Ventus TR Red and Black offer two wildly different profiles.
Jonathan Wall/GOLF
Following a similar script to the rollout of the original Ventus shaft, Fujikura rounded out its new Ventus TR lineup with two additional profiles aimed at golfers on opposite ends of the launch and spin spectrum — Red and Black. With three profiles now in the line — the mid-launch Ventus TR Blue debuted in February — Ventus TR boasts an option for every player profile.
The key difference between Ventus and Ventus TR is the addition of an ultra-lightweight Spread Tow fabric, sourced from Japan, that reinforces the midsection and handle sections.
“One thing that Enso showed us was how much stress the shaft takes on during the transition and downswing,” said Spencer Reynolds, Fujikura’s product and brand manager. “Specifically, it does it in the mid-handle section; it’s the upper part of the mid and lower part of the handle section. We found at all ball speeds that’s where a shaft can take on a lot of unnecessary twist. That was the catalyst — how can we reinforce that section and reduce it as best we can.”
Compared to Ventus TR Blue, the Red profile is slightly softer in the mid and tip sections to deliver a mid-high launch with additional spin for golfers who struggle in both areas.
“I wouldn’t call the Red high launch and high spin overall, but more related to the other Ventus TR products,” Reynolds said. “It’s going to be softer in the mid and tip sections. That’ll give it a little bit easier launch and help kick the ball up in the air.”
A popular profile on Tour, Ventus TR Black delivers the lowest launch and spin characteristics for golfers who rank near the top end in swing speed. According to Reynolds, the Black profile fits a specific transition as well.
“The Black is the opposite end of the spectrum as the lower launching, lowest spinning profile. It’s stiff in the midsection, very stiff in the tip and handle sections,” he said. “If you’re aggressive into the ball, this is a profile that probably fits.”
Both shafts also feature a visible braided section underneath the paint — a callout to the stable Spread Tow fabric. And speaking of technology underneath the hood, Ventus still features a multi-material bias core and full-length pitch that boost clubhead performance by generating an efficient energy transfer at impact.
Both Ventus TR Red (R2 to X; 59-89 grams) and Ventus TR Black (S-X; 59-89 grams) will be available in a range of flexes and weights at $350 per shaft.
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Jonathan Wall is GOLF Magazine and GOLF.com’s Managing Editor for Equipment. Prior to joining the staff at the end of 2018, he spent 6 years covering equipment for the PGA Tour. He can be reached at jonathan.wall@golf.com.