The golf shaft is the part of the club that connects the club head to the grip. As you move your arms, the shaft directs the force of your swing and transfers the energy to the ball. Golf shafts are manufactured with a certain amount of flex, which helps to maximize your swing speed and shot trajectory. Golf shaft flex is determined primarily by swing speed, and there are five grades of flex to choose from.
Extra Stiff Flex
Extra stiff, or X, golf shafts are designed to be used by players with swing speeds in the upper ranges. According to Learn About Golf, extra stiff flex is suited to players with a swing speed of 93 mph or higher who can drive the ball 260 yards or more. Players who are able to accurately swing an extra stiff shaft will benefit from greater directional control, but they may not see an increase in the distance of their shots.
Stiff Flex
The next grade of golf shaft flex is stiff flex, or S. According to Learn About Golf, stiff flex shafts are designed for players with swing speeds in the 84 to 93 mph range. If you consistently drive the ball between 240 and 260 yards, a stiff flex shaft may be right for you. Golf Club Clone recommends using a stiff flex shaft if your drives, assuming you're right-handed, tend to pull to the left or if you have an uneven backswing.
Regular Flex
Regular, or R, flex golf shafts are designed for use by the average player. According to Learn About Golf, you should use a regular flex shaft if your swing speed ranges from 75 to 84 mph and you consistently drive 210 to 240 yards. If you have a smooth swing but a faster swing speed, you may consider using a regular flex shaft in order to maximize your distance without losing control.
Senior Flex
Senior flex, also known as as A or amateur flex, is designed for players whose swing speed has slowed due to age or injury. According to Learn About Golf, the average driver speed for a player using a senior flex shaft is 60 to 75 mph with a drive distance of 180 to 210 yards. Their increased flexibility makes senior flex shafts more forgiving, offering increased distance while reducing the physical impact on the body.
Ladies Flex
Ladies, or L, flex is designed for players with the slowest swing speeds, typically less than 60 mph. While the name indicates these types of shafts are intended specifically for women, men and youth players may also use ladies flex. According to Learn About Golf, if your drive is less than 180 yards, a ladies flex shaft can help you to get the greatest distance off the tee.
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