- Shaft History. The original shafts date back to the 18th century and were made from any hardwood available. ...
- Swing Speed. The most important aspect of selecting a shaft is to know what your swing speed is. ...
- Manufacturing details that make up the shaft specification. Most current shafts are approx,58 inches/14,7 mm in diameter near the grip, and taper down to 0,355 or 0,370 in diameter at ...
- A Guide to Flex Options. XXS -Extremely stiff and used in the driver by very strong amateurs and pros with a swing speed of 110 to 125mph.
- A swing speed chart for easy reference and shaft choice–mph. Before giving a shortlist of manufacturers, maybe it is appropriate to dispel a few golfing myths.
- A stiff shaft will allow me to hit the ball further. ...
- Shaft Manufacturers. To list all the manufacturers and their shaft options would fill a complete book. ...
What is the most important factor when buying a golf shaft?
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.
How much should a golf shaft weigh?
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.
How to choose the right shaft for your golf swing?
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 are graphite golf shafts and should you buy them?
And because graphite shafts are lightweight, they promote high speeds, which is why they’re recommended for golfers with slower swing speeds. Unlike steel shafts that can weigh anywhere from 100 to 300 grams, graphite shaft weights start from just 50 up to 80 grams.
How do I pick the right shaft?
Golf Club Shaft Length You can't pick the right shaft without knowing how much the shaft's length and weight will impact your game. For instance, a ball impact that is 0.5 inches off-center equates to a 7% loss of carrying distance, and an impact that is 1-inch off-center equates to a 14% loss of carrying distance.
How do I know what shaft I need for my irons?
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.
Which shafts are best for me?
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. Generally, if there is a doubt about which shafts you should have, choose the softer shafts.
Is a lighter or heavier shaft better?
Weight in the shaft is linked to your preference for feel and swing speed. Fast swing speed will benefit from a heavier shaft to provide more control without losing distance. Slow swing speed and tempo will benefit most from a lightweight shaft.
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 shaft is best for my swing speed?
In general, golfers with driver swing speeds over 95 mph should play stiff flex shafts, and those under 95 mph should play regular flex. Shafts also come in extra stiff (105+ mph) and senior flex (under 85 mph).
What is better stiff or regular shaft?
Stiff shafts produce lower torque (resistance to twisting) and go well with high-speed swings. Lower speeds should opt for a regular shaft that produces greater torque, to assist them with their launch speed.
How heavy should my shafts be?
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.
What happens if shaft is too light?
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.
What happens when golf shaft is too soft?
Incorrect flex 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 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.
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!
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.
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 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.
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 ...
What is the difference between stock shafts and aftermarket shafts?
The difference between stock shafts and aftermarket shafts is usually found in quality control. Many times the bigger OEMs will strip off the paint of last year’s model and give them a new exterior. The graphics look attractive, but you really have no idea what is beneath it.
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.
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.
Why is shaft profile important?
Getting the right shaft profile for your swing is very important. It will greatly affect your ability to hit quality shots on the course . There is a lot of confusion in the golf shaft industry. With no standards for performance, the quality greatly varies, and often you get what you pay for. We hope that we have cleared up some ...
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) ...
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.
1. Establish a baseline
Before even venturing into the abyss of the shaft market, you should first take inventory of your performance with your current set. This means hitting every single club in your bag on a launch monitor to gather data, preferably under the supervision of a local fitter or teaching professional.
2. Do your research
This step may be the most painful for some, but I promise it will be valuable in the long run.
3. Conduct testing (with minimal variables)
OK, so the painful research part is out of the way. Now for the fun stuff: it’s time to try out new shafts!
4. Find a professional builder you trust
Purchasing the perfect shaft is great, but unfortunately that’s only half the battle. The shaft has to be physically attached to your club head, equipped with a grip, and the assembly needs to be done with precision.
5. Monitor your performance
After following the first four steps, you should now have a shaft setup that matches your golf swing.
What are the characteristics of a golf shaft?
Golfers often want to know about the three main characteristics of a golf shaft: weight, kick point, and torque. In this video, you will learn how these three specs are actually connected and how they affect each other.
What does the shaft do in golf?
Having the right shaft in your golf clubs makes a world of difference to your game. The shaft affects club performance on everything from spin, launch, and speed. The wrong shaft could cause the ball to launch too high or too low as well as spin too much and cause you to lose distance.