Getting distance on your golf shots is a function of clubhead speed when contact with the ball is made. Golfers with coordination and a solid swing get longer distances on their own. However, many golfers may have trouble generating the necessary clubhead speed and may need a more flexible shaft to hit ball for distance. Other golfers hit the ball far but have a hard time controlling its flight and need stiffer shafts to help with accuracy.
Stiff Shaft
A stiff shaft can help a golfer who is a powerful hitter but struggles with accuracy. This is often the case with younger and stronger golfers who may be new to the game and don't hit the ball consistently. These golfers generate superior clubhead speed but often have a hard time time hitting the ball in the fairway. The stiff shaft will limit the whip action of the club and that will help the golfer keep the ball in the fairway. Since the golfer has tremendous natural power with excellent swing speed, the stiffer shaft does not hurt his distance and helps with accuracy. The most powerful golfers will use an extra-stiff shaft.
Regular Shafts
These are the type of clubs that most medium handicappers use. The regular shaft helps the golfer get extra clubhead speed because the shaft will flex during the swing. A golfer who has been playing two years or more and regularly shoots between 85 and 105 will benefit from the clubhead speed gained from a regular shaft. It will provide more flex than the stiff shaft but not enough to cause the player to hit the ball wildly.
Flexible Shafts
There are two primary flexible shafts. Ladies shafts and senior shafts are designed to give golfers more distance and clubhead speed because many women and senior golfers have a hard time generating distance. These shafts allow the golfer greater clubhead speed and will make up for a smaller woman's lack of size and strength and a senior golfer's loss of natural power. These clubs demand accuracy because the added flexibility makes the ball a bit harder to control.
Function
When you have the golf shafts that are appropriate for your game, you will play better and enjoy your round more. Golf equipment technology has changed dramatically since the 1980s and there is every reason to give yourself a chance to enjoy your round by having clubs that fit correctly and provide the necessary flexibility.
Misconceptions
Golfers who say they will never use a flexible shaft because they are strong enough on their own and don't need the benefit of additional speed at impact might want to reconsider. Golfers need to have the type of shaft that suits their game. There is no shame in using a flexible shaft and they don't give prizes for using a stiff shaft. Take an honest appraisal of your game and use the type of shaft that helps most. If you have any questions, consult your local club pro and get her opinion as well.
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