When I was fitted for my TSi4, I hit four or five stock shafts, none of which were standout performers. I tried one upgrade shaft, a Graphite Design AD6i and I stepped into a whole new world of performance and feel. I had zero hesitation in parting with the extra cash and better yet, zero buyers remorse.
Agreed! Potentially have the screen on to get an aim point and then turn it off or put a circle for your launch window. Then figure out which feels the best and gives the best performance.
I'm not sure turning the screen off is as great an idea as it is first thought. Unless you play golf in the dark, you are meant to adapt to what you see.. What would make the experiment better, is if the the shafts had a random order of play for their repeats. So not hitting x shots with number 1, then repeating with number 2. They should be randomly mixed, to limit warming up and fatigue bias.
That was brilliant Matt! The fact that there are some stock shafts among the best performing (including a regular stiff) indicates that good quality fitting can make a big difference. The tricky bit is finding a fitter with the required level of knowledge.
I love your excitement! I am a Middle School science teacher and I teach my students how to do "good" science. I enjoyed how you did this test and eliminated the placebo effect. Very good science sir. You posted all the numbers except for the "worst" one in the group. It was shaft #1.
Excellent! I loved the video. I have played a lot of golf for 51 years and have bought a lot of golf gear and I know what’s good for me through expensive trial & error. I have concluded that the “right shaft upgrade” will perform best in dispersion and distance. And he’s right, I knew after 3 balls which was the right shaft for me. If you’re going to buy the shaft upgrade, try at least 5 shafts.
From what I have watched in previous videos, the upcharge shafts did what they are designed for. Produce tighter dispersion and the ability to alter the flight of the ball. If I played 5 times a week and my hcp was dropping, the extra cost might be beneficial.
Just had my driver fitting! Tried every premium shaft, ended up with a stock shaft that feels amazing, what was more amazing is that I've been playing a 55g stiff shaft and ended up in a 75g stiff, So the weight was more important than anything when it came to the shaft. Also thought I would be in the more forgiving head, ended up in the lower spin head. Had my first round, couldn't be happier.
as a fitter i will say the lack of standard weight and flex in this video really effected the integrity of the experiment. the shaft selection pool should have been all in your fit flex and weight meaning as close to eachother as possible. (you essentially compared a 70g x stiff hzrdus black to a 54g regular ventus blue) with your swing speed of course the results and dispersions are going to be drastically different. i think it would’ve been a way more conclusive and interesting “feel” experiment to do this same format with all these shafts in the same flex and as close to the same weight as possible.
I've had some pretty trash fitters. Last one told me I really needed to get TOPSPIN on my driver for better distance. I figure they all read a pamphlet before clocking in for minimum wage and couldn't play golf if their lives depended on it. This was a good video as a blind comparison to a variety of shafts, flexes and weights although to be fair the majority of these were stiff flex.
I agree with your assessment. Doing a blind test with a stiff shaft versus a regular flex shaft is going to produce completely different results. And honestly, shafts can get to analysis by paralysis or whatever the cliche is. There are so many and the amount of data and information is beyond overwhelming to a guy who just wants to play golf. And what I've found after going around in circles with multiple shafts, is that the stock shaft in the PING G430 driver in the regular flex helps me hit the fairway more than any other shaft, and the distance is comparable to anything else out there. Just my opinion, but golfers tend to overthink everything in this game, rather than just trusting what they have and going with it. I have friends that show up with different equipment in their bag almost every time I play with them. Never happy, and never satisfied with anything. And another way of looking at that is that they never give certain clubs a chance to even break them in. They hit a couple of bad shots with something and they are off the golf store to trade it in. Insanity.
Custom shafts are worth the money if you get fit for it. The only thing I never understood, is why the company are not giving you back the stock shaft and/or any money compensation for not taking that stock shaft!
Best test here! Love how you even turned off the screen so it was all based on feel and each shaft differs from each player so it was nice to see what shafts work for you. I love testing new shafts. It’s like a game for me haha
While distance dispersion of 5-10 yards might mean something for a low handicapper, for everybody else, left-right dispersion is what makes the difference in reality. That VeloCore+ was tight as hell Left-Right and only about 12 yards in distance. They grouped right but that's pretty clearly an artifact of the test conditions (chiefly, no aiming point) not the shaft. What a farway seeker for the 5+ handicapper who is looking to put themselves in scoring positions. Clear winner.
Great video. I have the Tensi blue 55 stiff. Callaway Rogue draw driver. It my 3rd driver set up in the past year. Had the Ping G425 and 1st Stealth max. Callaway with Tensi blue best for me so far. 90 plus mph swing speed 225-230 or 240ish on a good day. 52 years old.
LOVED THIS VIDEO! Especially liked the screen being off. A blind test for feel and sound is probably the best idea going. I might try to do something similar. Just have them turn off the screen. Don’t really care about the name on the shaft, just feel and sound. Thanks!
Exactly how fittings should be right here. Especially not seeing the flight. I will say when I buy a new driver I always get the stock shaft that similar to what I would play in my Ventus, I pay 350 whether I buy the shaft from a manufacturer or another source. I might as well get another shaft for the same place and give it a try
I had a driver fitting recently and I feel like fitters should rename them to "driver shaft fitting" because I ended up just using my same driver head with the new shaft that was fitted and it has made a huge difference. There seems to be way more performance improvement potential in choosing a shaft vs. choosing a driver head.
All shaft testing should be like this and just because a premium shaft comes out as the best doesn't mean it performed "substantially" better than a stock shaft to warrant to upgrade cost. If it doesn't, I would not spend the extra money for it. Enjoyed thhe test. Cheers.
As someone who's going in for his first-ever fitting next month, this was really helpful. The choices are so overwhelming, and I'm always worried that the fitter is going to talk me into the most expensive options. Thanks for this breakdown!
I’m will get fitted this summer. Worried about the integrity too. Love to see a video on what to expect. How to choose/ know if you will be working with a “good” fitter.
I will get fitted this summer. Worried about the integrity too. Love to see a video on what to expect. How to choose/ know if you will be working with a “good” fitter.
You aren't obligated to buy clubs from a fitter although they usually offer you a discount. I paid $120 for an iron fitting a couple of years ago and didn't buy from the fitter. I left with plenty of information in terms of shafts, lie and loft and bought the irons that I wanted. Fitters in my area didn't carry the irons that I wanted. I'm happy with my new irons. My GIR improved 10%.
Yes, it absolutely makes a difference, everyones swing is different, shaft profiles work well for all sorts of people whether it be stock or aftermarket.
It's a tricky one, in as much as, buying new clubs is expensive enough, especially if you're buying 2 or 3 new clubs, the price then has a big influence on purchase, you're obviously not going to buy a shaft that feels wrong for your swing, but many folk can't afford to double the outlay, especially if there is a stock shaft that feels pretty decent. The other point is that, there is plenty of information out there, so if you do your research, you can narrow it down, so that you're buying a shaft that will fit you and your swing in the price range that suits your budget.
I have a Ping G425 Max driver that was flying to high and spinning waaaay to much, not to mention I was all over the yard with the stock shaft. I bought and installed a Fujikura Ventus Blue 6S shaft. I have gained a few yards in distance but now my dispersion is much tighter and I hit 10+ fairways a round these days. Wished I had done this sooner.
The shaft is truly the engine of the club. My Callaway Smoke Fast driver (I'm 75) came with a Mitsu Tensei 40 gm Flex-R2 shaft. It flexed like a noodle with terrible dispersion. Replaced it with a Mitsu Tensei K Carbon 50 gm Flex-R ($350) and Winn mid-size grip, and changed the weight from the factory 4 gm to 10 gms. Amazing difference! + 10-15% added distance, and best dispersion I have ever had with a driver. My previous driver was a Callaway Rogue Triple Diamond with the 14 gm weight, too heavy for the Smoke Fast - the 10 gm was perfect. BTW, the Rogue I found had a small sweet spot ;) - and poor dispersion for this senior.☺
I love this !!!!! As a feel player and a 1.2 index this was great to watch. So many players get caught up in the numbers and not how it feels . If the club and shaft does not feel good, you’re not going to hit that great in my experience. Plus a a lot of fitters will sell you the premium shaft because that’s where they make the money . We’ll done sir , great video .
Easily one of my favorite videos you've produced... having an OG Kai'li in the top 5 is awesome (use the 70X in my 3w); easily one of the best shafts ever made in my opinion, even 10+ years after it came out. Venus Black TR 6S in my driver, for reference.
2 weeks ago I was fitted for TPT shafts, I was not familiar with their numbering system. So in essence I was blindfolded because knowing the number meant nothing to me. I was fitted for a shaft the gave me 20 more yards. I picked it up today, but haven’t hit it yet. But shafts make a huge difference. I’m pretty excited about tomorrow. I will say that I got one that felt a lot “wimpier” than I was used to.
Hi Matt. Great video. On the Ventus shafts can you double check and make sure they all say Velocore near the tip section ? I saw some taylormade grips and their version is not a true velocore shaft
Great experiment. I play a premium shaft (Ventus black TR 6x). Makes a huge difference. Not so much distance, but amazing dispersion and control on the "bad shots".
Absolutely love the way that was done. You are doing great. From a data guy things like this I could watch for hours. Maybe in editing you can have the numbers on the bottom of the screen as you talk about your feel and thoughts.
I will say this is an excellent way to do a fitting. Something I should point out which I think you missed was with the venture 5r. If that's a non velocore shaft, then it's indeed a stock option! Second place to boot! Great review MSG!
This was neat!!! I really liked your dispersion with the 2024 Ventus blue. The right or left can be adjusted by you aiming. You seemed the most consistent w that one though, too.
Love this, I’m still gaming the original stealth but did go and get fit for a shaft (oct) awhile ago. Tried them ALL and landed on the Hzrdus black Gen 4 60 gram. Wasn’t an up charge shaft but it was the best fitting for me :).
Just fitted with the Ventus TR Blue 6X (phew got a little nervous when the clip started lol), upgrading from Tour AD MJ 6S. All stats across the line improved. Tried many other shafts, and it was a close call with Tour AD VF.
Absolutely LOVED this video. On so many levels. I play Tensei blue AV 65 R flex and am convinced its not good for me- my club speed is also 100 like you- I thought that Stiff was for faster swing speeds. But your video makes me wonder about trying some other shafts.
Great video and effort Mr SG.... As a follow up, id like to see the stock Ventus V Ventus velocore head to head. Perhaps red and blue but certainly blue... I have the stock blue in my TM, never tried the Velocore version. TM offer the upgrade but they "tip" the velocore, so not apples for apples. I think the stiffer tip would improve control and dispersion...
So I will say that I've generally not bought into thinking shaft matters, but I also just got a used graphite design from a local guy for a steal, and the way it loads is just really nice for me. There's definitely some merit to at least trying shafts because they all react differently to different people's swings. I still dont think I'd spend new money on the shaft upgrade, but it defintiely gives me the distance and flight I want, and feels great to swing. Its kind of down to how much you want to spend purely optimizing everything to your own golf game, I guess.
I've learned recently that using a softer flex shaft and lower loft gives me the best numbers. I'd love to try a ventus red 5R at 8-9 degrees and see what happens.
Well here is the thing most of us, and you most definitely, know---you are not joe average company tournament practice once a week golfer and that is why firstly you can tell the best fit for you and secondly why the upgrades work. The stock shafts are made for most golfers that fit into the broadest spectrum of all players not for those with grooved speed and contact . They are forgiving, soft tipoed and will maximize distance but at some cost. For me this is ballspeed and dispersion. Most particularly the latter. The average guy does not get fitted and probably would not get maximum benefit from doing so. I loved this video. I pay for the upgrade. It eliminates the equipment factor in my miss.
I went to a Club Champion for a driver fitting. The golf tech put the Project X VRTX Red 50 Wood Shaft on the Callaway AI Smoke Max Driver and my very first shot I boomed it and knew right away that was the shaft for me. I did like the way the stock shaft felt on it when I got it, but that Project X VRTX Red 50 shaft felt way better, I hit the ball way better, it looked way better, and the sound of the ball coming off the face was booming. Those are $250.00 shafts at Club Champion, but I am looking to see if I can find it for less money elsewhere.
Absolutely love these kind of test and content Matt. Would love if you would do different generations of driver heads as a series (at least 4) for every major brands.
There are often less expensive shafts that perform as well. The problem is finding them. Finding a good independent custom club fitter who has been in business for a while and has a large inventory of fitting shafts helps. I use old Penley shafts in my woods which I bought unused very inexpensively so I could try them. I bought several models in several flexs for testing. They perform well. They were originally very expensive shafts. I use a very stiff flex because these tend to be a little less stiff than they are marked and less flex is easier to control when my timing isn't perfect.
Excellent test Mr. Short Game! I was fitted into a PING G430 MAX last year, and the winning shaft for me in total distance, spin, and dispersion was a $100 upgrade Aldila NVS (2023 version). Again, for me, this shaft beat all the PING upgrades and half dozen $300+ options. If your fitter is good at his/her job, you'll get the right head shaft combo no matter the brand, model,, or price tag.
@@Pud56 Actually, the PING Alta CBs are made by Aldila (according to PING), but keep in mind that the company offers a number of free upgrades that are very solid just like other manufacturers. In my case, the best option for solid distance and fairway finding was the Aldila NVS.
I have the #1 on your list - got fitted at a good national chain - I'm a 10 HI - I LOVE this golf shaft. Thank you for proving my buying choice. And yes, I spent a lot of money on these. whew!
Exactly the same here. Insane though, that with the shaft upgrade, taxes and fitting fee, my new driver cost me $1,150. I paid it, but dang, it’s an expensive club.
Great video. I have that Tensei AV shaft that came in last in my 3 wood. I love it. Although I haven't tried anything else in it either. Maybe it's just the head.
Great video! Very interesting. How about doing a video on the Newton Motion Direct to Consumer Shafts? They advertise as being as good or better than the top expensive shafts. I have one for my PXG Driver and really like it. Test it out for us against other shafts and let's find out how good it performs for you.
Excellent video!! Great to know that several stock shafts performed nearly as well as the upgraded shafts! Putting my science hat on, I wonder how much the weight and texture of the chalk spray effected the overall performance of each shaft. At 340 grams of chalk for two cans, if you only get half the chalk on the shafts, you will have 18 to 20 grams of weight added to each shaft. Also, the chalked shaft probably has quite a bit more air drag that the smooth, non-chalked surface. While I don't believe those parameters effected your apples to apples testing, I do think that your (already impressive) numbers would have been even higher.
Love the video is good sir, over here in the UK hazard to smoke stock shaft. Loose spin is usually 60 g stock. 70 g that you tried is an upgrade and is an additional £120 here in the UK, technically not stuck but an upgrade. When are you coming over to the UK to do some Scottish Vlogs welcome for a roundhere in Glasgow any time 🏴🏌️♂️⛳️
Shafts definitely drive the club I found that I love my 65 gram stiff ust v2 proforce in my rouge st max head Cut down to 44 3/4” My fairways in reg have greatly improved
It's crazy that the Ventus shafts are over half the price of a new driver. I'm invariably going to try and find a stock shaft that gets the best results possible and spend the $350 on food and beer.
Such a cool test. I'm a big fan on Tensei shafts (have tensei shafts in my driver, 7w and hybrid). I wonder if i'd like them as much in a blind test like this.
The manufacturer's match the best shafts with their heads based on their testing keeping consumer cost in mind. A lot of the "stock" shafts if bought separately, are still $350+ but the manufacturer gets them at savings in bulk and sometimes a proprietary design to boot.
This is a good to great experiment. I'd like to see what you think of the Ventus OEM shafts. There are upgrades from a stock shaft but not the $300 velicore shafts. I put a Ventus OEM in my Ping right off the bat to see if it would help me out and between the forgiveness of the Ping G425 Max head and the Ventus Blue 6S OEM, I'm happy.
Great video, as always. Thanks. I just wished they were all the same length, weight, flex, and so on. I love the blind screen. This is how true club fittings should be done. Guys tend to cheat when they know what's coming.
If you're giving them away after I would be happy to take either of those two ventus regular shafts off your hand. Callaway has the new KaiLi version as a stick shaft now I got a red for a 3w it is a great shaft as a stock shaft for sure. Great Video
Great video, for meI will probably go with the stock one, because that has always worked for me, but if you get the chance to be fitted, go with the one that works best for me.
I used to golf with the Rogue Shaft on my PING Driver for about 2 years but last year I did a PING Tour Van fitting and they fitted me for the Tour 2.0 Chrome Shaft to help correct my left pull shot shape because of how the shaft is designed... This year when I upgraded to a Sacks Parente Putter, they also sent me two premium Newton Driver Demo Shafts (4 Dot and 5 Dot) who they're partnered with. These shafts are $250 and are designed to help with dispersion and distance... Before looking at the numbers I liked the feel of the 4 Dot better based on how the flex felt in the backswing since the 5 Dot felt a little too stiff for me. On average, I swing the club about 105.8mph but if I can get my swing speed to 110+ if I spread my stance a little more. I tested these shafts for 30min at X Golf and hit 5-10 balls with each shaft two different times just so I get the most accurate data as my body loosened up. After testing the shafts, the 4 Dot gave me an extra 10yards in distance compared to my Tour 2.0 Shaft whereas the 5 Dot gave me an extra 8yards in distance compared to the Tour 2.0 Shaft but both drastically improved my dispersion.... It's definitely worth exploring the premium shafts if you can afford the $250-$350, just need to justify if "X" results warrants the added sticker price. I ended up purchasing the 4 Dot primarily because of how incredible the dispersion was and the added distance was just another benefit.
Hi Matt, Love your videos your energy is awesome. I didn't hear what shaft you are currently using on your driver. And your pick for "Best Shaft" how does it compare to your current driver setup? Also I would like your thoughts on.... Rather than purchasing a new driver I would use my current driver head (Ping G400) and just purchase a new shaft. Maybe this would save some money?
I love this style of blind fitting, keep up the good work! I don’t mean to be negative……BUT…….isn’t it kind of irrelevant when ALL of the spin reads are in italics, meaning they are calculated and not actual reads? Ball speed testing is still relevant, however doesn’t this make the results null and void from a distance/dispersion perspective?
Good test but it also could have been that by the end of the testing (when you got to the high end shafts) you were then warmed up and hitting them better… just a thought
it seems the best shafts were all shafts that he is currently using also used in the past. it could be that he is used to hitting or is more familiar with the shafts that he selected to be the best
Am I missing something…? The 2024 Ventus dispersion is by far the best with top 3 or 4 distance. It appears to be far and away the best shaft. Shots were to the right but all extremely consistent
I'm looking to try the ventus TR red and blue, also the Hazrdus rdx blue. We'll see which one suit for me. Thanks for the video, that was very helpful!!!🥳🥳🥳
I have wrist/elbow issues so I play graphite iron shafts. Im also a 6 handicap and have a little speed so I want something heavy-ish. Ive been playing Aerotech FC115s for the past 4-5 years. Wanted to try something new and noticed Mizuno had the Mitsubishi MMT 105s at no upcharge. Made a huge difference in what I chose as had that not been the case I likely wouldve went Ping Blueprint S or Wilson Staff CB. The 105s were $60-70 per club upcharge with both.
I've played the Mitsubishi Diamana D+ Limited shafts in my Driver + Fairways and I cannot find a better feeling / more accurate shaft and they are not that expensive as they are the "stock versions" but I have heard they do not differ much if at all from the 300 dollar versions or maybe they've just come down in price since they've been out for a while.. I wish that one had been in mix. We're close to the same size an swing speed so it would have been cool to see that one.
When I was fitted for my TSi4, I hit four or five stock shafts, none of which were standout performers. I tried one upgrade shaft, a Graphite Design AD6i and I stepped into a whole new world of performance and feel. I had zero hesitation in parting with the extra cash and better yet, zero buyers remorse.
I just upgraded to a AD6S and I love mine.
All fittings should be like this.
Agreed! Potentially have the screen on to get an aim point and then turn it off or put a circle for your launch window. Then figure out which feels the best and gives the best performance.
Plus hit some irons in between
I tell some guys don’t look just hit it
Night and day between ventus and hazardous for me
I work at a golf shop and always put a little piece tape over stuff and say don’t look at this and every time without fail they look right away 😂
This was a great idea. I have watched thousands of fitting videos and have never seen this.
Turning the screen off is very smart.
Love this.
I'm not sure turning the screen off is as great an idea as it is first thought. Unless you play golf in the dark, you are meant to adapt to what you see.. What would make the experiment better, is if the the shafts had a random order of play for their repeats. So not hitting x shots with number 1, then repeating with number 2. They should be randomly mixed, to limit warming up and fatigue bias.
I think most players would hit better
That was brilliant Matt! The fact that there are some stock shafts among the best performing (including a regular stiff) indicates that good quality fitting can make a big difference. The tricky bit is finding a fitter with the required level of knowledge.
I love your excitement! I am a Middle School science teacher and I teach my students how to do "good" science. I enjoyed how you did this test and eliminated the placebo effect. Very good science sir. You posted all the numbers except for the "worst" one in the group. It was shaft #1.
Golf is Science...👍
2020-2022 gave you the best example since witch hunting of what science isn't. what a life.
Excellent! I loved the video. I have played a lot of golf for 51 years and have bought a lot of golf gear and I know what’s good for me through expensive trial & error. I have concluded that the “right shaft upgrade” will perform best in dispersion and distance. And he’s right, I knew after 3 balls which was the right shaft for me. If you’re going to buy the shaft upgrade, try at least 5 shafts.
You really put a ton of effort into that video. Really appreciate ya.
Good stuff.
From what I have watched in previous videos, the upcharge shafts did what they are designed for. Produce tighter dispersion and the ability to alter the flight of the ball. If I played 5 times a week and my hcp was dropping, the extra cost might be beneficial.
I would pay for a premium shaft but not $350. I'm going with the kai'li blue 60g, Stiff on my Cobra Aerojet LS
Every shaft reacts differently for each person
Just had my driver fitting! Tried every premium shaft, ended up with a stock shaft that feels amazing, what was more amazing is that I've been playing a 55g stiff shaft and ended up in a 75g stiff, So the weight was more important than anything when it came to the shaft. Also thought I would be in the more forgiving head, ended up in the lower spin head. Had my first round, couldn't be happier.
I appreciate this video format. I can tell a lot of work went into the design, scripting, shooting, and editing. 🎉
Best shaft review I’ve ever watched. So many others don’t take the time. Use different heads or settings etc. thank you!
as a fitter i will say the lack of standard weight and flex in this video really effected the integrity of the experiment. the shaft selection pool should have been all in your fit flex and weight meaning as close to eachother as possible. (you essentially compared a 70g x stiff hzrdus black to a 54g regular ventus blue) with your swing speed of course the results and dispersions are going to be drastically different. i think it would’ve been a way more conclusive and interesting “feel” experiment to do this same format with all these shafts in the same flex and as close to the same weight as possible.
I've had some pretty trash fitters. Last one told me I really needed to get TOPSPIN on my driver for better distance. I figure they all read a pamphlet before clocking in for minimum wage and couldn't play golf if their lives depended on it. This was a good video as a blind comparison to a variety of shafts, flexes and weights although to be fair the majority of these were stiff flex.
I agree with your assessment. Doing a blind test with a stiff shaft versus a regular flex shaft is going to produce completely different results. And honestly, shafts can get to analysis by paralysis or whatever the cliche is. There are so many and the amount of data and information is beyond overwhelming to a guy who just wants to play golf. And what I've found after going around in circles with multiple shafts, is that the stock shaft in the PING G430 driver in the regular flex helps me hit the fairway more than any other shaft, and the distance is comparable to anything else out there. Just my opinion, but golfers tend to overthink everything in this game, rather than just trusting what they have and going with it. I have friends that show up with different equipment in their bag almost every time I play with them. Never happy, and never satisfied with anything. And another way of looking at that is that they never give certain clubs a chance to even break them in. They hit a couple of bad shots with something and they are off the golf store to trade it in. Insanity.
Custom shafts are worth the money if you get fit for it. The only thing I never understood, is why the company are not giving you back the stock shaft and/or any money compensation for not taking that stock shaft!
Best test here! Love how you even turned off the screen so it was all based on feel and each shaft differs from each player so it was nice to see what shafts work for you. I love testing new shafts. It’s like a game for me haha
Had PX evenflow 5.5 in My Epic flash, just changed it to a 6.0 & what a difference ! much tighter dispersion.
While distance dispersion of 5-10 yards might mean something for a low handicapper, for everybody else, left-right dispersion is what makes the difference in reality. That VeloCore+ was tight as hell Left-Right and only about 12 yards in distance. They grouped right but that's pretty clearly an artifact of the test conditions (chiefly, no aiming point) not the shaft. What a farway seeker for the 5+ handicapper who is looking to put themselves in scoring positions. Clear winner.
What a great comparison video!
Great video. I have the Tensi blue 55 stiff. Callaway Rogue draw driver. It my 3rd driver set up in the past year. Had the Ping G425 and 1st Stealth max. Callaway with Tensi blue best for me so far. 90 plus mph swing speed 225-230 or 240ish on a good day. 52 years old.
LOVED THIS VIDEO! Especially liked the screen being off. A blind test for feel and sound is probably the best idea going. I might try to do something similar. Just have them turn off the screen. Don’t really care about the name on the shaft, just feel and sound. Thanks!
Good test. Makes me feel good about my Ventus TR purchase yesterday 😂
This is called confirmation bias. Just because he liked it doesn't mean you should too. Hope it all works out though! :D
Exactly how fittings should be right here. Especially not seeing the flight. I will say when I buy a new driver I always get the stock shaft that similar to what I would play in my Ventus, I pay 350 whether I buy the shaft from a manufacturer or another source. I might as well get another shaft for the same place and give it a try
I really enjoyed this video. I was surprised the after market shafts were so better. Very fair test!
I had a driver fitting recently and I feel like fitters should rename them to "driver shaft fitting" because I ended up just using my same driver head with the new shaft that was fitted and it has made a huge difference. There seems to be way more performance improvement potential in choosing a shaft vs. choosing a driver head.
All shaft testing should be like this and just because a premium shaft comes out as the best doesn't mean it performed "substantially" better than a stock shaft to warrant to upgrade cost. If it doesn't, I would not spend the extra money for it. Enjoyed thhe test. Cheers.
Would you do a review with the Newton shaft. Loved this review
Liked the video. It’s nice to see you compare all these shafts.
As someone who's going in for his first-ever fitting next month, this was really helpful. The choices are so overwhelming, and I'm always worried that the fitter is going to talk me into the most expensive options. Thanks for this breakdown!
I’m will get fitted this summer. Worried about the integrity too.
Love to see a video on what to expect. How to choose/ know if you will be working with a “good” fitter.
I will get fitted this summer. Worried about the integrity too.
Love to see a video on what to expect. How to choose/ know if you will be working with a “good” fitter.
You aren't obligated to buy clubs from a fitter although they usually offer you a discount. I paid $120 for an iron fitting a couple of years ago and didn't buy from the fitter. I left with plenty of information in terms of shafts, lie and loft and bought the irons that I wanted. Fitters in my area didn't carry the irons that I wanted. I'm happy with my new irons. My GIR improved 10%.
Yes, it absolutely makes a difference, everyones swing is different, shaft profiles work well for all sorts of people whether it be stock or aftermarket.
It's a tricky one, in as much as, buying new clubs is expensive enough, especially if you're buying 2 or 3 new clubs, the price then has a big influence on purchase, you're obviously not going to buy a shaft that feels wrong for your swing, but many folk can't afford to double the outlay, especially if there is a stock shaft that feels pretty decent.
The other point is that, there is plenty of information out there, so if you do your research, you can narrow it down, so that you're buying a shaft that will fit you and your swing in the price range that suits your budget.
I have a Ping G425 Max driver that was flying to high and spinning waaaay to much, not to mention I was all over the yard with the stock shaft. I bought and installed a Fujikura Ventus Blue 6S shaft. I have gained a few yards in distance but now my dispersion is much tighter and I hit 10+ fairways a round these days. Wished I had done this sooner.
The shaft is truly the engine of the club. My Callaway Smoke Fast driver (I'm 75) came with a Mitsu Tensei 40 gm Flex-R2 shaft. It flexed like a noodle with terrible dispersion. Replaced it with a Mitsu Tensei K Carbon 50 gm Flex-R ($350) and Winn mid-size grip, and changed the weight from the factory 4 gm to 10 gms. Amazing difference! + 10-15% added distance, and best dispersion I have ever had with a driver. My previous driver was a Callaway Rogue Triple Diamond with the 14 gm weight, too heavy for the Smoke Fast - the 10 gm was perfect. BTW, the Rogue I found had a small sweet spot ;) - and poor dispersion for this senior.☺
I love this !!!!! As a feel player and a 1.2 index this was great to watch. So many players get caught up in the numbers and not how it feels . If the club and shaft does not feel good, you’re not going to hit that great in my experience. Plus a a lot of fitters will sell you the premium shaft because that’s where they make the money . We’ll done sir , great video .
Easily one of my favorite videos you've produced... having an OG Kai'li in the top 5 is awesome (use the 70X in my 3w); easily one of the best shafts ever made in my opinion, even 10+ years after it came out. Venus Black TR 6S in my driver, for reference.
2 weeks ago I was fitted for TPT shafts, I was not familiar with their numbering system. So in essence I was blindfolded because knowing the number meant nothing to me. I was fitted for a shaft the gave me 20 more yards. I picked it up today, but haven’t hit it yet. But shafts make a huge difference. I’m pretty excited about tomorrow. I will say that I got one that felt a lot “wimpier” than I was used to.
Not surprised. That Ventus TR shaft is penominal.
This is exactly how fittings should go and testing! Blind both ways. Awesome video!
What a great vid!!! Well done, informative and entertaining!
Hi Matt. Great video. On the Ventus shafts can you double check and make sure they all say Velocore near the tip section ? I saw some taylormade grips and their version is not a true velocore shaft
Great experiment. I play a premium shaft (Ventus black TR 6x). Makes a huge difference. Not so much distance, but amazing dispersion and control on the "bad shots".
Great work on this one Mr. Short Game. You put in a lot of time to bring us great video's. thanks
Glad you confirmed your instincts were spot on. Shows you have good command of your swing.
Absolutely love the way that was done. You are doing great. From a data guy things like this I could watch for hours. Maybe in editing you can have the numbers on the bottom of the screen as you talk about your feel and thoughts.
I will say this is an excellent way to do a fitting.
Something I should point out which I think you missed was with the venture 5r. If that's a non velocore shaft, then it's indeed a stock option! Second place to boot!
Great review MSG!
Ventus not venture .....lol
Great chalk paint idea! Many videos showing marginal benefits between Ventus oem vs velocore.
This was neat!!! I really liked your dispersion with the 2024 Ventus blue. The right or left can be adjusted by you aiming. You seemed the most consistent w that one though, too.
Love this, I’m still gaming the original stealth but did go and get fit for a shaft (oct) awhile ago. Tried them ALL and landed on the Hzrdus black Gen 4 60 gram. Wasn’t an up charge shaft but it was the best fitting for me :).
Just fitted with the Ventus TR Blue 6X (phew got a little nervous when the clip started lol), upgrading from Tour AD MJ 6S. All stats across the line improved. Tried many other shafts, and it was a close call with Tour AD VF.
The most interesting driver shaft video I have seen so far!
Mr Short Game for the WIN! You've become my favorite tuber man! Keep um comin!
Love this, just wish the grips were all the same! That ventus blue TR is the only with a blue butt on the grip.
Absolutely LOVED this video. On so many levels. I play Tensei blue AV 65 R flex and am convinced its not good for me- my club speed is also 100 like you- I thought that Stiff was for faster swing speeds. But your video makes me wonder about trying some other shafts.
Great video and effort Mr SG....
As a follow up, id like to see the stock Ventus V Ventus velocore head to head. Perhaps red and blue but certainly blue...
I have the stock blue in my TM, never tried the Velocore version. TM offer the upgrade but they "tip" the velocore, so not apples for apples. I think the stiffer tip would improve control and dispersion...
Ian Fraser and Matt Blois with Club Champion did this test a couple of years ago. Tighter face contact with the VeloCore
This was very informative and thanks for making it!!
So I will say that I've generally not bought into thinking shaft matters, but I also just got a used graphite design from a local guy for a steal, and the way it loads is just really nice for me. There's definitely some merit to at least trying shafts because they all react differently to different people's swings. I still dont think I'd spend new money on the shaft upgrade, but it defintiely gives me the distance and flight I want, and feels great to swing. Its kind of down to how much you want to spend purely optimizing everything to your own golf game, I guess.
I've learned recently that using a softer flex shaft and lower loft gives me the best numbers. I'd love to try a ventus red 5R at 8-9 degrees and see what happens.
I just bought a new 2024 Ventus Blue velocore+ so seeing that super tight dispersion you had with it gives me even more confidence in my purchase 😅
Well here is the thing most of us, and you most definitely, know---you are not joe average company tournament practice once a week golfer and that is why firstly you can tell the best fit for you and secondly why the upgrades work.
The stock shafts are made for most golfers that fit into the broadest spectrum of all players not for those with grooved speed and contact . They are forgiving, soft tipoed and will maximize distance but at some cost. For me this is ballspeed and dispersion. Most particularly the latter.
The average guy does not get fitted and probably would not get maximum benefit from doing so.
I loved this video. I pay for the upgrade. It eliminates the equipment factor in my miss.
I went to a Club Champion for a driver fitting. The golf tech put the Project X VRTX Red 50 Wood Shaft on the Callaway AI Smoke Max Driver and my very first shot I boomed it and knew right away that was the shaft for me. I did like the way the stock shaft felt on it when I got it, but that Project X VRTX Red 50 shaft felt way better, I hit the ball way better, it looked way better, and the sound of the ball coming off the face was booming. Those are $250.00 shafts at Club Champion, but I am looking to see if I can find it for less money elsewhere.
This is awesome!! I wish everyone would do this kind of stuff on their videos!
Would love to see a mid-range h/cap hit the same shafts and see if the results change. Keith
great video! thanks! for my play stock shaft is the choice! differences are not so big!
Absolutely love these kind of test and content Matt. Would love if you would do different generations of driver heads as a series (at least 4) for every major brands.
what a great video the shaft is everything
There are often less expensive shafts that perform as well. The problem is finding them. Finding a good independent custom club fitter who has been in business for a while and has a large inventory of fitting shafts helps. I use old Penley shafts in my woods which I bought unused very inexpensively so I could try them. I bought several models in several flexs for testing. They perform well. They were originally very expensive shafts. I use a very stiff flex because these tend to be a little less stiff than they are marked and less flex is easier to control when my timing isn't perfect.
Excellent test Mr. Short Game! I was fitted into a PING G430 MAX last year, and the winning shaft for me in total distance, spin, and dispersion was a $100 upgrade Aldila NVS (2023 version). Again, for me, this shaft beat all the PING upgrades and half dozen $300+ options. If your fitter is good at his/her job, you'll get the right head shaft combo no matter the brand, model,, or price tag.
Anything is better than a Ping stock shaft, they are dreadful
@@Pud56 Actually, the PING Alta CBs are made by Aldila (according to PING), but keep in mind that the company offers a number of free upgrades that are very solid just like other manufacturers. In my case, the best option for solid distance and fairway finding was the Aldila NVS.
Great video, going for a shaft fitting next month, can’t wait to see the results
I have the #1 on your list - got fitted at a good national chain - I'm a 10 HI - I LOVE this golf shaft. Thank you for proving my buying choice. And yes, I spent a lot of money on these. whew!
Exactly the same here. Insane though, that with the shaft upgrade, taxes and fitting fee, my new driver cost me $1,150. I paid it, but dang, it’s an expensive club.
Was listening to Anthony's interview with LIV. Well done sir! Great questions!
Love this video Mr short ..finally a fair test of shaft ..my favourite is the Venus blue 6R ..can’t beat it..well done buddy
Great video. I have that Tensei AV shaft that came in last in my 3 wood. I love it. Although I haven't tried anything else in it either. Maybe it's just the head.
Great video! Very interesting.
How about doing a video on the Newton Motion Direct to Consumer Shafts? They advertise as being as good or better than the top expensive shafts. I have one for my PXG Driver and really like it.
Test it out for us against other shafts and let's find out how good it performs for you.
Excellent video!! Great to know that several stock shafts performed nearly as well as the upgraded shafts!
Putting my science hat on, I wonder how much the weight and texture of the chalk spray effected the overall performance of each shaft. At 340 grams of chalk for two cans, if you only get half the chalk on the shafts, you will have 18 to 20 grams of weight added to each shaft. Also, the chalked shaft probably has quite a bit more air drag that the smooth, non-chalked surface. While I don't believe those parameters effected your apples to apples testing, I do think that your (already impressive) numbers would have been even higher.
Love the video is good sir, over here in the UK hazard to smoke stock shaft. Loose spin is usually 60 g stock. 70 g that you tried is an upgrade and is an additional £120 here in the UK, technically not stuck but an upgrade. When are you coming over to the UK to do some Scottish Vlogs welcome for a roundhere in Glasgow any time 🏴🏌️♂️⛳️
Shafts definitely drive the club
I found that I love my 65 gram stiff ust v2 proforce in my rouge st max head
Cut down to 44 3/4”
My fairways in reg have greatly improved
It's crazy that the Ventus shafts are over half the price of a new driver. I'm invariably going to try and find a stock shaft that gets the best results possible and spend the $350 on food and beer.
Intriguing! Yes
The top shaft is mine, only in a 6X.
Such a cool test. I'm a big fan on Tensei shafts (have tensei shafts in my driver, 7w and hybrid). I wonder if i'd like them as much in a blind test like this.
The manufacturer's match the best shafts with their heads based on their testing keeping consumer cost in mind. A lot of the "stock" shafts if bought separately, are still $350+ but the manufacturer gets them at savings in bulk and sometimes a proprietary design to boot.
Great video...a super followup would be to do the same test using people with different swing speeds/tempos.
This is a good to great experiment. I'd like to see what you think of the Ventus OEM shafts. There are upgrades from a stock shaft but not the $300 velicore shafts. I put a Ventus OEM in my Ping right off the bat to see if it would help me out and between the forgiveness of the Ping G425 Max head and the Ventus Blue 6S OEM, I'm happy.
Great video, as always. Thanks. I just wished they were all the same length, weight, flex, and so on. I love the blind screen. This is how true club fittings should be done. Guys tend to cheat when they know what's coming.
If you're giving them away after I would be happy to take either of those two ventus regular shafts off your hand. Callaway has the new KaiLi version as a stick shaft now I got a red for a 3w it is a great shaft as a stock shaft for sure. Great Video
Thank you for your hard work. This was quite revealing. Obvious a fitting would be in order. Love your content. I always look forward to your posts.
Great video, for meI will probably go with the stock one, because that has always worked for me, but if you get the chance to be fitted, go with the one that works best for me.
I used to golf with the Rogue Shaft on my PING Driver for about 2 years but last year I did a PING Tour Van fitting and they fitted me for the Tour 2.0 Chrome Shaft to help correct my left pull shot shape because of how the shaft is designed...
This year when I upgraded to a Sacks Parente Putter, they also sent me two premium Newton Driver Demo Shafts (4 Dot and 5 Dot) who they're partnered with. These shafts are $250 and are designed to help with dispersion and distance... Before looking at the numbers I liked the feel of the 4 Dot better based on how the flex felt in the backswing since the 5 Dot felt a little too stiff for me. On average, I swing the club about 105.8mph but if I can get my swing speed to 110+ if I spread my stance a little more.
I tested these shafts for 30min at X Golf and hit 5-10 balls with each shaft two different times just so I get the most accurate data as my body loosened up. After testing the shafts, the 4 Dot gave me an extra 10yards in distance compared to my Tour 2.0 Shaft whereas the 5 Dot gave me an extra 8yards in distance compared to the Tour 2.0 Shaft but both drastically improved my dispersion.... It's definitely worth exploring the premium shafts if you can afford the $250-$350, just need to justify if "X" results warrants the added sticker price. I ended up purchasing the 4 Dot primarily because of how incredible the dispersion was and the added distance was just another benefit.
This is the greatest gear shootout vid. Well done!!
So, the new Ventus Blue VeloCore had the tightest dispersion side to side and front to back. Waiting for my Ventus Blue shaft to arrive!
Hi Matt, Love your videos your energy is awesome. I didn't hear what shaft you are currently using on your driver. And your pick for "Best Shaft" how does it compare to your current driver setup?
Also I would like your thoughts on.... Rather than purchasing a new driver I would use my current driver head (Ping G400) and just purchase a new shaft. Maybe this would save some money?
I use that TR fujikura blue with my driver and cut 1/2”. Best upgrade ever
I play the Ventus non-velocor that he has in second. $100 with adapter online. Worth it! This was a great video
I love this style of blind fitting, keep up the good work! I don’t mean to be negative……BUT…….isn’t it kind of irrelevant when ALL of the spin reads are in italics, meaning they are calculated and not actual reads? Ball speed testing is still relevant, however doesn’t this make the results null and void from a distance/dispersion perspective?
Very interesting. I like the Diamana. Had one with my Titleist 909. Great shaft.
Good test but it also could have been that by the end of the testing (when you got to the high end shafts) you were then warmed up and hitting them better… just a thought
The #1 pick was the 7th club hit and the #2 pick was the 5th club tested. I just don't think there is a correlation.
it seems the best shafts were all shafts that he is currently using also used in the past. it could be that he is used to hitting or is more familiar with the shafts that he selected to be the best
Am I missing something…? The 2024 Ventus dispersion is by far the best with top 3 or 4 distance. It appears to be far and away the best shaft. Shots were to the right but all extremely consistent
I'm looking to try the ventus TR red and blue, also the Hazrdus rdx blue. We'll see which one suit for me. Thanks for the video, that was very helpful!!!🥳🥳🥳
Matt what a great idea. I current go between a Mitsubishi Diamana and a recently went to a much cheaper evenflow. Guess which goes further.
Project X HZRDUS is a great stock shaft. Glad it hangs with the Ventus gang
I have wrist/elbow issues so I play graphite iron shafts. Im also a 6 handicap and have a little speed so I want something heavy-ish. Ive been playing Aerotech FC115s for the past 4-5 years. Wanted to try something new and noticed Mizuno had the Mitsubishi MMT 105s at no upcharge. Made a huge difference in what I chose as had that not been the case I likely wouldve went Ping Blueprint S or Wilson Staff CB. The 105s were $60-70 per club upcharge with both.
I've played the Mitsubishi Diamana D+ Limited shafts in my Driver + Fairways and I cannot find a better feeling / more accurate shaft and they are not that expensive as they are the "stock versions" but I have heard they do not differ much if at all from the 300 dollar versions or maybe they've just come down in price since they've been out for a while.. I wish that one had been in mix. We're close to the same size an swing speed so it would have been cool to see that one.