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what are the different flex types for golf clubs

by Pinkie Fahey Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Shaft flex chart

Flex type Yardages Swing speed
Extra-stiff (X-S). 260 yardages 93mph or higher
Stiff (S). 240 to 260 yardages 84 to 90 mph
Regular (R). 210 to 240 yardages 75-80mph
Senior (S). 180-200 yards 60-70mph
Apr 18 2022

There are five flex ratings for golf clubs--extra stiff (X), stiff (S), regular (R), senior (A) and ladies (L). Generally, the faster your club speed, the stiffer the shaft, but use care when selecting a flex. If you are not certain or in between flexes, it is better to select a softer flex than a stiffer one.Feb 7, 2020

Full Answer

What does regular flex mean in a golf club?

What are the best golf shafts? Aldila NV 2KXV Blue 60 Driver Shaft + Adapter & Grip. Matrix OZIK X5 White Tie 50 Driver Shaft + Adapter & Grip. Accra New Tour Z 55 Counter Balanced CB Driver Shaft + Adapter & Grip. Aldila Rogue Black 60 Graphite Wood Shaft. Fujikura Vista Pro …

What is Flex on a golf club?

6 rows · Aug 31, 2021 · Golf club shafts are available in 5 flex options namely X (extra stiff), S (stiff), R ...

Why use senior flex golf clubs?

S-Flex typically stands for STIFF flex and A typically stands for SENIOR flex. Let me know if you have any other questions regarding the golf shaft flex chart. Tyler Sullivan on March 30, 2020

What type of golf clubs should I use?

Sep 21, 2018 · Those forces are generated by the type of swing that you have: fast or slow, smooth or jerky. There are five generally used ratings for shaft flex: Extra Stiff, Stiff, Regular, Senior and Ladies, usually denoted by the letters X, S, R, A and L ("A" is used for Senior because this flex was originally called "amateur").

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What golf club flex should I use?

– Golf Shaft Flex ChartCarry DistanceSwing SpeedFlexUnder 200 yardsUnder 75 mphLadies or Senior200 to 240 yards75 to 95 mphRegular240 to 275 yards95 to 110 mphStiffOver 275 yardsOver 110 mphStiff or Extra StiffOct 15, 2019

How do I know what flex shaft to use?

Some General Guidelines About Shaft FlexTake a look at the distance you hit your driver. ... If you have a very smooth swing, you might benefit from a softer flex even if you swing fast. ... If your drives go left, you might benefit from a stiffer flex; if your drives go right, you might benefit from a softer flex.Sep 21, 2018

What is the difference between regular flex and senior flex?

Senior flex shafts are appropriate for golfers who swing between 75 and 90 mph and carry a driver about 180 to 200 yards. Regular flex shafts are designed for golfers who swing 90 to 100 mph and carry a driver about 200 to 240 yards.Dec 11, 2018

What does 5.0 shaft flex mean?

RegularRegular – 5.0. Regular Plus – 5.5. Stiff – 6.0. Extra Stiff – 6.5. Extra Stiff Plus – 7.0.

What is R2 flex shaft?

Googled Description: The R2 is the equivalent of the modern day A-flex. Instead of calling it amateur or senior flex which is ability or age related, the R2 is simply a softer shaft than a standard regular flex for those with reduced swing speeds.Nov 30, 2020

What is a 5.5 flex shaft?

Stiff – 5.5. Stiff Plus – 6.0. Extra Stiff – 6.5. Extra Stiff Plus –7.0.Feb 2, 2018

Is soft regular the same as Senior Flex?

In general, the slower your swing speed, the more flexibility you want in your club's shaft. With a relatively low swing speed, the senior flex helps you square the clubhead at impact and generate more power. PING recommends its “soft regular” shaft flex for players who swing their drivers at 90 mph or less.Dec 11, 2018

What type of shaft is better for beginners?

Material – steel or graphite – this can vary, but a good rule of thumb is your driver and woods should have graphite, your irons should be steel. Weight – while the weight of a shaft will only vary by 10-50 grams, this will make a difference in how fast you swing the club and how it feels.Sep 24, 2021

Is senior flex good for beginners?

If your swing speed is at its lowest (under 80-85 mph), then you seem to be the perfect candidate for Senior flex. Because it's specifically designed for all of those who have a slower swing speed. And now this could be senior golfers, beginner golfers, or women golfers.

What is senior flex in golf clubs?

A senior flex golf shaft is a graphite shaft built to accommodate the needs of a slower swing. Players that use a senior flex golf shaft will typically have swing speeds below 85mph. These golfers struggle to get both distance and launch.Aug 23, 2021

Is senior flex the same as ladies flex?

However, ladies flex is designed for the slowest swinging players and offers the most flex. Seniors flex is the second most flexible shaft suited to players who find that a regular shaft is too stiff, but a ladies shaft is too flexible.

What happens if a shaft is too stiff?

If your driver's shaft is too stiff, the clubhead may not square with the ball at the point of impact, causing slices and fades. If you can't feel the weight of the clubhead loading through the shaft, it's probably too stiff, and can cause errors and issues associated with accuracy such as these.Aug 31, 2021

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 shaft weight?

Shaft weight is the actual weight of the shaft in ounces or grams and swing weight refers to how heavy the clubhead feels when you swing the club . Swing weight will differ based on the relationship between the shaft and clubhead weight. Swing weight is measured using a swing weight scale.

What is the difference between graphite and steel shafts?

Steel and graphite shafts differ in a variety of different ways but with that being said both of these shaft types are great for many unique reasons. Steel shafts feature durable designs, they are affordable and they provide feedback on off-center strikes. On the other end of the spectrum, graphite shafts are available in a wide variety ...

Why is torque important in graphite wood?

Torque is very important when looking at graphite wood shafts but when we look at steel iron shafts torque becomes less relevant based on the construction difference of these two shaft types. Torque directly impacts accuracy and the importance of torque is amplified as swing speed/force applied increases.

What is the tip of a golf shaft?

The tip of the golf shaft refers to the bottom part of the shaft that attaches the shaft to the clubhead and the butt refers to the top part of the shaft. Iron shafts don’t have specific tips but driver, hybrid, and fairway wood shafts do. These specialized tips ensure that woods and hybrids can be adjusted according to the adjustability ...

What is the role of the shaft in golf?

The golf shaft connects the clubhead to your hands and it plays a very important role in terms of feel, distance, ball flight, and accuracy with both your irons and woods. More often than not golfers overlook the importance of playing with the correct shaft in their irons and woods.

What is shaft flex?

Shaft flex refers to the shaft’s ability to bend once force is applied to it in the form of a golf swing. Swing speed and force applied on the shaft are directly correlated. More speed equals more force applied which in return will cause the shaft to bend more. To maximize performance optimal shaft flex is required to ensure ...

Why is a low kick point important?

Kick point is very important since it had a direct impact on both the accuracy and trajectory of your shots. Low kick point shafts promote a higher ball flight and high kick points a lower trajectory . Additionally, low kick shafts promote a draw bias and high kick points a fade biased ball flight.

Why is softer flex better for macho men?

Choosing a softer flex often has the effect of forcing macho men to slow down their swings. And slowing down the swing often makes those macho men into better golfers. And the fact is, the harm in hitting a shaft that is too flexible is much less than the harm in hitting a shaft that is too stiff.

What does flex mean in golf?

"Flex" refers to the ability of a golf shaft to bend as forces are applied to it during the golf swing. Those forces are generated by the type of swing that you have: fast or slow, smooth or jerky.

What is the key to a club fitting?

The key, short of a club fitting, is hitting lots of different clubs and watching the effect that changing shaft flex has on your shots. If you find a flex that feels good and produces a good ball flight, there's a good chance that's the right flex for you.

What shaft do you need for a jerky swing?

A swing that gets jerky at the top—when transitioning into the downswing—will probably need a stiffer shaft. If your drives go left, you might benefit from a stiffer flex; if your drives go right, you might benefit from a softer flex.

What are the ratings for shaft flex?

There are five generally used ratings for shaft flex: Extra Stiff, Stiff, Regular, Senior and Ladies, usually denoted by the letters X, S, R, A and L ("A" is used for Senior because this flex was originally called "amateur").

What is a club fitting demo day?

At demo days, you'll be able to hit many different types of clubs with different types of shafts. Or find a good pro shop with swing bays where you can try before you buy. The key, short of a club fitting, is hitting lots of different clubs and watching the effect ...

What is the best flex for golf?

The most common flex, regular, is designated as "R" on the flex chart and is recommended for golfers who regularly drive the ball 210 to 240 yards and have a swing speed between 75 and 84 mph. Steel and graphite shafts are available in regular flex, which is appropriate for men with mid to high handicaps.

What are golf club shafts made of?

Golf club shafts are available in five main flexes. Golf club shafts are available in five flexes and may be made of steel or graphite. Clubhead speed determines the flex a golfer needs. The higher the speed, the stiffer the shaft. Steel shafts, which are heavier than graphite, are stiff and less forgiving than graphite.

How fast can a golf ball go?

Designated as "S" on the flex chart, stiff shafts are recommended for golfers who regularly drive the ball 240 to 260 yards and have a swing speed 84 to 93 mph.

How fast should a golfer swing?

Designated as "A" on the flex chart, shafts with senior flex are recommended for golfers who regularly drive the ball between 180 and 210 yards, and have a swing speed of between 60 and 75 mph.

What is the ladies flex?

Ladies. Recommended for the slowest swinging golfers, the ladies flex is designated as "L" on the flex chart. Golfers who routinely drive the ball less than 180 yards and have a swing speed of 60 mph or less should use the ladies flex.

Which shaft is better, steel or graphite?

The higher the speed, the stiffer the shaft. Steel shafts, which are heavier than graphite, are stiff and less forgiving than graphite. According to Golf.com, graphite shafts are lighter and can help increase swing speed. Selecting the right flex for your shaft is key to good ball striking.

How to determine golf shaft flex?

Another way to determine which golf shaft flex you need is based on your current distances. If you are hitting your driver 180-200 yards, then you need a senior golf shaft. If you hit your driver 200-240 yards, the regular is going to be a better choice. The one problem with using distance as the only determining factor is ...

How important is flex in golf shaft?

How Important Is Flex In A Golf Shaft. The flex of a golf shaft is probably just as important, if not more important than the clubhead itself. Flex is what will make or break a golfer. Even if your golf swing is near perfect, you won’t be able to perform correctly with the wrong flex in the shaft. If you told a golf professional ...

How fast should a golf shaft be?

Some golfers will decide which shaft they need based on swing speed alone. If your swing speed is between 75 and 85 miles per hour, then you will need a senior shaft. If you are between 85 and 95 miles per hour, then the regular shaft will be the best choice. You can get your swing speed measured at a local golf fitting center.

What are the different types of golf clubs for men?

Golf clubs for men come in four basic flex es, extra stiff, stiff, regular and senior. The regular and senior flex shafts are for the slower swinging player. Some golfers have a hard time deciding if the regular or the senior is going to be the better fit for their game. We have put together some great information about senior ...

How many percent of golfers keep the shaft the same?

If you told a golf professional that they had to play with new clubs, but they could keep the clubhead or the shaft the same, ninety-nine percent would choose to keep the shaft the same. With all of the variables in the game of golf, it is so essential to make sure that your golf shaft is appropriately fitted to your swing.

How does a golf shaft affect performance?

Without the proper golf shaft in place, you will notice that you have trouble controlling the flight of the golf ball, the distance of your shots, and the path of the ball as well . The proper golf shaft will help to keep you hitting the ball straight with just the right amount of ball flight as well.

What happens if a golf shaft is too stiff?

If a golf shaft is too stiff for a player, there could be a decrease in distance and accuracy as well. The most common miss with a shaft that is too stiff is a slice. If you have tried everything to learn how to fix your slice, it could just be that the equipment you are using does not fit you properly.

What is the best mph for senior flex?

Between 72 and 83 mph signifies you need to be hitting senior flex. Ladies – By no means do all women’s golfers will fall in this category, but this is where many of the recreational women’s players find themselves.

Can you extrapolate your swing speed to driver?

You should consider that your swing speed for your irons might not extrapolate perfectly to driver (and vice versa), so while a certain flex might be right in some clubs, that might not be the case in others.

Who is Zephyr Melton?

Zephyr Melton is an assistant editor for GOLF.com where he spends his days blogging, producing and editing. Prior to joining the team at GOLF.com, he attended the University of Texas followed by stops with Team USA, the Green Bay Packers and the PGA Tour.

What is wedge golf?

The wedges are the highest-lofted golf clubs. They are used for shorter approach shots into greens, for chips and pitches around greens, and for playing out of sand bunkers.

What is putter used for?

Putters are used for, well, putting . They are the clubs golfers use on the putting greens, for the last strokes played on a golf hole - for knocking the ball into the hole. There are more varieties of putters on the market than any other club. That may be because choosing a putter is a very personal process.

What is the loft of an iron?

Irons have angled faces (called "loft") etched with grooves that help grip the golf ball and impart spin. They are generally used on shots from the fairway, or for tee shots on short holes. As the number of an iron goes up (5-iron, 6-iron, etc.), the loft increases while the length of the shaft decreases. Meet the Hybrids.

What is a wood golf club?

The category of golf clubs called "woods" includes the driver and the fairway woods. (They are called woods even though their clubheads are no longer made of wood.) The woods are the clubs with the largest heads (typically hollow, extending a few inches from side-to-side and a few inches from front to back, with rounded lines) ...

How long is a mallet putter?

Lengths: Standard-length putters, often referred to as "conventional putters," range from around 32 to 36 inches long, from one end to the other.

What is the difference between a heel toe and a mallet putter?

Heel-toe putters have the same general shape as blades , but with extra weight at the heel and toe to add perimeter weighting, and with other design tricks to help make the clubs more "forgiving" on mishits. Mallet putters have large clubheads that maximize that forgiveness of poor contact.

What are the names of old golf clubs?

Names of Old Golf Clubs. Golf clubs have changed quite a bit over the long history of the sport. There used to be clubs with names like mashie and niblick and jigger and spoon.

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