From banned drivers to ultra-short putters and million-dollar deals – 2025 was a wild year in golf equipment.
The 2025 golf season delivered plenty of drama on the course, but it was the gear that often stole the spotlight. From controversial rule tests to cutting-edge innovations and bold personal choices, these are the equipment stories that made waves throughout the year.
McIlroy’s Driver Fails the Test
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 PGA Championship campaign began with unexpected controversy. His driver failed a USGA test due to excessive face flexibility—an issue caused not by cheating, but by wear and tear from thousands of swings. With the club no longer conforming to regulations, McIlroy was forced to switch drivers just before teeing off at a major.
TaylorMade Qi4D: Sneak Peek at New Tech
Later in the year, TaylorMade grabbed attention again when new Qi4D drivers were spotted in play during the Abu Dhabi playoffs—before their official release. Among the models were the Core, featuring four adjustable weights, and the low-spin LS. The real story? How quickly pros test and adopt new gear in competitive settings.
Unconventional Putters and Big Business
Philippe Gariepy turned heads with a 58 cm putter—shorter than a pitching wedge. Inspired by a child’s club during a casual round, he cut down his own Scotty Cameron. The low stance improved his read on breaks, and the short shaft gave him better control. An odd choice, but it worked.
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s clutch birdie putt on 18 brought L.A.B. Golf into the limelight. His DF3 putter, featuring zero torque and lie-angle balance, reduces face twist and stabilizes off-center hits. The buzz led to L.A.B.