Golf driver shafts are often misunderstood and neglected. It is a wrong approach to take into any game.
The right shaft has a lot to offer than any other part of the golf club, especially when it comes to consistency. Even if you have one of the most forgiving drivers, you still need a shaft to make your game complete. Did you know some of the most forgiving drivers are made with the best driver shafts? It is one of the essential parts of a driver that enhances its performance, making them suitable for low swing speed. With that in mind, here are some of the best golf driver shafts that will make your round of golf better.
Table of Contents
Best Driver Shafts Review
Project X New HZRDUS Smoke Black 6.0 60g Driver/Fairway Shaft Stiff Flex
Project X is still one of the best shaft manufacturers in the market. Many pros use their products for more than just a marketing strategy. The Project X New HZRDUS Smoke Black is an attractive shaft whose design inspires confidence and an overall built concept to suit any golfer’s need. It is not much you can point out against the Project X New HZRDUS Smoke Black. As much it is one of the most expensive shafts in the market, its overall performance far outweighs the hefty price tag.
The HZRDUS Smoke Black comes with a unique flex. The new “smoke” profile is smooth and consistent, suitable for a golfer that wants a slight gain in the launch and more action throughout the swing. The flex shaft is approximately 60 grams making it a proper shaft for any swing speed. Whether you are a high handicapper or an advanced player with bits of experience, this shaft will offer you the consistency that enhances your overall performance on the golf course.
Pros:
- Features an attractive design that inspires confidence
- Intuitively designed to suit any swing speed
- Perfect weight for all players
- Is from a reputable manufacturer in the industry
Cons:
- This driver shaft is a bit pricey
Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage Black HBP 2nd Gen 50. 335 Graphite Wood Driver Shaft
This one may not be “everyone’s shaft. Why? Because it is solely designed for low handicappers. The Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage Black is a stiff golf club shaft, sophisticated, and designed for low spins to give you a better trajectory for longer, straighter shots. For players with high swing speed, the Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage Black helps launch the ball higher, preventing the pop-up effect that is often disappointing. The product is also designed for players who struggle with keeping the ball on the right trajectory.
There are two significant problems with the Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage Black shaft. First, its design is limiting in some aspects, meaning it is not as inclusive as other driver shafts. Secondly, it is an expensive piece. However, the overall performance makes it value for money.
Pros:
- The shaft is stiffer with higher weight, ideal for fast swing speed
- Features a sophisticated flex point for better trajectory
- Designed for low spin
- Suitable for low handicappers who want to increase the distance
Cons:
- Very expensive
Integra New SoooLong Ultralite 45 g Graphite Shaft R/S/A/L Flex
It is not easy to find a golf club shaft designed for a specific driver. Therefore, this is one of the unique shafts in the market because it is designed explicitly for Callaway drivers. The Integra New SoooLong Ultralite shaft is custom-designed for a series of latest clubs from Callaway. Accordingly, you can use this item on other clubs though you will need to tweak them a bit. If you are not comfortable with that, you’d be better of sticking to the recommended manufacturer.
One of the most exciting things about the Integra New SoooLong Ultralite shaft is its versatility to work with different swing types and speeds. The flex option is another notable feature. You can choose between senior and stiff, meaning there is always one for any player at an affordable cost.
However, this driver shaft comes with two significant issues. First is the weight. The weight is a bit off, making it hard to establish a clean tempo with every shot. However, this may not be a problem for low swing speed players. Secondly, the custom design makes it very limited in that you may not enjoy using it if you do not have a Callaway driver. The two disadvantages aside, it is a solid option for players on a budget.
Pros:
- Moderately priced to suit your budget.
- The lightweight makes it perfect for lo swing speed
- Different flex options
- Perfect shaft for Callaway drivers
Cons:
- The weight is a bit off
- Limited to Callaway clubs
Fujikura Vista Pro 65 Stiff Shaft + TaylorMade M1/M2/M3/M4 Tip + Grip
The Fujikura brand never stops to impress, considering their range of graphite shafts. Their CAGE technology is innovative, offering attractive designs by surrounding the shaft with graphite fiber and a rigid cage structure on the outside. It gives the shaft a thinner and lighter appearance with a soft feel for comfort. Accordingly, the maximum fiber content improves stiffness, robustness, and durability. The stiff flex offers similar control to steel shafts but with an added feel.
Accordingly, the Fujikura Vista Pro 65 shaft comes with a higher launch to enhance swing speed. This feature promotes higher carry with better stop power on the golf course. This Fujikura shaft is also customized for weight, length, and spin angles and launches.
The custom assembled graphite shaft has a better grip designed for the TaylorMade MI/M2/M3/M4 shaft adapter. Fujikura Vista Pro 65 shaft is perfectly designed to fit TaylorMade drivers, such as SLDR, M1, M2, M3, and M4. Accordingly, it works well with 2016 and 2017 TaylorMade adjustable drivers.
Pros:
- Custom-designed for TaylorMade drivers
- CAGE technology enhances its appearance and performance
- Supper stiff for players with a high swing speed
Cons:
- The Fujikura Vista Pro 65 shaft is expensive
- It is not a significant improvement from its predecessors.
Project X New HZRDUS Smoke 6.0 60g Driver Shaft Stiff Flex w/Taylormade Adapter
One of the most attractive and best golf shafts on the market is the Project X New HZRDUS Smoke 6.0 Driver shaft. This is a mid-weight shaft with an incredible and solid structure. The item comes with mid-level spin output for better control and extra distance. Accordingly, it is one of the robust and durable shafts on the market and comes out of the box equipped with a Golf Pride grip for comfort and feel.
The New HZRDUS Smoke 6.0 has a flex profile that is different from other shafts. Not only is it smooth, but it also has excellent load and release. With a smooth and consistent kick, it is perfect for all types of players. This item is suitable for different swing speeds due to its versatile adapter options. The product also provides impressive robustness throughout the swing with low flex for stability and added distance.
The lightweight graphite shaft is also found at an affordable price. Apart from ranking as one of the hottest driver shafts, it also comes with striking distance with adequate control and spins output consistently. New HZRDUS Smoke 6.0 Driver shaft is an excellent addition to any golfers driver looking for consistency with incredible response and feel.
Pros:
- High-speed shaft with tons of different adapters for versatility
- The mid-launch setting offers consistency in the distance and reliable launch angle on every club
- Golf pride grip is installed for comfort and ease of use
- Low flex for dependable distance
- Remarkable robustness throughout every swing
- Dos not modifications
Cons:
- As much as it is suitable for all swing speeds, it is precisely one for the low handicapper. The high handicapper may find it hard to use.
Fujikura Vista Pro 60 R-Flex Shaft + TaylorMade M1/M2/M3/M4 Tip + Grip
The unique Fujikura brand features on this list again with quality shaft for all players with TaylorMade drivers. Like the Fujikura Vista Pro 65, the Fujikura Vista Pro 60 R-Flex is one of the best graphite shafts on the market.
The Fujikura Vista Pro 60 shaft comes from a reputable manufacturer that also delivers quality for a range of TaylorMade drivers. Although it is designed explicitly for TaylorMade M1/M2/M3/M4, the Fujikura Vista Pro 60 R-Flex is an upgrade for your driver. It comes with Fujikura patented CAGE technology in the structure that offers an excellent built. The thin walls will provide you with the feel of a heavier shaft without worrying about the extra weight. This shaft creates a great distance, allowing you to focus on generating maximum swing due to this design.
The Fujikura Vista Pro 60 R-Flex shaft for Taylormade drivers is also perfect for offering trusted responses to inspire confidence and encourage you to go deeper for more strength and speed off the tee. It also promotes consistency with every launch angle. The shaft comes in standard 45-inch length.
Pros:
- It comes in industry-standard length, ready to go straight from the box
- Restores consistency with terrific launch angle
- Lightweight cage structure for a solid feel
- It easily boosts swing speed
- Enhances distance
- A perfect upgrade to TaylorMade drivers
Cons:
- Custom-designed for TaylorMade drivers, making it limited
AccuFLEX Assassin 50″ World Long Drive Competition Super Long Golf Shaft
If you are looking for an out-of-the-ordinary driver shaft, then the Accuflex Assassin 50” golf shaft is an option you should consider. This extra long shaft is perfect for players who contest in long drive competitions. However, the extra-long shaft may not be legal in many golf events. However, you can enjoy using it in your training sessions.
The Accuflex Assassin 50” LD shaft comes with the ability to be cut down to comfort ad legal length if you want to use it for professional golf events. This shaft is uniquely designed for more than just a few extra inches. The item is innovatively crafted to offer distance that will turn heads on the golf course. Accordingly, it comes in a 50-inch model that allows you to modify the length if you desire.
The Accuflex Assassin 50” Long Drive shaft also offers staggering distance with faster swings and works well with different driver head types.
Pros:
- Provides great distance
- Made for all driver head types
- The longest and lightest shaft
- Incredible high kick point
- Adjustable length options
Cons:
- The length may not be legal in some competitions
- You may need to learn how to use a longer shaft to enjoy it.
AccuFLEX Assassin II World Champion Long Drive Golf Wood Shaft 46″
AccuFlex Assassin edition continues to impress with the Assassin 2 LD Shaft. This is a breakthrough new driver shaft that incorporates the A2 graphite technology into the tighter-torqued item. The lightweight design makes it stress-free to control and use, even for beginners.
The product manufacturer describes it as the “golfer’s dream” due to its sleek design and optimal performance. AccuFlex Assassin 2 Long Distance golf shaft contributes to distance, accuracy, and consistency. It is a standard length shaft and a better alternative to the longer AccuFlex Assassin 50” LD. At 46 inches and 68 grams, the lightweight feature also merits being a versatile shaft and suitable to all handicap levels. Another notable feature of the product is the enhanced distance it produces with every swing. Accordingly, the shaft is designed for different drivers.
The AccuFlex Assassin 2 LD shaft fits a wide range of players due to its credible response, quick recovery, and ease of installing. This item comes with mid to high launch options with a mid-soft tip for golfers with semi-aggressive to smooth swing. It also readily creates the required spin that accommodates different swing types and speeds. Lastly, the manufacturer has included the A2 graphite technology for a beautifully polished gloss red texture that will turn heads every time you step on the golf course.
Pros:
- Sleek design that will turn heads on the golf course
- Compatible with many driver heads
- Consistent and accurate performance
- Lightweight for beginners and high handicappers
- Moderately priced
Cons:
- The shaft is not as suitable for professional golfers
How to Buy Good Driver Shafts
Buying the right driver shafts can enhance your performance and improve your steadiness in every game. The shaft allows you to deliver the golf course efficiently and maximize distance and consistency. There are different shafts you can choose from, and they all come from various manufacturers and are made from diverse materials. This may cause difficulty in the selection, especially if you are not a professional golfer. To make your work more manageable, we have compiled a list of things you need to look out for when buying driver shafts.
Distance
The best shafts should produce a longer drive with every shot and swing. If you are a low swinger, you need a shaft that boosts distance to compensate for your lack of speed. In this case, you should consider graphite shafts.
Speed
Speed depends more on the weight and material used to make the shaft. Lighter shafts are best for low swing players. Accordingly, these shafts are best for beginners, high handicappers, and seniors. Most experienced golfers tend to go for heavier, stiffer shafts for straighter ball flights, high swing speed, enhanced distance, and accuracy. Distance is achieved by high swing speed, while shaft weight and flex enhance accuracy and consistency.
Weight and Flex
Graphite shafts are lighter than steel shafts. Hence is the main reason why graphite is considered the best shaft material for low swing speed players. Accordingly, it may not be ideal for golfers with higher clubhead speed.
On the other hand, more flex increases swing speed. More flex is suitable for beginners, seniors, and ladies. More professional golfers are stiffer shafts.
Consistency
Shafts tend to lose consistency as they get old. Therefore, before you buy driver shafts, ensure they will offer steadiness for more extended periods. Features such as multi-material design, more significant energy transfer, and extremely tough construction contribute to consistency.
Feel and Response
Feel, and response are not the same, even though they have a similar impact on performance. The feel is an essential component that creates rhythm in every swing. How you interact with your club will define the feel. Unique features like a lightweight cage enhance the feel.
Not every golf driver shaft will produce the same feedback on every swing. Players deserve a shaft that responds flawlessly to their swing movement.
Length
The standard length for a golf shaft is 445 inches. This length is the best for contributing to distance and control. Nevertheless, this does not mean you cannot opt for a shorter or longer shaft. The purpose of length is to determine control. Shorter shafts reduce distance, though they are more suitable for players aiming to hit more fairways.
Materials
Nowadays, almost all driver shafts are made of graphite. It is primarily because graphite shafts are more lightweight and can be flexible or shaft. Such versatility is essential in golf. What’s more, graphite is easy to engineer into different flex points to suit different swings.
Back in the days, shafts were mainly made of steel. Steel shafts still exist though they are heavier and may not be as intuitive as graphite, though they get the job done. Some golfers prefer stiffer, heavier shafts that enhance distance and provide straighter shots. Steel shafts also come with more power, though it may cost some distance.
Additionally, steel shafts are less expensive. It is worth mentioning that steel shafts are more durable than graphite.
Cost
Driver shafts are relatively affordable, sometimes more affordable than a new club. Most players favor options somewhere in the middle compared to the most expensive or most affordable shafts. The truth is that most expensive shafts may not produce results that correspond well with their price tags. If it occurs that you are a beginner, it is better to go for affordable options. Accordingly, you should consider other features ahead of the cost. Think about the flex, length, and weight. The right combination of these factors should give you the best driver shaft.
Appearance
Lastly, the appearance may also be an essential factor to consider since you will be playing among other golfers with sleek designs. Golf is a mental game, so you require everything to look the part and inspire your confidence. Invest in a shaft that turns heads every time you step on the golf course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are driver shafts designed for any driver?
No. Not every driver shaft is compatible with your driver. As much as there are many shafts compatible with all drivers, some are custom-designed for specific driver manufacturers. For instance, a Fujikura Vista Pro 65 shaft is designed explicitly for TaylorMade M1/M2/M3/M4 drivers.
How long should driver shafts last?
Theoretically, driver shafts should last for as long as you use them. However, these items tend to lose consistency with time, especially when you golf frequently. Accordingly, shafts durable and do not have a specific timeframe they would last.
Are there driver shaft rules?
Yes, there are shaft rules that you may want to keep in mind; for instance, the standard shaft length should not be more than 48 inches. The good news is that manufacturers often premeasured their shafts to comply with this regulation. Accordingly, there are longer or shorter shafts with the option to adjust.
Conclusion
Driver shafts are one of the most ignored golf equipment. Most golfers tend to concentrate on the clubhead since it is the easiest-to-recognize thing in the bag. It is common for players to neglect the driver shaft, as most players do not understand how this part can enhance their game.
According to some pro golfers, the shaft contributes to almost 40% of the club performance. The best driver shaft will enhance your swing speed and offer you better ball flight.
This review should help identify the best products on the market and enhance your decision-making if you decide to buy a new driver shaft for your golf game.