HumanGolf.com

By Roger Fagan

Q. Is shaft weight an important factor?

A. Shaft weight is one of the most obvious factors in determining weight of any or all golf clubs.

The club head and grip weights always vary due to every individual golfer’s needs. For instance, if a golfer needs more swing weight (head weight) or a larger grip size (grip weight). These custom weights are available in a lot of different units but the weight measurement units of the shaft are still much more variable.

Currently shafts of weight 130g (4.6oz) down to about 40g (1.4oz) are widely available to purchase. When a player changes from a steel shaft to graphite, the weight change will be at least 50g (1.75oz).

All golfers should be aware that shot distance is related to the speed of the swing (club head speed). The lighter the overall weight of the club, the higher the speed of the swing will be.

Important: Be aware of the fact that the swing weight of any club has to be matched with physique (strength, tempo, experience, etc.) of the golfer using that particular club. If a golfer uses a club of any major weight difference, the golfer will tend to be less accurate at striking the sweet spot, resulting in off-center hits. This will ultimately result in less distance and off-target shots. It is best to change the weight of clubs as minimally as possible; adjust your pre-shot routine accordingly and get familiar with the difference in feeling of the swing.

Roger Fagan is an avid golf enthusiast and he has taught hundreds of beginning golfers how to play better golf. Check out his cutting edge tips and video lessons on his site, golfingvalley.com.

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