From banned drivers to ultra-short putters and massive brand deals – 2025 was a big year for golf equipment.
The 2025 golf season delivered plenty of drama on the course, but the gear used by pros also made waves. From controversial rule tests to bold innovations and quirky customizations, here are the equipment stories that captured the most attention this year.
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 issue? The clubface had become too flexible over time – a result of thousands of pro-level swings. It wasn’t cheating, just wear and tear. McIlroy had to switch drivers just before a major, raising questions about how equipment evolves under intense use. Read more.
TaylorMade Qi4D: Tour Testing Before Release
Later in the year, TaylorMade drew attention with its unreleased Qi4D drivers spotted in play during the Abu Dhabi playoffs. Models like the Core with four weights and the low-spin LS were seen in the bags of top players like Fleetwood and McIlroy. Whether they used them in competition or not, the early exposure showed just how involved tour pros are in product development. Read more.
The 58cm Putter That Turned Heads
Canadian golfer Philippe Gariepy made headlines with a putter shorter than a pitching wedge – just 58cm long. Inspired by a fun round using a child’s club, he cut down his Scotty Cameron for better control and improved green reading. The deep stance and ultra-short shaft were unconventional, but surprisingly effective. Read more.
Spaun’s Putt Puts L.A.B. Golf on the Map
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s clutch birdie putt on the 18th hole didn’t just impact the leaderboard – it boosted L.A.B. Golf into the spotlight. His Direct Force 3 (DF3) putter, featuring zero torque and lie-angle balance, helped stabilize off-center hits. The buzz led to the brand’s $200 million acquisition by a private equity firm, though management pledged to maintain its core philosophy. Read more.
Wilson’s Wild Lab and AI Fitting
Wilson Golf took a fresh approach in 2025, blending insights from tennis and basketball teams