A tool designed to assist golfers in determining the appropriate shaft stiffness for their clubs. This tool typically uses swing speed, distance achieved, and other swing characteristics as input variables to provide a recommended shaft stiffness level. For example, a golfer with a high swing speed might be directed toward a stiffer shaft to maintain control and accuracy, while a golfer with a slower swing speed could benefit from a more flexible shaft for increased clubhead speed and distance.
The selection of the correct shaft stiffness is crucial for optimizing performance. A shaft that is too stiff can result in a loss of distance and feel, while a shaft that is too flexible can lead to inconsistent shots and difficulty controlling the clubface. Historically, golfers relied on trial and error, or advice from professionals, to select shafts. The introduction of these tools has helped to streamline this process, providing a more data-driven approach to shaft selection. This can lead to improved accuracy, distance, and overall consistency on the course.