What Is Torque In A Golf Shaft & Why Does It Matter?

olf shaft torque is an important characteristic of golf club shafts that can significantly impact a golfer's performance. It is one of several factors we consider when fitting the correct shaft for clubs. Torque refers to the shaft's resistance to twisting during the golf swing.

Torque measures how much a golf shaft resists twisting along its longitudinal axis(the axis running from the grip to the clubhead) during the golf swing. When you swing a golf club, especially with higher clubhead speeds, there is a natural tendency for the shaft to twist due to the forces generated by the swing.

Torque is typically measured in degrees and is often expressed as a range, such as 2.5° to 5.0°. The lower the torque rating, the less the shaft will twist during the swing, and the higher the torque rating, the more it will twist.

The amount of torque in a golf shaft can affect the golfer's ability to control the direction of their shots and the feel of the club during the swing. Here's how it works:

- Low Torque: Shafts with low torque ratings resist twisting, providing more stability and control. They are often preferred by golfers with faster swing speeds may benefit from lower-torque shafts to maintain control

  - High Torque: Shafts with high torque ratings allow for more twisting during the swing. They can provide golfers with slower swing speeds far more forgiveness and a better feel.

However, that is not always the case the choice of torque depends on a golfer's swing characteristics, such as swing speed and tempo, as well as personal preference. It's essential to consider torque in conjunction with the shaft's flex(stiffness). “While conducting fittings we generally ask very specific questions about what a player is feeling to try and determine what suits them best feel wise. A simple but effective question is does that feel more or less stiff. Players don’t always feel what is stiffer but which one they feel they have more control over the head, after assessing several options we start to see a pattern of the what the players prefers at which point we can start refining the fitting process to provide the best possible outcomes for each individual” The combination of shaft flex and torque should match your swing style. A stiff shaft with low torque, for instance, may suit a golfer with a fast and aggressive swing.

A professional club fitting can help you find the ideal shaft torque for your game, ultimately improving your accuracy and consistency on the golf course.

‍