Shafts – Golfing Agency https://golfingagency.com Golf news & updates Fri, 30 Dec 2022 00:16:50 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://golfingagency.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/cropped-GA_favicon-32x32.png Shafts – Golfing Agency https://golfingagency.com 32 32 The 6 Best High Launching Iron Shafts [2023 Reviews] https://golfingagency.com/the-6-best-high-launching-iron-shafts-2023-reviews/ Fri, 30 Dec 2022 00:16:50 +0000 https://golfingagency.com/the-6-best-high-launching-iron-shafts-2023-reviews/
The 6 Best High Launching Iron Shafts [2023 Reviews]

For most of my formative years on the golf course, I had little to no knowledge of the impact of my shaft on my launch. Fortunately, I am older and wiser and have seen the light.

In this post, I pay homage to the best high-launching iron shafts in each category for 2023.

The best of the list features a range of graphite and steel shaft designs that cater to slow, mid and faster swing speeds, seeking a higher launch. I have also included the top pick for ladies and senior golfers in our ranks.

 

What Types of Shafts Create The Highest Launch?

In my experience, the highest launching golf iron shaft features a low to mid kick point, a high degree of torque, and lightweight construction. In addition, high-launching golf shafts often feature a longer raw length than their mid-to-low-launch counterparts.

A low to mid kick point provides golfers with added spring into impact for consistent ball speed and spin to prompt a high launch. I also find that the higher degree of torque helps slower swing speeds accelerate the club head on the downswing for maximum velocity.

While the added clubhead speed improves your chances of a powerful strike, it can also cause you to leave your clubface open at contact. As a result, your shot dispersion chart features numerous misses to the right of the target.

 

6 Top High Launching Iron Shafts

1. KBS Max Graphite – Best Overall Iron Shaft For High Launch

Top pick

KBS MAX Graphite Iron Golf Shafts

Pros

  • Elevated launch
  • Helps slow swingers accelerate clubhead speed
  • Produces ample flex into the impact
  • The set includes 6 shafts
  • Durable

Cons

  • Expensive for the average golfer
  • The high torque can prompt slices or pushed shots

The KBS Max Graphite irons are the overall best iron shaft construction for high launch in 2022. It tops the list for its wealth of shaft flex options, easy launch, and the consistent carry distance it helps a slow swing speed golfer produce.

A mid to high torque in the lite, senior and regular flex profiles promotes supreme flexibility on the downswing for a powerful strike. This encouraged consistent ball speed and initiated an improved launch and a soft landing on approach.

Further aiding my launch was a low kick point which helped the clubhead flex at a critical point of the swing to prompt rapid clubhead and ball speed for a high launch. Conversely, the regular + and stiff flex option has a higher kick point to induce a mid-to-high launch.

Overall, I found the graphite shafts easy to launch, stable and durable. A slow swing speed golfer should have no struggle launching their irons high and landing the ball softly on approach.

 

2. KBS Tour 90 – Best Steel Iron Shafts

KBS Tour 90 Iron Shafts

Pros

  • Lighter than standard steel irons
  • Produces a consistent high launch
  • Improves control compared to some graphite shafts
  • Boosts clubhead speed
  • Ideal for fast swing speeds

Cons

  • Expensive
  • The shaft’s stiffness may prove excessive for slow swing speeds

Golfers with fast swing speeds may prefer the heavier weight and added control provided by a steel golf iron shaft. The KBS Tour 90 tops the category, thanks to its lighter-than-usual design and the increased clubhead speed it produces.

I produced splendid velocity on my downswing, which often saw me impart it onto the golf ball for adequate speed and spin. This resulted in a high launch, consistent trajectory, and a soft landing on the dancefloor.

My buddy, Martin, who swings a 6-iron over 90 mph, felt the Tour 90 shafts enhanced his tempo compared to the graphite golf shaft options we tested. However, the slowest swingers in our game are advised to stay with graphite shafts for now.

KBS only constructed these shafts in regular and stiff shaft flex, making it best suited to faster swing speeds. Ultimately, I felt the lightness of the KBS Tour 90 golf shafts compared to other steel shafts and enjoyed maximum distance, speed, and control.

 

3. UST Mamiya Recoil ESX – Best High Launch Graphite Shaft

UST Mamiya Recoil 460 ESX F3 Graphite Iron Shafts

Pros

  • Lighter mass than a steel iron shaft
  • Encourages accelerated clubhead speed
  • Soft feel
  • The stiffer butt and midpoint boost control
  • Ideal for medium to slow-swing-speed golfers

Cons

  • Not ideal for the fastest swing speeds
  • An expensive product

Modern high-handicap golfers often favor the lightweight, fast-swinging, and high-flexing graphite golf shaft material. The UST Mamiya Recoil ESX shafts are the best high-launch graphite shafts in 2022 for their maximum spring, easy lift, and high torque during the swing.

I pushed a few shots right of the target on mishits, which is attributed to the moderate torque of these shafts. However, I appreciated the impressive whip of the clubface at impact to boost energy transfer for accelerated ball zip at contact.

Next, I appreciated the soft feel on all shots created by the soft tip, which enhanced spring on the downswing. Furthermore, the stiffer butt and mid increased my control despite the higher torque.

In summary, the UST Mamiya Recoil ESX shaft springs well, feels soft, and amplifies your energy transfer at impact. In addition, a low kick point and moderate to high torque encourage a high launch for maximum carry distance.

 

4. Mitsubishi MMT Taper 105 – Best Feeling High Launch Golf Clubs Shafts

Mitsubishi MMT Taper 105 Iron Shafts

Pros

  • Constructed with highly durable materials
  • Exceptional feel
  • Low torque for less whip during your swing
  • Provides optimal stability
  • Superb spin and ball speed control

Cons

  • An expensive set of golf shafts
  • No flex options for slower swing speeds

Golfers who desire a soft feel on every shot are best suited to a finely tuned, highly responsive shaft with optimal density. The Mitsubishi Taper 105 golf shaft ticked all these boxes to offer a pleasant touch, a mid-to-high launch, and consistent ball flight.

The super low torque in the stiff flex increased stability but was too much for my slow to moderate swing speed. However, I asked a 7 handicapper to give them a crack. He enjoyed their durability, ball speed, and spin consistency, which helped him deliver a controlled golf shot.

In addition, the individually braided strands of high-quality 304 stainless steel enhance the density and stability of the shaft during your swing. Plus, it allowed engineers to construct a thin composite wall, which produces a highly responsive golf shaft for a pleasant feel on long, mid, and short iron shots.

Finally, Mitsubishi only constructs these shafts in a stiff and extra stiff profile which is better for moderate to fast swing speed.

 

5. True Temper Project X Cypher Graphite – Best High Launch Iron Shaft For Seniors

Project X Cypher 40 Graphite Iron Shafts

Pros

  • Built for a deliberate tempo
  • Available in 4 shaft flexes
  • Produces optimal spin
  • Makes it easy to transition from fairway woods to irons
  • Helps slower golfers launch high

Cons

  • Not suited to faster swing speeds
  • The high spin may cause some golfers to balloon their shots and lose yards

I often find seniors operating with a slow backswing and a smooth transition, which creates a deliberate tempo and a clean strike. The True Temper Project X Cypher Graphite works well for slower-swinging seniors as it helps accelerate clubhead speed for a powerful strike and high launch.

Besides its tendency to send your ball higher and longer, I also enjoyed the seamless transition between my fairway woods and long irons. The similar shaft constructions made it easy to replicate my setup and swing on every shot.

Next, I produced maximum spin off the face to help my ball land rapidly. Seniors will feel a greater sense of control in this area and deliver an improved green-in-regulation record.

True Temper offers the Project X Cypher Graphite shafts in ladies, senior, regular, stiff, and extra-stiff shaft stiffness, catering to slow, moderate, and fast swing speeds. Finally, these shafts fetch a lower price per set than most of their peers, which suits the average golfer.

 

6. Fujikura Vista Pro 50i – Best High Launching Iron Shafts For Ladies

Fujikura Vista PRO 50i Graphite Iron Shafts

Pros

  • Produces maximum spin
  • Improves energy transfer at impact
  • Increased stability
  • Lightweight
  • Generates faster clubhead speed

Cons

  • Their lightweight design and high launch may cause golfers to balloon strikes
  • Not ideal for super fast swing speeds

The Fujikura Vista Pro 50i completes our list of high-launching shafts this year. Its blend of stability, high energy transfer, and soft feel make it the best high-launching iron shaft for ladies.

Their lightweight construction, high torque, and low kick point cover all the necessary qualities to send your golf ball higher and longer. I felt the reduced handle stiffness prompted an extra degree of spring on the downswing, which accelerated clubhead speed and improved the power of your strike.

In addition, the maximum spin produced by these shafts makes it easier for the average lady to stop their ball rapidly on the green. Lastly, opposite to their improved launch factor is the attractive low price tag, which makes the Vista Pro 50i shafts accessible to the average golfer.

 

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years.



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Ranking The 7 Best Golf Shafts for Irons [2022 Edition] https://golfingagency.com/ranking-the-7-best-golf-shafts-for-irons-2022-edition/ Tue, 08 Nov 2022 19:38:13 +0000 https://golfingagency.com/ranking-the-7-best-golf-shafts-for-irons-2022-edition/
Ranking The 7 Best Golf Shafts for Irons [2022 Edition]

Shafts are often forgotten in the game improvement conversation, as they are overshadowed by the work of the clubhead and face. In this post, we change the narrative and address the best golf shafts for irons. I will explain how they impact your launch, ball speed, shot dispersion, and swing speed.

After putting them through their paces and reviewing the data, we had our six best iron shafts for 2022. I have covered all bases, including options for slow, moderate, and fast swing speeds. Plus, you have the best ladies’ and junior’s shafts to look forward to.

On the subject, I have a must-read article for faster swing speeds that you should bookmark for later. Learn the ins and outs of stiff vs extra stiff iron shafts.

 

What to Look for in an Iron Shaft

Material

Modern golf shafts are constructed from two predominant materials: steel and graphite composite. Steel shafts typically contain extra weight compared to graphite, and you’ll notice that they are more affordable.

Graphite is the go-to material for hybrids, fairway woods, and driver shafts because they prevent additional unnecessary mass. The lighter construction of graphite shafts promotes accelerated swing speed for a powerful strike.

You’ll find that slower swing speed golfers and I enjoy graphite irons shafts because they make it easy to frequently launch your golf ball.

Flex

The flex of your iron shafts impacts their spring leading into impact. A ladies’ flex is the least stiff option and provides maximum whip into the ball at contact. You’ll notice this provides consistent ball speed and a high launch. These shafts work for golfers who swing a 6-iron below 65 mph.

You’ll see that the next flexible option is a seniors flex, built for older golfers and slow-swinging high handicappers. However, most amateurs will fit into the moderate speed bracket and perform best with a regular flex shaft.

Finally, lower handicappers and tour professionals typically register fast and super fast speeds, setting them up for success with a stiff or extra stiff shaft. I have provided a table below highlighting which shaft flex is right for your swing.

Finally, lower handicappers and tour professionals typically register fast and super fast speeds, setting them up for success with a stiff or extra stiff shaft. I have provided a table below to highlight which shaft flex is right for your swing.

Shaft Flex vs Swing Speed

Tour Professional Low Handicapper Mid Handicappers Senior/ High Handicappers Ladies
Swing Speed
(6-iron)
>92 mph 84 – 91 mph 75 – 83 mph 65 – 75 mph <65 mph
Shaft Flex X Stiff Stiff Regular Senior Ladies

Weight

The more grams your shaft contains, the harder it becomes to optimize your clubhead speed on the downswing. However, additional mass can prompt some players to activate the necessary muscles to boost power as you transition from the top of your swing to impact.

Powerful golfers with faster swing speeds find that heavy golf shafts enhance stability to deliver a controlled launch. Conversely, slower golf swingers may struggle to transfer sufficient energy to the ball at impact, generating weak launch with minimal distance.

You’ll find that most heavy shafts carry stiff or extra stiff flex, making it ideal for higher swing speeds. On the contrary, lightweight shafts generally offer increased flex to aid slow-swinging players.

Torque

The degree of torque your shafts carry influences the rate of twist during your swing. Therefore, it has the greatest bearing on your shot dispersion. Shafts with a lower torque degree twist less and help golfers to keep their clubface square at contact. Contrarily, a high degree of torque prompts the clubface open at impact, which can produce a slice.

In tests conducted by the TPT Golf, they found that shots with higher torque shafts finished right of the target on most occasions for right-handers. Conversely, lower torque iron shafts delivered a dispersion to the left of the target.

As a result, you should think about a lower torque shaft if your ball finishes right of your target more often than not.

Kick Point

The final factor to consider is the kick point of a shaft which impacts the elevation of your launch. A shaft offers one of three kick points to promote the optimal launch, flight, and carry distance.

The type of kick point your shaft possesses depends on the area that contorts the heaviest during your swing. A high kick point is present near the grip and produces a low launching shot, welcomed by higher swing speeds.

A mid-kick point appears in the middle of the shaft and is built to propel a neutral launch which suits average swing speeds. Lastly, a low kick point features near the club head and bends hard into impact, generating a towering launch for slower swing speeds.

If you are concerned that you are launching the ball too low, try shafts with a lower kick point. Conversely, players afraid of ballooning shots should consider a high to mid-design.

 

7 Best Golf Shafts for Irons

UST Mamiya Recoil 460 ESX – Best For Moderate Swing Speed

UST Mamiya Recoil 460 ESX F3 Graphite Iron Shafts

The UST Mamiya Recoil are ideal graphite shafts for amateur golfers with a moderate swing speed, ranging from 80 to 95 mph. Engineers constructed the 460 ESX shaft with regular flex to boost energy transfer at impact.

I found that Recoil Technology is the star feature of the shaft because it encouraged increased spring in the walls of the shaft. This boosted the energy transfer from the clubface to the golf ball at contact, prompting accelerated ball speed for maximum distance.

You’ll find that the rapid velocity and controlled spin prompts a moderate to high launch for consistent carry distance with your iron golf clubs. Finally, UST Mamiya suggests that the 460 ESX contains 4.7 degrees of torque, leading to increased flex during your swing, which can produce erratic results.

Pros

  • Promotes rapid ball speed
  • Greater spring in the walls of the shaft
  • Suits average swing speeds
  • Promotes high ball flight
  • Encourages optimal carry distance

Cons

  • Expensive
  • It doesn’t suit faster swing speeds

KBS TGI Tour – Best For Seniors

KBS TGI Tour 60 Graphite Iron Senior Flex Golf Shaft

The KBS TGI Tour shafts with a senior flex profile are graphite constructions designed to give older players greater control on the golf course. The engineers worked to reduce spin and launch for greater distance in your mid and long irons.

I noticed that the 60-gram construction was light enough to boost club head speed, and the mid to low kick point delivered ample height on my shots. In addition, the similarity in play to a steel iron shaft provides superior control compared to other graphite designs.

Furthermore, you’ll find that the KBS TGI Tour features a mid to low kick point, which prompts ample height for improved distance consistency. Lastly, only golfers with a 6-iron swing speed should think about these shafts.

Pros

  • Mid to high launch
  • Encourages increased club head speed
  • Produces consistent distance
  • Specifically constructed for seniors
  • Moderately priced

Cons

  • Expensive
  • It’s too flexible for moderate swing speeds

 

True Temper Dynamic Gold AMT S300 – Best For Fast Swing Speeds

TRUE TEMPER Dynamic Gold AMT 3-PW Iron Shaft Set S300

Amateurs who swing a 6-iron between 84 and 91 mph are considered faster swingers and are best fitted to stiff shafts. The True Temper New Dynamic Gold S300 are steel shafts that offer limited flex and high kick point for a low launch.

The reduced flex of the shaft enhances the stability of the clubhead into impact, ensuring low spin to send your ball along a piercing trajectory. You’ll find that this encourages optimal roll once your golf ball touches down.

Finally, True Temper suggests that the Dynamic Gold AMT S300 works for experienced players with a moderate tempo.

Pros

  • Promotes a low trajectory
  • Lowers spin
  • Boosts ball speed
  • Suits faster swingers with a moderate tempo
  • Affordable

Cons

  • The stiff flex may cause some players to produce low trajectory
  • The increased mass may slow your swing speed down

 

True Temper Project X Rifle 6.0 .355 – Best For Low Handicappers and Professionals

Project X Flighted Steel Tapered

Low handicappers and professionals with faster swing speed will appreciate the extra stiff construction of the True Temper Project X Rifle 6.0 .355 shaft. True Temper built these for the players who generate over 92 mph of clubhead speed with a 6-iron.

The Stepless Design Technology (SDT) was my highlight because it ensured optimal energy transfer at contact. I found this produced rampant velocity and optimal length. In addition, I found that the technology prompted a solid feel when the clubface struck the golf ball.

Furthermore, you’ll see that shots with these high kick point iron shafts encourage a flat, penetrating ball flight for improved control and increased roll. Lastly, these shafts control spin for optimal flight, length, and roll.

Pros

  • Moderately affordable
  • Penetrating ball flight
  • Limited flex at impact
  • Increased roll
  • Low spin

Cons

  • The low launch can lead to inconsistent results for slower swingers
  • The heavier design causes you to lose clubhead speed

 

Mitsubishi MMT 50 – Best Golf Shaft For Ladies

Mitsubishi MMT 50 Iron Golf Shaft

The Mitsubishi MMT 50 is our top ladies shaft flex which offers a lightweight construction that encourages rapid swing speed and consistent results. You’ll find that Mitsubishi developed this shaft for those players who swing a 6-iron below 65 mph.

I noticed that the MMT 50 was crafted using metal mesh material. In addition, the engineers took it a step further to include Metal Mesh Technology. The technology elevates the density and stability despite the shaft possessing 5.9-degrees of torque, which leads to increased twisting during your swing.

Furthermore, I enjoyed a mid-to-high launch, brought about by the mid-to-low kick point. This made it easy to launch my shots and ensure ample carry distance. Overall, it is a suitable iron shaft for slower swing speeds.

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to swing
  • Prompts a mid to high launch
  • Offers an improved feel
  • Amplifies acoustics
  • Optimal spring into impact for accelerated ball speed

Cons

  • Expensive compared to steel shafts
  • The lighter design can cause some players to balloon shots

 

KBS 560 – Best For Juniors

KBS 560 Junior Steel Iron Golf Shaft

We have covered every type of golfer except for the little guys and girls. The KBS 500 is ideal for your youngster to produce consistent distance and accuracy with the irons. These shafts are specially constructed for youngsters in the development phase of their golf careers.

The engineers developed the KBS 560 with two flex options, including regular-stiff and regular, to cater to all junior swing types. You’ll notice that these shafts are moderately heavier than standard junior shafts, as they are built to operate with adult clubheads.

In addition, the increased mass trains youngsters to swing an adult club. Plus, the KBS 560 golf shaft encourages controlled flight to prevent ballooning shots and losing yards. Finally, these models promote rapid ball speed for optimal yardage.

Pros

  • They help juniors transition to adult clubs
  • Delivers a controlled launch
  • Prompts accelerated ball velocity
  • Encourages maximum distance
  • They work with adult clubheads

Cons

  • The stiffness of the shaft may prove excessive for some juniors to launch
  • The low launch may lead slower swinging juniors to lose carry distance

 

Fujikura Pro Series 95i – Best Graphite Iron Shafts

Fujikura New PRO Series 95i Graphite Iron Shafts (Set of 5 Shafts)

The Fujikura Pro Series 95i is my top pick for the best graphite iron shafts, thanks to the selection of flex profiles, durability, and glare-resistant finish. Fujikura offers the Pro Series 95i in three flex options, regular, stiff, and extra stiff, making them ideal for moderate to fast swing speeds.

Besides the flex options, these shafts are built to deliver medium spin and launch. As a result, they deliver controlled ball flight on approach.

Furthermore, the engineers created them to allow for a hard or soft step. For example, a hard step represents placing a 7-iron iron shaft in a 6-iron head. Conversely, a soft step requires setting a 6-iron shaft in a 7-iron clubhead.

The use of High-Density Composite Core (HDCC) enhances the shaft’s durability, and it lightens the mass to promote rapid club speed. When you combine a rampant clubhead with a medium launch, you produce a controlled shot with optimal distance and spin.

Lastly, the HDCC material works wonders for feedback, as it eliminates unwanted vibrations that run up the shaft on off-center strikes. Therefore, it protects your hands for a smooth, pleasant feel.

Pros

  • Soft feel
  • Light construction encourages accelerated clubhead speed
  • Customizable for a hard or soft step procedure
  • Affordable per unit for graphite shafts
  • Built for moderate to fast swing speed

Cons

  • The shafts do not suit slower swing speeds
  • They are still more expensive than steel shafts

 

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years.



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Stiff vs Extra Stiff Iron Shafts: The Pros/Cons of Each https://golfingagency.com/stiff-vs-extra-stiff-iron-shafts-the-pros-cons-of-each/ https://golfingagency.com/stiff-vs-extra-stiff-iron-shafts-the-pros-cons-of-each/#respond Thu, 27 Oct 2022 20:25:29 +0000 https://golfingagency.com/stiff-vs-extra-stiff-iron-shafts-the-pros-cons-of-each/
Stiff vs Extra Stiff Iron Shafts: The Pros/Cons of Each

According to True Spec Golf, players with fast swing speeds are built to swing clubs with a stiff flex shaft. A golfer producing a slower swing speed should consider a senior or ladies’ design; when the average swingers perform the best with a regular flex shaft.

In this post, I assess stiff vs extra stiff iron shafts. I’ll evaluate the pros and cons of each design to see which construction suits your game.

In addition, I have provided a rundown of the performance features of each shaft. This helps you determine which option is better aligned with your desired launch, spin, and distance goals.

 

A Quick Overview of Iron Shaft Stiffness and Why They Matter

Shaft flex plays a role in the outcome of every strike. The right shaft flex is essential in achieving your desired launch, shot shape, distance and spin.

If you are a slower swinger and play with extra stiff shafts you may be struggling to generate the required clubhead speed for an enhanced coefficient of restitution (COR). As a result, you do not produce the necessary ball speed to achieve a high launching, long shot. Therefore, your golf ball flies low, and you lose distance.

In addition to the distance loss, a stiff design challenges your accuracy. A stiff flex shaft raises the challenge of squaring your face up through impact. The stiffer, heavier shaft delivers less torque. Therefore, it produces less whip from the club on your downswing to bring it into position.

Because of this, the average golfer tends to leave the club face open through contact and slice their ball. That means your dispersion will reflect shots consistently to the right of your target.

 

Pros of Stiff Shafts

Low Spin

The first advantage that a stiff shaft produces is low spin. This is ideal for longer iron shots, as it delivers a piercing flight to encourage maximum distance.

The stiffer a golf club shaft is, the less spring it provides the clubface through impact. This causes you to strike the ball with less loft, leading to a lower launch with less spin. Therefore, you enjoy increased forward roll upon landing for added distance in your long game.

Low Launch

I mentioned that a stiff shaft produces lower spin thanks to a sturdy lofted club face at contact. That causes a low launch and reduces the apex of your ball flight, which is welcomed in windy conditions.

In addition, the low launching nature of these shots prevents faster swinging golfers from ballooning their shots. This ensures increased control on approach shots for optimal distance control through the bag.

When fast swinging golfers play a lighter shaft, the added spin and high launch cause them to lose, carry, and total distance.

Built For Fast Swing Speeds

Stiff shafts are best suited to golfers with fast swing speeds. Golfers fitting into this category typically swing a 6-iron between 84 to 91 mph. Stiff iron shafts help fast-swinging golfers produce their desired launch, ball speed, and spin levels for satisfactory results.

Low handicap players typically fall into this category. While the rest of the amateur golf fraternity produces slow or average swing speeds.

 

Cons of Stiff Shafts

Reduced Spin

The reduced spin is a blessing for fast swing speed golfers seeking a consistent launch for optimal distance control. But, the situation is different for slower swinging amateurs.

The lack of spin causes the ball to fly low, and if you do not produce sufficient ball speed, it will hit the ground sooner than intended and lead to a loss of distance. Although spin is the enemy in the wind and hampers your yardage, you need some to get off the ball airborne.

Furthermore, the lack of spin can cause your ball to roll off the green on approach. As a result, you will need a precise short game to consistently get up and down.

Loss of Carry Distance

A stiffer shaft construction restricts the bend of the clubhead into the ball at impact. Therefore, your clubface strikes the ball with a sturdy lofted face and sends your golf ball along a low trajectory.

Failure to generate sufficient ball velocity will cause the ionomer to drop out of the sky sooner than planned, causing a loss of carry distance. This messes with your distance control and is dangerous when trying to clear a water hazard or a bunker.

Sliced Shots

If your grip, wrist angles, and angle of attack are on point, but you still slice your shots, your club shafts may be at fault. Stiffer golf shafts provide little assistance on your downswing. As a result, your rotation, rhythm, and tempo must be on point for a clean strike.

Failure to execute a clean transition from the backswing to the downswing can leave your clubface open at impact. This position generates left to right sidespin, which causes a slice. In this scenario, you might consider switching to a regular shaft.

 

Lowest Spin

I touched on the beauty of low spin in my review on stiff shafts. However, an extra-stiff design takes it to the next level. You will not find a shaft that produces less spin rpm than an extra-stiff construction.

Golfers who generate excess spin with a stiff shaft should contemplate an extra-stiff setup. This may help limit spin for a more controlled ball flight.

Lowest Launch

The result of the lowest spinning shaft is the lowest launching shot. This suits golfers looking for piercing flight to achieve consistency in their distance and accuracy. Plus, it prevents very fast swingers from ballooning their shots and losing yards.

Built For Super Fast Swing Speeds

Extra stiff shafts are reserved for the fastest swingers in our game. These are golfers producing more than 92 mph of velocity on the downswing. An aspiring professional and PGA Tour Pros are the most likely golfers to fill this bracket.

I suggest that these individuals test steel iron shafts and see how they go. If you launch your shots too low, think about a graphite shaft with the same flex.

 

Limited Spin

Extra stiff shafts provided limited spin assistance. This means you are required to do all the work, and failure to generate sufficient spin will lead to a low-flying golf shot. This reduces your carry distance and, at times, causes the ball to roll further than intended.

Erratic Dispersion

When your shaft is too stiff for your swing, it leads to erratic dispersion. The lack of clubface spring through impact makes it difficult to square the grooves up through contact. This results in a wayward shot caused by an open clubface that prompts shots to the right of your target.

 

How to Determine Which Type of Iron Shafts Better Suit You

Swing Speed

Swing speed provides a guideline for golfers who have no idea how to find the best iron shaft constructions for their game. Those who swing a 6-iron between 75 and 83 mph have an average swing speed. Therefore, regular flex designs are considered best for your game.

Moreover, a 6-iron swing speed below 75 mph is set up for a seniors shaft. A ladies’ shaft is also worth testing if that is still too stiff for your game.

Launch

The next factor to analyze is launch. Are you producing your desired launch and ball flight to maximize distance control and accuracy in your iron game? If you are launching the ball consistently low, your shaft may be too stiff for your swing. Therefore, you need to consider a more flexible design.

Conversely, players who frequently balloon their shots may opt for a stiffer flex that takes out an additional clubface spring through impact.

Spin

Spin is necessary to get your ball airborne and landing softly on the green. However, excessive spin can cause you to sky your shot and lose considerable carry distance. Conversely, inadequate spin can send your ball flying low and hitting the ground earlier than intended.

Ultimately think about a lighter and more flexible shaft if you demand a higher launching shot. However, lower ball flight seekers should stick to stiffer shaft constructions.

Dispersion

Several factors can prompt an erratic shot wide of your target. This starts with a bad grip, followed by a lack of rotation, then by a wrong angle of attack. These factors produce an open or closed clubface sending the ball left or right of the landing zone.

If your coach is satisfied that your swing mechanics are optimized and your grip is secure, your shafts may prove the issue. Typically, extra stiff shafts cause slower swinging golfers to leave their clubface open at impact, causing a slice.

On the other hand, a light, flexible golf shaft can prompt a player to close its clubface through contact and hook their ball.

Therefore, if you are consistently slicing your shots and have your swing and grip in order, contemplate a more flexible shaft. Conversely, golfers frequently hooking their shots should consider a stiff shaft design.

 

Related Reading: If this post made you realize you need to switch out your golf shafts , read our post on how much it costs to reshaft irons. The process is far more straightforward than you may think.

 

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years.



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