The problem when shortening a driver is that nearly all head weights are for 45” clubs and that for every ½” the club is shortened, three swing-weights are lost. Rather than the old-fashioned use of lead tape, tungsten powder or fiddly tip plugs, the advent adjustable weight technology makes it easier to replace lost swing-weight by fitting heavier weights or by squirting thermoplastic glue in via the weight ports.
Loft
Most golfers do not have enough loft. The ball speed of the average golfer needs a higher launch spin rate, which is increased by a high loft. An additional benefit of greater loft is that the more backspin that is generated, the less sidespin is created, for straighter drives.
Shaft
The correct shaft is vital. The flex must be soft enough for the shaft to be loaded but stiff enough to maintain control of the clubhead through impact. Shaft flex can be fitted using trial clubs, launch monitors, simple clubhead speed devices or by simply watching the ball flight. Shaft weight is the greatest influence on total weight of the club, as they can weigh as much as 135g or as little as 40g. Ultra lightweight shafts reduce total weight enabling the club to be swung faster, but often clubhead speed compromises control over the club. As a rule of thumb, slower swingers will benefit from lighter clubs while faster swingers may need heavier shafts to maintain consistency. The shaft must also be matched correctly with any particular clubhead features, as flex, torque, weight and kick-point all affect how the head performs. Often golfers do not need a new driver, but just a more suitable shaft.
Straight down the middle: The Flightscope ball flight and launch monitor is one way to make custom-fitting drivers easy
