From banned drivers to quirky putters and million-dollar deals — 2025 was a headline year for golf equipment.
The 2025 golf season delivered plenty of on-course drama, but some of the biggest stories came from the gear itself. From controversial rule checks to bold innovations and unexpected success stories, here’s a look at the equipment highlights that got everyone talking.
McIlroy’s Driver Fails the Test
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 PGA Championship got off to a rocky start when his driver failed a USGA conformity test. The face had become too flexible — not due to cheating, but from wear and tear after thousands of pro-level swings. With the club deemed non-conforming just before a major, McIlroy had to make a last-minute switch, highlighting how even elite players face unexpected gear challenges.
New Tech and Tour Surprises
Later in the year, TaylorMade drew attention with its unreleased Qi4D driver series, spotted in play during the Abu Dhabi playoffs. The models — including a Core version with four weights and a low-spin LS — showed how quickly prototypes can reach the tour. Whether or not players used them in competition, the early sightings underscored how involved pros are in the R&D process.
Meanwhile, Philippe Gariepy turned heads with a putter shorter than a pitching wedge. Standing 6’4\”, he cut down a Scotty Cameron to just 58 cm after a fun round with a child’s club. The low stance helped him read greens better, and the ultra-short shaft gave him more control — proof that unconventional setups can deliver real results.
Big Moments, Bigger Moves
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s clutch birdie on 18 didn’t just boost his score — it put his putter brand, L.A.B. Golf, in the spotlight. His DF3 model features a zero-torque