A golfer gets power from the energy of uncoiling his body and shifting his weight during the swing, and the golf shaft is what transfers that energy to the clubhead. That makes choosing the right flex for your set of clubs extra important. Though there is no industry specifications for flex in golf shafts, manufacturers generally make shafts in five flex categories: ladies, senior, regular, stiff and extra stiff.
Flex Types
Softer, more flexible shafts help players with slower swing speeds. Shafts for women players, and for juniors, are also lighter to help those players whip the club through the hitting area faster to generate more distance. As golfers age and lose strength, the flexibility of senior shafts help older players maintain distance. Regular shafts are generally for those with swing speeds at about 90 mph. Stiff shafts are for those who swing a club faster than 90 mph, and extra-stiff shafts for for tour pros who swing faster than 100 mph.
Most Play Wrong Flex
Many players play with ill-fitting clubs, either because the gear was bought "off the rack" without a care or because of a faulty perception that playing the same clubs as tour professionals will make one's game better. Scott Hennessy, president of shaft manufacturer True Temper, told Golf Magazine that players should use the most flexible shaft they can control. "If it's too soft, you'll spray the ball all over the place," Hennessy said. "Too stiff, and you'll lose distance but will have better directional control."
Science Helps with Fitting
Technology has improved the fitting process remarkably. Players interested in finding the right shaft flex can work with a PGA-certified club-fitter who combines use of a launch monitor with his or her experience in helping players. Launch monitors not only measure swing speed, but its sensors also detect the ball speed, launch angle and spin rate of each shot. The launch monitor can immediately provide feedback on which shaft flex works best.
Other Factors
Shafts can vary in other ways, such as torque, which is the amount of twist, and kick point, which is how high or low most of the flex takes place. Both factors are of minimal importance to recreational golfers, says Frank Thomas, the former USGA technical director. Don't expect to have the same flex throughout the set. Drivers and fairway woods need stiffer shafts because you'll swing those clubs harder for distance. Consistent flex in the irons helps you control shots.
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