As an AI language model, I don’t have personal experiences or emotions, but I can provide you with a detailed answer about the cons of an extra stiff shaft in golf clubs.
1. Lack of Flexibility: One of the main drawbacks of using an extra stiff shaft is its lack of flexibility. This stiffness can make it difficult for golfers with slower swing speeds to generate enough clubhead speed to achieve optimal distance. The lack of flex in the shaft can lead to a decrease in power and potentially result in shorter shots.
2. Reduced Feel: Extra stiff shafts can also reduce the feel or feedback that a golfer receives upon impact with the ball. The rigid nature of the shaft can dampen the vibrations and feedback transmitted to the golfer’s hands, making it harder to gauge the quality of the shot. This lack of feel can affect shot control and make it more challenging to make subtle adjustments during the swing.
3. Increased Difficulty in Timing: The extra stiffness of the shaft can make it more challenging to time the release of the clubhead properly. Timing is crucial in golf, and a mistimed release can lead to inconsistent ball flight and accuracy issues. Golfers with slower swing speeds may find it more difficult to coordinate the timing required to square the clubface at impact consistently.
4. Potential for Slice: While extra stiff shafts are generally designed for faster swingers, slower swinging golfers who use them can be prone to slicing the ball. The stiffness of the shaft can make it harder for these golfers to square the clubface at impact, causing the ball to spin off to the right (for right-handed golfers). This can lead to a loss of accuracy and distance.
5. Increased Fatigue: Using an extra stiff shaft requires more effort and energy to swing effectively, especially for golfers with slower swing speeds. The additional resistance offered by the stiff shaft can lead to increased fatigue and potential loss of consistency over the course of a round. It is important for golfers to find a shaft flex that matches their swing speed to optimize performance and reduce fatigue.
6. Limited Shot-Shaping Options: The extra stiffness of the shaft can limit the shot-shaping options available to golfers. It can be more challenging to manipulate the clubface and shape shots when using a stiff shaft, particularly for slower swinging players. Golfers who prefer to work the ball left or right may find it harder to do so with an extra stiff shaft.
7. Less Forgiving: Extra stiff shafts are generally less forgiving than more flexible options. Mishits or off-center strikes can result in more noticeable distance and accuracy losses compared to a more forgiving shaft. Golfers who struggle with consistency or have a tendency to mishit shots may find an extra stiff shaft to be less forgiving and more challenging to use.
It is important to note that the suitability of a golf shaft, including its flex, varies from golfer to golfer based on their individual swing characteristics and preferences. It is recommended to get fitted by a professional club fitter or consult with a knowledgeable golf professional to determine the most appropriate shaft flex for your game.