Looking To Add More Distance Off The Tee. Stiff Driver Shaft The Secret To Longer Drives
Looking To Add More Distance Off The Tee. Stiff Driver Shaft The Secret To Longer Drives
Why You Should Consider Using A Stiff Shaft In Your Driver
If you’re looking to pick up some extra yards off the tee, installing a stiff flex shaft in your driver could be the secret ingredient to unlocking those longer drives. Let’s dive into the details and find out if a stiff shaft is right for your game.
It’s All About Matching Shaft Stiffness To Swing Speed
The stiffness of your driver shaft directly impacts how the club head behaves during the swing. Stiff shafts are designed for golfers with faster swing speeds, typically over 100 mph with the driver. The added rigidity promotes lower spin and faster ball speeds. If your swing speed falls into this range, a stiff shaft will optimize your launch conditions.
Conversely, regular or senior flex shafts are intended for slower swing speeds under 100 mph. Using a shaft that’s too stiff for your swing won’t allow the club to load and unload properly, resulting in loss of distance and accuracy.
Graphite vs. Steel – Weighing Your Stiff Shaft Options
Today’s stiff shafts are available in a range of materials, with graphite and steel being the most popular options. Stiff steel shafts promote a penetrating ball flight and increased control. They also resist twisting for superior accuracy. However, steel shafts are heavier which can impact swing speed and comfort.
Graphite shafts are much lighter in weight, allowing for increased swing speed and a more forgiving feel. Stiff graphite shafts also dissipate vibrations more effectively. The tradeoff is slightly less stability and control versus steel. Choose the best material for your preference and swing characteristics.
Dialing in the Right Stiffness Requires Testing
It’s tempting to rely on basic club fitting charts to select a stiff shaft, but this doesn’t account for the nuances of your swing. Factors like transition force, release patterns, and angle of attack all influence the optimal stiffness.
Work with a professional club fitter to test hit different stiff shaft options with a launch monitor. Look for the one that optimizes launch angle, spin rate, and shot dispersion for maximum distance and accuracy. A proper fitting is the only way to find your ideal shaft stiffness.
The Cost of High Performance Shafts
Premium driver shafts from leading manufacturers can get quite expensive, sometimes even more than the driver head itself! Expect to spend $200 or more for the latest high-end stiff shafts from Aldila, Mitsubishi, Fujikura, and others.
The good news is more affordable options exist too. Quality stiff shafts from Matrix, UST Mamiya, and Project X start around $50. Going with a name brand stiff steel shaft costs less than premium graphite. Pre-owned shafts can also be a cost-effective way to experiment with different stiff shafts.
Boost Your Confidence and Distance
Making the switch to a properly fit stiff shaft has the potential to pick up an extra 10-15 yards off the tee. More importantly, you’ll gain the confidence and consistency that comes from optimized launch and reduced dispersion.
Take some time to get properly fit by a pro. Experiment with different weights, flexes, and materials until you find your ideal match. Investing in a high-quality stiff shaft is one of the best ways to maximize your driver distance and enjoy the game even more.