From banned drivers to ultra-short putters and major tech deals – 2025 was a big year for golf equipment.
The 2025 golf season delivered not only thrilling moments on the course but also plenty of buzz around the tools of the trade. Our year-end equipment recap dives into controversial rule checks, cutting-edge innovations, and bold individual choices that caught the attention of fans and players alike.
McIlroy’s Driver Fails the Test
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 PGA Championship campaign began with a surprise: his driver failed a USGA conformity test. The clubface was deemed too flexible, not due to foul play but natural wear from thousands of swings. With the major just days away, McIlroy had to quickly switch drivers – a rare and high-stakes adjustment at the top level.
New Tech and Bold Designs
Later in the year, TaylorMade made waves with its unreleased Qi4D driver series, spotted in play during the Abu Dhabi playoffs. Featuring models like the Core with four weights and the low-spin LS, the early appearance of these clubs highlighted how quickly prototypes can reach the tour. It also underscored the deep involvement of pros in product development.
Meanwhile, Philippe Gariepy turned heads with a putter shorter than a pitching wedge. Inspired by a fun round using a child’s club, he cut down his Scotty Cameron to just 58 cm. The deep stance helped him read greens better, and the short shaft gave him more control – a quirky but effective approach that proved less can be more.
Big Moves in the Putter Market
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s birdie putt on 18 didn’t just make headlines – it put L.A.B. Golf in the spotlight. His putter, the DF3 from L.A.B., features zero torque and lie-angle balance to