How to choose what driver shaft is best for me?
The best driver shaft for you will mostly come down to what your weaknesses are. Do you struggle getting the ball up in the air? Do you put too much spin on the ball and see your drives balloon up in the air? Do you struggle with distance but are generally an accurate driver? These questions and more will help determine the best shaft for you.
Overall here are some key things to look for when selecting a shaft:
SHAFT LAUNCH & SPIN CHARACTERISTICS
All shafts typically will advertise launch and spin characters as either low, medium, or high. A low spin low launch shaft is most helpful for those with high swing speeds (105mph+). These shafts are designed to keep spin rates down and prevent distance losses caused by drives that have too much spin.
On the flip side, a high launch, high spin shaft is helpful for lower swing speeds (90mph and lower) by helping players increase their carry distance.
Spin rate is a fine line. Too much spin can cause a ball to balloon and have little roll. While too little spin will not carry far enough and ultimately lose distance. If you're unsure about which is best for you, leaning towards a mid launch profile is always a safe bet.
Shaft Weight
Simple rule of thumb
- Heavier shafts are more stable and generally help improve accuracy. They also drive ball flight lower.
- Lighter shafts help players hit the ball higher and swing faster. This typically leads to losses in accuracy but will be worth it to a player who struggles with distance.
Understanding Shaft Flex
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Flex refers to how much the shaft bends during the swing. Common flex ratings include:
- L (Ladies): Best if you drive it 200-220 yards
- A (Amateur or Senior): Best if you drive it 220-230 yards
- R (Regular): Best if you drive it 240-260 yards
- S (Stiff): Best if you drive it 260-280 yards
- X (Extra Stiff): Best if you drive it 280+ yards
If your shots tend to slice (curve right for right-handers), a more flexible shaft can help by promoting a faster release of the club head. If you hook (curve left for right-handers), a stiffer shaft could be beneficial.
Shaft Length Considerations
Standard driver shaft length is either 45.5" or 45.75" depending on the brand
Affects of lengthening a shaft
Opting for a longer shaft length, outside of accounting for player height, has the following tendencies:
- The longer the shaft the greater the ball speed, but the tougher it will be to control
- Lengthening a shaft can promote a draw. Your setup will be slightly further from the ball which typically will increase the arc of your swing and set your club in a slightly flatter position at address.
Affects of shortening a shaft
Opting for a shorter shaft length, outside of accounting for player height, has the following tendencies:
- Shorter shafts can improve control and accuracy.
- Your setup will be closer to the ball, which will have the opposite effect of a longer shaft and promote a fade.
WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR SHAFT MODELS?
These shaft lines consistently are our best sellers, and rank highest amongst tour pros and amateurs alike:
1. Fujikura Ventus Golf Shafts
2. Graphite Design Tour AD Golf Shafts
3. Mitsubishi Chemical Diamana Golf Shafts
4. Mitsubishi Chemical Tensei Golf Shafts
When all else fails, get fit
With so many shafts available to consumers, it's tough to decide which shaft is best for you. Even if you're knowledgeable on the topic. Plus, half the battle is finding something that "feels" good to you. Which you can only find out by trying the shaft.
If you can, we always recommend getting fit to be 100% certain on the shaft that will perform best for you. If you can't, take our driver shaft selector quiz for the next best thing!