Selecting Correct Flex Golf Clubs

By Matthew Fortuna
Different golf club shafts produce different results from the same swing.
Different golf club shafts produce different results from the same swing.

Golf club shafts have been a big focus of golf technology since the 1970s. Different shafts allow players of different skill levels, strengths and swing speeds to produce similar shots with their clubs. Selecting the correct flex on your golf club shaft is important to your on-course performance, affecting things such as how your ball flies, how far it flies and how much spin it has.

Step 1

Determine the speed of your swing as measured by a golf club fitter or at a golf shop with those capabilities. This will help a professional determine what type of shaft is most appropriate for your swing speed.

Step 2

Compare your swing speed to other golfers on the course.

Look at senior players, adults with slow swing speeds and fit or athletic men with quick swing speeds. Do your best to place your swing in one of these categories.

Step 3

Use an extra stiff shaft for a swing similar to a professional. These shafts are generally reserved for very low handicappers, experienced golfers who are extremely physically fit, those with very quick and accurate swings or adult males with fast swings.

Step 4

Use a regular stiff shaft for slower but still powerful swings.

These are often used by the lowest handicappers among women with fast swings, and for older men with quick swings. These players can often hit their drivers 230 to 250 yards and have good back and arm flexibility.

Step 5

Use a regular flex shaft for slower swings typical of high handicappers with slower swings or for female mid-handicappers and senior players with faster swings. Also use regular flex for children and early-teens with slower swings.

Step 6

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