Understanding Club Speed and Shaft Flex
If you’re a golfer, you know that finding the right golf club can make a significant difference in your game. I’m considering changing my driver and everyone told me to make sure I chose the correct shaft flex for my swing speed – different shaft flexes are designed to suit different swing speeds, and one of the most popular choices is the stiff shaft. However, what do you really need to know about Club Speed and Stiff Shaft Flex? This article will explore club speed and stiff shafts. We’ll discuss the benefits of using a stiff shaft, things to consider before making your decision, and some pros and cons.
Benefits of Using a Stiff Shaft
Using a stiff shaft can provide golfers with many benefits, including:
- More control: A stiff shaft is less flexible than a regular or senior shaft, providing more control over the ball’s flight and direction. This increased control is especially important for players with faster swings who must keep their shots on target.
- Increased distance: Stiff shafts tend to be heavier and more rigid, allowing for more power transfer and increased distance on shots. This added distance is especially beneficial for players who struggle with their accuracy.
- Consistency: Stiff shafts offer more consistent ball flights and shot patterns, reducing the chances of shanks, hooks, or slices. This consistency can help golfers lower their scores and improve their overall game.
| Clubhead Speed (mph) | Recommended Shaft Flex |
|---|---|
| Less than 75 | Ladies (L) |
| 75 – 85 | Senior (A) |
| 85 – 95 | Regular (R) |
| 95 – 105 | Stiff (S) |
| 105 and above | Extra Stiff (X) |
How Can You Measure Your Golf Swing Speed?
If you have no idea how to measure your swing speed, there’s a really easy way you can do this at home. If you buy the Swing Speed training kit it comes with a PRGR Radar which uses Doppler radar to measure your swing speed. This is designed to train you to swing faster, not only building strength but also the muscle memory to improve your swing speed.
Club Speed and Stiff Shaft Flex: Things to Consider
Before choosing a stiff shaft, there are a few things to consider:
- Swing Speed: While stiff shafts are designed for players with faster swing speeds, knowing your specific swing speed is essential to determine if a stiff shaft is right for you. Generally, players with swing speeds above 105 mph will benefit from using a stiff shaft.
- Swing Tempo: Players with fast swing tempos may also benefit from using a stiff shaft, while those with slower tempos may prefer a regular or senior shaft.
- Player Skill Level: Stiff shafts may not be the best choice for beginners or high handicappers who need more forgiveness in their shots. However, low handicappers and experienced players can benefit greatly from a stiff shaft.
Pros and Cons of Using a Stiff Shaft Flex
Like any equipment choice, there are pros and cons to using a stiff shaft.
Pros:
- Increased Control: Stiff shafts offer greater control over the ball’s direction and flight, allowing for more accuracy on shots.
- More Distance: Stiff shafts can provide more power transfer, allowing for increased distance on shots.
- Consistency: Stiff shafts offer more consistent ball flights and shot patterns, reducing the chances of shanks, hooks, or slices.
Cons:
- Less Forgiveness: Stiff shafts offer less forgiveness than regular or senior shafts, making them less suitable for beginners or players with high handicaps.
- Less Flexibility: Stiff shafts are less flexible, making them less suitable for players with slower swing speeds or less aggressive swing tempos.
- Less Comfort: Stiff shafts can be uncomfortable for some players, causing more strain on the arms and shoulders.
Conclusion: Club Speed and Stiff Shaft Flex
When choosing a golf club, the shaft flex is a crucial factor to consider. Stiff shafts are popular for golfers with faster swing speeds, offering more control, increased distance, and consistency. However, it’s essential to consider your specific swing speed, tempo, and skill level before deciding. While stiff shafts offer many benefits, they may not be the best choice for everyone. Considering the factors discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision and choose the right shaft flex for your game. Remember, the right equipment can make all the difference in your golf game, so take the time to research and find the perfect fit for you.
Club Speed and Stiff Shaft Flex: FAQ’s
At what ball speed do you need a stiff shaft?
Ball speed is an important factor to consider when considering Club Speed and Stiff Shaft Flex for your golf clubs. Generally, players with ball speeds above 100 mph benefit from a stiff or extra-stiff shaft. However, this is not a hard and fast rule, as other factors such as swing speed, tempo, and skill level can also impact your shaft flex selection.
Is 6.5 stiff or extra stiff?
6.5 is considered an extra stiff shaft. Shaft flexes are typically rated on a scale from regular to extra stiff, with varying levels in between. Extra stiff shafts are designed for players with very fast swing speeds and aggressive swings, providing increased stability and control.
Can slow swing speed use a stiff shaft?
While players with fast swing speeds generally benefit from a stiff shaft, players with slower swing speeds can also use a stiff shaft. However, it’s important to consider other factors, such as skill level, swing tempo, and ball flight, when making your decision. A slower swing speed may benefit from a regular or senior flex shaft, which can help provide more distance and accuracy.
What shaft frequency for stiffness?
Shaft frequency is another factor to consider when selecting a shaft flex. The frequency refers to the stiffness of the shaft and is typically measured in CPM or cycles per minute. Generally, a higher frequency indicates a stiffer shaft, while a lower frequency indicates a more flexible shaft. A stiff shaft typically has a frequency range of 250-280 CPM, while an extra stiff shaft can range from 280-310 CPM.
Do you hit further with a stiff shaft?
In general, using a stiff shaft can help increase your distance off the tee and provide more control and consistency. However, choosing the right shaft flex for your swing speed and skill level is important, as using a too-stiff shaft can hinder your performance.
How fast do pros swing a 7-iron?
Professional golfers typically have very fast swing speeds, with many averaging around 90-100 mph with their 7 iron. However, it’s important to remember that every golfer is unique and may have different swing speeds and tendencies.
Fun Golf Equipment Advice
At Fun Golf, we believe that there’s more to golf than just the equipment you use. That’s why we’ve created content that covers a range of topics related to the sport such as Club Speed and Stiff Shaft Flex. Here are some of our other articles that we think you might find helpful:
- Golf Insurance: Golf can be an expensive sport, and accidents can happen. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to golf insurance, which can help protect you from unexpected costs. Check out our article on golf insurance to learn more.
- Cheap Golf Rangefinders: Rangefinders can be a valuable tool on the golf course, but they can also be expensive. We’ve researched and tested some of the best affordable rangefinders on the market, and put together a guide to help you find the right one for your needs. Check out our article on cheap golf rangefinders to learn more.
- Beginner Golf Balls: If you’re just starting out in golf, choosing the right balls can be confusing. We’ve reviewed some of the best golf balls for beginners, taking into account factors such as distance, spin, and feel. Check out our article on beginner golf balls to learn more.
- Best Golf Trolleys: Carrying your golf bag can be tiring, which is why many golfers opt for a trolley. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. We’ve researched and tested some of the best golf trolleys, and put together a guide to help you make an informed decision. Check out our article on best golf trolleys to learn more.
By exploring these topics, you can improve your overall golfing experience and make the most out of your time on the course. And as always, we at Fun Golf are committed to providing you with accurate and helpful information to help you enjoy the sport to its fullest.
