Every shaft has a Torque Rating, which describes the amount the shaft will twist during the swing. It is the torque that determines how the shaft feels. Example: An "R" flex shaft with a low torque will feel stiffer than an "R" flex shaft with a high torque.
HOW TO CHOOSE: The Torque Rating of any shaft will change the Swing Speed Rating and feel of the shaft. A Regular Flex shaft with a Torque Rating of 5 degrees will have a Swing Speed Rating lower than a Regular Flex shaft with a Torque of 3 degrees. The higher torque shaft will also have a softer feel. You have to decide what you need - for example, I swing my irons at about 80 to 85 mph, so my shafts are Regular Flex with a low torque (approximately 2.5 degrees). I chose this type of shaft because I prefer a stiff feel in my irons. If I preferred a softer feel, I would have used a Stiff Flex with a high Torque of about 5 or 6 degrees.
Shaft Length
Once the shaft is installed, you must then determine the proper length. This is just as important as flex, torque or anything else to do with the shaft.
HOW TO DETERMINE LENGTH: To determine the length of your club, stand at attention and have someone measure from the crease where your wrist and hand meet to the floor. Do this with both hands and take an average.
If you measure:
• 29 to 32 inches, your irons should be based on a 5-iron of 37 inches
• 33-34 inches, your irons should be based on a 5-iron of 37 1/2 inches
• 35-36 inches, your irons should be based on a 5-iron of 38 inches
• 37-38 inches, your irons should be based on a 5-iron of 38 1/2 inches
• 39-40 inches, your irons should be based on a 5-iron of 39 inches
• 41 or more inches, your irons should be based on a 5-iron of 39 1/2 inches
I hope the above will help in choosing your next shaft replacement or help in choosing your next set of new clubs. I suggest that you see a reputable clubfitter to help you make the right decision. You can then purchase and install your own shafts or have a professional do it for you.
About the Author
Dennis Mack is a certified Class A Clubmaker who served as the golf pro at Como Golf Club in Hudson, Quebec, from 1993-97, and has been in the retail golf business since 1997. He can be reached via email.
