From banned drivers to ultra-short putters and major brand moves — 2025 was a big year for golf equipment.
The 2025 golf season delivered not only thrilling performances on the course but also plenty of buzz around the tools of the trade. From controversial rule checks and cutting-edge innovations to bold individual choices, here are the equipment stories that grabbed the most attention this 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 foul play, but simply wear and tear from thousands of swings. The club had become non-conforming, forcing McIlroy to switch drivers just before a major tournament. It was a stark reminder of how even elite equipment can evolve beyond legal limits over time.
New Tech and Bold Moves
Later in the year, TaylorMade made waves with the early appearance of its Qi4D driver series during the Abu Dhabi playoffs. Tour pros were spotted testing the unreleased models — including a low-spin LS and a Core version with four weights — highlighting how quickly new tech can reach competitive play and how involved pros are in the development process.
Meanwhile, Philippe Gariepy turned heads with a putter shorter than a pitching wedge. Standing 6’4\” tall, Gariepy chopped down a Scotty Cameron to just 58 cm after a fun round with a child’s club inspired the idea. The deep stance helped him read breaks better, and the short shaft gave him more control — proving that sometimes, less really is more.
Big Putts and Bigger Deals
J.J. Spaun’s birdie on the 18th at the U.S. Open didn’t just make headlines — it spotlighted L.A.B. Golf and its Direct Force 3 (DF3) putter. Featuring zero-torque and lie-angle balance technology,