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 action on the course, but it was the gear that often stole the spotlight. From controversial rule checks to bold innovations and quirky customizations, these are the equipment stories that captured the attention of fans and pros alike.
McIlroy’s Driver Fails the Test
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 PGA Championship got off to a rocky start when his driver failed a USGA rule test. The face was deemed too flexible—outside the legal limit—not due to tampering, but natural wear from thousands of swings. The incident forced a last-minute switch just before a major, highlighting how even elite players face unexpected gear challenges.
New Tech and Bold Moves in Golf Gear
Later in the season, TaylorMade generated buzz with the early appearance of its Qi4D driver series during the Abu Dhabi playoffs. Models like the Core with four weights and the low-spin LS were spotted in the bags of top players before official release, showing how quickly prototypes can hit the Tour and how involved pros are in development.
Meanwhile, Canadian golfer Philippe Gariepy turned heads with a 58-centimeter putter—shorter than a pitching wedge. Inspired by a child’s club during a casual round, he cut down his Scotty Cameron for better control and improved green reading from a lower stance. It was unconventional, but surprisingly effective.
Big Putts and Bigger Deals
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s clutch birdie putt on the 18th hole didn’t just boost his score—it spotlighted his putter brand. Using a Direct Force 3 (DF3) from L.A.B. Golf, featuring zero torque and lie-angle balance, Spaun helped propel the brand into the limelight. The high MO