- Selecting the Shaft Material: Steel vs Graphite. Most of the latest shafts are made with graphite, but the choice of the material solely depends on the preference of a ...
- Consider the Flex of the Shaft. The most integral element of shafts is the way they manage the force applied by a golfer’s swing. ...
- Deciding the Right Weight. The right weight of the shaft is another essential factor when picking out an ideal shaft for your driver.
- Measuring the Diameter of the Tip and Butt of the Shaft. ...
- Picking out the Right Shaft Length. The length of the shafts also plays a major role in your game. ...
How to choose the best golf shaft?
Info - Choosing the Best Shaft for Your Game
- Choosing the Best Shaft for Your Game. ...
- Shaft Selection Primer 1.0: Single most important determining factor in shaft flex (indicator of overall strength of the player).
- Swing Tempo - Pace of the Swing. ...
- Release. ...
- Trajectory - Height of Ball Flight. ...
- Flight Direction Tendency. ...
- Distance Control. ...
- Price. ...
What are the best golf shafts?
best golf shafts for irons
- UST Recoil ZT9 Iron Shaft Set. UST Mamiya Recoil ZT9 Iron Shafts are known for the best and unparalleled stability in the industry.
- Aerotech Steel Fiber FC 90. The new SteelFiber FC shafts are designed with a progressive tip that gives higher ball flight in the mid- and long irons also classic ...
- Mitsubishi-Rayon Kuro Kage Black 70 Iron R Shaft. ...
What type of golf shafts are right for You?
- Steel shafts are less expensive than their counterparts’ graphite and multi-material shafts.
- As these shafts are made with heavy steel, you will get great control over the golf club you are using.
- Though these shafts will ensure control, you may suffer when it is about taking the ball some extra yardages. ...
Should golf beginners play with a stiff shaft?
Stiffness or Flex
- Swing Speed. The stiffness or flex of the shaft is a much-neglected aspect of your golfing equipment as most golfers are more interested in the brand, or technical features, or ...
- Indications. ...
- Over Correcting. ...
- Classification. ...
- Beware, Don’t Over-Compensate. ...
How do I pick the right golf shaft?
A golfer's physical size, arm length, swing speed, consistency, ball flight and feel preferences are all important aspects that go into finding the right driver shaft for you. Without going through a professional fitting, trial and error can help you determine a comfortable and effective length for you.
What type of shaft is best for golf clubs?
GraphiteGraphite – this type of shaft is usually lighter weight compared to a steel shaft but it's less durable and more expensive to make. Graphite is one of the most common shaft types used in golf clubs and can arguably be considered the main shaft material used, beating out steel.
What weight golf shaft is best for me?
The shafts in the drivers of most golfers are probably in the 60 gram bracket. These shafts are light enough to help with speed yet heavy enough to give that feeling of more stability during the swing. This shaft weight will be beneficial to most golfers out there.
Is stiff or regular shaft better?
Experts suggest that at the beginner level, you should opt for a regular shaft. This is because it is easy to handle and it assists you with your range. A stiff shaft is a better option for those who're more experienced at golf and have a good swing speed and driver carry distance.
What flex do I need for my driver?
If you're between 97 and 104 mph with the driver, you need a stiff flex. Regular – Now we are getting into the range where a majority of recreational golfers fall, and also where many LPGA pros fall. If you're between 84 and 96 mph, regular is going to be best for you.
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.
How do I know if I need a stiff shaft?
When To Move To A Stiffer Shaft?Feels 'whippy' in your hands.Feels too light.Your ball is ballooning in the air.Your ball is behind your pitch mark when you hit your driver.You ball spins to much on the greens when you approach with your irons.Your accuracy has dropped.You start hitting hooks.More items...
What flex shaft do I need for irons?
Determine the Proper Shaft Flex for Your SwingIf You Can Hit 150 Yards with a...Then Your Optimal Shaft Flex Is...6- or 7-IronRegular Flex (R)5-Iron/Hybrid or 4-Iron/Hybrid(Male or Female)Senior Flex (A/M)Any Iron/Hybrid lower than 4 or any Fairway Wood (Females or Juniors)Ladies Flex (L)1 more row•Apr 6, 2022
Choosing The Best Shaft For Your Game
One of the most difficult aspects of fitting today is choosing the best shaft for a player. There are so many variables, that club fitters and play...
Shaft Selection Primer 1.0
Single most important determining factor in shaft flex (indicator of overall strength of the player).General Swing Speed / Ball Speed ranges and co...
Swing Tempo - Pace of The Swing
1. Fast 2. Medium 3. Slow Generally, the faster the tempo, the stiffer the shaft flex needed. The slower the tempo, the softer the flex needed.
Trajectory - Height of Ball Flight
What is the players ball flight? What is the players preferred ball flight? 1. High 2. Mid 3. Low Generally, the more flexible a shaft, the higher...
Flight Direction Tendency
1. Hook 2. Draw 3. Straight 4. Fade 5. Slice Improperly fit shafts can cause inconsistency in flight direction, due to the mismatched flex characte...
Why do you need a shaft in a golf club?
The shaft is a critical component of the golf club. The shaft is used to transfer the energy of your swing to the golf ball. You should not pick a shaft solely based on the popularity of a brand name or on what type of shaft your old clubs had. By taking the time to pick a shaft to match your golf swing, you can ensure your clubs will help improve ...
Where is GolfSmith located?
GolfSmith: Golf Club Shafts. Writer Bio. Based in Memphis, Jackson Lewis has been writing on technology-related material for 10 years with a recent emphasis on golf and other sports. He has been freelance writing for Demand Media since 2008.
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.
What does flex mean in golf?
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, ...
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.
How many levels of flex are there?
Although there are no standards established, there are 5 different levels of flex: Ladies, Senior, Regular, Stiff and Extra Stiff. If your drives carry less than 200 yards, you should probably have Ladies shafts, and if your ball carries between 200 and 225 yards, you should buy clubs with Senior shafts.
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 ...
Who is Bill Herrfeldt?
Bill Herrfeldt specializes in finance, sports and the needs of retiring people, and has been published in the national edition of "Erickson Tribune," the "Washington Post" and the "Arizona Republic.". He graduated from the University of Louisville.
What shafts are best for a senior golfer?
With greater swing speeds and flex you will lose some accuracy with the club. Graphite shafts are best suited for senior golfers and lady golfers who cannot produce a lot of swing speed.
Why is the stepped process important?
Why? The stepped process allows for more consistency throughout the shaft, so it’s not weighted more at the bottom or the top. The benefit to evenly weighted shafts is each club feels the same.
What is a golf shaft?
When it comes to performance the golf shaft has been referred to as the transmission of the golf club. The flex, length, and weight can all effect how you are hitting a golf ball. In fact, the correct shaft can help any golfer hit the ball straighter and farther. Take a closer look at the different types of shafts usually offered, and find the one that’s best for your swing.
Why is flex important in golf?
Flex. The most important factor when buying a shaft is the flex because it affects your distance and direction. In essence flex is the ability of a golf shaft to bend during the golf swing.
Why is shaft length important in golf?
An increased shaft length creates a greater swing-arc, which relates to more distance. Shorter stature golfers often increase the length of the shafts and stand further away from the ball. The longer the shaft the less control and this is where fitment assists.
What is carbon fiber shaft?
Modern composite graphite shafts have 3 layers of fiber winding, adding substantial rigidity and performance. Carbon fiber offers increased flex, greater clubhead speed, but reduced accuracy, due to more torque. It also dissipates the stinging shock from a poorly struck shot and will protect the hands and wrist.
What is flex in golf?
Flex. Put very simply, flex is the amount of bend in the shaft. It affects launch angle, spin, ball flight, control, carries, and distance. Shafts are qualified in different ways but reference to flex is the most important. Powerful swings require stiffer shafts which put less load on the shaft.
What weight shafts are available for clubfitters?
Clubfitters now have the option to fit these shafts with weights from 95 to 110gm. This is a reduction from the 115 to 125gm range previously on offer. Steel generally has less flex, more stability, low torque, and provides more accuracy. Standard steel shafts are shorter.
What happens if you don't have a stiff shaft?
The result is a loss of distance. Added to this the direction control will be lost.
When did steel shafts become legal?
Finally in 1924 steel shafts were legalized and Billy Burke was the 1st to win the US Open with steel. From 1960 to 1970 the aluminum shaft was introduced but besides expensive, it broke very easily. Then followed graphite shafts, displayed at the 1970 PGA merchandise show for the first time.
What woods were used in the mid 1800s?
Ironheart, bloomahoo, bullet wood, and ash and lancewood were some of the choices. Then in the mid-1800s hickory shafts became the rage, and they were whippy, light, and resilient. The downside of hickory was that each club had to be swung differently which ultimately led to inconsistency.
How to determine golf shaft flex?
Start by using a launch monitor to analyze your golf swing speed. If your swing ranges between 85 mph and 95 mph then you should start with a regular flex. If your swing speed is faster than 95 mph, then you should try a stiff shaft.
What is the best shaft for golf?
Steel – A steel golf shaft is usually stronger and more durable (less likely to snap) than a graphite shaft. It’s also less expensive and sometimes stainless steel is used in the creation of the steel shaft. There is also two variations, stepped steel and rifle steel.
Why does my golf shaft have a slice?
When the golf shaft is too stiff, it doesn’t unload properly at impact. This can lead to the face staying open and result in a slice golf shot. Beware, a slice isn’t always an indication the shaft is too stiff so if you already have a slice, it could be caused by another fault in your golf swing.
What shafts do golfers use?
For most golfers, a graphite shaft works great. Most iron sets are made with graphite shafts as well so you get that material type by default usually unless you specifically seek out steel shafted irons. With steel shafts, you may find that golf shots are easier to control.
Why do golf clubs have shafts?
During the golf swing the shaft causes deflection (bend) that causes the clubhead to be in a forward and toe downward position relative to the grip of the club.
What is the most common shaft material used in golf clubs?
Graphite Shafts. Graphite – this type of shaft is usually lighter weight compared to a steel shaft but it’s less durable and more expensive to make. Graphite is one of the most common shaft types used in golf clubs and can arguably be considered the main shaft material used, beating out steel.
What to know about golf shafts?
In today’s guide we will review everything you need to know about golf shafts. Picking out the proper golf shaft is very important as it will impact several components of your golf swing. For example, picking the wrong golf shaft flex can cause you to hook or slice the golf ball. It also can hinder the total distance the ball flies by having too much spin or too low of launch. But don’t worry, at the end of reading today’s guide you’ll be much more educated on the buying process and how to pick out the right golf shaft. Lets Get Started!
What is a driver shaft?
Driver shafts come in varied flex, weight, and length options, all designed to assist different golfers. The correct driver shaft is vital to achieving your desired spin rate, launch angle, shot shape, carry, and total distance. For example, faster swinging golfers may generate too much spin and height with a softer driver that has more flex.
Why is clubhead speed important in golf?
This increases the club head speed on the downswing. Clubhead speed does not guarantee a great golf shot, but it helps to amplify the C.O.R at impact.
What happens if your driver shaft is too heavy?
If your driver shaft is too heavy, it will cause you to achieve a lower flight and less spin off the tee. This could significantly reduce your carry distance and total distance. On the other hand, if your shaft is too light, you will likely balloon your drives and gather excessive spin.
How long is a golf driver shaft?
The standard retail driver shaft measures 45.5 inches. If you have not been fitted for clubs, then this is likely the length of your driver shaft. Longer shafts help you to generate accelerated clubhead speed. However, it becomes more difficult to control the clubhead, increasing the risk of off-center strikes.
Why are shafts so stiff?
On the flip side, shafts that are too stiff for your swing will deliver low levels of spin, low ball flight, and also reduced your carry and total distance. Golf.com’s Andrew Tursky suggests that if you are struggling to generate a higher ball flight and are losing carry as a result.
What is torque in golf?
Torque. Simply put, torque measures the shaft’s ability to resist twisting. Shafts with low torque can withstand twisting, making this option suitable for faster swinging golfers or those of you who tend to hook the ball. These shafts often carry a higher price tag in comparison to the higher torque options.
What is the number one driver shaft on the PGA Tour?
According to Golf.com’s Andrew Tursky, The Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Tini Xts is the number one driver shaft on the PGA Tour. The shaft is used by Rory McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood, and Australians Adam Scott and Jason Day. Mitsubishi designed this shaft for aggressive swingers, providing low torque, launch, and spin.
What does low torque mean on a shaft?
5. Torque. A low torque measurement means that a shaft has greater resistance to twisting, while a high torque measurement means it will twist more easily.
What shafts do you need for a slow swing?
Slow swing speeds will generally require softer-flex shafts, while high swing speeds need stiffer shafts; due to variations in swing patterns, however, swing speed is only one portion of finding the right shaft. Briand’s recommendation is to use your current driver shaft as a baseline.
What happens if you have a longer shaft?
As Briand says, a longer shaft will cause a less consistent strike on the face, and the golfer will tend to hit the ball closer to the heel. A shorter shaft, on the other hand, will cause a more consistent strike pattern, but impact location will tend to be on the toe. A golfer’s physical size, arm length, swing speed, consistency, ...
What happens if your driver shaft is too stiff?
Generally speaking, a driver shaft that’s too stiff will cause shots to launch too low, with too little spin and low peak heights. A shaft that’s too weak, on the other hand, may cause shots to spin too much, fly too high, and widen dispersion patterns.
How tall is Rickie Fowler's shaft?
A look at Rickie Fowler's fairway wood shaft, which measures 42 inches with 0.5 inches of tipping. Fitting a golfer into the exact right shaft for them over the internet is a tall, if not impossible, task. All driver swings are different, and there are so many options on the current market. Shafts are made with different flexes, lengths, weights, ...
Does a lighter shaft affect swing speed?
As Briand explains, the weight of a shaft has less impact on swing speed than golfers think, but that lighter shafts could increase the rate of closure.
Does tipping a shaft change the bend point?
Remember, though, that tipping a shaft will change the bend point, and it’s also irreversible, so make sure you know the purpose behind tipping your shaft. 2. Weight. The weight of a shaft has a similar correlation to performance as flex.