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Switch ‘Em Up! Now’s the time to swap steel for graphite in your iron shafts

December 19, 2018

Steel-shafted irons have been the standard for decades, but that doesn’t mean they should be the standard for you. In fact, unless you’re a pro, a college player or a competitive amateur (or, to be honest, if you’re anywhere past the age of 30), you should take a serious look at switching out to graphite.

Not only do modern graphite iron shaft models offer far more options than steel, they can dampen damaging vibration and are much easier on your body. For starters, check out the four on this page. Each offers great feel, exceptional consistency and big-time performance.

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Fujikura PRO Iron

fujikuragolf.com

One of the biggest names in driver shafts also makes some of the best composite iron shafts, and the Fujikura PRO is one to take seriously. Available in weights ranging from 70g to 117g, the PRO features High Density Composite Core Technology (HDCC) to deliver steel-shaft swingweights for improved feel and performance. HDCC composite also significantly reduces unwanted vibration while providing consistency that’s even greater than a comparable steel shaft. Flexes for the Fujikura PRO Iron shaft include soft R to Tour X and everything in between.

Fujikura PRO Iron shaft.
Fujikura PRO Iron shaft.

UST Mamiya Recoil ZT9

ustmamiya.com

The Recoil brand has become one of the standards in composite iron-shaft design in recent years. The ZT9 iteration is aimed at players who want lighter weights (62g, 69g, 72g) and higher launch angles with more control. Designed to dampen vibration for better overall feel, the ZT9 is an upgrade to the standard Recoil, itself a revolutionary product that provides a more efficient energy transfer to boost speed and distance. The ZT9 also features premium ion plating, giving every iron in your bag a unique look.

UST Mamiya Recoil ZT9 shaft.
UST Mamiya Recoil ZT9 shaft.

Paderson Kinetixx Ballistic

padersonshafts.com

If you’re not familiar with Paderson graphite shafts, listen up. According to our partners at True Spec, they’re among the best for delivering consistency and overall results. The key to the Ballistic iron shaft’s performance is Paderson’s proprietary filament-wound construction process and aerospace-grade resin system. It all sounds very technical—and it is! The bottom line is that the Ballistic shaft has no spine, doesn’t “oval” during the swing, and transmits energy exceptionally well. In other words, it’s a gamer. Available in a range of flexes at 99g.

Paderson Kinetixx Ballistic shaft.
Paderson Kinetixx Ballistic shaft.

Aerotech SteelFiber FC

aerotechgolfshafts.com

SteelFiber shafts are famously used by Brandt Snedeker, Matt Kuchar and Fred Couples, to name a few. The lone knock was that, for some players, the flex profile was too strong. As a remedy, Aerotech created the new FC (Flight Control) model, designed with variable tip stiffness for players who want a higher ball flight with their mid- and long irons but standard launch angles off their scoring clubs. 90g and 115g options are available.

Aerotech SteelFiber FC shaft
Aerotech SteelFiber FC shaft.

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