There are many different types of golf clubs on the market, and each one has its own benefits and drawbacks.
One of the most important decisions you’ll make when purchasing clubs is choosing between graphite and steel shafts.
And in this post, we’ll help you decide which is better and why you’d want to choose one or the other!
Here's What We'll Cover
Why it’s important to choose the right shaft
Your shaft is the part of your club that connects the clubhead to the handle. It’s important to choose the right shaft because it affects how your club performs.
Different materials offer different benefits, so it’s important to understand what each one offers before you make a decision.
Key differences between Graphite & Steel shafts
There are a few main differences you should understand before making a decision between graphite and steel shafts.
- Graphite shafts are lighter than steel shafts.
- Graphite shafts are generally more flexible than steel, but as technology advances, they can be made just as stiff as steel shafts.
- Graphite shafts are more expensive than steel shafts.
- Steel shafts are more durable than graphite shafts and can withstand more wear and tear.
- Steel shafts will hurt your hands more on a mishit because they don’t absorb the vibrations as well as graphite shafts.
- Steel shafts are harder to hit for beginners than graphite shafts.
Who should use graphite shafts?
Graphite shafts are a good choice for golfers who want a club that is easier to hit. They are also a good choice for golfers with slower swing speeds because they help increase clubhead speed and hit the ball farther.
They are also a popular option for women and seniors, who tend to have less power in their swings.
If you’re looking for a club that is easier to hit, graphite shafts are the way to go.
Who should use steel shafts?
Steel shafts are a good choice for golfers who want a club that is easier to control so they can hit the ball straight. They are also a good choice for golfers with faster swing speeds because they help reduce clubhead speed.
They are also a good choice for men and juniors, who tend to have more power in their swings.
If you’re looking for a club that is easier to control, steel shafts are the better option.
Are graphite or steel shafts better?
One isn’t better than the other, it depends on a variety of different factors such as:
- Your Swing Speed
- Skill Level (Handicap)
- Preference
- Club Type
Generally speaking, steel shafts are more common among experienced golfers who swing fast and have a low handicap.
And on the other side, graphite shafts are more common among beginner golfers who swing slower and have a higher handicap.
Which shaft is best for drivers?
Graphite shafts are more common in drivers because they can create more club-head speed, at every skill level.
You’ll even see scratch, or even professional golfers like Tiger Woods using graphite shafts on their drivers.
Which shaft is best for fairway woods?
Fairway woods are typically played with a graphite shaft because they offer more control and accuracy for most golfers.
Similar to drivers, most professional golfers prefer graphite shafts on their fairway woods as well.
Which shaft is best for irons?
Among low handicap golfers, irons are typically played with a steel shaft because they offer more control and accuracy than graphite shafts.
But for high handicap golfers, graphite shafts are often a better option because they offer more distance and forgiveness due to the slower swing speeds.
Which shaft is best for putters?
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to shafts for putters, it really depends on the golfer’s preference.
Most golfers prefer steel shafts because they provide a more stable feel throughout the entire stroke.
Final Thoughts
Graphite and steel shafts are both great options, and it ultimately comes down to the individual’s preference.
If you’re unsure of what shaft is best for you, we recommend heading to your local golf pro shop and trying out a few different clubs with both graphite and steel shafts.
And once you have an idea of which you prefer, you can get a club fitting to make sure you’re using the best shaft for your golf game!
