How do I choose a driver shaft flex?
John Hall
Updated on February 19, 2026
How do I choose a driver shaft flex?
Here are some general guidelines:
- Take a look at the distance you hit your driver.
- If you have a very smooth swing, you might benefit from a softer flex even if you swing fast.
- If your drives go left, you might benefit from a stiffer flex; if your drives go right, you might benefit from a softer flex.
What is a good shaft flex?
If you’re between 97 and 104 mph with the driver, you need a stiff flex. Regular – Now we are getting into the range where a majority of recreational golfers fall, and also where many LPGA pros fall. If you’re between 84 and 96 mph, regular is going to be best for you.
What does 5.0 shaft flex mean?
Regular – 5.0. Regular Plus – 5.5. Stiff – 6.0. Extra Stiff – 6.5. Extra Stiff Plus – 7.0.
Does driver shaft flex make a difference?
The Results. The data that we collected shows that it is plausible that a softer or more flexible shaft can produce more distance. In our group averages, the regular flex shaft created a little more club head speed, more ball speed, and a slightly higher smash factor.
What flex should a beginner use?
But if a beginner player already has a decent swing motion and generates clubhead speed between the range of 95 to 110 mph or more, then a stiff shaft or extra stiff shaft could be justified to be used by a beginner golfer.
When should I switch to senior flex shafts?
If your swing speed is between 75 and 85 miles per hour, then you will need a senior shaft. If you are between 85 and 95 miles per hour, then the regular shaft will be the best choice. You can get your swing speed measured at a local golf fitting center.
Is senior flex good for beginners?
Senior flex can be an excellent choice for beginners with slower swing speeds and can benefit from this type of technology.
What is a 4.5 shaft flex?
Yes the 4.5 means senior shaft the 70 means the grams and the flex of the shaft that’s what the guy from Mizuno told me like 70 is extra stiff the way I understood it is that right or wrong thank you.
Is Stiff flex good for beginners?
Beginners may acquire clubs from friends or family and not consider the flex of their shafts. Shaft options include senior, ladies, regular, firm, stiff, x-stiff. Length – shafts can be cut different lengths – for most beginners, standard length is fine, unless you are an abnormal height.
Will a stiff shaft add distance?
Tip 2: Check Your Average Driving Distance If you have a good swing but your average distance is short, there is a problem with your shaft flex. If the shaft flex is too stiff, your average distance will remain low.
Can beginners use stiff shaft?
Beginner golfers are as individual as advanced players; club speed and ball flight should determine which shaft is best. An athletic beginner golfer–a professional baseball player, for example–could generate enough club speed to be fit for a stiff shaft.
Should beginners use stiff or regular shafts?
Who should use stiff flex irons? The starting point for this is swing speed, if you swing your driver between 90-105 mph then you will probably need a stiff shaft. This will benefit you by delivering great control of your club during your swing and stop you spraying it everywhere.