This post is not going to recommend specific models of golf shafts for drivers. Rather it is going to categorize what you should be looking for based on your swing speed. Beyond that, you should consider working with a fitter to find what you need.
With no further ado, let’s get into it.
For Beginners and Players with Slower Swing Speeds
Players with slower swing speeds, and this includes not just beginners but also aging players and some ladies, are at a disadvantage when it comes to playing with the stiffest shafts in the industry.
There are two main things they should be looking for: these are shaft flex and torque, and shaft flex should be high while torque should be low.
A more flexible shaft provides a mechanical advantage to a player with a slower swing speed because it will load like a spring, releasing energy at the critical moment of impact, which then results in greater carry distance.
The lower torque helps minimize the oscillations of the clubhead, ensuring that it squares with the ball at impact. Too much torque will result in a whippy shaft that can result in shot errors like draws and fades.
Beyond this, there are times that players with slower swing speeds should also seek a shaft that tends to produce a higher launch angle and more spin. A higher launch angle will send the ball farther, as will greater spin, which results in additional lift.
Other things for beginners and those with slower swing speeds to look into are any attributes that encourage a greater degree of consistency, as well as a higher degree of feedback.
For Players with Faster Swing Speeds
Now let’s talk about what players with faster swing speeds need – and this includes anyone with a swing speed that’s on the higher end of the spectrum – let’s say above 90 MPH.
The first thing most players with fast swing speeds need is a shaft that is on the stiffer side. Stiffer shafts tend to be more consistent and rely less on their elasticity and mechanics to send the ball further. For a stiffer golf shaft, it’s all about the golfer’s strength.
Low torque is also a benefit here, for the same reasons that it is a benefit to players with slower swing speeds.
Launch and spin should also be on the low side. A higher launch angle can carry the ball farther but it will also magnify any shot errors or biases. The same goes for spin, as excess spin can cause more rollout on the ground.
Rather, players with faster swing speeds prefer shafts that tend to launch the ball low and straight, with minimal spin. A more flexible shaft that produces a higher launch and spin is just too risky for most players with faster swing speeds to use.
One more thing players with faster swing speeds should be looking for is a shaft that is stable and which resists ovaling and other deformation during the swing sequence, which can result in shot to shot aberrations.
Otherwise, a golf shaft for a driver that also offers a high degree of consistency as well as solid feedback is a good thing.
Explore the Best Golf Shafts for Drivers Online
While there is no replacement for working with a fitter beyond extensive experience (and even then it is questionable) if you already basically know what you’re looking for you can learn more online at Dallas Golf Company.
The two are also not mutually exclusive. Dallas Golf Company has a bunch of experienced, professional golf club fitters on hand that can help you find what you need and even make personalized recommendations after observing your swing.
