin LS, the early appearance of these clubs underscored how quickly tour pros integrate new tech into competition.
Meanwhile, Philippe Gariepy turned heads with a putter shorter than a pitching wedge. Inspired by a fun round using a child’s club, he cut down his Scotty Cameron to just 58 centimeters. The deep stance helped him read breaks better, and the ultra-short shaft gave him more control—proof that unconventional setups can sometimes deliver surprising results.
Spaun’s Putt and the $200M Deal
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun made headlines with a clutch birdie putt on the 18th hole—using a L.A.B. Golf DF3 putter with zero-torque, lie-angle-balanced design. The high MOI and face stability helped him deliver under pressure. The result? A