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how to choose a golf iron shaft

by Maximillia Schumm Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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How to Pick the Right Golf Shaft

  • Step 1. Choose between graphite and steel shafts. When they were first introduced, graphite shafts were meant for...
  • Step 2. Pick shafts whose flex is right for your swing. Simply, flex refers to the amount a shaft will bend while you...
  • Step 3. Factor in the weight, length and torque of the shafts when you are purchasing new golf clubs.

Generally, players are looking for either Distance, Distance and Control, or Control. With regards to the shaft - The lighter the shaft, the longer the overall club length and more flexible the shaft is (within the players flex range), the greater the potential for distance gain.

Full Answer

What is the best golf shaft for Irons?

10 Best Golf Shafts 2020

  1. New Integra SoooLong Ultralite 45 g Graphite Shaft – Best Golf Shafts 2020. Fully covered with Aldila shaft warranty when you purchasing this shaft. ...
  2. Pro Taylor Fit Nano – Best Golf Shafts 2020. ProMade Irons provides a stiff tip section for optimal launch and spin control, with a very firm butt section for ...
  3. Accuflex Vizion Ultralite White 55g Golf wood shaft – Best Golf Shafts 2020. At 55 grams, the Vizion is the lightest shaft of the AccuFlex “ Clb Builders” series. ...

More items...

What is the best iron shaft for me?

Our Best Performing Iron Shafts – 2019-20

  • The Newest Additions for 2019-20 are in RED
  • Strongest Players (6 iron over 200 yards)
  • Stronger Players (6 iron 175-200 yards)
  • Average Player (6 iron 150-175 yards)
  • Slower Swing Speeds (6 iron 110-150 yards) We profile over 2,500 unique shafts each year for our shaft profiling system. ...

Which iron shaft is right for me?

You need to really evaluate your game and not hit a club with a stiff flex if your swing speed is not high enough and avoid playing mental games with yourself and choose the right golf shaft for your swing. There are three basic numbers that you will need to understand to find the right woods, irons, or hybrids.

What is the length of a golf club shaft?

Methods to Determine Club Length

  • Overall Height. The first step in figuring out your proper club length is to start with your overall height measurement.
  • Wrist-to-Floor Measurement. ...
  • In-Swing Considerations (Dynamic Fitting) The two prior measurements discussed are considered “static” methods of club fitting because the measurements are performed while the player is standing still.

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How do I know which iron shaft is right for me?

Put simply, the higher the rating, the more the shaft is prone to twisting. It is the torque that also determines how the shaft feels to every player, which means that the higher the rating, the softer the shaft will feel. A shaft with a 3-degree torque will feel much stiffer than a 5-degree torque, for example.

How do I know what golf shaft to use?

Briand's recommendation is to use your current driver shaft as a baseline. If your shots tend to be low and with little spin, try a slightly softer flex. If your shots are ballooning, try a stiffer flex. If you're caught between two flexes, you can “tip” a softer flex to make it stiffer in the tip section.

What weight golf shaft should I use in my irons?

In general, golfers with slower swing speed and tempo can and should play a lighter shaft. Golfers with very fast speeds and tempo should play heavier shafts. Driver shafts typically weigh 55-60 grams for men and 45-50 grams for ladies. Iron shafts can be as light as 55 grams in graphite, and 130 grams in steel.

What flex shaft should I use on my irons?

Should You Use Regular or Stiff Flex Shafts?6-iron Carry Distance6-iron Swing SpeedShaft flex (all clubs)< 130 yards60 – 70 mphSenior Flex131 – 155 yards71 – 80 mphRegular Flex156 – 175 yards81 – 90 mphStiff Flex> 176 yards91 + mphX-Stiff FlexApr 13, 2021

What shaft flex should a beginner use?

But if a beginner player already has a decent swing motion and generates clubhead speed between the range of 95 to 110 mph or more, then a stiff shaft or extra stiff shaft could be justified to be used by a beginner golfer.

What swing speed requires a stiff shaft for irons?

What swing speed requires a stiff shaft? Golfers at driving speeds over 90 mph should generally use a stiff shaft.

Is 75 gram shaft too heavy?

75 and 85 Gram Shafts And Who They Are For? These are generally for your stronger and better players, as they will be generating a lot of clubhead speed, the weight of the shaft helps to keep the clubhead under control during the swing.

Are lighter iron shafts better?

Using a shaft that is optimized will lead to a consistently good ball and clubhead contact. That will result in improved accuracy and longer distance. The use of heavier iron shafts is said to contribute to greater accuracy, while lighter shafts are known to increase total distance.

Are heavier iron shafts better?

Heavy shafts tend to produce more distance, accuracy, and lower ball trajectory for a golfer with faster swing speeds.

What happens if my iron shaft is too flexible?

A golfer using a shaft that is too flexible may experience a ball flight that is too high, a ball that spins too much, or a shot pattern that has inconsistent dispersion.

What happens if your iron shaft is too stiff?

Is Your Golf Shaft Too Stiff? If your golf shaft is too stiff and your swing speed is too slow, your well-struck shot will be limited on both carry distance and shot trajectory; a too-stiff golf shaft will most often lead to weak fades or slices.

What happens if golf shaft is too heavy?

Nippon suggested that a player should be able to tell largely by feel. A shaft that's too heavy will cause a “labored golf swing.” A shaft that's too light will hurt your ability to make solid contact. When you find the right shaft weight, you'll experience a “high energy swing” with uniform contact.

Is 50 gram driver shaft too light?

50 gram shafts are among the lightest you will see on the market. They tend to be favoured by golfers who struggle to generate clubhead speed. These shafts are often favored by junior and senior golfers, they can give a nice boost to the driving distance of these groups.

How many grams should my shaft be?

The shafts in most drivers typically weigh between 40 grams and 85 grams. Shaft manufacturers will offer stiff and regular flex in nearly all weight classes while most light and ladies flex clubs will weigh no more than 55 or 60 grams, but could be as light as 40 grams.

Will a heavier shaft increase distance?

A heavier shaft will only increase distance for the golfers that have high swing speeds. For golfers with slow swing speeds, a heavier shaft will decrease the distance. Hitting a golf ball far is all about ball speed.

What is the softest point of a shaft?

Then there are shafts with a stiff tip and a soft grip area. Basically the tip is the softest point of the shaft. These shafts are nevertheless stiffer at this point than, for example, in the middle of the shaft.

What is graphite shaft?

Theoretically, they can combine the best of both worlds. A graphite shaft is basically lighter and able to dampen vibrations better. Shaft weight: The weight of a shaft influences both the total weight and the swing weight of the club.

How fast can a 6 iron hit?

This category includes above average amateurs who hit their 6 iron between 155 and 170m and have a club head speed between 80 and 90mph. Please note that these are only approximate values.

How long does it take to find the perfect shaft profile?

It is difficult to give basic recommendations and the perfect shaft profile can only be found in a fitting and usually over longer playing periods. It can take years for a player to find the perfect profile. Therefore a player usually stays with it and remains consistent throughout the set.

What does the stiffness of a shaft mean?

The stiffness indicates the stiffness of the entire shaft, but not whether the shaft is stiff in the tip, middle or butt section.

Is a carbon shaft flexible?

A carbon shaft therefore does not mean being flexible at the same time. You can find the respective shaft weight in the charts above. It is important to know that a number like 80 always represents a "lower limit" and the actual weight is always slightly above this number, e.g. 83g.

Is a carbon shaft stiffer than steel?

Basically, carbon shafts tend to be lighter than steel, but can be built just as stiff - sometimes even stiffer. A carbon shaft therefore does not mean being flexible at the same time.

What shafts are used in PGA Tour driving irons?

In fact, a number of PGA Tour professionals are now using composite shafts in their driving irons, and some, like Brandt Snedeker, Matt Kuchar, and Fred Couples, are playing composite shafts in their standard irons. With all the different options, choosing the right iron shafts can be difficult. So how do you know if you should choose steel ...

Why do you use graphite shafts?

Graphite shafts will eliminate many of the detrimental vibrations but also transmit a much more muted feel to the hands, posing a challenge for some players when first making the switch. According to Briand, the most common problem for players making the transition from steel to graphite is getting the feel for the clubhead during the swing. But he also finds that most get used to the new sensation very quickly and almost none go back to steel once they’ve become accustomed to graphite.

Is graphite better for your body?

You have an injury or other physical issues: Anyone with injuries to the upper body (wrists, hands, elbows, shoulders, etc.) is a good candidat e for a graphite shaft. Steel transmits potentially damaging vibrations much more readily than graphite and also tends to be heavier, which places more strain on the body. If you’ve had neck or back problems lighter weight graphite can be a big help for you, too.

Is steel shaft lighter than graphite?

Steel shafts are now offered in lighter weights than ever before but not as light as graphite and not as varied in the flex profiles available. Steel tends to have very low torque (rotation during the swing) and also a stiffer tip section, while graphite can offer much higher torque rates and more flex in the tip.

Can you go back to steel after switching to graphite?

But he also finds that most get used to the new sensation very quickly and almost none go back to steel once they’ve become accustomed to graphite.

Is graphite or steel more consistent?

Steel shafts were always known as exceptionally consistent while graphite was unpredictable and overly light and flexible. In truth, many of these generalizations were actually somewhat accurate, as graphite shafts were a work in progress for quite awhile.

What to consider when choosing a golf club shaft?

However, in all cases, there are 6 main things you need to consider when choosing the right shafts for your golf clubs: The flex of the golf club shaft. The material used to make the club shaft. The weight of the shaft. The length of the shaft. The kick point and torque of the shaft. The manufacturer of the shaft.

What are the different types of golf shafts?

There are two types of steel golf shafts – rifle steel and stepped steel.

What is the difference between graphite and steel?

Compared to steel shafts, graphite variations tend to be much lighter, averaging about 50-90 grams per club. (For more on the difference between steel and graphite shafts, see this article: Steel Vs. Graphite Golf Shafts – Which is Better?)

How much does a golf club shaft weigh?

According to D’Lance Golf – a top 100 club-fitter in America (Golf Digest) – the average club shaft weight for both men and ladies are as follows: “Driver shafts typically weigh 55-60 grams for men and 45-50 grams for ladies. Iron shafts can be as light as 55 grams in graphite, and 130 grams in steel.

What happens if your golf shaft is too stiff?

On the other hand, if you choose a golf shaft that’s too stiff, the lack of “spring” can significantly reduce your clubhead speed, resulting in a decrease in distance.

Why do golfers with slower swing speeds prefer high torque shafts?

This is because they benefit from having more feel through the impact zone instead of each shot feeling “dead” off the club face.

Why is a longer shaft better for golf?

This is because a longer club shaft can help you generate more clubhead speed which can often result in more distance.

How many yards can you add with a golf club shaft?

To set the record straight, with the right shafts, you could add an additional 20 to 25 yards to your game as well as improve your accuracy.

Why are graphite shafts used in golf clubs?

But that is no longer true. In fact, many touring professionals have made the transition to graphite shafted drivers, including Tiger Woods, because graphite shafts are lighter so more of the overall weight of a club is in the club face.

What is flex in golf?

Pick shafts whose flex is right for your swing. Simply, flex refers to the amount a shaft will bend while you swing. If you choose the wrong flex, the club head will not hit the ball squarely which will have an impact on your distance and the trajectory of the golf ball. Although there are no standards established, there are 5 different levels of flex: Ladies, Senior, Regular, Stiff and Extra Stiff.

Can you swing a golf club with a lighter shaft?

The weight of a club is a matter of preference. Generally, you can swing a club with a lighter shaft faster, thereby increasing your distance. But you most likely will sacrifice some accuracy. Length is also a personal matter, and clubs with longer shafts generally hit the ball further. But clubs with shorter shafts are easier to hit ...

Knowing the Differences in Golf Iron Sets

There are multiple styles of irons that can be used. Each one has a specific purpose and is made for a certain type of player. The first of these are blades.

Steps to Buying a New Set of Golf Irons

There are a few steps you must consider before you buy your new pair of irons.

Final Words on Choosing the Right Irons

By following these steps and by knowing the reason behind different types of irons, you can choose the one which suits your game the best.

Why is my golf ball inconsistent in all directions?

Improperly fit shafts can cause inconsistency in flight direction, due to the mismatched flex characteristics of the shaft to the player, and the players perception and compensation for the mismatched flex. Generally, too flexible a shaft can cause inconsistent directional ball flight in all directions. Too stiff a shaft can lead ...

Can club fitters analyze data?

Yes, we as club fitters can analyze data we acquire on many of the wonderful launch monitors that are available, and narrow down choices based on the data. This does take some of the guess work out of the decision and gives us performance data to base a decision on.

Do shafts always equal performance?

A broad range of prices exist in the shaft category. Price does not always equal performance. From a performance standpoint, shafts should be chosen based on their specifications and how those specifications fit the players swing characteristics, providing the desired trajectory, feel and consistency.

Why is it important to have a weight shaft in your iron?

Having the correct weight shaft in your Iron can dramatically improve your game. They can prevent certain shots, increase distance and help the ball stop on the green.

How does shaft weight affect golf?

Having the correct shaft weight can directly impact your golf game. Having the right weight shaft in your Iron can improve distance, accuracy and make the game a lot easier for you to play.

What Is Swing Weight?

Let’s get this out of the way, swing weight is how heavy the club is while you swing it. The dead weight of two clubs can be different, but they can have the same swing weight.

How To Know Whether You Will Need Heavier Or Lighter Clubs?

This first way is simple but effective, does the shaft simply feel too heavy or light in your hands, personal feel is very impactful , and could be a helpful way to tell if the shafts are not correct.

What Weight Irons Do The Pros Use?

Most professionals have a swing speed with a 6 Iron of 85 mph plus, this means they would be using shafts with 115 grams and above in them.

How does the weight of a shaft affect the launch angle?

The weight of the shaft also impacts your launch angle, and spin. Generally speaking the heavier the shaft the lower launching and spinning it is, and the lighter the shaft the higher launching and spinning it is.

What does it mean when the shaft is too light?

If the shaft is too light for you these are some of the tell tales; ball flight is too high, the ball is spinning too much, shot shape is a hook, feeling whippy in your hands, lack of clubhead control, cannot feel the clubhead during the swing.

What is a set of irons?

A set of irons is one of the biggest investments any beginner or advanced golfer makes to better their game. TGW offers all types of golf iron sets from TaylorMade and Titleist irons to Callaway, Cobra, PING, and more. As you’re searching for the perfect iron set to match your golf game, use our golf irons buying guide to help you find the right clubs. Here are five key aspects to consider about your next set of clubs:

What are the two main styles of irons?

DIFFERENT STYLES OF IRONS. The two main styles of irons are cavity-backand muscle-backblades. The muscle-back style features a full back on the rear, while the cavity-back is made with a hollowed-out rear club head. Muscle backs are primarily used by the pros and advanced players, and the hollowed-out rear club head offers novices perimeter ...

How many degrees does a long hitter need to keep his irons separated?

Long hitters often keep irons separated by 3 degrees, while short hitters can use a 5-degree difference to ensure proper gapping.  TYPES OF SHAFT AND FLEX. The type of shaft and flex you choose affects the feel of the club, the distance it produces and your swing speed.

What is shaft flex?

Flex is how the shaft twists and turns during the swing and it largely depends on your style of play, as well as how far you hit the ball. Shaft flex is divided into five categories: Ladies, Senior, Regular, Stiff and X-Stiff based on swing speed, skill level, and range of motion.

How many sets of irons are there?

Irons are divided into three sets; long irons (2, 3 and 4-irons), mid-irons (5, 6 and 7-irons) and short irons (8 and 9-irons, plus the pitching wedge). Long irons are used to hit the ball further with a shorter loft, while the short irons are designed to produce a higher loft.

How many clubs are in an 8 club iron set?

Typical iron sets include seven or eight clubs: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 irons, as well as a pitching wedge and sometimes a gap wedge. Now, 8-club sets generally come with a gap wedge instead of a 3-iron. Hybrid iron sets replace the harder to hit long irons with hybrid clubs that are easier to launch with more forgiveness.

What is hybrid golf club?

Hybrid clubs, also known as rescue clubs, are designed with a larger profile and sweet spot that makes it easier to quickly elevate the ball to achieve a straighter shot with its more forgiving club face.

Super Game Improvement Irons

The super game improvement iron category has been around for less than a decade. There have always been versions of super game improvement irons, but today just about every manufacturer offers its own version.

Game Improvement Irons

Game improvement irons are a toned-down version of super game improvements irons and they fit a much wider range of golfers. Some players can actually stay in game improvement irons for their entire golf life.

Players Distance Irons

The players distance iron genre came out of necessity and consumer demand. Golfers playing game improvement irons who found they weren't getting enough spin on their approach shots but weren't ready sacrifice distance by switching to players irons needed another option. And with that, players distance irons were born.

Muscle Back Irons

Muscle back irons are a more forgiving alternative to the traditional blade. The point of a muscle back iron is to provide feel and workability to better players while incorporating some of the offset and forgiveness found in other types of irons. The word “muscle” refers to the noticeable material you’ll see near the sole on the back of the club.

Players Irons

Players irons are another broad category, but to to put it simply, they are intended for better golfers. Players irons can take on the design profile of cavity backs or muscle backs, but they typically don’t lean towards the blade profile.

Blade Irons

Blades irons feature the thinnest top and bottom line of any golf iron you can find. They are the least forgiving, lowest launching, and overall hardest to hit. Sold yet? No worries, blades aren’t for everyone, but for advanced players, blades can be a tremendous asset to your golf game.

Iron Selecting Guide

Now that you know all about every type of iron on the market, it's time to decide which style is best for your game. Use this table to help guide you to the perfect set of irons.

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