Shaft: importance of Torque...

[ipark1303]

Hi Guys,

I actually need some advice on the term "torque"... is it synonym of "bend"

point?

Thanks in advance!!!

[gas_can]

Hi Guys,

ipark1303,

Torque is a measure of a shaft's resistance to twisting. Many golfers confuse this term with a shaft's accuracy or bend point as you have mentioned above. However, the two are unrelated. There are shafts that are low torque and low kickpoint such as the Accra SC-75, and there are shafts that are higher torque and higher kickpoint such as the Graphite Designs Pershing. Do not look for torque as the end all be all of fitting, there are no industry standards for measuring torque, so one companies 2.3 could be another's 4.5. In the end, if all other shaft's characteristics suit you, the torque will as well. As a general guideline though, lower torque shafts tend to feel boardier, while higher torque shafts feel a bit smoother.

[John Boy]

Torque is better defined as twist, not bend.

The higher degree of torque means the shaft "twists" more.

Torque should be matched to head/swing speed and preferred feel.

A Driver with too low of torque will feel like a swinging a bat with no give. Too high of torque and the head will feel wippy and ultimately lead to a less accurate shot. Torque is often matched to flex of golf clubs. Charts are threw out the internet to match swing speeds to torque and flex of shafts. Ultimately though a perfect club, matched properly, will have a specific torque and flex for your swing speed and golf swing.

Hope this helped...

[gas_can]

Torque is better defined as twist, not bend.

JohnBoy,

There are no industry standards for either flex or torque. One companies S flex shaft with a 2.3 torque rating could be equal to anothers X flex with a 1.8 torque. Things like flex, and torque serve only as general guidelines in the fitting process. The key to shaft selection is knowing the bend profile of various shafts (where they flex and are stiff), which bend profiles fit different swings, and applying all that knowledge to suit a customer's swing to a tee. I've said it countless times to customers, and I'd like re-emphasize it here: If all other aspects of a shaft fit you, the torque will as well!