In the field of golf club technology, the golf shaft still retains a certain air of mystery. Robotic testing of shafts has provided a useful insight into the complexity of shaft dynamics during the golf swing, adding to our understanding of flex, torque, bend point, spine characteristics, etc. However the real challenge for the equipment professional is to figure out how best to match these shaft characteristics to the human golf swing, which can be as variable as life itself. For this reason golf shaft-fitting is still not an exact science.

At Applied Golf Technology we first discuss the issue with the player in order to find out why he or she is considering a shaft change. Are they seeking more distance, greater control, or a better feel? We then measure certain swing parameters, including clubhead speed, tempo, swing path, clubface angle, etc., and assess their swing fundamentals, timing ability and method of generating power. With this information we can then suggest a range of shafts which could achieve the player’s desired objectives. In the final stage of our shaft-fitting process, the player will test hit these selected shafts under controlled conditions to see which one performs and feels the best.

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