Key Takeaways

• Age alone should not decide shaft flex

• Many 60+ golfers use shafts that are too stiff

• Swing speed, tempo, and ball flight matter more than strength

• The wrong shaft costs distance, accuracy, and consistency

• Proper shaft flex can add yards without changing your swing

Most golfers over 60 are playing the wrong shaft flex, not because of age, but because of myths.
Shaft flex should be based on how you swing the club, not how old you are. Choosing the wrong shaft quietly costs distance, launch, and accuracy.

This guide explains the biggest shaft flex myths affecting senior golfers and how to fix them.

Why Shaft Flex Matters More as You Age

Shaft flex controls how the club:

• Loads during the swing

• Releases through impact

• Delivers loft and speed

As golfers age, swing speed often decreases slightly, but tempo and efficiency usually improve. That’s why many seniors still swing better than younger players, even if they swing slower.

Using the wrong shaft cancels out that advantage.

Myth #1: “All Seniors Need Senior Flex”

This is the biggest myth in golf fitting.

The truth:

• Some 60+ golfers need regular flex

• Some need senior (A) flex

• Some even play stiff flex successfully

Age does not equal swing speed.

Many seniors still swing:

• Drivers at 90+ mph

• Irons with strong tempo

Automatically switching to senior flex often leads to ballooning shots and loss of control.

Myth #2: “Stiffer Shafts Are More Accurate”

This myth hurts senior golfers badly.

A shaft that is too stiff:

• Does not load properly

• Launches the ball too low

• Reduces carry distance

• Feels harsh at impact

Accuracy comes from timing, not stiffness.
If the shaft doesn’t help you square the clubface, accuracy drops.

Myth #3: “Distance Loss Is Just Age”

Many golfers blame age for distance loss when the real issue is equipment.

A shaft that’s too stiff:

• Lowers launch angle

• Reduces spin efficiency

• Wastes clubhead speed

Switching to the correct flex often adds 10-20 yards without changing the swing.

What Actually Determines the Right Shaft Flex

Forget age. Focus on these four factors:

1. Swing Speed

This matters, but it’s only part of the picture.

2. Tempo

Smooth swingers often need more flexible shafts.

3. Ball Flight

Low, weak shots usually mean the shaft is too stiff.

4. Feel

If the club feels dead or harsh, something is wrong.

Common Signs a Senior Golfer Is Using the Wrong Shaft

If you see these, your shaft flex may be wrong:

• Trouble getting the ball airborne

• Shots falling short of expected distance

• Loss of carry, not roll

• Inconsistent contact

• Fatigue late in the round

Many seniors adjust their swing to compensate, when the club should be doing the work.

Senior Flex vs Regular Flex

There is no “better” option, only the right match.

Why Many Seniors Resist Softer Shafts

Ego plays a role.

Many golfers think:

• Softer shafts = weaker

• Stiffer shafts = better players

In reality:

• Softer shafts = better energy transfer

• Proper flex = better performance

Tour professionals use different flexes based on feel, not pride.

The Hidden Cost of Playing the Wrong Shaft

Using the wrong shaft leads to:

• Lower scores potential

• More fatigue

• Frustration over “bad days”

• Unnecessary swing changes

Equipment should support your swing, not fight it.

What Smart Senior Golfers Do Instead

Experienced golfers over 60:

• Get fit based on swing, not age

• Test multiple flexes

• Focus on carry distance, not total distance

• Choose comfort and consistency

The goal is repeatable golf, not max effort.

Why This Matters Even for Younger Golfers (14-25)

Understanding shaft myths early helps younger golfers:

• Avoid ego-based decisions

• Learn equipment basics faster

• Make smarter upgrades later

Golf rewards knowledge more than strength.

FAQs

1. What shaft flex should a senior golfer use?

   It depends on swing speed, tempo, and ball flight, not age.

   
   

2. Is senior flex always best for golfers over 60?

   No. Many seniors play regular or even stiff flex successfully.

   
   

3. How do I know my shaft is too stiff?

   Low ball flight, poor carry distance, and harsh feel are common signs.

   
   

4. Can changing shaft flex add distance?

   Yes. Many golfers gain 10-20 yards with the right shaft.

   
   

5. Should seniors get club fitting?

   Yes. It’s one of the fastest ways to improve performance.

Final Thought

Age changes the body, but the right shaft changes the game.
Stop guessing. Start matching your equipment to your swing.