Introduction
Choosing the right shaft flex is one of the biggest factors in unlocking distance and control. The flex affects how the shaft loads and releases, which impacts your launch, spin, and accuracy.
Here's a simple breakdown with swing speed ranges:
Shaft Flex Quick Reference
| Flex Type | Swing Speed (mph) | Swing Speed (kph) | Best For | Example Golfer Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| X-Flex (Extra Stiff) | 108+ | 173+ | Very fast speeds, aggressive transitions, maximum control | Tour pros, scratch golfers, competitive amateurs with athletic builds |
| S-Flex (Stiff) | 95–108 | 153–173 | Above-average speeds, balance of distance and stability | Low-mid handicappers, fit golfers, former athletes |
| SR-Flex (Regular-Stiff) | 85–95 | 137–153 | Moderate speeds, softer feel with control | Mid handicappers, weekend golfers with smooth tempo |
| R-Flex (Regular) | 75–85 | 121–137 | Average swing speeds, most common flex | Recreational golfers, beginners to mid handicappers |
| A-Flex (Senior/Lite) | 65–75 | 105–121 | Slower speeds, smooth tempo | Seniors, juniors, golfers prioritizing accuracy over distance |
Extra Stiff (X-Flex)
Recommended swing speed: 108+ mph / 173+ kph
For golfers with very fast speeds and aggressive transitions. Ideal if you generate a lot of power and want tighter dispersion and control.
Example: Ping G425 Max 9W
Stiff (S-Flex)
Recommended swing speed: 95–108 mph / 153–173 kph
Perfect for above-average swing speeds looking for a balance of distance and stability.
Example: Titleist TSR2 9° Driver
SR / Regular-Stiff (SR-Flex)
Recommended swing speed: 85–95 mph / 137–153 kph
Ideal for moderate swing speeds and golfers who want a slightly softer feel without losing control.
Example: TaylorMade Qi10 5W
Australian Tour Pros: Real-World Examples
Want to see what elite swing speeds look like? Here are two of Australia's finest:
Min Woo Lee — One of the longest hitters on the PGA Tour despite weighing only 70kg (155 lbs). Min Woo generates an incredible 188 mph ball speed and ranks among the top players in driving distance. He averages 125.36 mph clubhead speed, firmly in X-Flex territory. His secret? Exceptional width in his backswing, elite fast-twitch muscle fibers, and a smooth yet explosive tempo that generates tour-leading power from a compact frame.
Adam Scott — The 2013 Masters champion generates nearly 150 mph of clubhead speed, putting him solidly in the Stiff flex range. At 44 years old, Scott maintains his legendary smooth tempo and biomechanically perfect swing. His speed remains strong, which he credits as a big part of staying competitive at the highest level. Scott's swing is often cited as one of the most technically sound in professional golf.
Key Takeaway: Even at the professional level, swing speeds vary significantly. Min Woo's X-Flex suits his aggressive, explosive style, while Scott's S-Flex complements his smooth, rhythmic tempo. Both are incredibly effective — proving there's no single "right" swing speed or flex, just the right match for your game.
Testing Your Best Flex → Use Data, Not Guesswork
While flex charts and guidelines help point you in the right direction, the most accurate way to dial in your perfect shaft is through data — specifically, using a Trackman or launch monitor.
Why Trackman Is a Game-Changer
Trackman provides objective measurements that eliminate guesswork:
- Swing speed — Your actual clubhead speed (not estimated)
- Ball speed — How efficiently you're transferring energy
- Launch angle — Whether your shaft is helping or hindering optimal launch
- Spin rate — Too much or too little spin affects distance and control
- Dispersion — Shows how consistent your strikes are with different flexes
The Real Value: Side-by-Side Comparisons
The beauty of Trackman testing is you can hit the same club with different shaft flexes and immediately see the data difference. You might discover:
- A stiffer shaft gives you tighter dispersion but loses 5 yards
- A softer flex launches higher but spins too much
- An SR-Flex gives you the perfect balance you didn't expect
This is especially valuable when buying used clubs online — if you know your ideal swing speed and launch characteristics from Trackman data, you can confidently choose shafts without hitting them first.
Where to Get Fitted in Australia
Most fitting studios and driving ranges around Australia now offer Trackman or similar launch monitor technology. Many offer:
- Quick swing speed checks (often free)
- Full bag fittings (paid sessions)
- Demo days with multiple shaft options
It's worth the investment — especially if you're upgrading to premium Japanese clubs or shopping the secondhand market.
Final Thoughts
And if you're browsing options, we keep a rotating range of secondhand clubs available online at Rising Sun Clubs.