When to switch from Stiff to X-stiff in driver

[RTP419]

I know there are conflicting opinions as to what flex to play in the driver. Most, I think, would agree to play the one that keeps it in the fairway. My question is I play Cally X-18 Pro series irons (which I realize are probably jacked up in lofts). Typical stock 6 iron for me is 180, what should I play in a driver? In years past I played an a TM R5 TP with X-flex 600TR- and loved it but was getting old, I now have a Superquad with X-flex Rombax and think it may be a little too much, should I switch down to a stiff.

 

Thanks in advance.

[MtlJeff]

it depends a lot on the shaft, there's almost no difference sometimes between one company's stiff and another's X-stiff. I have a SS of 110-113 with driver (want to get that measured now that i have the speedline, may have gone up) and have played both stiff and X.

 

if you're a tweener i'd say you'll definitily be able to play stiff. If anything it's better to be on the side of less flex. I had a driver this past summer with a 65g stiff flex and had no problem playing it and i'm guessing my swing speed is a little higher.

 

hope that helps

[golfware]

Stiff flex man. You'll be able to load/unload the shaft properly and max out your distance. Stiff flex.

[lohrm1]

I'd agree that it depends on the shaft. Some are weaker and an X works better for me, some I couldn't imagine hitting an X. I don't think there's a standard rule...

[Buzzkill]

I agree that it depends on the manufacture's shaft. I'm 50 and played a Diamana Blueboard X-flex with no problem and it felt smooth (not boardy).

[bigdriveandy]

My 6-iron is my 190 club but I play a stiff flex in all my clubs....my driver is tipped 1/2" though. I think tipping and the type of shaft would have more to do with what will optimize your numbers and your ballflight rather than the flex, like others have said it varies between manufacturers and different shafts work better with certain heads. A lot of people say the nippon shafts in my irons play soft to flex, but I am a handsy player who likes to feel the flex of the shaft in the downswing. It's all preference in the end.

[mspin14]

how many grams is your diamana x flex

[bm303]

Definitely better to be too soft than too stiff IMO. I have played with stiff shafts and I just couldn't feel the club like I do with a R flex. At 95 mph SS, I use a R flex tipped 1/2" and it seems to work well for me. Maybe you could look into a S flex and tip it to be play a S/X. Good luck, and I suggest going to a club fitter.

[flaun]

It just depends on the shaft. I have played stiffs forever, but went to an X-Stiff in the current driver and now I don't have to worry about overpowering the shaft. I think it just depends on how you like to play. For me, my typical swing would work with a stiff shaft, but I have 2 more gears above that. I don't want to have to limit my swing because of my gear. If your comfortable swing works with a stiff. I would look into a X-Stiff so you can let it all out if you want to.

 

Really, just go to a huge outdoor fitting facility, perhaps with a trackman. Hit the same club with different flexes. Once you are warm, you will know pretty quick what you can handle.