HOW DO YOU CHOOSE YOUR IDEAL IRON SHAFT WEIGHT?

Where do Ascending Mass shafts fit in?

Ascending mass shafts turn original shaft thinking from a few years ago on its head. The long iron shafts are lighter (where they used to be heavier) to help maximise speed and launch, while the shorter iron shafts are heavier to more closely match your wedges. Jason says: “You need to try them as they’re like Marmite; they can work for golfers who like the feel.”

How do I decide between graphite or steel?

Because graphite and steel iron shafts can now be made to similar weights, it generally comes down to dispersion. Graphite has more torque (twist) which can help some golfers square the face at impact.

If I use a light shaft in my driver, should I play lightweight iron shafts?

Not necessarily. It’s important to treat both driver and iron shafts as individuals. For instance, PGA Tour winner Gary Woodland has a 55g difference between his driver and iron shafts, whereas Matt Kuchar is closer to 30g. Never assume, go through the fitting process – data doesn’t lie.

What should I do if I’m caught between regular and stiff flexes.

Macniven says: “Go for the softer flex because it’s easier to shift. Look at it like an engine – if you’re constantly driving on the red line, the engine is going to blow at some time. It’s the same for a golf swing. You don’t want to feel like you have to swing at 110% every time to get a decent result.”

As you age you lose club speed each year.

Golfers are getting older, and once you get over 60 you typically lose about 0.5mph of club speed per year. That’s without taking into account whether you’ve kept up your fitness or had injuries. So if you haven’t been fitted for five years you could easily have dropped 2.5mph of speed, which is hugely significant.