The Advantages Of Graphite Shafts Over Steel

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The Advantages Of Graphite Shafts Over Steel

While steel shafts remain the dominant choice in the irons of golfers across the handicap spectrum, graphite-shafted alternatives are certainly gaining traction. Historically, graphite shafts were seen as the soft and inconsistent substitute for lady and senior golfers seeking an alternative to heavy steel shafts. But as Paul Steels from KBS explains in the video above, golfers of every level should consider graphite shafts in their irons.

The first benefit golfers will experience from graphite shafts is more speed. Nearly every golfer in the world uses a graphite shaft in their driver for the simple reason that it is lighter than steel and therefore can be swung faster, achieving more clubhead speed and distance. With the recent advances in graphite material and technology, this extra distance has come without affecting control or consistency and these benefits can easily be transferred into irons. Graphite shafts can offer the same amount of stiffness as steel, which makes them suitable for stronger players as well as high handicappers, but in a lighter weight.

Graphite shafted irons also feel smoother and easier to swing than steel while also putting less strain on the body because of the significant reduction in vibrations that come up into the hands through the shaft at the point of impact. This is why golfers that suffer with long-standing wrist or arm pain or injuries should consider a switch into graphite.

Graphite shafts of today are also more versatile. Material can be layered specifically where it is needed to adjust the kick point, which will influence the launch angle. Typically, graphite shafts will launch the ball higher than steel, which is why they remain suitable for lady and senior golfers. But high speed players seeking a penetrating flight can also experience this with graphite because of how stiff it can be made. 

Graphite shafts aren’t limited to just drivers and irons either. KBS, for example, offer a wedge, fairway wood and hybrid graphite shaft so golfers can benefit from it right through the bag on every long-game shot.

While it is true that graphite shafts tend to cost a little more than their steel counterparts, there’s a strong case to be made that the investment is worth it in the long run because of how it allows golfers to maintain or even increase their clubhead speed, practice for longer and not lose out on control of dispersion.