Using the right golf shaft flex for you is crucial to your game as it can affect your swing and add unnecessary shots to your score.
In simple terms, golf shaft flex refers to how much the shaft bends during the swing and at impact. Shaft flexibility impacts key elements of your game, including ball flight, trajectory, spin rate, and distance. The flexibility of the shaft also depends on a few key factors such as swing speed, feel, and personal preference.
Ideally you would get all of your clubs fitted by a professional, but that’s not always possible. It might be too expensive, or maybe your game is not at the point of investing in custom clubs.
That’s why I’ve created this golf shaft flex chart and calculator for you:
Golf Shaft Flex Chart
The following chart will help you determine the correct flex to use based on the clubhead speed you generate across various clubs:
| Swing Speed | Golf Clubs | Clubhead Speed | Shaft flex |
|---|---|---|---|
| Very Fast | Driver | > 105 mph | X Stiff |
| 3-wood | > 101 mph | ||
| 3-iron | > 97 mph | ||
| 6-iron | > 92 mph | ||
| Fast | Driver | 97-104 mph | Stiff |
| 3-wood | 93-97 mph | ||
| 3 hybrid | 90-96 mph | ||
| 6-iron | 84-91 mph | ||
| Average | Driver | 84-96 mph | Regular |
| 3-wood | 84-93 mph | ||
| 4 hybrid | 80-90 mph | ||
| 6-iron | 75-83 mph | ||
| Slow | Driver | 72-83 mph | Senior |
| 3-wood | 70-80 mph | ||
| 4 hybrid | 68-78 mph | ||
| 6-iron | 65-75 mph | ||
| Very Slow | Driver | < 72 mph | Ladies |
| 3-wood | < 70 mph | ||
| 4 hybrid | < 68 mph |
Once you have the yardage range, you will notice the correct shaft flex recommended for your golf club.
| Swing Speed | Carry Distance | Flex |
|---|---|---|
| 10 to 70 mph | 30 to 175 yards | L |
| 71 to 72 mph | 176 to 181 yds | L / A |
| 73 to 79 mph | 182 to 197 yds | A |
| 80 to 81 mph | 198 to 203 yds | A / R |
| 82 to 94 mph | 204 to 236 yds | R |
| 95 to 96 mph | 237 to 241 yds | R / S |
| 97 to 105 mph | 242 to 263 yds | S |
| 106 to 107 mph | 264 to 269 yds | S / X |
| Over 108 mph | 270 to 380 yds | X |
Recommended Shaft Flex for Swing Speed
Once you have an idea of your swing speed and style, you can input your numbers in the calculator and it will tell you what you should be looking for when choosing a new shaft.
While the calculator does not take everything into account, it will enable you to have a basic idea of where you are when choosing a new shaft. The swing speed and distance directly correlate with the shaft.
However, this can be different with various clubs and you will need to keep this in mind as well when buying a new shaft.
- X – eXtra Stiff
- S – Stiff
- R – Regular
- A – Amateur or Senior
- L – Ladies
The recommended shaft flex based on swing speed can vary depending on the individual and their swing characteristics. However, here is a general guideline that is often used:
- Swing Speed Below 70 mph: For golfers with a slower swing speed, typically below 70 mph, a ladies’ flex shaft is often recommended. This flex provides more flexibility and can help generate more distance and control for slower swings.
- Swing Speed Between 70-85 mph: Golfers with a swing speed in this range often benefit from a senior or regular flex shaft. These flexes offer a balance of flexibility and control, providing a good combination of distance and accuracy.
- Swing Speed Between 85-95 mph: Golfers with a swing speed in this range tend to take more advantage of a regular or stiff flex shaft. The stiffer flex helps control the clubhead and provides more power for faster swings.
- Swing Speed Above 95 mph: Golfers with a faster swing speed, typically above 95 mph, may require a stiff or extra stiff flex shaft. These flexes provide the necessary stability and control for high swing speeds, maximizing distance and accuracy.
It’s important to note that these recommendations are general guidelines and can vary based on factors such as swing tempo, release point, and personal preference.
It’s always recommended to visit a professional club fitter who can assess your swing characteristics and provide personalized recommendations for the most suitable shaft flex for your game. The swing speed golf shaft flex chart provided here may not be 100% accurate for all players.
Swing Speed vs. Shaft Flex
Swing speed and shaft flex are interconnected concepts, but in general, they are distinct aspects of club fitting. Swing speed primarily influences distance and ball flight, while shaft flex affects the feel, control, and timing of the club.
Swing speed refers to the speed at which your clubhead is traveling when it makes contact with the golf ball. It is measured in miles per hour (mph) or kilometers per hour (km/h) whereas, shaft flex refers to the amount of bend or flexibility in the golf club’s shaft.
Perhaps the only factor they have in common is the impact on distance. Both swing speed and shaft flex have an impact on the distance you can achieve with your golf shots. Finding the right balance between your swing speed and shaft flex can optimize your distance potential.
We have broken down the different stiffness letters to help you better understand. If you see different alphabetical letters on your clubs, this is what they mean:
Extra Stiff (X)
Longer hitters will often use the extra stiff shaft due to the swing speed they generate through the swing. The extra stiff shaft can often be indicated by an “X” on the golf club.
You must ensure you are a longer hitter, as having a too stiff shaft could diminish your loft and control over shots.
You might often see tour professionals prefer the extra stiff shaft. Legendary player Ben Hogan is one of these players and with his specific swing style and technique, the extra stiff shaft served the player well.
If you want to improve your game and perhaps consider the extra stiffer shafts, you should learn the specific swing style and control.
Stiff (S)
You will notice the stiff shaft being used by most players, especially the low handicappers, who might be gunning for a professional level. The stiff shaft is ideal for those that can breach the 250-yard range and will be functional with the right swing speed.
Regular (R)
You might find that most new players are often recommended the regular shaft. The shaft does not bend as much, but will still give you a slight bit of flex to ensure optimal momentum is achieved.
High handicappers from the male side should consider these to ensure they can attain a good range.
Senior (A/M)
As the name would suggest, the more senior and older players will use this flex shaft for their game. It gives the perfect flex needed for players that lack some swing speed.
You will often notice the letter “A” as well. This is also referred to as the flex that should be used by entry-level players or “amateurs”.
Ladies (L)
Finally, you can find the ladies flex on your golf club and these clubs will offer the optimal flex for female players. Many male players might also be able to use this flex for their shaft.
It is best for players that struggle to crack the 200-yard range with a driver. However, you might integrate it with other clubs you own.
Other differences to consider when understanding the swing speed chart for shaft flex are the following:
Influence on Ball Flight
Swing speed primarily influences the initial launch speed and overall ball flight. A higher swing speed generally results in a higher launch angle and longer distance.
On the contrary, shaft flex affects the timing and bending of the shaft during the swing, which in turn influences the club head’s position at impact and the trajectory of the ball.
Club Control
Swing speed is closely associated with your ability to control the clubhead and strike the ball consistently. It determines the timing and tempo of your swing.
Shaft flex, on the other hand, affects the club’s feel and responsiveness, which can impact your ability to control the club face and square it at impact.
Fitting Considerations
Swing speed is a primary factor considered during a club fitting to determine the appropriate shaft flex. It helps match the shaft’s characteristics with your swing characteristics.
Shaft flex, however, involves a more detailed assessment of your swing tempo, release point, and other factors to determine the optimal flex that suits your swing.
Factors to Consider in Swing Speed for Shaft Flex Chart
There are various aspects you should consider when comparing the swing speed versus the shaft flex. While a club head speed shaft flex chart driver may provide useful information, it would be best to take into account these factors to better understand what you need based on your abilities.
Swing Speed Range
The swing speed range is a crucial factor to consider when determining the appropriate shaft flex. Different shaft flexes are designed to accommodate different swing speeds, ensuring optimal energy transfer and clubhead performance.
The driver swing speed shaft flex chart for you to find the right shaft flex based on your speed range.
Tempo and Transition
Your tempo and transition refer to the rhythm and timing of your swing. Tempo relates to the overall speed and smoothness of your swing, while transition refers to the moment when you change direction from the backswing to the downswing.
These factors influence how you load and unload the shaft during your swing. A smoother tempo and a more gradual transition may benefit from a different shaft flex compared to a faster tempo and a more abrupt transition.
Swing Type
Every golfer has a unique swing type, characterized by factors such as swing plane, swing path, and clubhead delivery. The swing type influences how the shaft responds and flexes during the swing.
For example, a player with a more aggressive swing might require a stiffer shaft flex to handle the increased force, while a player with a smoother swing might benefit from a more flexible shaft to maximize clubhead speed.
Release Point
The release point refers to the point in the downswing where the golfer releases the clubhead through impact. Some golfers have an early release, where the clubhead releases before the ball, while others have a late release, where the release occurs after the ball.
The timing of the release can affect the optimal shaft flex, as a different flex may be required to optimize launch conditions and ball flight for each release type.
Shot Dispersion
Shot dispersion is the pattern of your ball flight and how consistently you hit your desired target. It is influenced by various factors, including swing speed, shaft flex, and swing characteristics.
Analyzing your shot dispersion can provide insights into whether your current shaft flex is appropriate or if a different flex might help improve consistency and accuracy. Adjusting the shaft flex based on shot dispersion patterns can lead to tighter dispersion and more consistent ball flight.
Finding the Ideal Shaft Flex for Your Swing Speed
After taking a look at the swing speed vs shaft flex chart, it’s time to explore other elements to find the ideal shaft flex for your swing speed. This process involves a combination of self-assessment and professional guidance.
Below you can find a step-by-step guide on how to determine the appropriate shaft flex for your case:
Measure Your Swing Speed
Use a launch monitor or visit a professional club fitter to measure your swing speed. This will provide you with an accurate baseline to work with. Swing speed is typically measured in miles per hour (mph) or kilometers per hour (km/h).
Determine Your Swing Characteristics
Assess your swing characteristics, including tempo, transition, and release point. Determine whether your swing is smooth or aggressive, the timing of your transition, and the point at which you release the club through impact. This self-assessment will provide insights into how you load and unload the shaft during your swing.
Consult Swing Speed for Shaft Flex Charts
Refer to swing speed shaft flex chart irons or any other club type provided by golf equipment manufacturers or reputable sources. These charts offer general guidelines on the recommended shaft flex based on your swing speed. Identify the flex options corresponding to your swing speed range.
Consider Other Factors
Take into account other factors such as your swing type, shot dispersion pattern, and personal preferences. Assess whether you have a smoother or more aggressive swing, the consistency of your ball flight, and any preferences you may have for a particular feel or ball flight trajectory.
Seek Professional Assistance
For a more accurate assessment, consult with a professional club fitter or golf instructor. They can analyze your swing in person, consider all the relevant factors, and recommend the ideal shaft flex for your game.
A club fitting session may involve testing different shafts with varying flex options to observe the performance and find the best match.
Test and Evaluate
Once you have narrowed down your options, test different clubs or shafts with the recommended flexes. Pay attention to the feel, ball flight, distance, and shot consistency.
Testing on a driving range or with a launch monitor can provide valuable data to evaluate the performance of each shaft flex and make an informed decision.
You can refer again to the driver swing speed shaft flex chart if you need more clarification. This way, you can experiment with different options until you find the perfect club for you. Most companies provide such information, such as the TaylorMade swing speed shaft flex chart.
Finding the ideal shaft flex is a process that involves a lot of experimentation and fine-tuning. It is essential to strike a balance between the recommendations of your swing speed shaft flex chart 7 iron and your personal feel and preferences.
Since replacing the shafts can be daunting, you might also want to consider a club-fitter. These experts will be more knowledgeable in helping you find the ideal shaft for your golf club.
A basic tool like the Golf Club Shaft Puller Extractor will be a useful tool to consider when you need to make changes and replace the shafts.
What shaft flex for 100 mph swing speed?
For a swing speed of 100 mph, a golfer would typically benefit from a shaft flex categorized as “stiff” or “extra stiff.” These flexes are designed to handle higher swing speeds and provide more control and stability during the swing.
What is the swing speed for a regular flex shaft?
A regular flex shaft is generally suitable for golfers with a swing speed in the range of 85 to 95 mph. It offers a balance between flexibility and control, providing a comfortable feel and good performance for many golfers.
If your swing speed falls within this range, a regular flex shaft is likely to work well for you.
Does the swing speed determine shaft flex?
Yes, the swing speed is one of the main factors that determine the appropriate shaft flex for a golfer. Shaft flex is chosen based on the golfer’s swing characteristics, and swing speed is a key component of those characteristics.
Someone with a faster swing speed commonly requires a stiffer shaft flex to optimize performance. A great example can be the ust New Proforce V2 HL (HIGH Launch) Golf Shaft.
In contrast, someone with a slower swing speed may need a more flexible shaft to generate more clubhead speed and distance. A great choice could be the Aldila NXT GEN NVS 55 Graphite Wood Shaft.
However, it’s important to note that swing speed is not the sole factor determining shaft flex, as other factors such as tempo, transition, swing type, and release point also come into play.
