what is shaft in golf

Definition

• Variety of Flex Levels. Shafts are offered in a variety of flex levels to accommodate different swing speeds. ...
• Function of the Shaft. Acting as a lever, the shaft is what allows a golfer to hit the ball over great distance simply by using the rotation of his body ...
• General Appearance. ...
• Variety of Kick Points. ...
• Shaft Lengths. ...
• Custom Fitting. ...

Full Answer

What is the best golf club shaft?

Jan 19, 2022 · A golf shaft, aka a golf club shaft, is one of the main components that accurately helps you hit a ball. The shaft transfers energy and power to the ball through what is referred to as the clubhead. Made of steel or graphite, a player must be using the correct golf shaft in their golf clubs, to reach their optimum skill level.

What shaft should a senior golfer use?

Many consider the golf shaft the "engine of the club". Golf shafts are either made from graphite or steel. Both types have its benefits and disadvantages. Either way, the golf shaft is where power is stored and released at impact. Sitting in between the golf grip and club head, a solid connection is what allows the golf shaft to do its job. So when choosing a shaft, it's important to know what …

How to pick the right golf shaft?

May 03, 2021 · Golf shafts serve the important function of transferring all of the energy of a swing into the golf ball. Over hundreds of years, these shafts have evolved from hickory shafts to state-of-the-art composite shafts. Each has material, flex, weight, torque, trajectory, length, and more factors that go into the performance and engineering behind it.

How much does a golf shaft cost?

Sep 01, 2020 · Described as the point on the shaft where the flex is greatest. Manufactured in low, mid, or high and marked on the shaft for easy reference. A low kick-point launches the ball easily and high, with plenty of spin, which ultimately creates more carry and distance.

What does a shaft do golf?

How important is the shaft on a golf club?

How do you shaft a golf club?

What is the shaft of a golf club called?

Are expensive golf shafts worth it?

How can I tell my swing speed?

Can you get new shafts on irons?

Can you're shaft irons?

Can you put new shafts in irons?

What are the 5 parts of a club?

What do you call the bottom of a golf club?

What is the bottom of a golf iron called?

What Does a Golf Club Shaft Do?

A golf shaft, aka a golf club shaft, is one of the main components that accurately helps you hit a ball.

Are Golf Club Shafts Expensive?

The shafts are made from many different materials, each having its own features and performance. They can be found in a range of prices.

Do Golf Shafts come in Different Lengths?

The length of a golf shaft can vary depending on the purpose and type of golf shaft. Golf Shafts come in different lengths based on a players height and the exact wrist to floor, or lie angle they need.

Do Golf Shafts come in Different Weights?

Golf Shafts will vary based on weight, with irons generally having heavier steel shafts and woods having lighter graphite shafts.

Conclusion

Golf shafts are the hollow, central part of the golf club that sticks out from the grip, and connects to the clubhead.

What is a golf shaft?

Many consider the golf shaft the "engine of the club". Golf shafts are either made from graphite or steel. Both types have its benefits and disadvantages. Either way, the golf shaft is where power is stored and released at impact. Sitting in between the golf grip and club head, a solid connection is what allows the golf shaft to do its job. So when choosing a shaft, it's important to know what specifications to look for. The golf club head and golf grip will each have their own specifications/measurements as well, and having all this information on hand can guide you to choose the right shaft, as well as ensure the club assembly process goes smoothly. Here are 5 golf shaft specifications you'll want to know:

What is the shaft of a golf club?

Many consider the golf shaft the "engine of the club". Golf shafts are either made from graphite or steel. Both types have its benefits and disadvantages. Either way, the golf shaft is where power is stored and released at impact. Sitting in between the golf grip and club head, a solid connection is what allows the golf shaft to do its job.

What is shaft flex?

Shaft flex is a description of how much a shaft will bend under the force of a golf swing with a head attached at the tip end. The speed and frequency of your swing will determine what flex you need. There are generally 5 different flex notations (from most bendable to least bendable): A-flex (Senior), L-flex (Ladies), R-flex (Regular), ...

How long is a 0.370" iron shaft?

decreasing in length from #3-PW). 0.370" parallel iron shafts arrive in uncut lengths, usually 41" or 42" for irons or 46" or more for woods.

What happens if you swing too heavy?

If the overall club is too heavy, you can lose swing speed which can result in a loss of yardage. Too light of a club will be hard to guide and control which can lead to mishits. Players with faster swing speeds or more accelerated tempos can benefit from heavier shafts.

What are golf shafts made of?

These materials range from hickory, fiberglass, steel, aluminum, graphite, carbon fiber, titanium, and even boron now.

Why is it important to bend a golf shaft?

This is important because depending on the swing speed of the club, you will want differing levels of bending.

What does increased shaft length mean?

Length and height. 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 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.

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.

When were titanium shafts invented?

Titanium shafts were introduced in the 1990s and showed great promise because of the lightness and low torque. Price killed it. Now that the origins of the club shaft have been visited, it’s time to evaluate what shaft will suit you best and improve your game.

Does graphite shaft help with swing arc?

Generally, graphite shafts tend to be longer, increasing the swing-arc, but reduces control. Graphite shaft drivers are the modern choice, and flex options cater for all golfers. Slow swing speed golfers can attain many benefits from using graphite in the irons.

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.

What happens if you don't have the swing speed to launch the ball into the air?

If you do not have the swing speed and ability to launch the ball into the air, it will come out with a low trajectory, a low spin rate, and the ball will not fly far. The result is a loss of distance.

Is there a standard for golf shafts?

There Are No Standards. One of the biggest misconceptions about shafts is that there are standards out there that manufacturers adhere to. Most golfers assume that a shaft marked regular or stiff will be the same across the board, no matter who they buy it from. Unfortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

How much weight should a golf shaft be?

Weight. Getting the correct weight of your shaft is an important factor to consider as well. Shafts can range anywhere from 40 to 135 grams. Typically the rule of thumb is that a golfer with a slower swing speed will benefit from using a lighter shaft, and you would add weight as swing speed increases. As you might expect at this point, there are ...

Do you need a softer shaft for a golf swing?

Conversely, a player that extends early in their swing (most recreational golfers) would require a shaft with a softer tip. Getting this right is extremely important, and it’s often not discussed at all when people talk about choosing shafts (it’s mostly just about flex), which leads us to our next point.

What is the biggest misconception about golf shafts?

One of the biggest misconceptions about shafts is that there are standards out there that manufacturers adhere to. Most golfers assume that a shaft marked regular or stiff will be the same across the board, no matter who they buy it from.

What is the most important thing about a driver shaft?

One of the most important things about shafts is how they handle the force that a player’s swing will apply. Generally speaking, there are two extremes. Some players apply a late load to their swing, which would require a stiffer tip of the driver shaft. Conversely, a player that extends early in their swing (most recreational golfers) ...

Can you tell the difference between Peter Luger's shafts?

Such is the case with shafts. The quality of the product will affect your ability to strike a golf ball properly.

Why didn't Nick Price find a stiff shaft?

Regardless of the similarity in their swing speeds, Nick Price couldn’t find a shaft stiff enough for his swing because he would apply such an enormous amount of force, whereas Couples didn’t need as stiff of a shaft because of his smooth tempo.

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.

Why use steel shafts in golf?

With steel shafts, you may find that golf shots are easier to control. Steel shafts place a greater focus on accuracy as opposed to distance. Since they don’t get as much distance as graphite shafts, steel shafts require faster swing speed to make up for the loss of distance compared to graphite.

Why is it important to pick the right golf shaft?

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 ...

What is the difference between a steel shaft and a graphite shaft?

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. Stepped is the use of steps down the shaft or ridges you see while rifle is smooth all the way.

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 is a multi material shaft?

Multi-material – this shaft uses both steel and graphite to create a multi-material that offers the best of both worlds. Usually the shaft is steel with graphite at the tip to help limit whip. A multi-material shaft can be found in both irons and drivers.

What Is Shaft Flex?

Shaft flex is the degree to which the shaft will bend or flex during the swing. A more flexible shaft bends easily during the swing and has the potential to produce a longer-ranged shot.

How Does Shaft Flex Impact Your Golf Game?

The shaft flex of your golf club has an immense effect on the game’s outcome as a whole. From high irons to wedges and drivers, you have to make sure they have the correct flex for trajectory, accuracy, and distance.

How to Choose the Shaft Flex for You?

You can know the correct flex for your shaft by evaluating your swing at a golf equipment store. They’ll check all kinds of things like ball speed, distance, clubhead speed, spin, and many other factors. They also try several shafts in the same driver head to give the most accurate results.

What Shaft Flex Should You Use for The Driver?

It would be best if you choose the stiffest shaft flex for your driver because it is often the club that has the maximum swing speed. Since it carries the maximum swing speed, you may consider choosing the most accurate shaft flex.

How to Determine the Right Flex for Your Iron?

Choosing the right flex for the iron depends on the club you use for hitting a 150-yard shot. If you’re about to take a 150-yard shot, consider using these flex for your irons.

Final Thoughts

When selecting a flex for the shaft in your clubs, the tradeoff is between accuracy and distance. Choosing a senior flex helps you to achieve greater distance due to its flexibility but at the cost of lower accuracy.

Golf Practice Plans with Step by Step Schedules to Follow

Or hop onto our email newsletter and get the free weekly golf tips we send out to our community plus updates and other announcements you don’t want to miss!

What is a golf shaft made of?

This type of shaft incorporates steel and graphite into one shaft to get the best of both worlds for each player, to suit all playing types. Generally, the shaft is made using a steel shaft that has a graphite tip. The steel shaft allows the player to control the ball flight more, whilst the graphite tip ensures the golf ball can go ...

What are the different types of golf shafts?

There are two basic types of golf shafts: steel and graphite. Often, your club will have been originally assembled with either of these types of shafts, however if you decide that you would like to change your type of shaft, you should know the difference between each shaft type. There are some newer options that combine the two materials, ...

What is the first thing to decide on golf shafts?

The first thing is to decide is what type of golf shafts you would prefer, followed by shaft flex, kick-point, torque rating and length. Each of these different aspects of golf club shafts that can influence the performance of your club, and each must be carefully considered before you put in an order. Read on to find out all about how ...

How much does graphite shaft weigh?

Graphite shafts are much lighter, less durable and more expensive in comparison to steel shafts, and weigh between 50 and 85 grams – around half the weight of a steel shaft! These light-weight shafts help to provide a greater swing speed for more power, however, it sacrifices control due to the flex generated in the swing.

Is graphite shaft good for women?

These light-weight shafts help to provide a greater swing speed for more power, however, it sacrifices control due to the flex generated in the swing. As a result, graphite shafts are a good choice for all golfers. In particular, they are suited to women golfers and seniors, who may struggle to produce a fast-enough swing speed to use ...

What is a multi-material shaft?

A recent addition to the market are multi-material shafts which are used on both irons and drivers. This type of shaft incorporates steel and graphite into one shaft to get the best of both worlds for each player, to suit all playing types. Generally, the shaft is made using a steel shaft that has a graphite tip.

What is flex in golf clubs?

Put simply, the flex determines a golf club shaft’s ability to bend during a swing, affecting the distance and direction. Therefore, getting the right flex in your golf clubs is important.