As golf technology evolves, the variety of golf clubs in golfers’ bags has never been greater. With more club options available and the rise of specialized fittings, players are fine-tuning their setups to match their personal swing characteristics. In 2025, one of the biggest trends in golf equipment is the growing use of mini golf drivers and high-lofted fairway woods. Both at professional and amateur levels.
Mini Drivers: Accuracy Meets Power
Mini golf drivers are becoming an increasingly popular choice for players looking for a reliable alternative off the tee. With a smaller clubhead than a traditional driver, mini golf drivers offer increased accuracy. At the same time they maintain the power and distance expected from a driver. Many golfers struggle with the inconsistency of a full-sized driver, and a 3-wood often sacrifices too much distance. Mini drivers provide the perfect middle ground. These golf clubs are particularly useful on tighter fairways, where keeping the ball in play is crucial. Pros and amateurs alike are realizing the benefits of mini drivers as a go-to fairway finder without giving up too much yardage.
The Rise of High-Lofted Fairway Woods
As mini golf drivers gain popularity, the traditional 3-wood is becoming less of a necessity. Therefore many golfers explore the benefits of higher-lofted fairway woods (like 5-woods, 7-woods, and even 9-woods).
Why Use High-Lofted Fairway Woods?
Easier to launch – The extra loft helps get the ball in the air more easily. Ideal for players with slower swing speeds or those who struggle with long irons.
More control and accuracy – Higher-lofted woods provide more backspin, helping to keep shots straighter and more predictable.
Soft landings – These golf clubs generate extra height and spin, allowing shots to land softly on greens. Perfect for long approaches.
Versatility – High-lofted fairway woods can be used from the tee, fairway, or rough, making them a great all-around club.
Who’s Using Them?
If you’re an amateur golfer wondering whether it’s worth carrying multiple fairway woods, just look at the pros. Many of the world’s best players routinely carry 7-woods and 9-woods for specific shot selections and conditions on the golf courses.
Some notable names using high-lofted woods include:
Scottie Scheffler & Xander Schauffele – Both have been seen gaming 7-woods.
Tommy Fleetwood & Dustin Johnson – Yes, even these elite ball strikers use 9-woods.
Adam Scott, Joaquin Niemann, Ludvig Åberg, & Sahith Theegala – More pros than ever are trusting 7-woods for their height and stopping power.
Final Thoughts
Trends in golf equipment are constantly evolving. And 2025 has proven to be the year where customization is king. With mini drivers offering a new level of control off the tee and high-lofted fairway woods providing versatility and forgiveness, there’s no shame in adjusting your bag setup to suit your game.
Joakim is VPAR’s Events Manager.
With golf and hospitality in his blood, growing up in the industry was inevitable. His first taste of the professional golf world came through an internship at London Golf Club, an experience that led to a six-year career at the prestigious venue.
On the course, he enjoys a steady 14.1 handicap, embracing the art of bogey golf while still chasing the dream of single figures.
After an amazing time in club operations, he made the leap into the events and tournament world with VPAR, where he has spent the past two years helping deliver over 400 golf events across the UK and Europe. With each event bringing new experiences and incredible people, the journey is just getting started—let’s see what year three has in store!
