Shaft Torque
Also known as: shaft torque, torque rating, shaft torque rating, low torque shaft, high torque shaft, torque in a golf shaft
Shaft torque is how much a golf shaft twists under a standard load, measured in degrees. A shaft rated 3.0° twists less than one rated 5.0°. Lower torque feels firmer and resists the face twisting. Higher torque feels softer and can suit smoother swings.
During the downswing, the clubhead's weight tries to twist the shaft. Torque is the rating for how much it gives. GOLF.com describes it as how much the shaft resists twisting around its center.
Too much torque for a fast or aggressive swing can let the face stay open, leading to a high, weak slice. Too little torque can feel boardy or dead to some players and make the face harder to square.
Torque is linked to weight and flex. Within the same shaft model, heavier or stiffer versions usually have a lower torque. A fitting is the best way to find the right mix.
Tips by skill level
Ask a fitter to compare two shafts with the same flex but different torque.
Watch face angle consistency, not just distance, when testing torque.
Example
Her driver shaft feels whippy and she slices. Her fitter tries a lower-torque shaft of the same flex, and the face squares more easily.
Why it matters
Torque changes feel and face control. It is one of the specs that makes two shafts with the same flex feel very different.
Common mistakes
- Picking the lowest torque because pros use it
- Judging a shaft by flex alone
- Comparing torque across brands as if equal
- Ignoring how the shaft feels
Frequently asked questions
Is low torque better?
Not for everyone. GOLF.com notes low torque can feel boardy and make the face harder to square for some players. Fast, aggressive swingers usually like it more.
How does torque relate to shaft flex?
They are separate ratings but linked. Within the same shaft model, heavier or stiffer versions usually have a lower torque.
Sources
Related terms
- Shaft FlexShaft flex describes how much a shaft bends during the swing. Ratings run from L (Ladies) through A (Senior), R (Regular), S (Stiff), to X (Extra Stiff) — matched to swing speed for optimal launch.
- Shaft WeightShaft weight is measured in grams. Lighter shafts generally allow faster swings, while heavier shafts often give faster swingers steadier tempo and control.
- Kick Point (Shaft Bend Point)Kick point, or bend point, is the area of a golf shaft that bends the most during the swing. A low kick point near the clubhead tends to launch the ball a little higher. A high kick point near the grip tends to launch it lower.
- Graphite vs Steel ShaftsGraphite shafts are lighter and soak up more vibration. They often suit slower swingers and golfers with sore hands or joints. Steel shafts are heavier, usually cost less and give a firmer feel that many faster swingers prefer in their irons.
- Club FittingClub fitting uses a launch monitor to match shaft, length, lie angle, loft, and head design to a golfer's swing. Stock clubs are built for an average golfer.
Related guides & benchmarks
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