Shaft question?

Question

Why do you have stiff and regular shafts? I have a stiff in my driver and a regular in my 3 wood. Hwat happens when you have too stiff or not stiff enough of a shaft?

Answer 1

The faster your swing, the stiffer your shaft.

Answer 2

The difference between shafts is not a huge deal. It can be the difference of 10 yards. The flex of a shaft determines ball flight much like club loft does. The stiffer the shaft the lower the trajectory. Esentially it de-lofts your club. It desn't do much to the ball flight in terms of lateral spin. Do know however that because stiffer shafts de-loft your clubface you have a club that has to be struck better than a club set up for a higher trajectory ball flight because it will accentuate the flaws in your swing(i.e. slice/hook) much more than a high trajectory shot. Other reasons for choosing one flex over the other are that the stiffness gives you a certain feel. I play an Aldila NV XS or extra stiff on my driver. It does not affect ball flight in terms of lateral movement it however affects how the club feels. What it feels like is that it is more of "one piece." Which is what I prefer. My swing speeds vary from 105 into the 110s at certain points which traditionally does not warrant an XS. However the feel is what I am after so thats why I use it. If it works for you then keep it that way. If you use your 3w a lot out of grass lies (fairways, steppe cut, light rough) keep it regular because it will help you rescue the ball from its ground lie. If you like to use your 3w from the tee a lot then stiff might be better because it would be a lower trajectory and roll out. But do know that changing flex will not cure your hook or slice, you gotta do that on the range.

Answer 3

If you've been properly fitted for your clubs, you'll most likely have a consistent flex throughout your set..meaning they'll all be a stiff, or regular etc.

The shaft flex you should play is determined by your swing speed mainly.  Generally, the faster your swing speed, the stiffer the club you should use.  Many amateurs play too stiff of a shaft, mainly because of ego.  They think they swing the club faster and harder than they do.  Playing a shaft that is too stiff will not allow the shaft to release and you'll usually push or slice the ball.  Opposite if you're using a shaft with too much flex. If your swing speed is in the 90-115mph speeds,a stiff shaft will be what you need..otherwise regular flex should be correct for you.