Many myths and hypotheses are running around the underworld of golf about the importance of golf shaft flex, but does flex even matter?
In this article, you will discover the reasons why golf shaft flex may matter, as well as ways to choose a golf shaft flex as a starting point before getting professionally fitted by an expert.
Why Does Golf Shaft Flex Matter?
In the golf world, there are some myths that pretend that golf shaft flex affects ball speed, ball path, and makes certain types of shots easier, but those statements are not necessarily true.
To understand golf shaft flex, you need to understand torque. Torque is one of the measurements of golf shaft flex. Its unit is the degree. Torque measures how many degrees the golf shaft will twist during a golf swing. The higher the golf torque, the softer the shaft will feel to the golf player, because it will twist more. The lower the torque, the lower the golf ball trajectory.
Golf shaft flex is more a matter of personal preference discovered through trial and error. Some golf flexes will personally allow you to hit the ball a bit faster and further, depending on who you are along with your swing mechanics.
To avoid spending heaps of money buying many golf clubs to test how far you can hit golf balls with them, you can get your golf clubs fitted (choosing which golf clubs will optimize your game) by a trained professional. A professional golf club fitter will help you find out the best golf clubs for your game, and will save you money and frustration while maximizing performance.
What Golf Shaft Flex Should I Use?
In golf, there are 2 main types of shafts: steel shafts, and graphite shafts.
Steel shafts are typically heavier and less expensive. Steel shafts will give you more control and accuracy, at the expense of carry distance.
Steel shafts are recommended for golf players with normal swing speeds, or who wish for more control.
On the other hand, graphite shafts are more expensive, but much lighter, and offer a premium feel. Graphite shafts weigh about half the weight of steel shafts, but that comes at the expense of durability; graphite shafts use less material in their construction to be lightweight, which weakens their structural integrity.
Graphite shafts give greater swing speed thanks to their lightweight constructions, which results in more power. How, you are sacrificing control due to the increased flex. Graphite shafts are usually easier to play with for women, seniors and kids, when it comes to shooting golf balls further away.
Down below is a list of flex ratings that are common on the market.
| Golf Flex Abbreviation | Meaning |
| XS | Extra Stiff |
| S | Stiff |
| R | Regular |
| S | Senior |
| L | Ladies |
| J | Junior |
As a very rough general guideline, you can follow the chart below to get a starting point most likely to be suited for you. However, it is possible that the flex you get in this chart will not be the best for you.
| Your Swing Speed (mph) | Your Carry Distance (yards) | Your Ideal Flex |
| <75 | <200 | Senior/Ladies/Junior |
| 75-95 | 200-245 | Regular |
| 95-105 | 245-285 | Stiff |
| >105 | >285 | Extra Stiff |
Follow this flex chart, and try many golf clubs or get professionally fitted to get the best golf club for your game. Getting the right golf club for you, regardless of shaft flex, will help you get the best performance and give you an edge over your competition.
Conclusion
There you go! After reading this article, you have learned what golf shaft flex is in this sport, and whether or not golf shaft flex matters. Furthermore, you have learned which golf shaft flex you should use, and seen some charts to help you choose your starting flex.
Remember that the best way to find the best golf clubs and shaft flex for you is to get professionally fitted by an expert.
What is your preferred golf shaft flex? How did you find out your preferred golf shaft flex? Let us know in the comments down below!
