How to Choose Golf Club Shafts

How to Choose Golf Club Shafts
Photo Credit golf swing image by Kwest from Fotolia.com

When a golfer starts to play the game regularly, he learns about his own strengths and weaknesses and how best to use his strengths and hide his weaknesses. A player who hits the ball accurately but lacks distance will want to hit the ball farther. While it's unlikely that player will get stronger in a short period of time, he can make an adjustment in the type of shaft he is using in order to get more distance.

Step 1

If you are a golfer who is happy with the distance to which you hit the ball, but would like to become more accurate, choose a stiff shaft. The stiff shaft is designated by the letter "S" on the shaft. A stiff shaft does not have as much bend or whip to it as other shafts and will not provide the extra kick that may be needed for more distance. However, golfers who have strength and get excellent distance typically are not looking for that kind of help. Instead, the stiff shaft will help the golfer keep the ball in the fairway. An extra-stiff shaft--noted by the letter X--will help the golfer who has dramatic strength but struggles to hit the ball in the fairway.

Step 2

Use the regular shaft if your are an average golfer who wants help with distance and accuracy. The regular shaft is designated by the letter "R" on the shaft. A regular shaft has flexibility and will help a golfer get extra distance on his swing. However, if the golfer has problems with accuracy, he may hit the ball into the rough if his swing is not timed correctly.

Step 3

Use a ladies' shaft if you are looking for a club with great flexibility in the shaft to get extra distance. The ladies' shaft is designated by the letter "L" on the shaft. Women golfers are often looking for extra distance on their shots because most women don't have the size and strength of their male counterparts. However, there are some men who are looking for extra distance and they may use clubs with ladies' shafts in order to get more distance. Since these types of shafts are so whippy, accuracy can become a problem for a golfer who lacks a consistent swing.

Step 4

Use a seniors' shaft if you have noticed that your drives lack the distance you used to get earlier in your career. The seniors' shaft is designated by the letter "A" on the shaft. It is similar to the ladies' shaft, but it is a bit longer and more flexible. This type of club is appropriate for the veteran golfer who has confidence in his ability to hit the ball accurately.

References

Article reviewed by WilliamS Last updated on: Aug 4, 2010

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