Golf Shaft Flex Calculator
This golf shaft flex calculator follows what we do as PGA pros. We fit for the player’s needs and ball flight, not just swing speed. Here is the process we as coaches use to fit players:
- Observe your current ball flight.
- Ask your desired ball flight (shot shape and height).
- Ask your preference for more control or distance.
- Consider shaft flex, weight, torque and kick point to find a great fit.
I hope you find this cool and useful, but if you can, go find a great local pro for a fitting. Just leave a comment if this tool is useful or if you would like me to make any improvements.
Enjoy – Will
Understanding Shaft Specs
The shaft isn’t just about flex – there are three other key specs that affect how your clubs perform:
Torque
Measured in degrees (usually 2.5° to 5°), torque tells us how much the shaft resists twisting during your swing. Lower torque (2.5-3.5°) gives you more control but feels stiffer. Higher torque (4-5°) feels whippier but can help slower swingers square the face.
Most golfers swinging under 95mph will benefit from mid to high torque (3.5-5°). Faster swingers typically prefer lower torque for added control. However, this also depends on your shot shape, as additional toque can help reduce a slice. Low torque shafts are best if you struggle with a hook.
Kick point
This is where the shaft bends most during your swing. A low kick point helps get the ball up in the air, while a high kick point keeps it down. Here’s what you need to know:
- Low kick point: Best for slower swing speeds and those needing help with launch
- Mid kick point: Suits most golfers, offering balanced trajectory
- High kick point: Ideal for faster swingers who hit it too high
This is a term that has fallen out of fashion, as this is just one dimension that describes how and where the shaft bends. These days we tend to talk about a wider term called ‘shaft flex profile’.
Weight
Shaft weight affects both feel and performance. Lighter shafts (50-60g) help you swing faster but can feel less stable. Heavier shafts (70g+) offer more control but may slow your swing down.
As a guide:
- Under 85mph driver speed: 50-60g
- 85-95mph: 60-70g
- Over 95mph: 70g+
However, these also affect your ability to release the club and square up the club face. So you also need to consider your shot shape.
Shaft Fitting Variables
When fitting shafts, we look beyond just swing speed. Consider your ball flight and your desired balance between control and distance. I hope you find the tool on this page useful, but if possible head out and test shafts in person with a launch monitor to find out how they perform for your golf swing.
Happy golfing – Will