From banned drivers to ultra-short putters and big-money deals – 2025 was full of gear headlines in golf.
The 2025 golf season delivered plenty of on-course drama, but the equipment used by the pros also stole the spotlight. From controversial rule tests to bold innovations and quirky gear choices, here are the stories that made waves in the world of golf equipment.
McIlroy’s Driver Fails USGA Test
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 PGA Championship campaign began with unexpected equipment drama. His driver failed a USGA test due to an overly flexible face – not from tampering, but from natural wear after thousands of swings. Just days before a major, McIlroy was forced to switch drivers, highlighting how even elite gear can evolve beyond legal limits over time.
TaylorMade Qi4D: Sneak Peek on Tour
Later in the year, TaylorMade made headlines with its unreleased Qi4D driver series, spotted in play during the Abu Dhabi playoffs. The lineup includes models like the Core with four adjustable weights and the LS for low spin. The early appearance of these clubs underscored how closely tour pros are involved in product development and how quickly prototypes can hit the course.
The 58cm Putter That Turned Heads
What does a 6’4” man do with a putter shorter than an umbrella? Philippe Gariepy went viral with his 58cm Scotty Cameron, inspired by a fun round using a child’s club. The deep stance helped him read greens better, and the ultra-short shaft gave him more control. It’s unconventional, but sometimes less really is more.
Spaun’s Putt Sparks $200M L.A.B. Golf Deal
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s birdie on the 18th didn’t just thrill fans – it catapulted L.A.B.