QUESTION: Hi,
I have a Callaway FT-iz driver, 8.5 loft, and a neutral head. I have a Fubuki
shaft and an Ozik X-CON 5 shaft. I have a swing speed that ranges from 105-115
mph and I hit the ball solid most of the time. I am losing distance. I don't hit the ball high. I am wondering what I might try to increase my distance. I don't like a shaft that is too stiff or heavy, but when
I go softer, my spin goes up and my flight comes down. Anyone have any shaft
ideas for me? Thank you, JL
ANSWER: Hi JL,
There is no accurate formula for a given shaft based on your trajectory and swing speed. For a true determination of your shaft and for optimization of your distance, you are best to undergo a driver fitting assessment.
Your email is like the following example:
"I am in good health, and I have tried a few different supplements, but I am losing stamina. My temperature is good, and my strength is good, What supplement should I take?"
I am sure you would recommend that this person goes beyond a random guess and undergo some type of examination by a health professional to determine the condition of the patient, the causes of the loss of stamina, and what is the best course of action.
Likewise, if you are losing distance, I would recommend a driver fitting assessment to optimize both FEEL and FLIGHT.
The goal of a professional driver fitting assessment is to determine which equipment combination allows us to achieve both the most "EFFICIENT FLIGHT GEOMETRY" and the "OPTIMAL CLUB INTERACTION". Efficient Flight Geometry means which ball flight will achieve the best combination of flight and roll, which in the case of the driver club means the most distance. Optimal Club Interaction means which club will allow our body and swing to perform in the most efficient manner, without the need for compensation or concession.
Thus, a driver fitting assessment includes a comparison of different lofts, head styles, shaft models, flexes and installation specifications, a measurement of the ability to deliver the club to the ball in an efficient manner, and a tracking of which combination yields the best flight geometry.
If you are married to one head, and one loft, and are searching for the best shaft model to go along with this head/loft, you are offering yourself limited options. If you open yourself to a whole world of options, you will find your optimal distance.
Best regards, Mark
