Differences Between Golf Shaft Firmness
The amount of bend in your golf shafts is a matter of choice. Depending on your style, you can opt for stiffer or softer shafts.
How do you know what fits you? Here are some basic tips:
* Your driving distance is a major element and can be a good reference point. Normally, distance hitters require stiff shafts and only the very big hitters are going to need Extra Stiff. For the majority, Extra Stiff is not even an option. If you can drive 250 yards or further, choose Stiff; Regular – 230 to 250 yards, Senior – 200 to 230 yards, Ladies – less than 200 yards.
* A less firm flex is good if your drives go right. If your drive flies left, choose a firmer flex, whether you use golf shaft pullers or not.
* Stiffer Taylor Made golf shafts are needed if your swing gets jerky at the top when transitioning into the downswing. Players with very fluid swings may be better off with softer flex Diamana golf shafts, even if they swing fast.
In choosing the right flex, a clubfitting with golf professional is highly recommended.
The pro will be able to suggest the flex best for you by taking lots of measurements, analyzing your swing, measuring your speed and watching your ball flight.
Most golf schools, instructors and golf shops offer clubfitting services.
If you have no plans in trying out a clubfitting, you can just take part in a demo day, where you can test different clubs with different shafts. By swinging lots of different clubs and analyzing the effect that club flex has on your hits, you can find what type of flex best suits you. A flex that creates a good ball angle and feels good is the one that’s good for you.