What does the 9.5, 10,5, and 12.5 etc mean?

[YamahaJay]

I'm looking at a new driver but they have them in different numbers. Can anyone explain what the numbers are? Is it just the slope of the club face or is it an offset? I always thought it was the slope angle but one listing stated "offset".

[Titleist Man]

Its the loft of the face.

[Dub]

I'm looking at a new driver but they have them in different numbers. Can anyone explain what the numbers are? Is it just the slope of the club face or is it an offset? I always thought it was the slope angle but one listing stated "offset".

You were right...it's the loft angle.....or slope as you called it of the clubface. Higher lofts should equate to higher launches...all things being equal.

For instance....I had a 6 degree driver once....it went fairly low, carried short and rolled long. I later got the exact same driver in 9 degrees of loft....much better fit for me......higher drives with more carry and less roll. I'm not ashamed to play a 10.5 degree driver now. Most folks getting in the game who lust for a driver also do better (usually) with the higher lofts. I've seen some even go with 13 degrees and game them well. It's all about confidence and what you believe you will hit the best, too.

[billysandy]

the number refers to the loft of the club. so 9.5 would be a lower ball flight suited for players who hit the ball further and the higher lofts for more average strength/ability players. the offset is just a note to say it has offset which helps players with slice and also players who would like to draw the ball.

[Danattherock]

Getting fitted by a pro is the best option. But generally speaking, most folks use a driver with too stiff a shaft, and not enough loft for their swing speed. Many high handicappers need a 10.5 or higher loft with a regular flex shaft. However, many buy 9 degree drivers with stiff shafts. Getting fitted is the best idea.

[MI Rob]

the numbers mean the drivers clubface loft.

[YamahaJay]

I wish there was a place around me that offered lessons,advise,and fittings but as of now I still have not heard of one or seen any signs in course club houses yet. I guess its time to ask around.

[RocketSauce]

where do you live?

[YamahaJay]

North East Ohio (Ashtabula)

[Danattherock]

I wish there was a place around me that offered lessons,advise,and fittings but as of now I still have not heard of one or seen any signs in course club houses yet. I guess its time to ask around.

Check out this site. You put in your info and they will tell you what PGA pros are in your area... http://dyn.pga.com/searchtools/instruction/instructors/ Aside from that, calling any pro shop or golf shop should get you plenty of options.

[mdvaldosta]

Getting fitted by a pro is the best option. But generally speaking, most folks use a driver with too stiff a shaft, and not enough loft for their swing speed. Many high handicappers need a 10.5 or higher loft with a regular flex shaft. However, many buy 9 degree drivers with stiff shafts. Getting fitted is the best idea.

Yea, it's fairly common knowledge that most folks with 9.5* stiff shafted drivers would play better with a 10.5* stiff. I also read in a recent article that the vast majority of golfers need more than 10* to get the optimal launch angle for them also. I also read that many drivers play more loft than what's shown on the clubface so... not sure if that's true.