tour ad xc spec

Graphite Design Tour AD XC Shaft Review

Graphite design tour ad xc shaft.

A late fall tradition – Graphite Design has released the Tour AD XC shaft for 2020.  Graphite Design has made premium golf shafts that can fit players with a wide range of profiles and abilities for 30+ years.  The AD XC is a modern take on the famous Tour AD BB “Blue Bomber” profile that’s jam packed with the latest shaft technology and manufacturing processes .  It’s a sharp looking shaft that will appeal to golfers looking for low-to-mid launch and a low spin option.

Graphite Design makes some of the most distinctive looking shafts in the game.  For instance, the Tour AD DI and its bright orange and white are instantly recognizable from a mile away.  You know Rickie’s rocking the black and orange AD IZ, sending bombs down the fairway.  The company has kept the same general graphic pattern – a solid, colorful bottom half, their cool “bands” logo, and a contrasting color up top.

The AD XC (nicknamed Extra Carry!) is a bit of a stealthy departure from that.  It has a flat matte-ish black paint job that blends into a pewter finish near the club head .  The logo and bands have some red accents, creating a totally sharp looking golf shaft.  It looks even better in the sun.  We also matched it up with the red and black Golf Pride ALIGN grip, because if you don’t match your shaft and grip, you can’t be a true Hero.  That’s scientifically proven.

How Does it Feel?

Something I really like about Graphite Design is that they have great descriptions of their profiles.  The AD XC is categorized as a SOFT butt section, STIFF mid section, and STIFF tip section.  After a few waggles and swings, you can feel their description of the AD XC is spot on.  Of the five to six Graphite Design shaft models I’ve spent considerable time with, they’ve been dead accurate on those too.  (For instance, the legendary AD DI has a smooth and snappy kick to it, the AD IZ is medium/firm all the way, and the GP might have the most distinct tip-stiff feel in their whole lineup.)

We’ve been lucky enough to try some of the top shafts in golf this year, from the stiffest and most stout, to the smoothest flowing and high whip.  I’d describe the Graphite Design Tour AD XC as very mild feeling.   For me, there’s no strong “snap,” and zero detection of stout boardiness.  I particularly rely on timing, so the ability to smoothly feel the club head in the swing is both welcomed and noticeable here.  

 Performance Data

Let’s start off with some good old fashioned modern SCIENCE.  I spent an afternoon on a Trackman where I tried out the Graphite Design AD XC in 6S and 7S alongside my gamer shaft(s).  Even a small change of 10 grams can result in some noticeable performance variables , and that was my experience here.  If you ever see my golf closet, you’ll understand I’ve learned that through experience! 

The data above is based off my testing with the AD XC 7S.  Its performance slightly edged out the 6S and these numbers came in pretty optimized for me from the very first swing.  Like many Graphite Design shafts, they do what they say they’re going to do.  I get a pleasing flat launch with the AD XC that doesn’t float .  The company has built this shaft with cutting edge TORAYCA M40X in the mid and tip sections, as well as TORAYCA T1100G carbon fiber materials to add stability and consistency to the shaft to promote that flight.  

On-Course Performance

Guys like me (and Tiger, naturally) are big proponents of our drives hitting the right “window.”  My bad swings are when I drag the club head to the left and leave the face open, resulting in high slices.  It can get dicey and makes me look like the weekend chopper I desperately don’t want to be.  With the Graphite Design AD XC, drives never apexed too high.  With minimized spin, those misses were reduced.  I struggle with high spin and often have to make some drastic weighting and club face adjustments to keep things under control.  What I like about the AD XC is that it naturally keeps me away from that major swing fault.

I’m not a bomber by any means, but I got some great distance from the Tour AD XC.  Even with that, I require a bit of versatility.  With this shaft, I’m able to hit my stock mid-height push fade with ease and I can hit the “knockdown” driver that gets me into the fairway.  Not every shaft gives me that, and I really like that the AD XC is an all-around performer . 

One last thought on performance.  M ost of this year I’ve played with a mid-launch/low-mid spin shaft, but could still use some help reducing spin just a touch.  I’ve clearly seen the data proving that the AD XC is knocking spin off my drives .  The difference is obviously visible in the way my flight differs from other shafts.  It’s very satisfying to make a change to your setup, and get exactly what you’re looking for.

Final Thoughts – Graphite Design Tour AD XC

What Graphite Design does wonderfully is build shafts that get great results, but also fit a wide variety of swings.  They can fit people into the light flex 40 gram range all the way to 80 gram Tour X-flex.  I’m a believer that there’s no “best” shaft in the Graphite Design lineup, but there’s certainly a “best fit.”  All of us Driving Range Heroes (and the Pro’s Choice/Graphite Design team) keep encouraging our readers to go get fit.  That’s where the biggest benefit comes from, so do it!

In the end, the Tour AD XC is a good looking and consistent performing shaft .  It’ll give you exactly the low/mid launch you’re craving, knock off some spin, and feels as responsive as any shaft I’ve hit all year.  It’s a modern take on a unique profile and uses the best materials and manufacturing techniques available.  There’s a reason guys like me and tons of Tour pros continue to trust the brand year after year!

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12 Comments

Great review, Jon. Would love to hear your thoughts as compared to the AD BB; namely, is it a similar launch/flight and do you notice the upgraded materials in the XC? Also, what head are you currently pairing with this shaft (model and loft)? Thanks and have a great day.

Thanks Sean! It’s been a while since I’ve hit the AD BB, but we’re going to do a one-on-one comparison in spring, so check back in.

I’m playing everything in a 9° Epic Flash with all settings cranked to “draw”. My most current shaft has been the stock HZRDUS Smoke Black in 6.0/70g. Cally nailed it with stock offerings. Both the Smoke and the AD XC are excellent, and I’ve got a variety of flights I can hit with one that I’m not as confident with the other. Kind of depends on where my swing is and what I’ll need to do that day!

It would be nice if you had a chart to show our left to right shot pattern with this shaft, and compare it to your current shaft. That to ME is what really matters with a driver shaft, hitting the fairway with a TIGHT shot pattern. I looked at the torque numbers for this shaft, which is 5.72, ant that is VERY HIGH for a stiff flex shaft. I refuse to use any shaft in my driver or woods with a torque over 3.5 and I prefer one that is under 2.5 if I can. My favorite shaft in my current driver has a torque rating of 1.8 degrees and it give me very tight shot pattern for more fairways and easier second shots on the course.

Hey Don, thanks for the reply. I did get the Trackman chart, and among the three shafts tried that day, the AD XC 7s was the tightest pattern, slightly better than 6s. Not by much though. I’m always going back and forth on 60g vs 70g, and the heavier versions seem to match me better these days.

What’s your gamer shaft?

Torque on the AD XC 6s is 3.2 and the 7s is 3.0 btw. The higher torque you’re seeing are features of their 40g range.

Hi Jon, Great review. What were the main differences you were seeing between the 6s and 7s? Better dispersion with the 7s? Any change in launch/spin between the two? I’m looking to pick up the XC and I usually lean towards 70ish gram shafts and these are sitting right in the middle at 65 and 75 grams (X flex). Thanks!!

Thanks Daniel! Super hard to say. Dispersion was slightly better with the heavier 7s, but not by much. It’s totally “feel” and personal preference. If you’ve had success and feel comfortable in the 70g range, it’s probably likely to be the case here. Are you able to hit them side by side?

Hi Jon, Thanks for the review. Very helpful. Have you hit the Ventus blue and how would you compare to this shaft? I’ve always loved GD shafts in my hybrids but haven’t found a driver shaft I loved. The IZ was too dull to me. The Ventus is great but it spins and launches a little higher than I would like. I’ve considered going down in loft to reduce launch but very curious to see if you’ve hit both these shafts. Thanks!

I just snagged a Ventus Blue (and have hit the Ventus Black a couple times) so I’m not 100% on-course familiar with all of them yet. You might want to try the Black as a comparison, and based off my limited time hitting bombs with it, that would seem to be the cure for your spin and launch issues with the Blue. Comparing them with the AD XC is a bit tougher, as I’ve really had some promising results with all of them. The Ventii feel a bit more stable than the Graphite Design IMO… the XC is just a touch livelier. (In my review, I think I called it a “mild” feeling shaft… and I think that’s a good word for it) I do agree the AD IZ had a dull-ish feel to it. Good performer, but not my favorite feel. Hope that helps a bit. These are all crazy good shafts though.

Jon, How would you describe the differences between the Diamana BF and the GD XC ? Thanks, Joe

Haven’t hit the BF, so can’t really compare. Sorry!

Hey Jon I’m thinking about getting the AD GP 7x, any thoughts on that shaft?

Tested this shaft at Club Champion and it clearly came out on top with both Driver and FW 15* wood. Excited to play these in the clubs in the Spring.

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Graphite Design Tour AD XC Graphite Wood Shafts

Shaft services optional, description.

Graphite Design introduces the latest in the Tour AD premium line of golf shafts, the Graphite Design Tour XC – designed to provide Xtra Carry distance. Designed and manufactured at the Graphite Design Japan factory headquarters, the new Tour AD VR wood shafts are dark blue with white and silver accents and are finished with a matte clear coat.

The Tour AD XC shaft profile is soft in the butt section, stiff in the center section and has a stiff tip to promote low/mid launch angle and low spin with the ball. The Tour AD XC also utilizes the brand new TORAYCA® M40X carbon-fiber pre-preg in the Mid to Tip Section of the shaft as well as the TORAYCA T1100G carbon-fiber pre-preg with NANOALLOY technology in the tip section of the shaft for unrivaled shaft stability and precise ball control without the loss of the exceptional feel that Graphite Design shafts are so well known for.

• Utilizes the brand new TORAYCA®M40X carbon fiber pre-preg in the mid to tip section with NANOALLOY® technology in the tip section of the shaft for unrivaled shaft stability and precise ball control
• Shaft profile is designed with a softer butt section, a stiff center section and a stiff tip section to promote a low launch angle and low spin
• Delivers the exceptional feel that Graphite Design shafts are known for, while providing the “Xtra Carry” needed to optimize distance

Click here for Trimming Instructions

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This product can expose you to chemicals including black (airborne, unbound particles of respirable size), which is know to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov .

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SST PURE identifies asymmetries that exist in every golf shaft and locates each shaft's most stable orientation. This results in more consistent performance and uniform feel from club to club.

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Shafts are tip trimmed (if required) to manufacturer’s recommendations. For steel shafts, we abrade the tips. For graphite shafts, we remove the polyurethane coating. When you receive your shaft, all you need to do is mix epoxy, install and align. After the epoxy is cured, cut to your final playing length from the butt end and install the grip.

Tip & Butt Trimming - $4.95

Shafts are tip trimmed (if required) to manufacturer’s recommendations. For steel shafts, we abrade the tips. For graphite shafts, we remove the polyurethane coating. After tip trimming and prepping, the shafts are butt trimmed to the desired final playing length*.

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Graphite Design AD XC Shaft Review

One of the standout features of the Tour AD XC 6 Shaft is its mid kick point. This means that it produces a mid-high trajectory while still maintaining optimal spin control. And let me tell you, this combination is a game-changer. It gives you the best of both worlds – distance and accuracy.

Updated February 2024 to update current pricing information.

Possibly the most popular golf shaft of all-time is the Graphite Design Tour AD DI shaft played by Tiger Woods. The signature orange and white shaft has made Graphite Design a household name for many in the golfing community. Their newest shaft, the Tour AD XC shaft is a complete golf shaft optimized for eXtra Carry. The XC shaft is a blend of stability and feel and is already making waves on the PGA and other Worldwide Golfing Tours.

Key Features

• The Tour AD XC is a low-mid launching golf shaft that delivers low spin rates for maximized carry and total distances.
• The Tour AD XC features a softer butt section and stiff tip and middle sections to give golfers more effective energy transfer without a harsh feel.
• The Tour AD XC is crafted with TORAYCA M40X, TORAYCA T1100G, and NANOALLOY carbon-fiber materials to give golfers a precision build and tighter tolerances.

Who Should Buy The Graphite Design Tour AD XC Shaft?

The Tour AD XC is a standout option for golfers looking to maximize their power through impact and get the absolute most out of their driving performance. A bend profile that has been created for aggressive swingers, the Tour AD XC holds up no matter what you throw at it. The Tour AD XC is generally a low to mid launching shaft with low spin that helps players maximize their carry distances through better delivery dynamics in both drivers and fairway woods .

Graphite Design Tour AD XC Shaft Detailed Review

Design and technology.

The composition of materials within the Graphite Design family is what helps set them apart from other premium golf shaft companies. The Tour AD XC is created using the entire spectrum of advanced materials available to the engineers at Graphite Design. 50 ton ultra-premium aerospace carbon fiber materials are used throughout the shaft to give the exact bend profile. TORAYCA M40X pre-preg in the mid and tip sections with TORAYCA T1100G carbon-fiber infused with NANOALLOY technology create a versatile golf shaft that is easy to swing yet delivers exceptional stability and control through impact.

The Graphite Design Tour AD XC is made to accommodate almost every golfer and skill level. The weight ranges for the Tour AD XC span from 47-grams up to 85-grams. Flexes include Senior, Regular, Stiff, X-Stiff, and Tour X-Stiff options. The Tour AD XC shaft will be available at Graphite Design partnered fitting centers and can be found at Pro’s Choice Golf Shafts in the North American and United States markets.

Our Experience

Some of my best golf clubs ever have been paired with Graphite Design shafts. It is rare that they come out with anything that I do not like and that does not fit a wide range of golfers. The Tour AD XC is no different. The Tour AD XC truly shines as a compliment to the driver as a shaft that produces explosive results and helps players maximize their carry distances through higher launch and lower spin rates. The reinforced tip section helped keep my driver in place during my entire golf swing, yet the softer butt section made it feel as though I could swing comfortably, and the shaft would do the work.  Ultimately, golf shafts of any kind should be looked at as transfer devices to help you get the maximum amount of energy from your golf swing back into the golf ball. The Tour AD XC delivers more efficiency for a variety of golf swings and that can mean higher levels of both distance and accuracy for those that find their timing with this high-performance golf shaft.

• The Tour AD XC is among the most stable and most explosive golf shafts we have tested.
• The softer butt section of the Tour AD XC mixed with the stiff mid and tip sections create a golf shaft that is easier to swing yet more powerful through impact.
• The Tour AD XC uses advanced materials to deliver golfers a smooth feel and consistency at a wide range of club head speeds.
• The Tour AD XC is a premium golf shaft and thus will be difficult to justify for budget-conscious players.
• Generally, Graphite Design shafts can be very difficult to find, test, and demo when buying your new drivers or fairway woods. Click the image below to find a dealer near you.
• Players looking to maximize launch and spin for their fairway woods coming from the turf may prefer the Tour AD DI or other options.

Getting the right golf shaft for your swing will allow you to take your best drives ever and make those your normal. Optimized performance from shafts like the Graphite Design Tour AD XC shaft can allow you to attack par-4s with wedges and short irons and get to those longer par-5s in two. The benefits of the Tour AD XC extend beyond just the distance gains it can provide. The Tour AD XC delivers a beautiful feel and sensation as you swing it coupled with a powerful punch through impact. Graphite Design continues to push the boundary forward for high-end golf shafts and the Tour AD XC is the next in line.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the graphite design tour ad xc 6 shaft be used with any other driver models besides taylormade m6, m5, m4, m3, m2, and m1.

Yes, the Graphite Design Tour AD XC 6 shaft can be used with other driver models. Custom shaft options are available upon request, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of drivers for an optimized golfing experience.

Are There Any Custom Color Options Available for the Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360* Grip?

Custom color options are available for the Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360* grip. Grip customization adds a personal touch to your clubs. The durability of the grip ensures long-lasting performance, enhancing your overall golfing experience.

How Does the Tour AD XC Shaft Compare to Other Graphite Design Shaft Models in Terms of Feel and Performance?

The Tour AD XC shaft offers a unique feel and performance compared to other Graphite Design models. Its mid kick point creates a MID – HIGH trajectory with optimal spin control. The shaft’s customization options include length adjustment and custom color choices for the grip.

Is the Shaft Available for Left-Handed Golfers as Well?

Yes, the shaft is available for left-handed golfers and can be customized to fit various golf club models. Graphite Design offers options for customization, ensuring compatibility and performance for all players.

Can the Shaft Length Be Adjusted to a Different Standard Finished Length Than 45.5 Inches?

Yes, the shaft length can be adjusted to a different standard finished length than 45.5 inches. Custom grip options are available, ensuring a personalized fit for enhanced performance on the course.

How Does the Graphite Design XC Shaft Compare?

Graphite design tour ad iz.

The Graphite Design Tour AD IZ golf shaft is a continuation of Graphite Design’s success. This “Into the Zone” golf shaft is made with advanced materials and features Graphite Designs Material Stiffness Integration to deliver explosive ball speeds without a rigid feel. The Tour AD IZ has been used on Tour by players such as Rickie Fowler and Jordan Spieth and is a must try for serious golfers.

Graphite Design Tour AD IZ Review

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As the Founder of Golfers Authority Paul Liberatore Esq. has spent the last 7+ years writing about the best golf equipment or instruction from the top golf instructors in the world. He has been a contributing writer for Sports Illustrated Golf and GolfWRX. After graduating with honors from Purdue University, he realized that he had a passion for the golf business and the law. When he's not practicing law, or creating golf content on YouTube, he can be found on his syndicated Behind the Golf Brand podcast talking with the most prolific leaders in the golf industry. 

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Graphite Design Tour AD XC Shaft Review

GDI Tour AD XC

The Graphite Design Tour AD XC wood shaft is the latest in the great lineup of Tour AD (Accuracy and Distance) shafts from Graphite Design.

Book your Driver or Wood Fitting to see which of these shafts may fit YOUR swing!

Designed as Xtra Carry, the XC wood shafts have a softer butt section, but firmer mid and tip section for added stability and reduced spin.  This shaft actually improves on the design of the Tour AD IZ.  The Tour AD XC utilizes new MX 40 pre-preg materials from TORACAY for added stability and feel.

Well known for their relatively soft mid section, the Tour AD XC is a slight departure for Graphite Design offering golfers a firmer feel at impact.

Available Models

The Tour AD XC is available in five different weights from 47 to 84 grams at raw length.   The Tour AD XC 4 is available in Senior, Regular and Stiff flex.  The XC 5 is available in Senior, Regular, Stiff and XStiff.  The fact that the lighter weight shafts are available in X flex is a tribute to the fact that certain stronger players can do well with stiffer shafts.  The most popular weight XC 6 is available not only in Senior, Regular, Stiff and XStiff but Tour Stiff as well.  The XC 7 is available in Stiff, XStiff and Tour Stiff while the XC 8 is only available in Stiff and XStiff.

Shaft Profile

Our proprietary testing, while very similar to a traditional EI (elasticity index) curve, is a load profile that shows the load a shaft that is bent a particular deflection length puts on a specific point on the shaft.  We determine our trajectory and feel characteristics based upon these measurements.

Trajectory and Spin

The XC 4 has a mid-high trajectory and mid-high spin, which is excellent for juniors and slower swing speeds in general.  The XC 5 and XC 6 are mid trajectory and mid spin across all flexes.  The XC 7 and XC 8 are mid to low-mid trajectory and spin.  Tipping any of these shafts will reduce the launch angle and resulting trajectory slightly.

Release and Feel

Feel is a very subjective performance factor and difficult to accurately specify.  We use a combination of torque (higher torque means softer feel) and shaft stiffness profile.  The XC 4 and XC 5 will have the softest feel, while the XC 6, XC 7 and XC 8 will have a much firmer feel.  That is mostly because mid section of the shaft is very firm, compared to other Tour AD models, giving the feel of a one-piece shaft at impact.

These shafts will be a great addition to the Tour AD line, especially for players liking a mid trajectory and slightly firmer feel at impact.

Book your Driver or Wood Fitting to see which of these shafts may fit YOUR swing !

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REVIEW: Graphite Design Tour AD XC Shaft

The new Tour AD XC utilizes the same TORAYCA ® T1100G carbon-fiber pre-preg with NANOALLOY ® technology as the past few Tour AD shafts. This provides the tip section of the shaft with additional shaft stability, exceptional feel and precise ball control. The Tour AD XC also utilizes brand new TORAYCA ® M40X carbon-fiber pre-preg in the Mid to Tip section of the shaft. This strength in transition from Mid to Tip helps create a Low/Mid Launch and Low Spin characteristics. Along with TORAYCA ® and NANOALLOY ® is Graphite Design’s proprietary Material Stiffness Integration (MSI) design philosophy and technology. The way each layer of material is used helps create the unmistakable feel and performance in all Graphite Design shafts. This attention to detail in production is what makes Graphite Design one of the industry leaders.

At first glance, you can tell the XC is a Tour AD, with the noticeable shaft bands near the grip. Something about this pattern reminds me of a snake stealthily ready to attack. It is by far my favorite color pattern in a Graphite Design shaft. Designed and manufactured at the Graphite Design Japan factory headquarters, the new Tour AD XC is black and silver with red accents and a matte finish. This will blend nicely with any driver combination you try. I like how the black fades into silver near the tip of the shaft and makes a better contrast rather than leaving the entire shaft one color. The new Tour AD XC also has the feel you have come to love from a Tour AD shaft . I’m sure this has to do with Graphite Design’s proprietary Material Stiffness Integration (MSI) design. You will not be disappointed in the feel if you have grown accustomed to a previous Tour AD model.

No matter the tech specs or the pictures, we all know the rubber meets the road when we tee up a ball and see how a shaft really performs. I’ve played several times with the new Tour AD XC shaft in my driver at a different course, yet a course I’ve played before. The first thing I noticed was the hangtime on the ball flight was longer. “Xtra Carry” isn’t just a catchy name for the shaft, it was a real thing for my drives. The flight isn’t any lower than I noticed before, but it appears to stay in the air longer. It’s a bit counter intuitive to see this shaft labeled as Low/Mid Launch and Low Spin, yet designed for more carry. I cannot assume to know why the XC keeps the ball in the air longer, but the last round I played was after a soaking rain the night before and I found my drives left me about one club less into the greens. My average score has dropped 1-2 shots per round since I put the XC into play and I’ve been finding nearly every fairway. I bet that’s why Graphite Design prints (Accuracy & Distance) near the tip on every shaft. Launch monitor numbers give me a small glimpse into the reason for the added distance, but seeing the same results out on the golf course says it all.

Through years of playing, testing and fitting I have learned not to get too excited when a company brings new product to market. We see claims how this will be the perfect shaft for swing x or swing z, but one thing that’s different about Graphite Design is how the product speaks for itself. Time and again, we see a Tour AD in someone’s club and we immediately know what shaft it is. If you have a Tour AD shaft in any of your clubs, then you know how good they are and why the New Tour AD XC is worth trying. For the last few years Graphite Design has released an award worthy shaft and 2020 is no exception. Find an  Authorized Dealer  to help you get the right  Tour AD XC  in your club.

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Graphite Design Tour AD XC Review

By DanSueltz November 9th, 2019

The Graphite Design Tour AD XC wood shaft is the latest in the great lineup of Tour AD (Accuracy and Distance) shafts from Graphite Design.

Use our  Driver/Wood Fitting Wizard to see which of these shafts may fit YOUR swing!

Designed as Xtra Carry, the XC wood shafts have a softer butt section, but firmer mid and tip section for added stability and reduced spin.  This shaft actually improves on the design of the Tour AD IZ.  The Tour AD XC utilizes new MX 40 pre-preg materials from TORACAY for added stability and feel.

Well known for their relatively soft mid section, the Tour AD XC is a slight departure for Graphite Design offering golfers a firmer feel at impact.

Available Models

The Tour AD XC is available in five different weights from 47 to 84 grams at raw length.   The Tour AD XC 4 is available in Senior, Regular and Stiff flex.  The XC 5 is available in Senior, Regular, Stiff and XStiff.  The fact that the lighter weight shafts are available in X flex is a tribute to the fact that certain stronger players can do well with stiffer shafts.  The most popular weight XC 6 is available not only in Senior, Regular, Stiff and XStiff but Tour Stiff as well.  The XC 7 is available in Stiff, XStiff and Tour Stiff while the XC 8 is only available in Stiff and XStiff.

Shaft Profile

Our proprietary testing, while very similar to a traditional EI (elasticity index) curve, is a load profile that shows the load a shaft that is bent a particular deflection length puts on a specific point on the shaft.  We determine our trajectory and feel characteristics based upon these measurements.

Trajectory and Spin

The XC 4 has a mid-high trajectory and mid-high spin, which is excellent for juniors and slower swing speeds in general.  The XC 5 and XC 6 are mid trajectory and mid spin across all flexes.  The XC 7 and XC 8 are mid to low-mid trajectory and spin.  Tipping any of these shafts will reduce the launch angle and resulting trajectory slightly.

Release and Feel

Feel is a very subjective performance factor and difficult to accurately specify.  We use a combination of torque (higher torque means softer feel) and shaft stiffness profile.  The XC 4 and XC 5 will have the softest feel, while the XC 6, XC 7 and XC 8 will have a much firmer feel.  That is mostly because mid section of the shaft is very firm, compared to other Tour AD models, giving the feel of a one-piece shaft at impact.

These shafts will be a great addition to the Tour AD line, especially for players liking a mid trajectory and a  slightly firmer feel at impact.  

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Graphite Design Tour AD XC Wood Shaft

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The  "TOUR AD XC"  series is a new type of shaft that matches distance-finding face technology applied to most of the head recently. By using a new material M40X from tip to middle section and applying T1100G at the tip extremely minimizes power loss during ball impact. Tip movement is limited to a minimal resulting in an improved ball velocity and consist direct face hit. A strong bend profile from mid part to grip end improves playability that you can feel during acceleration and directly transferred to the head for more stable and consistent hit. The high performance shaft that will give you the  X tra   C arry .

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Graphite Design TOUR AD XC Driver Shafts .335 Tip

Graphite Design

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Description

Graphite design tour ad xc driver shafts, looking for a envy-inducing driver shaft that will help you take your game to the next level, look no further than the graphite design tour ad xc..

These premium quality shafts are made from aerospace quality carbon fiber. The Tour AD XC shafts are available in a variety of flex options to suit your swing.

The Tour AD XC features a soft butt section, stiff center section, and stiff tip designed to promote low/mid launch angle and low spin for maximum distance and accuracy off the tee.

The shaft also utilizes the brand new TORAYCA M40X carbon-fiber pre-preg in the Mid to Tip Section for unrivaled stability and precise ball control.

So if you're ready to up your driving game, give the Graphite Design Tour AD XC a try. You won't be disappointed.

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Shaft Specs:

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Review: Graphite Design Tour AD GP Shafts

Pros:  The stiffest of Graphite Design’s Tour AD shafts. Compared to similar shafts, the GP is impressively smooth and stable. Available in a wide range of weights (50-80 grams) and flexes (R2-X).

Cons:  Like other Tour AD shafts, the MSRP is $500.

Who it’s for:  Golfers who prefer tip-stiff shafts, as well as those looking to reduce launch and spin. The highly stable design can also suit golfers who want to tighten their dispersion, particularly if their miss is a hook.

At the top levels of the game, golfers are getting stronger. It’s easy to see on the PGA Tour, where the game’s brightest young stars are regularly generating club head speeds in excess of 120 mph. It’s even more noticeable at top college and junior golf events, as fields are filled with golfers who are stronger and more technically sound than ever before.

In response, golf equipment manufacturers have evolved their product lines. Especially with metal woods, it has meant lower-spinning clubheads, and to complement them, stiffer, more energy-efficient shaft designs.

Graphite Design new Tour AD GP shafts are intended to suit a wide range of golfers, as they’re offered in a variety of weights (50-80 grams) and flexes (R2-X) to fit a broad scope of golfers. Compared to previous shaft models from the company, however, the GP line (which stands for “Greatest Performance”) will optimize stronger golfers, as well as those who perform best with extremely stable shafts.

Like other new Tour AD models, they’re constructed with the company’s 50T carbon-fiber material, which gives them the smooth feel for which Graphite Design’s shafts are known. In the tip section of the shaft, however, the GP shafts use Torayca’s new T1100G carbon-fiber pre-preg with NanoAlloy technology, which gives the shafts a tip stiffness that are only rivaled by the company’s Tour AD M9003 shafts.

Graphite Design’s representatives warned me the GP shafts “may feel more on the firmer side,” and would not play like the Graphite Design shafts I used in the past. Design platforms and robot testing are one thing, but golf is played by humans — not engineering software and robots. I wanted to know exactly how different the new shaft would perform compared to Graphite Design’s most popular shaft of all time, the Tour AD-DI.

To find out, I took the GP shaft to the Launch Pad at Carl’s Golfland in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., where I tested it against the Tour AD-DI in the most apples-to-apples comparison possible. Both shafts were built to my specifications, 7X (tipped 1 inch) at a finished length of 45.5 inches in a TaylorMade M1 430 (10.5 degrees set to 8.5 degrees).

The numbers below may look quite similar, but please read on, because the feedback and trajectory biases were not.

The Numbers

Tipped 1 inch, the GP was one of the stiffest shafts I have ever used, and felt considerably more stable than the Tour AD-DI that I’ve played in the past.

As you can see, I swung the GP slightly faster (0.8 mph), but the extremely stiff-tipped design caused me to release the clubhead sooner in a effort to hit a straight shot. You can see that in my Attack Angle, which increased from -1.4 degrees to 0.2 degrees. As a result of my manipulation, I also contacted my drives higher on the face with the GP, which lowered my ball speed, increased my launch angle and decreased my spin rate due to gear effect.

I talked to Graphite Design about my results, and company representatives weren’t surprised. According to their PGA Tour rep, the GP shafts are so stable that golfers are not tipping them in their drivers. Since the average tipping on Tour for a driver is 1 inch, that speaks to the GP’s robustness.

I also tried a GP 8X (tipped 1.5 inches) at 43 inches in my TaylorMade M1 fairway wood, and the shaft played entirely too stiff. My release was earlier, which caused my spin numbers to rise above appropriate levels, and my miss tended to be high and to the right. According to Graphite Design, golfers who are using GP shafts in their 3 wood are tipping them no more than 0.5 inches, and my results were typical of a shaft that was overtipped. The GP shafts have to be commended for their smooth feel, however, as well as their tight dispersion, despite my overtipping.

There’s no question that in the correct flex and tipping, the GP would have loaded and unloaded more efficiently than the AD-DI. That would have created all-around better launch conditions. Of course, results are going to vary from golfer to golfer depending on swing and style. That’s why the most important message from this review is to not try to emulate the specs of Tour player, but to be fit for the shaft that works best for your game.

Tour AD GP Flexes

If you’re a stronger golfer, or one who’s looking to tighten up your dispersion — especially if your miss is a hook — the GP is likely a good option for your game. And if you’re coming from another Graphite Design shaft, you’ll likely find the performance characteristics of the Tour AD GP to be noticeably, and impressively different.

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12 Comments

May 17, 2016 at 2:33 pm

This review would have been helpful if you used the right specs (ik its obvi). Not only were you not able to load the shaft correctly, ur numbers/results throws everything off of the gp. more spin with gp than di? who would want that haha

Dale Doback

Apr 28, 2016 at 6:13 pm

According to the bend profile of this shaft any tip trimming done actually makes the shaft tip area play softer which speaks volumes to the stoutness of the shaft that with your speed Zak, and the amount you tipped the shafts that it still played to stiff.

Jan 24, 2016 at 4:59 am

Surprised it didn’t get 5 stars, or at least 4.5

Jan 24, 2016 at 4:47 am

what about dispersion Zak? Thats the whole point of a shaft as stiff as this!

Zak Kozuchowski

Jan 24, 2016 at 10:22 am

The dispersion was very extremely tight, JJ. It’s the most stable shaft I’ve ever tested from GD.

Chirpmaster

Jan 23, 2016 at 9:49 pm

Epic FAIL! Way to turn $1000 in shafts into tomato stakes.

Jan 23, 2016 at 12:40 pm

A good review would have been completely stock vs stock, then perhaps throwing in numbers from your current tipped gamer. The only thing I can take away is don’t heavily tip a brand new shaft you’ve never tried before.

Jan 22, 2016 at 10:42 pm

the reason tour players aren’t tipping this shaft isn’t because its too stiff, its because the profile of this shaft makes it play softer when tipped due to an increasingly stiff tip section. When tipped you are removing a piece of the stiffest portion of the shaft. It’s been recommended by club builders to only tip this shaft when trying to make it play softer.

Feb 12, 2016 at 3:33 pm

That is total BS emb. Don’t listen to those guys okay. GD and many of the new shaftmakers who are copying the innovation of experienced materials experts, make a prolonged tip section so the shafts are more versatile and can be used in all woods. Understand, anytime you tip a tapered shaft (and they are all tapered, even fishing rods) it gets stiffer–PERIOD. Even if you tipped past the prolonged tip section and got into the taper where the walls get thinner, the hoop strength makes it get stiffer. Tipping shafts has never been an exact science so go at it incrementally–remember you can’t put any tip back. lol

Apr 28, 2016 at 6:16 pm

emb is correct. try looking looking at the shaft bend profile before commenting

Jan 22, 2016 at 6:53 pm

You’re one of those people that salts their food before even trying it, aren’t ya?

Jan 22, 2016 at 8:56 pm

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Accessory Reviews

Insider photos from tiger woods’ launch event for his new “sun day red” apparel line.

On Monday evening, inside the swanky, second-story “Coach House” event center in the Palisades Village, just minutes down the road from the 2024 Genesis Invitational at Riviera Country Club, Tiger Woods and TaylorMade officially announced their new apparel/footwear/accessory line, called “Sun Day Red.”

The Sun Day Red website officially launched on Monday night during the event, and the products are set to go on sale starting May 1.

The “Sun Day Red,” or “SDR” name will be self-explanatory for most golf fans, since he’s been wearing a victory-red shirt on Sunday’s for his entire professional career, but Woods explained the meaning of Sun Day Red at the launch event:

“It started with mom. Mom thought – being a Capricorn – that my power color was red, so I wore red as a junior golfer and I won some tournaments. Lo and behold, I go to a university that is red; Stanford is red. We wore red on the final day of every single tournament, and then every single tournament I’ve played as a professional I’ve worn red. It’s just become synonymous with me.”

The Sunday Red outfit has worked to perfection for his 82 PGA Tour victories, including 15 majors, so why not make an entire apparel line based on the career-long superstition?

As I learned at Monday’s launch event, the new Sun Day Red line includes much more than just clothing. To go along with a slew of different golf shirt designs and colorways, there were also windbreakers, hoodies, shoes, hats, headcovers, ball markers and gloves on display.

The upscale event was hosted by sports media personality Erin Andrews, with special guests David Abeles (CEO of TaylorMade) and Tiger Woods himself.

As explained by Abeles, the Sun Day Red brand is an independently-run business under the TaylorMade umbrella, and is based in San Clemente, California (rather than Carlsbad, where TaylorMade headquarters is located), and it’s run by a newly-formed, independent group. Brad Blackinship, formerly of Quiksilver and RVCA, is the appointed president of the new brand.

As for the logo itself, obviously, it’s made to look like a Tiger (the animal), and is comprised of 15 tiger stripes, which correspond with Woods’ 15 major championships. While the logo may need a 16th stripe if Woods adds a major trophy to his collection, it makes perfect sense for the time being.

The golf/lifestyle line is meant to combine premium precision and athletic comfort, while still having plenty of wearability and style off the course. Like Woods said on stage at the event, he wants to be able to go right from the course to dinner wearing Sun Day Red, and that was exactly the aesthetic on display at the event on Monday.

Following the official announcement from Woods and Abeles, they revealed multiple pieces of clothing, accessories and footwear for the event-goers to ogle (and photograph). Check out a selection of product/event photos below, or head over to our @GolfWRX Instagram page for video coverage…OR, head into our GolfWRX Forums for even more photos and member discussion.

Enjoy this exclusive look at Tiger Woods’ new Sun Day Red apparel lineup below.

See more photos from the Sun Day Red launch event here

Titleist launches new Vokey WedgeWorks 60 “A” grind wedge

The menu of grind options just got more expansive for Titleist Vokey WedgeWorks consumers, with the addition of a “60A” wedge to the lineup.

Previously, Vokey offered seven main grind options for players with various needs :

• T Grind: The narrowest sole option, which is widely used by PGA Tour players, and has low bounce
• L Grind: The lowest bounce option, with heel, toe and trailing edge relief for maximum versatility
• F Grind: An all-purpose grind that’s best for full wedge shots played with a square face
• S Grind: A neutral grind, best for full shots played with a square face
• M Grind: A versatile grind that’s for players who want to open and close the face for various shots
• D Grind: A higher-bounce wedge that’s for players with a steep swing angle, but want to play shots from various club orientations
• K Grind: The highest-bounce wedge option, with heel, toe and trailing edge relief for versatility

Titleist has now added the “A” grind, which has actually already been played on the PGA Tour by golfers such as Tom Kim, who used an A-grind to win three times on the PGA Tour, Wyndham Clark, who won the U.S. Open using an A-grind, and Max Homa, who used an A-grind at the 2023 Open Championship.

According to Titleist, the Vokey WedgeWorks 60A wedge is a low-bounce option that’s for golfers with a shallow angle of attack, and who play in firmer conditions. It has a “smoothed-out” sole for a faster feel through the turf, helping some golfers slide under the ball easier at impact.

“The most important club for me, probably in my bag, is this A grind,” Clark said, according to a Titleist press release. “I use the SM9 60-degree A grind, which is a low bounce 60 that is very versatile. I’m able to – on tight lies, rough, wet lies, firm lies, whatever it is – hit the shot I want, and with the amount of spin I want, trajectory and everything.”  

Apparently, Geoff Ogilvy played a large part in the A-grind coming to life.

“I spoke with Geoff (Ogilvy), and we got on the topic of Australian golf courses and how they compared to courses in America, and around the world,” said Vokey Tour Rep Aaron Dill, in a press release. “I asked him some specific questions, which resulted in an idea to design another lob wedge grind option that complemented the firm links-style conditions that players face – not just in Australia and Europe – but globally. Geoff has always been a low bounce player in his 60-degree, so I took his 60.04L wedge and removed the ribbon, resulting in a grind that moves through the turf quickly with very little resistance.” 

The new Vokey A-grind will be available on Nov. 7, selling for $225 each. Custom options include up to six toe engravings, 10-15 character stamping options, the Flight Line alignment feature option, and custom shafts/grips/ferrules are available.

Click here to read more about why the bounce/grind of your wedge actually matters

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GolfWRXers put the Full Swing KIT’s accuracy to the test

Last month, four GolfWRX forum members traveled to The Grand Golf Club at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego, California, to test the Full Swing KIT launch monitor and to see how it stacks up against other launch monitors. If you’re not familiar with the Full Swing KIT , development began when Tiger Woods requested a launch monitor he could trust on the range as much as he trusted his Full Swing simulator in his own home. Later, the KIT earned Tiger’s seal of approval and has been seen with him at every tournament he’s played in since its release.

GolfWRX members on the KIT’s accuracy

zap311: “The Full Swing team seems obsessed with accuracy when it comes to the KIT – The team talked about how this product officially shipped about 18 months ago and they are already on firmware release #20. They said they are regularly releasing updates (overnight via WiFi) to continuously improve accuracy and performance. That is pretty awesome and it’s nice to hear that they are not a company that “ships it” and moves to the next thing. I think they are on the right track since I saw virtually no differences in the data when testing vs. GCQuad and Trackman today.”

double or triple?: “In some cases the difference was less than half a degree on launch and less than 50 rpms on spin.”

hatrick11: “The differences were statistically nonexistent. I think it’s hard to believe for a lot of people when you think about the huge price disparity, but I can’t state enough how close the Full Swing was to trackman every single time, for each of us.”

“Outside, the data is just really really accurate. I know my numbers and know this particular range very well and the KIT was spot on all day. I also had some very variable quality golf balls in the bucket I hit and there was really only one spin rate in the whole session that had me raising my eyebrows at all.”

SwingBlues: “The GolfWRX Full Swing/WRX Experience showed Full Swing KIT produce numbers the same as the GC Quad (GC4) and the Trackman4. Dollar wise, both LMs are easily north of KIT, so this is HUGE to stand up there with the bigger boys on the Podium. For me, it seems more “apples to apples” to compare KIT to GC3. My own testing validates what we saw at the Experience. It shows critical data points like spin, carry, ball speeds are dead on or almost dead on for 40 yards and up on both GC3 and KIT.”

More on the Full Swing KIT

zap311: “The versatility of viewing data is impressive – Depending on usage, everyone has different preferences for viewing data. You have on-device, phone, tablet, monitor, smartwatch, or audio/headphones. I’m pleased to say that Full Swing covers all of these. You can use the app on iOS devices (they said Android is planned for the future). This includes viewing your last shot on the Apple Watch with a few options and turning on audio playback of your preferred metrics following each shot. I’ll post screenshots of this later. You can also choose between 4 data points or 1 data point on the device itself. It was easy to use the app to customize the top 4. For example, I was able to quickly change from launch angle on irons to swing path on driver.

“The KIT was very easy to use – Once you spend a few minutes learning the app and settings, it is very simple to select a club, line up the target line, and fire away. You don’t have to use a level or a laser to line up. KIT uses the built-in camera to tell you where to line up within the app or on-device screen. I was also able to boot up the KIT in less than a minute and drop it down on the tee box for our on-course trial today. Because of this simplicity, I can see it being more practical to bring to the course…

“The Full Swing team really thought through usability for the KIT. You can see up to four data points on the device’s OLED screen. You can see all 16 data points on your iPhone/iPad along with a video replay of the shot, you can view one primary metric from your Apple Watch, and you can enable audio playback for any of the 16 data points. For me, this was a dream as a full iOS user. One other feature I like is that you can star a particular shot to save it. You can also send shot data + the video recording to your coach if you want.”

double or triple?: “I was able to meet the teaching pro at the range I’m using for testing – PGA teacher/member Ryan Kolk. He and his team have 4 units amongst themselves and use them both personally and with their students during lessons. Ryan spent time dialing in his knowledge of the range balls vs proV1x (gamer) to better understand the FSK and he believes the consistency is there with the FSK and within trackman and GC/Foresight models. His preference is to use FSK while testing shafts and new product before using them in his personal playing bag which as a GolfWRX member is 100% appreciated. For his better students, he believes the information like Face to Path and Club Path that FullSwing Kit offers is great to help them understand what their swing is doing and use that information to better themselves.”

hatrick11: “It’s nice to know I can get super useful practice sessions in at my house, and can do in in ~20 min stints; with two little kids at home I can’t just go out for frequent or lengthy range sessions, so this is super valuable and I think will help me keep my game from degrading and allow me to spend my limited free time enjoying the occasional round with friends. In particular with the KIT, as opposed to the cheaper monitors or the other “mid tiers” like GC3, seeing path and face-to-path data is the key item that makes my practice sessions useful…when I am grooving it my path is almost always between 0-2* out to in, with face control being the main thing I need to work on. When my game goes sideways I start coming more in to out, and combined with face consistency being an ongoing issue, that brings the bad left miss into play. Previously I have struggled getting real use out of net practice, because the feels don’t always match reality. This data and video evidence really helps keep me honest, so it was great to see that I was eventually able to get that piece dialed in with KIT.”

SwingBlues: “One feature I am really starting to like is how easy to see the video of each shot. My buddy was not hitting it well, we went to the video and we could see the takeway was too far to the outside.”

“Using the app, it will display all 16 data points. Below is an example of one of my iron shots. Pretty impressive data captured by KIT. On KIT itself, the launch monitor display can be configured to show a single data point, or it can show a grid of 4 data points where the golfer choose which ones to display!”

Head over to the thread for more comments, reviews, and future updates as our members continue to test the Full Swing KIT. Don’t forget to become a member today for future opportunities like this, plus product member testing and giveaways!

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Graphite Design Tour AD HD Shaft Review

More in reviews:.

50 Words or Less

The Graphite Design Tour AD HD shaft has a smooth feel with a pleasant kick in the mid/tip.  Boring flight with mid launch.

Introduction

As the husband of a school psychologist, the name “Tour AD HD” gives me a laugh every time that I see it.  But in the case of the latest from Graphite Design, the HD stands for Hyper Drive.  With sci-fi images of light speed drives dancing through my head, I took this new offering to the range to see what it could do.

Check out the new Graphite Design Tour AD UB HERE

When I first got the info on the Tour AD HD, I thought, “We’re going to have a problem.”  I am a proud Duke grad, and I do not do light blue.  Thankfully, despite what it looks like in the photos, the Tour AD HD is not powder puff blue, it’s a few shades darker with a pronounced sparkle to it .

The graphics on the Tour AD HD are classic Graphite Design.  There’s modest branding near the grip with wraparound rings of black and blue.  There’s a small “Accuracy and Distance” logo at the tip, but otherwise the shaft is totally distraction-free near the ball.

Graphite Design has been a trend setter in sharing exactly how each of their shafts bends.  They break each model down into “Butt,” “Mid,” and “Tip” and give it a rating from Very Stiff to Soft.  In the past, my sense of each shaft has aligned with this chart, but the Tour AD HD has proven to be a small exception.

Per Graphite Design, the Tour AD HD is, from butt to tip, Firm, Firm, Firm+ (Firm is in the middle of the Graphite Design spectrum).   This indicates that the shaft is stiffest in the tip section.  While I would agree that the shaft has a medium-stiffness overall, I sensed the most kick in the mid/tip .  This is a good example of how feel is subjective and that players will feel differently about a shaft based on their swing.

Performance

Graphite Design bills the Tour AD HD as being “Mid Launch, Mid/Low Spin” which matches the results I saw on both the launch monitor and on the course.  The ball came off the face in my normal window with an extremely strong flight .  Given the kick that I felt, I was expecting slightly higher spin, but every drive bored through the wind unaffected.

Something I enjoyed about hitting the Tour AD HD was the way it responded to more aggressive swings.  When I made an easy swing, the shaft gave a light kick and sent the ball straight down the middle.  If I gave 110%, the shaft kicked harder and produced a tight draw .  I never felt like I was overpowering the shaft, rather I had the ability to hit two different shots just by changing my effort.

One of the big advancements in premium shafts over the last few years is the way softer profiles can handle mishits.  Thanks to advanced materials like Graphite Design’s TORAYCA carbon fiber, shafts can have a smooth feel and also keep poor strikes on line.  I was very impressed by how the Tour AD HD produced respectable results from poor swings .  It took a truly awful effort to produce big slices or hooks.

The Graphite Design Tour AD HD is available in weights ranging from 40 to 80 grams .  At 40 grams, R2, R1, and Stiff are the available flexes.  Everything from R2 to X is offered at 50 grams.  In the 60 gram range, Graphite Design offers the Stiff/Regular, Stiff, X, and Tour X.  The 70 gram family has S, X, and TX.  Finally, the heaviest versions, 80 grams, are available in only stiff and X.

Every year, Graphite Design finds a way to add a new, interesting profile to one of the largest, most complete shaft families in golf.  The Tour AD HD blends a smooth feel with low spin and impressive stability in a way that will win over plenty of players.

Visit Graphite Design HERE

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23 Comments

I play a mid 70 gram x stiff shaft, which works well enough but might be a tad heavy as I haven’t been to the gym since the Corona regulations made it unenjoyable. How would you compare a 60 gram tx to a mid 70 gram x stiff. I’m just looking for a generalized opinion. I’m not going to go pay 100 bucks to get fit again when that’s probably what I would spend on a shaft on ebay. Current shaft is atmos 7x tour spec, looking for something similar in specs to Tiger’s 60tx. Thanks

As a veteran commenter, I think you know what I’m going to say here. It depends on the individual. It should reduce fatigue across the board, but whether that leads to more draw, more fade, or more speed just depends on the player.

This thing sounds nice….

I would love to see how you felt it compared to the Ventus Blue or Black. let me know your thoughts.

I have full reviews of the Black and Blue here: https://pluggedingolf.com/fujikura-ventus-black-shaft-review/

https://pluggedingolf.com/fujikura-ventus-shaft-review/

Correct me if I’m wrong but isn’t this profile very similar to the XC? If so, can you say which you prefer?

No, I would not agree that the XC is very similar to the HD. I have a full review of the XC here: https://pluggedingolf.com/graphite-design-tour-ad-xc-shaft-review/

Hi Matt Looks like the closest Graphite Design in terms of specs is the TourAD TP Did you get the chance to compare both shafts? Thanks

Yes, I have a full review of the AD TP here: https://pluggedingolf.com/graphite-designs-tour-ad-tp-shaft-review/

i am using tourad Di .what the difference compare to HD

I have a full review of the AD DI here: https://pluggedingolf.com/graphite-designs-tour-ad-di-shaft-review/

Great review Matt, thanks for the insight! Question for you – my typical launch stats mirror those in the above launch monitor data (rarely above 105 swing speed), with exception that my steep swing produces heinous spins that you’d want in a 6I, resulting in my total distance getting killed. I’m in the 50+ club, with shoulder issues, so focus is on playing for many years to come and trading more flexibility for strength. Working with my pro on the swing to change attack angle in my swing, but would like to invest in a GD Tour shaft – how might the AD-HD-6 stack up to either the AD-IZ-6 or AD-VR-6 if I’m trying to improve my launch angle while trying to keep spins rates down? thanks

Unfortunately there’s no way for me to give you a reliable answer to that without having you try them. I could tell you which has the stiffest tip, which in theory would knock spin off, but that shaft might not work for you at all.

My advice would be to get into a place where you’re happy with your swing, then get a fitting where you try everything. Graphite Design is great, but there’s no reason to limit your choices.

Matt, did you have any issues with swing weight with your Ping head or did you like the balance point ?

I didn’t have any particular issues with it.

I’m curious why you swing speed fluctuates so much with certain shafts? I noticed the Tensei 1K White, Diamana TB, etc. your swing speed is up to 109 MPH, but many others you’re at 105 MPH. Are you switching between 6X and 7X shafts for different shaft testing?

Did you look at the dates on the reviews? Plugged In Golf is closing in on eight years of reviews. Over that time, my speed has been up and down due to injuries, training cycles, seasonality, and, in small part, the equipment being tested.

What GD AD shaft would be close to the YS6+ stiff shaft (med, med, med/soft profile). Was looking at AD DI (but tip is stiff) or AD HD (similar but overall a bit firmer). Any ideas? thanks

Graphite Design breaks down all their Tour AD shafts in a chart on their site, which is linked in the review above.

I had a chance to take about 50 swings with the AD HD tonight in an Epic Max LS 9 degree head, and really loved it. Really smooth, nice kick, stable, and the launch was consistently right around what I’m looking for. I would say I felt the kick more in the mid, not the tip, but Matt, as you point out, different swings mean we experience shafts’ characteristics differently, and it was smooth overall. It might have just been a good night, but I felt like I could really go after it with the HD and my swing speed was up about 3 mph from my normal 101-102ish. I’m planning to do a driver and fairway wood fitting this winter, but I expect the AD HD to be in the mix for my driver (and the Diamana BF or TB to be a top contender for my fairway wood).

Graphite Design Tour AD HD Shaft Review – Plugged In Golf

I’m really impressed with the Graphite Design Tour AD HD Shaft. It’s a great shaft for those who are looking for a high performance shaft.

Do you have any recommendations for similar profile mid launch/low spin wood shafts? Ventus blue perhaps?

Appreciate your time. Thanks!

My best advice is to get fit. I don’t know anything about your swing, your game, or why you’re looking for an alternative to the AD HD, so I can’t make an educated suggestion.

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Tour AD DI Wood Shafts

The Tour AD DI “ D EEP I MPACT” is designed to provide golfers with more power and stability in their golf shaft. Designed and manufactured exclusively at the Graphite Design factory headquarters in Japan, the Tour AD DI orange and black colored options are available in 50g R2 (Lite), R1 (Regular) S and X flex, 60g SR (Stiff Regular), S, X and TX (Tour X-Stiff) flex, 70g S, X and TX (Tour X-Stiff) flex and 80g S, X and TX (Tour X-Stiff) flex.

The Tour AD DI 5-R2, R1 and S flex, 6-SR, S and X flex, 7-S and X flex and 8-S and X are available in two color schemes orange with white bands and green rings and a 2nd color option of black with white bands and silver rings.  The Tour AD DI 5-X, 6-TX, 7-TX, 8-TX and 9-X flex shafts are available only in the orange color scheme.

The Tour AD DI is our first shaft design that was integrated with Toray Company’s original NANOALLOY material technology in the tip section of the shaft.  This material technology has now come to be known as “ DI Technology ”.  This unique material technology promotes additionally shaft stability without the loss of feel and allows the player to create greater club head speed resulting in greater ball speed while still providing exceptional feel and control.

The Tour AD DI also utilizes premium, aerospace quality 50t carbon-fiber materials to provide the best performing shaft available. The softer mid-section bend profile of the Tour AD DI allows the player to load the shaft properly, yet it maintains a firm enough tip section through impact promoting a high launch and low spin ball flight condition.  The result, the Tour AD DI delivers players to the next level in shaft performance and will create a “ D EEP I MPACT” on your game! Revolutionary technology, design and the most advanced materials are trademarks in all Graphite Design shafts, resulting in the highest quality premium golf shafts on the market today. Validating the company’s “Tour AD” logo, all of Graphite Design’s Tour proven shafts are specifically designed to promote a gain in A ccuracy and D istance.

Features & Technology:

• DI TECHNOLOGY- Consisting of the advanced, 1st generation of Toray Composites NANOALLOY Material Technology for increased stability in the mid to tip region and unsurpassed feel.
• All weights and flexes are available in two color options of either Orange or Black.
• 50 ton ultra-premium, high modulus, aerospace quality carbon fiber materials.
• Graphite Design proprietary Material Stiffness Integration (MSI) design philosophy and technology.

Bend Profile:

Performance:

• Designed to promote Mid/High to High launch angles with Low to Low/Mid ball spin rates.

Tip Trimming for Std Bore:

• Pro’s Choice encourages consulting a PGA Professional or qualified club builder to help you determine the correct shaft and length for your swing profile and to meet your goals.
• Always leave a minimum of 0.5″ of the parallel tip section of the shaft above the hosel to maintain shaft durability and prevent shaft failure/breakage.  For example, if the head has a hosel bore depth of 1.5″ and the shaft has a parallel tip length of 3.0″, the tip trim length should not exceed 1.0″.
• Improper installation may affect the intended performance of the shaft. Warranty is for material and workmanship of our products. Improper installation voids warranty of product.

Specifications:

Where to buy (click here or on map to view store locations).

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