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 excitement on the course, but it was the gear off the course that often stole the spotlight. From controversial rule checks to bold innovations and standout personalities, here are the equipment stories that shaped the year.
McIlroy’s Driver Fails the Test
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 PGA Championship campaign began with unexpected drama. His driver failed a USGA test due to excessive face flexibility – not because of tampering, but natural wear from thousands of swings. The ruling forced McIlroy to switch drivers just before a major, raising questions about equipment longevity and testing protocols.
TaylorMade’s Qi4D Series Makes a Surprise Appearance
Later in the year, TaylorMade caught attention 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 tour presence emphasized how closely pros are involved in product development and how quickly new tech hits the course.
Short and Sweet: The 58cm Putter
Philippe Gariepy turned heads with a putter shorter than a pitching wedge – just 58 cm long. Inspired by a fun round using a child’s club, Gariepy cut down his Scotty Cameron, finding the low stance improved his ability to read breaks and control putts. It was one of the quirkiest and most talked-about gear stories of the year.
Spaun’s Putt Puts L.A.B. Golf in the Spotlight
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s birdie on the 18th hole did more than boost his score – it catapulted L.A.B. Golf into the limelight. His Direct Force