Golf shafts are often overlooked by the average golfer, but they are an important component of your driver’s configuration. Chose an incorrect driver shaft and you will find yourself hitting your driver low off the face, hooking your golf ball off the tee, or not even making it out of the tee box.
Some golfers may think that driver shafts are universal or interchangeable, but this is rarely the case. In the article below, we are going to cover 3 main factors to consider when selecting a driver shaft. We have a lot to cover so let’s get started.
Are Driver Shafts Universal?
Golf driver shafts are not universal, as they can vary in weight, length, and flex. However, most driver shafts can be configured to fit any make or model of a driver head.
While it is possible to have your local golf professional fit any driver shaft to any driver head, golfers need to understand the components that make up a driver shaft.
Differences in length, weight, and flex can have a significant impact on the performance of your driver and the way the club feels during your swing. Let’s take a look at these 3 main components in detail below.
Driver Shaft Weight
The weight of a golf driver shaft is an important factor to consider when selecting a new shaft. Shafts can range in weight from around 40 grams to over 130 grams. However, most athletic golfers will find themselves in the 60-gram or 70-gram shaft weight range. Older golfers (50+) that need a more flexible shaft will find themselves best suited with a 40-gram to 60-gram shaft.
Lighter shafts tend to allow for higher club head speed which can lead to improved distance. Heavier shafts offer more stability and control.
| Driver Shaft Weight (grams) | Recommended for |
|---|---|
| 40-50 | Beginner or high-handicap golfer |
| 50-60 | Intermediate golfer |
| 60-70 | Low-handicap golfer |
| 70-80 | Tour player or advanced golfer |
It is important to remember that the weight of a shaft alone is not the only factor that determines the overall weight of a golf club. The head of the club and the grip also contribute to the overall weight. So, even if you select a lighter shaft, the club may still feel heavy if the head and grip are heavier.
Driver Shaft Length
The length of a golf driver shaft can also have an impact on the performance of a golf club. Generally, longer shafts offer more distance and a higher launch angle, while shorter shafts offer more control and a lower launch angle.
The standard length for a golf driver shaft is 45 inches, but some players may prefer a shorter or longer shaft depending on their swing speed and body size. Players with slower swing speeds may benefit from a longer shaft, while players with faster swing speeds may prefer a shorter shaft.
| Driver Shaft Length (inches) | Recommended for |
|---|---|
| 45-46 | Average-height golfer with a slower swing speed |
| 46-47 | Average-height golfer with a moderate swing speed |
| 47-48 | Average-height golfer with a faster swing speed |
Players who are unsure of what shaft length to use have a couple of options to figure out what is best for their game. Golfers that would like to try out a shorter shaft can simply choke down on the club. Golfers that may need a longer club will need to consult their local pro shop for a new longer shaft or to have their current shaft elongated.
We always recommend golfers take a lesson with their local PGA professional when buying any new golf equipment.
Driver Shaft Flex
The flex of a golf driver shaft refers to the amount the shaft bends during the swing. Shafts are typically available in four flex categories: extra stiff (X), stiff (S), regular (R), and senior (A).
Extra stiff shafts are designed for players with fast swing speeds who generate a lot of power. These shafts offer the least amount of flex and can help players achieve more distance. Stiff shafts are also designed for players with fast swing speeds, but they offer slightly more flex than extra stiff shafts.
| Driver Shaft Flex | Recommended for |
|---|---|
| Extra Stiff (X) | Tour player or advanced golfer with a swing speed over 105 mph |
| Stiff (S) | Low-handicap golfer with a swing speed between 95-105 mph |
| Regular (R) | Intermediate golfer with a swing speed between 85-95 mph |
| Senior (A) | Beginner or high-handicap golfer with a swing speed under 85 mph |
Regular shafts are designed for players with moderate swing speeds and offer a balance of distance and control. Senior shafts are designed for players with slower swing speeds and offer the most flex. These shafts can help players achieve a higher launch angle and more distance.
Final Thoughts
Not all golf shafts are created equal. Differences in flex, weight, and length can drastically change the performance of the club. Use the tips above to find the best driver shaft for your game!
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