tour ad di vs tensei blue

Best 2022 Driver And Shaft Combinations – Distance, Accuracy and Consistency!

The Best 2022 Driver and shaft combinations is based upon our fitting results so far in 2022.  We know it is very early but there are definitely some shining stars in both driver heads and shafts!  The Best of the Best are Highlighted in Red!

Driver Heads 2022

There were a few surprises on the 2022 Golf Digest Equipment Hot List and which drivers won the Gold Medals.  Various forums, and ourselves as well publish a list of the best drivers.  Some are very independent and some are not.  Doesn’t matter.  What our customers are looking for is what are the best driver and shaft combinations that we have fit so far in 2022, even though it is early in the season.  We believe that the shaft is the part of the club that has the most impact on distance, consistency and accuracy, so that is why we are including our shaft recommendations in this list.

This list will be updated throughout the year as new shaft offerings are released. 

We have four distinct categories based upon swing speed and distance. 

Swing Speed 106+, Distance > 250 yards

Swing speed 95-105, distance 211 – 250 yards, swing speed 80 – 94, distance 175 – 210 yards, swing speed under 80, distance < 175 yards.

We think there are more shafts and heads in the mix for slower swing speeds.  We have also thrown in our Honorable Mentions in both heads and shafts.  So here goes:

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Callaway Rogue ST Driver

Fitting Tips:   Typically 65 to 75 gram shafts but smoother tempos can play lighter weights.  Firm mid section and low launch, low spin is the norm for more control.  Driver lofts 8 to 10.5 degrees depending upon angle of attack.  The new TaylorMade STEALTH Plus 8 degree is adjustable down to 6 degrees!

Best Heads:   Callaway  Rogue ST Triple Diamond , TaylorMadeSTEALTH Plus , Ping G425 LST ,  Titleist TSi4 and TSi3,   Cobra LTD x LS , PXG  0811X Gen 4 and 0811XT    Mizuno   ST-Z 220

Best Shafts – Low Launch:    Mitsubishi Diamana PD 60 and 70,   Mitsubishi   TENSEI Pro White 1K and Orange 1K ,  Mitsubishi Kai’Li White 60 and 70,  ACCRA TZ 5 65, OBAN Kiyoshi Black, Tour LTD Blue, Devotion 6 and 7,  Project X HZRDUS Smoke RDX Green  and Smoke Blue RDX 60 and 70,   Fujikura Ventus Black 6 and 7, TPT  Red Range 14 and 15 LO

Best Shafts – Mid Launch:  Mitsubishi  Diamana TB 50, 60 and 70,  ACCRA  TZ 6 65,   Project X  HZRDUS Smoke RDX Black,  EvenFlow Riptide LX 60 and 70,   Graphite Design Tour AD HD and XC, KBS TD Graphite 60 and 70,  Fujikura Ventus Blue 6 and 7, Blue TR 6 and 7,   OBAN   Isawa Red,   TPT  Red Range 14 and 15 HI, AUTOFLEX SF505XX

Honorable Mention Heads:   Tour Edge  C722 , Srixon   ZX7

Cobra LTD x LS Driver

Fitting Tips:  Typical shaft weights in 55 to 65 grams but some players with fast transitions may like a heavier 70+ gram shaft.  If you think you are losing distance, try a lighter, 55 gram shaft or a counter balanced shaft,  but make sure it plays stiff enough.  Typically 9 to 10.5 degree lofted drivers with face bias dependent upon swing characteristics and what appeals to the golfer.

Best Heads:   Callaway  Rogue ST Max and Max LS , TaylorMade  STEALTH and STEALTH Plus, Ping G425  LST and Max ,    Titleist   TSi2 and TSi3 , Cobra LTD x and LTD x LS ,   PXG  0811 X ,  Mizuno ST-G and ST-Z 220 ,  Tour Edge C722

Best Shafts – Low-Mid Launch:  Mitsubishi  Diamana TB 60 and 70,    Mitsubishi  TENSEI AV Raw White and Orange, ACCRA TZ 5 65,   OBAN  Kiyoshi White and Devotion 6, 7, Project X  HZRDUS Smoke Black RDX  60 and Smoke Blue RDX 60,   Project X EvenFlow Riptide MX 60 and 70,  Fujikura Ventus Blue 6 and 7, Blue TR 6 and 7,  TPT Red Range 16 and 17 LO

Best Shafts – Mid Launch:  Mitsubishi  Diamana TB and TENSEI AV Blue 2022 ,  ACCRA  TZ 6 65, OBAN  Revenge, Isawa Red, Project X  HZRDUS Smoke RDX Red, Project X EvenFlow Riptide  LX 60,  Fujikura   Ventus Blue 5 and 6,   Graphite Design  Tour AD DI, TP , VR and XC,  KBS  TD Graphite 60 and 70,  TPT  Red Range 16 and 17 HI,  AUTOFLEX SF505XX

Honorable Mention Heads:     Tour Edge  E722 , Srixon  ZX5 and ZX7,

TaylorMade STEALTH Driver

Fitting Tips:   Lighter shafts (55 to 65 grams) but launch and spin depend on swing characteristics and attack angle.  Slightly higher lofted drivers but not necessarily draw biased as there are a lot of better golfers with low handicaps in this category.

Best Heads:   Callaway Rogue ST Max and Max Draw  ,  TaylorMade  STEALTH and STEALTH HD, Ping G425 Max and SFT, Titleist   TSi2 and TSi1 , Cobra LTDx and LTD x Max,     PXG  0811XF Gen4,  Srixon  ZX5,  Tour Edge E722      Cleveland Launcher XL and XL Lite , Mizuno ST-X 220, 

Best Shafts – Low to Mid Launch:  Mitsubishi  Diamana PD 50 and 60, Fujikura   Ventus Blue 5 and 6,   Mitsubishi  TENSEI AV Raw  Orange and AV Blue 2022 , ACCRA  TZ 5 55 and 65, FX 3.0 250 and 260 , OBAN  Kiyoshi Purple 55, Project X  HZRDUS Smoke RDX Red,  Fujikura Ventus Blue 5 and 6, Blue TR 6,     TPT  Red Range 18 LO

Best Shafts – Mid to Mid-High Launch:    Mitsubishi Diamana TB 50 and 60,  C6 Red and Blue, ACCRA  TZ 6 55 and 65, ACCRA FX 3.0 150 and 160 ,  Project X  EvenFlow Riptide LX ,  Fujikura  Speeder Evolution V 569, KBS  TD Graphite 50 and 60, Graphite Design  Tour AD HD, GP and VR 5 and 6 , Veylix Alpina Black 573 and 673,  TPT  Red Range 18 HI,  AUTOFLEX SF505XX

Honorable Mention Heads:     Tour Edge  E722 , Mizuno  ST-200X , Srixon  ZX5

Mizuno ST-X 220 Driver

Fitting Tips:   Typically lighter weight shafts, 39 to 50 grams with higher launch and spin.  Head lofts at least 11 degrees and up to 17 for juniors.  Try a shorter length shaft as well.

Best Heads:   Callaway Rogue ST Max and Max Draw ,    XXIO  12 and X , TaylorMade  STEALTH and STEALTH HD, Ping G425 Max, SFT and G Le2, PXG  0811XF Proto , Titleist   TSi1, Cobra LTD X Max,    Mizuno ST-X 220,   ClevelandLauncher XL Lite and XL Lite Draw,    US Kids TS3 Launch

Best Shafts – Mid to Mid-High Launch:  Mitsubishi  Diamana TB 40 , Grand Bassara  and Bassarra TB Series  ,  ACCRA TZ 6 55, FX 3.0 140  ,  Project X CYPHER 40 and 50 ,  Graphite Design Tour AD HD4 and VR 4 and 5,   KBS  TD Graphite 40 and 50,   TPT  Red Range 18 and 19 HI

Best Shafts – Mid-High to High Launch:  Mitsubishi  Grand Bassara 39,  ACCRA  FX SRT 2.0,  Project X  CYPHER 40 and 50, Graphite Design  Tour AD UB 4 and 5, Fujikura   Air Speeder,   TPT  Red Range 20 and 21 HI.

Honorable Mention Heads:     Tour Edge  E722 , Mizuno  ST-X 220, Srixon  ZX5

Once again, we feel that the shaft is of critical importance to getting optimum performance out of any club, but especially the driver.  Proper length (shorter is better) weight and flex can give you more distance, accuracy and consistency!

How to Select YOUR New Clubs  

Aesthetics – look, sound and feel.

In our experience in clubfitting over the years, you have to select a club head that looks good to your eye, sounds good when you hit it in the fitting and has the feel you desire.  It is pretty strange but sometimes a golfer will not be able to make solid contact with a club that supposedly matches them perfectly from a fitting perspective but the aesthetics are not right.  Be sure you take a look at 3 to 5 heads to make sure that at least 3 will give you good results.  It could be as simple as top line on an iron, color of a driver, finish (glossy paint or matte finish).  All of these can make a difference.

Performance – Distance, Accuracy and Consistency

Now we start getting into the meat of a fitting for new clubs.  The majority of the golfers we fit are looking for consistency, but whatever you do, make sure you add a little distance as well!  That is not difficult in a new fitting, however, sometimes getting added distance for a customer that has been fit within the last year or so.  Our goal in a fitting is to cut shot dispersion by 50% and add 5-10% more distance.  The factors we look at are club length, shaft weight, shaft flex, trajectory, spin, swing weight and loft and lie.  Our BGF and Fit Quiz systems make predictions based upon your swing characteristics for each of those parameters.  We then test our golfers in a fitting with clubs that are assembled to those specifications.  The results of the fitting do not lie…only when the aesthetics do not match do we have to change up the testing configuration.

So pick your initial choices based on aesthetics, but the final decision based on the improved performance you get!

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Graphite Design Tour AD DI Shaft Review – Specs, Flex, Weight

We usually try to reserve judgment of a shaft until later in the review.

But this time, we’re breaking character by claiming in the introduction that the Graphite Design Tour AD DI is a truly remarkable shaft.

We’ll reserve the details for later in the review but we will say that we can clearly see why some of the most prolific Tour Pros game these shafts.

If you haven’t considered the Graphite Design Tour AD DI shaft for your woods you need to read this review and then go get a fitting.

Graphite Design Tour AD DI Shaft Overview

Let’s start with looks.

It appears as though Graphite design puts all their time and effort into engineering and saves money on their design department.

The shaft, which is available in a black or orange color scheme, looks busy. The midsection is lousy with logos and lettering.

We prefer the black and white finish to the gaudy orange and white color scheme.

The Graphite Design Tour AD DI is available in a dizzying array of weights and flexes.

The weight ranges from 54g to 97g. Graphite Design seemingly wanted to appeal to as many golfers as possible and they have succeeded.

No matter what your swing speed is, you can pick up a Graphite Design Tour AD DI shaft in a weight that works for you.

The feel of this shaft is definitely active. The kick point is advertised as mid; but we would actually say that it is a bit closer to the butt than true mid.

Why is the  Graphite Design Tour AD DI So Popular?

When a shaft is used by players like Tiger Woods, it’s going to get some attention.

The Graphite Design Tour AD DI has been used by some of the biggest names in golf; but there are weights and flexes for us mortals too.

How Does the Graphite Design Tour AD DI Perform?

Depending on which weight class you choose, you’re either going to get a high or mid launch from this shaft.

The amazing thing about it though is that even the lightest version of the Graphite Design Tour AD DI can produce low spin rates.

In our test session, we never saw the spin rates exceed 2000 RPM’s. For the most part, spin was relegated to the 1800-1900 RPM range.

The stiff tip section also kept dispersion very tight. Our offline divergence never drifted into the double-digit (yards) range.

Carry distance was good too. After three swings each, we were averaging 268.8 yards. The Graphite Design Tour AD DI ticked nearly all of the boxes for us.

Graphite Design Tour AD DI Shaft Specs

What flexes are available what swing speeds do they suit.

Lite flex is suitable for 71-85 MPH swingers.

Regular flex is good for 86-95 MPH swingers. Players in the 92-98 MPH range should check out the Graphite Design Tour AD DI in stiff/regular flex.

Stiff flex may be suitable for players in the 96-105 MPH range. Extra stiff is for players in the 100-105 MPH range. Tour extra stiff should work for players swinging their driver 110+ MPH.

What Weights Are Available? What Swing Speeds Do They Suit?

The Graphite Design Tour AD DI is available in a wide variety of weights.

If you’re in the 70-85 MPH swing speed range, you’re probably going to want to stay between 54 and 64 grams.

86-95 MPH swingers will want to stay within the 75-85 gram weight class. For 96+ MPH swingers, there is the 86-97 gram weight class.

Why is it So Good?

The Graphite Design Tour AD DI is a rare combination of active profile, long carry distance, low spin rates and tight dispersion.

This is a combination that works for almost every kind of player.

The Graphite Design Tour AD DI is an amazing shaft because it will improve your drive distance while delivering a very smooth, satisfying feel.

And while it makes it easy to take your most powerful swing, it keeps the ball on-line.

Graphite Design Tour AD DI First Impressions

Our first impression of the Graphite Design Tour AD DI was that it felt very smooth.

While we wouldn’t say it is as smooth as the Mitsubishi Tensei shafts, it is still amazingly fluid for having such an active profile.

Key Features & Performance

The Graphite Design Tour AD DI utilizes aerospace-grade, high modulus 50-ton carbon fiber in order to stiffen the tip section.

While the mid and butt sections are of medium stiffness, the tip is stiff in order to promote acute club head control.

This is part of what produces such tight shot dispersion.

Graphite Design Tour AD DI Driver Review

When plugged into our driver, the Graphite Design Tour AD DI felt incredibly easy and smooth to swing.

It can stand up to a really heavy load and the release feels phenomenally fluid. The dispersion is tight enough to keep you out of the trees but there is also some workability for better players.

Graphite Design Tour AD DI Fairway Wood Review

When we plugged the Graphite Design Tour AD DI into a 3-wood, we still got tight dispersion whether we were swinging from the box or off the deck.

Graphite Design Tour AD DI Pros & Cons

• Wide variety of weights
• Good for fast or slow swingers
• Tight dispersion
• Mid/high launch
• It’s very expensive

Overall Score: 98/100

Check out more reviews here:.

Who Should Buy it?

Firstly, you’ll need deep pockets to score the Graphite Design Tour AD DI.

We’ve not seen it retail for any less than $200 (new). But in this case, you get what you pay for. The Graphite Design Tour AD DI is a phenomenal shaft that can work for all swing speeds and tempos.

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Shaft & Grip Reviews

Graphite design tour ad bb shaft review.

By Todd Hibbert,  GolfWRX Moderator

The  Graphite Design Tour BB 6S  — the  Blue   Bullet 

I had not been in a Graphite Design driver shaft for years, really back to the YS-6 variants. Discovered years ago that I do better with high launch, low spin characteristics of shafts like the Matrix Altus so I stayed in that category for years now.

HipCheck, our resident equipment tempter, asked if I’d review GD’s latest offering — the Tour AD BB. Sure, why not? I thought it’d be a good opportunity to compare the two. So I installed one in an i20 head with the same specs so we’d be looking at apple to apples: 6S 9.5*, 45″, D3. ( 6S refers to weight & flex, meaning 60 gram range Stiff. The AD BB is offered in various flexes in weights from 55 grams up to 85 grams, so they have you covered.)

The difference between the two shafts was quite evident to my eye on the range. Ball flight was a bit lower, spin was up a skosh. The magnitude of the changes was on the level of a tweak more than a wholesale change. This is a good thing, because the DI is a performer. As far as feel, I can tell there’s a difference but it’s so small as to make it difficult to describe.  DoyaknowwhatImean?  I could reach for adjectives to label the difference in feel, but that would be disingenuous. All of which is a good thing because I’ve grown accustomed to Graphite Design’s characteristic communication of loading the shaft. I  can  describe what I mean by feeling a shaft load: borrow your friend’s driver that has a stock shaft one flex or more below what you play — that’s the feel, just to a much lesser extent.

Click here for more discussion in the “Tour/Pre-release” forum. 

On the course, for me, I’m presented with an unanticipated problem in this comparison. The i20 head is a lower spinning/launching head than comparably marked current drivers. As I’m watching my ball flight on the course I’m coming to the realization that the high launch/low spin characteristics of the AD-DI are just  barely  keeping me in that 9.5* loft. Changing over to the  Blue   Bullet , my average ballflight is a tad lower than optimal for me. Too low ball fight hits the ground too early, and we know that the ground scrubs off speed a  lot  faster than air does — hence, shorter overall distance. So I’m not getting the apples to apples comparison I hoped for.  I really need a 10* or 10.5* with this shaft. My bad.

Enter my buddy Tom. Tom is part of my regular Friday group. He’s a middle linebacker built, short-swinging, hands-way-ahead-at-impact shaft bender. He puts a lot more spin on his ball than I do, especially on his misses. Tom picks a driver & keeps it, based solely on performance. His current driver is Ping’s venerable Rapture V2 with the Diamana Blue in Stiff. This is a great combination for comparison: great head, great shaft.

I grab the AD-BB a few times for more comparison drives, and each time my little draw turns into a little lower fade. I’m not sure why, perhaps the BB driver’s face is a bit more closed(?). My feeling is that it’s the difference in the shafts, but that doesn’t necessarily make sense. I’m not any shorter with the BB, I’m just not any longer either. Committing to a fade and adjust my setup accordingly, I feel I’d get better results. But that’s a the polar opposite of what I’m trying to accomplish with my swing these days. Again,  my  bad.

Tom begs to take i20/ Blue   Bullet  on his trip to Kiawah. I relent, happy to take a week off from teebox humiliation. He calls me while out there, but I ignore the calls letting them go to voicemail. I knew it had to be a  Guess how far I hit it … ?  call.  Delete message.

So what do I take away from this?

• First, the quality of the Tour AD-DI is maintained in the Tour AD-BB  without doubt .
• Second, matched to the player/head/loft this  Blue   Bullet  is indeed a bullett blaster.

Might be time for me to pony up for my own i20/AD-BB in 10.5* to see if I can win some of my money back.

Click here for more discussion in the “Tour/Pre-release” forum.

2013 Best Shafts

Fujikura Motore Speeder VC 7.2 Tour Spec Review

GolfWRX is the world's largest and best online golf community. Expert editorial reviews, breaking golf tour and industry news, what to play, how to play and where to play. GolfWRX surrounds consumers throughout the buying, learning and enrichment process from original photographic and video content, to peer to peer advice and camaraderie, to technical how-tos, and more. As the largest online golf community we continue to protect the purity of our members opinions and the platform to voice them. We want to protect the interests of golfers by providing an unbiased platform to feel proud to contribute to for years to come. You can follow GolfWRX on Twitter @GolfWRX and on Facebook .

Oct 18, 2020 at 12:19 pm

That was a fun & informative read! Wish all the reviews were like this!

Pingback: Used Tour Ad Bb Shaft | Go to know Everything

Nov 3, 2012 at 3:42 pm

A couple of quick calls soetrd out both issues. For the wishbone shaft, I apparently got delivered a JLM 11858 and a JLM 11859, which are identical, except for the length. The shorter one (the 59-er) is the one I need. While I had Martijn from Kolvenbach on the phone I ordered a couple of other parts I needed. He had everything in stock For the upper wishbone I’ve decided to force fit it, after talking to Mischa from speedon. There’s not much else we can do I guess, other than adapting the chassis plate.

Oct 30, 2012 at 12:02 am

What is the suggested retail on this shaft?

Oct 30, 2012 at 3:55 am

Hey Rick the suggested retail price is 450$ you can read that in another review on the site.

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Here’s why Jordan Spieth switched into a new Fujikura Ventus TR Blue shaft at Pebble Beach

When Fujikura’s new Ventus TR Blue shaft launched in January 2022, we learned all about the updated construction and potential performance benefits compared to the original Ventus Blue. It was unclear at the time, however, exactly who would make the switch into the new TR design on the PGA Tour.

Well, we’re starting to get some answers.

Jordan Spieth , who’s been relatively slow to change into new products throughout his career, is among a handful of names making the change. Spieth conducted recent testing with a Ventus Blue TR 7 X shaft in his Titleist TS2 15-degree fairway wood, and he put it in play this week at the 2022 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

Titleist Tour representative J.J. Van Wezenbeeck, who works closely with Spieth on his equipment, said that Spieth came to the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) on Friday before the 2022 Pebble Beach Pro-Am for a check-up on his equipment. Since Spieth was previously playing Ventus Blue shafts in his Titleist metalwoods, he was intrigued by the new TR version.

As it turned out, Spieth found the new shaft to help with his transition and directional control.

“Coming from Ventus Blue, anytime they update a shaft you’re just intrigued on that, and he liked how [the Ventus TR Blue] loaded compared to the original Ventus Blue for him,” Van Wezenbeeck told GolfWRX on Tuesday. “He felt like when he mishit it, there was a little more control. So that was a good option for him…we did a little bit of internal work on the head to make sure there’s enough spin, because want to make sure his 3 wood doesn’t have too low of spin. He liked how the TR reacted on mishits where the spin didn’t drop, and it had more consistent spin from swing to swing.”

Due to a new Spread Tow fabric in the butt-end section, which is essentially a checkerboard pattern of woven material, the torque on the TR version is 10 percent stiffer in the mid-to-grip end of the shaft. As a result, Fujikura says the TR shaft is designed to improve stability and consistency compared to the original Ventus Blue.

Based on Spieth’s results with the TR shaft during testing, it seems Fujikura’s case holds water.

Spieth is using a Ventus Blue TR 7 X version in his fairway wood.

Pat McCoy, Director of Tour Operations at Fujikura, spoke with GolfWRX about the new shaft, and what players are seeing in their testing out on Tour.

“Compared to the original Ventus Blue, the TR has a stiffer mid-section and lower torque,” McCoy said. “Basically what the shaft does is it eliminates some of the dynamic loft. It eliminates some of the rotation. Obviously, the Ventus Blue was a very stable shaft and one of the best launching shafts we’ve ever had. And we just made it better.

“As far as ball speed and launch and spin, I’m not going to say it’s faster, but we have seen players who have achieved faster speeds with it. It provides more consistency and the ability to turn swing speed into ball speed better. And that’s it. It’s a little stiffer than the original Blue, and it’s a little bit weaker than the [Ventus Black]. It’s a ‘tweener. It gives you something in the middle, and depending upon loft and impact location, you get a better fit.”

The fairway wood shaft wasn’t the only potential change that Spieth will make in 2022, though.

In addition to putting the new Titleist Vokey SM9 wedges in the bag, Spieth is also considering adding another option to the top end of his bag.

Typically, Spieth changes between a hybrid and long irons, depending on course conditions. During the recent session at TPI, though, Spieth took a liking to Titleist’s U-505 wide-bodied driving iron. Ahead of the 2022 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Spieth took a U-505 2-iron (Graphite Design AD-DI 105X shaft) out onto the course for testing.

“He’s experimenting with a U-505 this week (ahead of the event at Pebble Beach),” Van Wezenbeeck told GolfWRX. “He’s always gone between a hybrid and either a 2 iron, or a hybrid and 3 iron, and we brought out a 505 as kind of a third option on a week where he isn’t sure whether he should play an iron or a hybrid. The 505 being a wide body iron is kind of a blend between the two. And he was really intrigued with how high it launched on a standard shot, and he could flight it more off the tee, where as with a hybrid he can’t do.

“So on weeks he feels like there’s a lot of irons off the tee, he likes to play the iron. On weeks where there are a lot of shots into par 5s, he likes the hybrid. On weeks where there’s a little of both…he felt the 505 might be an option, so he was taking it on the golf course [on Tuesday] to see how it would react.”

While it’s unclear exactly when Spieth will break out the new U-505, it seems like it’ll certainly be in the rotation going forward. The Ventus TR Blue shaft, on the other hand, has already earned a starting spot in the bag this week.

These changes may seem minor to some, but it shows Spieth’s willingness to find small equipment tweaks to improve his game. For amateur golfers, use this as a lesson when gearing up for the new season. Go through your bag, test some of the new shaft and head options, and see where you can make improvements. Now is the perfect time to take inventory and get prepared.

MRC Shaft Shootout: Tensei CK Pro White, Kuro Kage XT and Diamana BF-Series

The Tensei CK Pro White is the latest release from Mitsubishi Rayon Composites (MRC), a low-launch, low-spin shaft with a multi-material design that the company says improves the performance and feel of the shaft. Whereas most golf shafts use between 3-6 different materials in their construction, the Tensei CK Pro White is made from 11 different materials, giving MRC engineers greater precision in the shaft’s design.

Like MRC’s Tensei CK Pro Blue shafts, which produce a slightly higher-launching, higher-spinning ball flight, the CK Pro White uses MRC’s Carbon Fiber DuPont Kevlar Weave in the handle section of the shaft. The company says it increases the strength and stability of that part of the shaft, leading to better feedback.

On the other end of the shaft, the tip section, MRC uses a boron-reinforced fiber. All low-launch, low-spin shafts have stiff-tip designs, but the addition of boron puts the Tensei CK Pro White in a class of its own when it comes to lowering launch angle and spin rate. The boron fiber also reduces torque, which can offer better energy transfer, more accuracy and better feedback — especially for skilled, high-swing-speed golfers.

Connecting and reinforcing those areas of the shafts is MRC’s low-resin content (LRC) prepreg. Prepreg is carbon fiber that’s been reinforced or “pre-impregnated” with resin, a glue that holds the material together when it’s formed into sheets and rolled into the form of a shaft. MRC says that its LRC has 15 percent more carbon fiber and 13 percent less resin than traditional prepregs, which allows MRC to make the Tensei CK Pro White stronger without adding extra weight to the shaft. MRC also uses high-modulus, 40-ton prepreg in the Tensei CK Pro White’s design, which like LRC is thinner, stronger and lighter than traditional prepregs.

The addition of boron helps MRC make the tip of Tensei CK Pro White shaft stiffer and lower in torque.

In the EI chart below, you can see how the Tensei CK Pro White’s bend profile compares to the CK Pro Blue. The main differences are its slightly stiffer tip and mid sections, as well as its slightly softer butt section. That gives the CK Pro White a higher “kick point” than the CK Pro Blue. Generally, the higher the kick point of a shaft, the lower its launch conditions. That’s why the Tensei CK Pro White is a lower-launching, lower-spinning shaft than the Tensei CK Pro Blue.

The Shootout 

Just how much lower launching and lower spinning is the Tensei CK Pro White than MRC’s latest premium driver shafts? I put it to the test against the company’s Kuro Kage XT and Diamana BF-Series, which like the CK Pro White are PGA Tour-quality shafts that sell for about $400 each. All three shafts tested were built to my spec: 70TX, tipped 1 inch at a finished length of 45.5 inches.

I tested the three shafts on Trackman 4 at the Launch Pad at Carl’s Golfland in Bloomfield Hills, Mich. After warming up, I hit 10 drives with each shaft, and whittled my shots down to the most similar five to help illustrate the differences. Premium balls were used for the test, and results were normalized.

MRC’s Kuro Kage XT uses a stouter iteration of the company’s famed “Blue Board” bend profile, and in that regard it’s quite similar to the Diamana BF-Series. That’s what makes the shafts a little higher launching and higher spinning than the Tensei CK Pro White. The Kuro Kage XT has a much different feel than both, however, due to its use of an elastic wire made of Titanium and Nickel that MRC calls “TiNi” wire.

Related: Learn more about the Kuro Kage XT

In the Kuro Kage XT, the TiNi wire is added to the bottom 13 inches of the shaft, where it adds stability, but it also serves another purpose. Its elasticity allows the bottom end of the shaft to better load and unload during the downswing to help improve energy transfer. That’s what gives the Kuro Kage XT its more active feel, at least compared to the boron-infused tip section of the Tensei CK Pro White, which by design offer no elasticity.

The Diamana BF-Series also uses boron in its tip section, and its combined with a new, aerospace-grade fiber called MR-70 to create what MRC says is a first-of-its-kind hybrid prepreg. MR-70, which is manufactured by parent company Mitsubishi Chemical, is 20 percent stronger and has 10 percent more modulus than similar fibers, MRC says .  The handle section of the BF-Series is reinforced with MRC’s Pitch Fiber, which functions to boost energy transfer like the CK Pro White’s Carbon Fiber DuPont Kevlar Weave.

Related: Learn more about the Diamana BF-Series shafts

In terms of launch conditions, the best fit for me was the Diamana BF-Series. It launched the ball a little higher than the Tensei CK Pro White, and added a little spin to help keep my drives in the air. It was also easier to swing than the Tensei CK Pro White, helping me more easily hit a draw while offering an even smoother feel due to its less rigid tip and mid sections.

To recap, if you need to lower your launch conditions, the Tensei CK Pro White is one of the most intriguing new MRC options to help you do so. Need a higher ball flight? Try the Diamana BF-Series. And if you want a radically different feel, give the Kuro Kage XT a try.

Have a question? Let me know in the comments section below and I’ll do my best to answer as many as I can. 

Weights and Flexes

• Tensei CK Pro White: 60 (R, S, TX), 70 (S, TX), 80 (TX)
• Kuro Kage XT: 50 (R, S, X, TX), 60 (R, S, X, TX), 70 (S, X, TX), 80 (S, X, TX)
• Diamana BF-Series: 50 (R, S, X), 60 (R, S, X, TX), 70 (S, X, TX), 80 (S, X, TX)

Related: GolfWRX Members review the Tensei CK Pro White

Review: KBS Tour FLT Shafts

Pros:  FLT shafts use a flighted design, which helps golfers launch their long irons higher and with more spin. The FLT short-iron shafts provide a more penetrating trajectory for more control.

Cons: FLT shaft flexes correspond with weight, so golfers may not be able to match their desired shaft weight with their desired flex.

Who They’re For: Golfers who need more spin or more launch from their long irons to optimize their trajectory. Everyone from beginners to PGA Tour players can use the shafts effectively, but they’ll be most popular with golfers with moderate-to-slow swing speeds, or any golfer who generates low-spin launch conditions.

Selecting the proper iron shafts is one of the most important equipment decisions golfers make. It’s an issue of quantity. Most golfers carry about 7-8 irons in their bag, so if they choose the wrong iron shaft, they’ve made the game harder than it needs to be with half or more of their clubs.

The good news is that there’s a wider selection of quality iron shafts than there has ever been, with recent growth in models that are designed to help golfers hit their iron shots higher and farther, while still maintaining PGA Tour-quality consistency and feel.

KBS is one of the leading steel shaft manufacturers, and already offered a wide variety of models prior to its newest shaft launch. Company representatives felt KBS was lacking a product for a particular segment of golfers, however, so it developed its new FLT shafts.

FLT shafts ($31.95 each) have a flighted design, which helps certain golfers optimize the performance of each iron their bag. The long irons shafts have progressively softer tip sections, which helps golfers increase their launch angle and spin rates with those clubs. For the right golfer, the design will help them hit their iron shots farther, and stop shots on the green more quickly. In the short irons, where height and spin are easier for golfers to generate, the FLT shafts are stiffer, which creates the flatter trajectory most golfers prefer with their scoring clubs. The crossover point between the higher-launching long irons and lower-launching short irons is the 7 iron.

Like all KBS shafts, FLT models have a constant weight, which means that long iron shafts and short iron shafts will be roughly the same weight through the set. Shaft weight is dependent on flex, however, as softer-flex models are lighter than stiffer-flex models. So if you’re looking for a really heavy, regular-flex shaft or a really light, extra-stiff-flex shaft, these aren’t for you.

Keep in mind that KBS shafts do not have reinforced tip sections like many other iron shafts, which gives them a slightly higher balance point and can decrease swing weight by 1-2 points. I personally like the feel of KBS shafts and their slightly higher balance point, but some golfers won’t.

For this review, I tested the new FLT shafts head to head against KBS Tour shafts of the same flex and weight (130X) in 4 irons, 6 irons and pitching wedges. Each of the shafts were installed in Callaway’s Apex Pro ’16 irons , and were built to my specifications (standard grips, standard length, 1-degree strong lofts, 1-degree flat lie angles).

I performed my testing at the Launch Pad at Carl’s Golfland in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., where I hit the 4 irons, 6 irons and pitching wedges on Trackman IV with premium golf balls. I hit 3-6 solid shots with each iron, and then removed the outliers from the final data in an attempt to compare only the most similar strikes. Results were normalized.

As you can see from the data, there was a significant difference in the flight of the 4 irons with the two different shafts, but less of a difference with the 6 irons and pitching wedges.

As expected, the FLT shafts caused 4 iron shots to launch higher (0.8 degrees) and with more spin (729 rpm) than the KBS Tour shafts. I’m not a low-spin player, which is one of the target audiences for this shaft, so the added launch and spin of the FLT shafts caused my 4 iron shots to fly shorter. Golfers who launch their irons too low or with too little spin, however, will likely see a distance increase when using the FLT shafts.

As I moved closer to the short end of the set, the two shafts started to perform more similarly. Theoretically, the 6 iron shots with the FLT shafts should have launched slightly higher and spun more than 6 iron shots with the KBS Tour shafts, but I actually saw a slightly lower launch angle (0.5 degrees) with the FLT. The spin was higher, though, by 211 rpm. With the pitching wedges, the results were again quite similar. The FLT launched 0.9 degrees higher, but actually spun 271 rpm less than the KBS Tour shafts.

Stepping back from the numbers, I was impressed with how similar the feel was between the KBS Tour and FLT shafts. Yes, I could feel that the FLT shafts were more active in the tip with the 4 irons, but they felt nearly the same in the 6 irons. By the time I got to the pitching wedges, the two shafts were indistinguishable. The KBS Tour is considered one of the better-feeling iron shafts currently available, so KBS’ ability to replicate that feel in the FLT will be a plus for the majority of interested golfers.

Looking more broadly, trends in shaft design tends to go hand-in-hand with trends in club head design, and the FLT shafts are no exception. Equipment manufacturers continue to strengthen the lofts of their distance irons; they have to in order balance the launch equation, as their faster ball speeds create a higher launch angle and more spin.

While the improvements to iron design have allowed golfers to hit their mid and short irons farther, many golfers continue to struggle to hit their long irons high enough or consistently enough for them to be effective. And based on my testing results, it’s clear that the FLT shafts can make long irons more playable for certain golfers, and maybe even keep long irons in a golfer’s bag that might otherwise be kicked out for higher-flying hybrids or fairway woods.

As always, I recommend that golfers get properly fit for iron shafts, which means visiting a reputable club fitter in your area. So if you’re in the market for new irons or iron shafts, you can get started by going through KBS’ Online Fit System , which upon completion lists KBS-certified dealers in your area.

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Tour Ad DI Vs IZ; A Pro Golfer’s Comparison

Selecting the right golf shaft is crucial for achieving success on the golf course. The Tour AD DI and IZ shafts are two popular options that offer different characteristics. While both shafts have some similarities, there are significant differences that can affect a golfer’s game.

In this article, we will compare the Tour AD DI and IZ shafts and help golfers understand which shaft might be the best fit for their game.

Table of Contents

A quick comparison table of tour ad di shaft vs tour ad iz shaft .

Note: The information in this table is based on general characteristics and may vary slightly depending on the specific model and flex of the shaft.

What to know about Tour AD DI shafts?

Tour AD DI shafts are high-performance golf shafts that are designed to provide mid-to-high launch and low spin characteristics. They are manufactured by Graphite Design, a company known for producing premium golf shafts that are popular among both amateur and professional golfers.

Characteristics of Tour AD DI shafts:

The Tour AD DI shafts have a unique bend profile that is designed to promote a smooth transition of energy and increase ball speed.

They are made from premium graphite materials and feature a low torque, high modulus design that offers superior stability and control. 

The Tour AD DI shafts also have a mid-bend profile that offers a soft feel at impact and helps golfers achieve a higher launch angle.

Benefits of using Tour AD DI shafts:

The Tour AD DI shafts are an excellent choice for golfers who need help achieving a higher launch angle and lower spin. They offer a smooth feel and excellent control, allowing golfers to shape shots and control ball flight. 

The Tour AD DI shafts are also suitable for players with a moderate to fast swing speed and can help increase ball speed and distance. Overall, Tour AD DI shafts are a great option for golfers looking for a high-performance shaft that can help improve their game.

Tour AD DI shafts specs

Note: The Tour AD DI shafts come in a limited range of flex options, but the mid-bend profile and tip stiffness can be customized for specific swing characteristics. Additionally, the recommended grip is a suggestion and golfers may prefer different grips based on personal preference.

What to know about Tour AD IZ shafts?

Tour AD IZ shafts are high-performance golf shafts that are designed to provide a low launch and low spin for golfers with moderate to fast swing speeds. They are also manufactured by Graphite Design, a company known for producing premium golf shafts that are popular among both amateur and professional golfers.

Characteristics of Tour AD IZ shafts:

The Tour AD IZ shafts have a unique bend profile that is designed to promote a low launch angle and low spin for golfers with higher swing speeds. 

They are made from high modulus graphite materials and feature a low torque design that provides excellent stability and control. The Tour AD IZ shafts also have a mid-to-tipped bend profile that offers a more penetrating ball flight and increased distance.

Benefits of using Tour AD IZ shafts:

The Tour AD IZ shafts are an excellent choice for golfers who need help achieving a low launch angle and low spin. They offer superior stability and control, allowing golfers to shape shots and control ball flight. 

The Tour AD IZ shafts are also suitable for players with a moderate to fast swing speed and can help increase ball speed and distance. Overall, Tour AD IZ shafts are a great option for golfers looking for a high-performance shaft that can help improve their game.

Tour AD IZ shafts specs

Note: The Tour AD IZ shafts come in a limited range of flex options, but the mid-to-tipped bend profile and tip stiffness can be customized for specific swing characteristics. Additionally, the recommended grip is a suggestion and golfers may prefer different grips based on personal preference.

Comparison of Tour AD DI and IZ shafts:

When it comes to golf shafts, the Tour AD DI and IZ shafts are two popular options from Graphite Design that offer different characteristics for different types of golfers. Here’s a comparison of these two shafts:

Similarities between Tour AD DI and IZ shafts:

• Both the Tour AD DI and IZ shafts are made from high-modulus carbon fiber materials, which provide excellent strength, stability, and responsiveness.
• Both shafts are available in a limited range of flex options (regular, stiff, extra stiff, and XX) and come in a standard length of 46 inches.
• Both shafts have a butt diameter of 0.600 inches and a tip diameter of 0.335 inches.
• Both shafts are designed to deliver maximum energy transfer from the golfer’s swing to the golf ball, resulting in increased distance and accuracy.

Differences between Tour AD DI and IZ shafts:

• The Tour AD DI shafts have a mid bend point with a stiff tip section, while the Tour AD IZ shafts have a mid-to-tipped bend profile with a stiff tip section. This makes the Tour AD DI shafts more suitable for golfers who want a mid-high launch with low spin, while the Tour AD IZ shafts are better for golfers who need a low launch with low spin.
• The torque values of the Tour AD DI and IZ shafts differ. The Tour AD DI shafts have a torque range of 3.0-1.6 degrees, while the Tour AD IZ shafts have a torque range of 3.6-2.6 degrees. This makes the Tour AD DI shafts more stable and less prone to twisting during the swing, while the Tour AD IZ shafts offer more feel and feedback.
• The weight ranges of the Tour AD DI and IZ shafts also differ. The Tour AD DI shafts weigh between 50-80 grams, while the Tour AD IZ shafts weigh between 40-80 grams. This makes the Tour AD IZ shafts more suitable for golfers with moderate to fast swing speeds, while the Tour AD DI shafts are better for golfers with slower swing speeds.

Which shaft is better for which type of golfer?

Choosing between the Tour AD DI and IZ shafts depends on a golfer’s swing characteristics and personal preferences. 

The Tour AD DI shafts are better suited for golfers with slower swing speeds who need help achieving a mid-high launch with low spin. 

The Tour AD IZ shafts, on the other hand, are ideal for golfers with moderate to fast swing speeds who require a low launch with low spin.

Performance differences between Tour AD DI and IZ shafts:

The Tour AD DI and IZ shafts perform differently on the course due to their different characteristics. The Tour AD DI shafts tend to produce a mid-high launch with low spin, resulting in a more penetrating ball flight and increased distance. The Tour AD IZ shafts, on the other hand, deliver a low launch with low spin, which provides a flatter ball flight and increased roll out.

How Tour AD DI and IZ shafts affect ball flight and spin:

The Tour AD DI shafts produce a mid-high launch with low spin, which makes them suitable for golfers who need help achieving a more penetrating ball flight. The Tour AD IZ shafts, on the other hand, deliver a low launch with low spin, resulting in a flatter ball flight and increased roll out.

Which shaft is more forgiving on off-center hits?

Both the Tour AD DI and IZ shafts offer forgiveness on off-center hits, but the Tour AD DI shafts are

slightly more forgiving due to their mid bend point and stiffer tip section. This helps to reduce the amount of twisting or bending that occurs on off-center hits, resulting in more consistent ball flight and accuracy. However, the Tour AD IZ shafts still offer a good level of forgiveness on off-center hits, thanks to their high-modulus carbon fiber materials and stiff tip section.

In conclusion, the Tour AD DI and IZ shafts are two excellent options for golfers looking to improve their performance on the course. The Tour AD DI shafts offer a mid-high launch with low spin, making them ideal for golfers with slower swing speeds, while the Tour AD IZ shafts provide a low launch with low spin, which is better suited for golfers with moderate to fast swing speeds. Ultimately, choosing between these two shafts comes down to a golfer’s personal preference, swing characteristics, and the type of ball flight they are looking to achieve.

Discover the meticulous and expert-driven process behind our product reviews at Sportic Media. Our comprehensive guide, led by industry veterans, ensures you get the most reliable and detailed insights into golf equipment. Dive into our methodical approach by visiting How We Test Products at Sportic Media: A Comprehensive Guide .

Dustin Johnson is the founder of Sportic Media, a company focused on the golf industry. Through Sportic Media, Dustin provides marketing and public relations services to golf courses, country clubs, and golf-related businesses.

Dustin is a certified golf course superintendent, having graduated from the Golf Course Management Certification Program through the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). He has worked at multiple private golf clubs, managing golf course maintenance and agronomy programs. Through Sportic Media, Dustin aims to help golf businesses thrive by providing strategic marketing and communication services. His experience as a golf course superintendent and his passion for the sport of golf fuel his mission to help grow the game he loves.

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• Golf Balls/Shafts/Grips

Ventus Blue Hybrid vs Tour AD DI Hybrid

By PingMD702 November 8, 2022 in Golf Balls/Shafts/Grips

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Hey everyone! I am debating upgrading my 5 hybrid shaft to either a Ventus Blue 8x or Tour AD DI 85x. The current shaft Im using right now is a Tensei White Raw AV 90x. I recently made the switch to Ventus Blue Velocore in my driver (6x), 4 wood (7x), and 7 wood (7x). I was able to try both and got very similar numbers with both shafts. With that said, would it be best to keep it consistent with the blue or go DI? I appreciate the input in advance! Thank you! 

Driver: Titleist TSr3 10 Degree Fujikura Ventus Blue TR Velocore 6x D1/Neutral setting (RH)

4 Wood: Titleist TSr2 16.5 Degree Fujikura Ventus Blue Velocore 7x D1 setting (RH)

7 Wood: Titleist TSr2 21 Degree Fujikura Ventus Blue Velocore 7x D1 setting (RH)

5 Hybrid: Titleist TSr2 24 Degree Fujikura Ventus Blue Velocore 8x B2 setting (RH)

Irons: 2023 Titleist Black T100 5-PW AMT White S300 Onyx (RH)

Wedges: 2023 Titleist Black T100 50 AMT White S300 Onyx, Titleist SM9 Premium Jet Black 54D/12 bounce, 58M/8 bounce BGT ZNE 130 wedge shafts (RH)

Putter: Bettinardi Wizard Inovai 8.0 Custom with Stability Shaft Tour Black

Ball: 2022 Titleist ProV1x (yellow)

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Best Graphite Design Hybrid Shafts

Graphite Design MAD 55 R-Flex Shaft + Ping G / G30 / G400 Driver Tip + Grip

Graphite design tour ad iz review, graphite design tour ad di hybrid shaft, graphite design tour ad iz hybrid shaft, graphite design tour ad hy shaft, what is a specialized hybrid shaft, our experience.

Golfers are becoming more aware of the benefits of being properly fit for their equipment. Longer distances, more accuracy, and lower scores can all be achieved by getting the right equipment for your swing. Although it is common place for many golfers, the fittings often stop at drivers and irons. Golfers neglect their fairway woods , wedges, putters, and importantly, hybrids.

Getting a whole bag fitting is the best way to make sure there are no holes in your bag. Hybrids especially can be versatile clubs that can allow a golfer to lay up, attack par-3 holes, and escape trouble from around the course. Matching the hybrid club head to a high performance shaft can unlock swing benefits you have likely never experienced if you have never been fit for a hybrid or tired the Graphite Design Tour AD hybrid shafts.

Reviews of the Graphite Design Hybrid Shafts

The Tour AD DI is unmistakable and the performance of the shaft matches . Made with high modulus aerospace quality carbon fiber and the Material Stiffness Integration (MSI) the Tour AD DI is a complete hybrid shaft offering. Billed as a mid launch, low to mid spin golf shaft, the AD DI will fit a wide range of golfers and swing styles. Notably, the AD DI is the only Graphite Design Hybrid offered in weights above 100-grams.

The Graphite Design Tour AD IZ is slightly higher launching compared to the Tour AD DI. The Tour AD IZ is well suited for golfers looking to gain more height for approaching greens, especially on longer holes. Golfers looking to elevate lower lofted hybrids will also love the efficiency of this shaft and how easy it is to swing. The AD IZ is the perfect complement to the AD DI and great for golfers looking to secure the middle part of their golf bag .

The AD HY hybrid shaft is the highest launching hybrid specific shaft from Graphite Design. The Tour AD HY is perfect for golfers that present slower speeds to the ball or that need to increase their launch angles coming from the fairways and roughs. If you struggle getting your golf ball into the air, the AD HY is the shaft for you.

Graphite Design Hybrid Shaft AD HY

Each golf club loads and unloads differently. Hybrids have a wide range of clubhead weights, shapes, and configurations that require more attention that some golfers realize. The industry leader in hybrid shaft performance is, without question, Graphite Design. Their Tour AD DI Hybrid shaft is among the favorites for professional club fitters and professional players. Beyond the AD DI, Graphite Design also offers a slightly higher launching Tour AD IZ shaft and a hybrid specific AD HY (Hybrid) shaft. We put all three of these shafts to the test to see what differences they can offer to different golfers.

Getting fit for your hybrids and then building the shaft to match your specific delivery conditions is the best route to ensure you get the most performance possible from your hybrids. Graphite Design shafts stand out as the best for golfers that demand performance throughout the middle of their golf bags. Other premium options are available but the matrix of the Tour AD DI, Tour AD IZ, and Tour AD HY offer almost everything golfers need in three easy models. My favorite is the Tour AD DI and I love the offering in my driving iron and hybrids. Overall, I saw better distance control and more accuracy coming from the fairway with the Tour AD DI over all competing hybrid shafts. 

Each golfer is different, and those differences are exaggerated in the hybrid sections of the golf bag . As some of the longest clubs players frequently hit from the ground, hybrids can be the most difficult to get fit correctly. Do not just think that what shaft you put into your driver will be best as you move into other graphite shafts. Each club should fit a specific role and building it to fit you is the best approach. The complete offering Graphite Design has for golfers of all swing types and speeds is impressive. No matter what you are looking for, Graphite Design can dial you in with one of their Tour AD offerings. Low, middle, and high launch offerings make it easy to get your ideal flight. We recommend using a professional club fitter to help you find yours today.

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• WRX Club Techs

GD TOUR AD DI vs VENTUS RED

By dmarvaso March 19, 2021 in WRX Club Techs

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playing the tour di in my driver now and was wondering how the ventus red compares?  looking for something a little bit more stable but with the same launch and spin.  has anyone compared both?  thanks for your time.

Ping G400 LST 10* Titleist TS3 15* Taylormade UDI 2  Callaway MB 2018 3-W Titleist Vokey 54*/60* Bettinardi BB2

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• Last Reply Jul 21

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March 19, 2021

The Red is like a softer tipped Black.  Profile is not like the DI at all.  DI is more similar to the Blue as far as profile is concerned but the Blue in the same flex and weight as a DI will be firme

March 20, 2021

I am with you on the AD TP. I have been fit twice at PXG and tried to get the Ventus Blue to beat out my AD TP and it could not... for me. AD TP is the most underrated GD shaft out there and I have ow

I play both the DI 6X and Ventus Red 6S (tipped 1") in the same driver TSi3 head.  The DI is a great feeling shaft, but was a little erratic for me with 2-way misses.  The tipped Ventus Red, on the ot

The Red is like a softer tipped Black.  Profile is not like the DI at all.  DI is more similar to the Blue as far as profile is concerned but the Blue in the same flex and weight as a DI will be firmer overall.

The DI plays soft to flex for the stated flex due to the very soft mid.  All of the Velocore shafts play firmer to flex for me.

I did not get along with any of the Velocore’s and went back to a GD Tour AD-TP.  Lots of people on here love the Velocore but not the shaft for me.

DI never worked for me either as the soft mid always created too much spin and my miss was both ways with it.

AD-TP is firmer throughout and helped reduce spin and lower launch slightly while still retaining very good feel through the ball.

Play a Stiff in all of the above at SS of 103-105mph with a smooth transition so I don’t create a lot of lag prior to impact.

Ventus Red seems very different from the AD-DI to me. Tried the AD-DI but didn’t like it all that much, though it could have been the wrong flex or weight. I know it is a topnotch shaft. I gave up on if pretty quickly. I usually like the soft mid ‘Blueboard-type’ profiles. I was not accurate with a 6S AD-DI.   

Big fan of the Ventus Red. It’s the most-overlooked one. Did not get fitted, got a great deal on a 3 wood that had the Red 7S Velocore installed so gave it a run. I have had it in play for two rounds and a couple of range sessions and I’m already confident in it. It delivered straight and long from the first swing. I was surprised. It makes the club feel very connected during the swing is how I’d describe it. Swing my 3 wood at about 102 mph. I haven’t tried the Black or Blue, and I will, because the Red is so good. Supposed to be stiff handle — stiffer than the Blue — but it does not feel butt stiff to me. Also supposed to be higher launch but it launches mid, I’d say. It’s definitely different from what I usually go for, so who knows what I am feeling. It feels fast to swing and gives me consistent center contact.

I am going to go somewhere and get fitted because I am certain at least one more Ventus will be in my bag this season but I would like a fitter’s opinion on which one I should play. 

Callaway Paradym Triple Diamond 10.5 w/Diamana TB 60S

PXG GEN6 5 wood w/Diamana S-plus 70 stiff

Yamaha RMX VD 7 wood w/Diamana S-plus 70 stiff

Callaway Mavrik Pro hybrid (22) w/Aldila Tour Blue 85 stiff hybrid

Wilson Staff Model CB 5-G w/DG s300 shafts

Edel T grind 54 w/Nippon 125 wedge shaft

Fourteen RM-12 58 w/Dynamic Golds400

Axis1 Rose putter, 34 inches

6 hours ago, Radeon962 said: The Red is like a softer tipped Black.  Profile is not like the DI at all.  DI is more similar to the Blue as far as profile is concerned but the Blue in the same flex and weight as a DI will be firmer overall.   The DI plays soft to flex for the stated flex due to the very soft mid.  All of the Velocore shafts play firmer to flex for me.   I did not get along with any of the Velocore’s and went back to a GD Tour AD-TP.  Lots of people on here love the Velocore but not the shaft for me.   DI never worked for me either as the soft mid always created too much spin and my miss was both ways with it.   AD-TP is firmer throughout and helped reduce spin and lower launch slightly while still retaining very good feel through the ball.   Play a Stiff in all of the above at SS of 103-105mph with a smooth transition so I don’t create a lot of lag prior to impact.    

I am with you on the AD TP. I have been fit twice at PXG and tried to get the Ventus Blue to beat out my AD TP and it could not... for me. AD TP is the most underrated GD shaft out there and I have owned almost all

fo them. AD DI was the worst for me and IZ being second to the TP.

Mizuno ST-Z 230 9.5 Diamana T+ 60s Mizuno ST-Z 15* Diamana T+ 60s 

TM Sim2 Max 19 Hybrid Ventus 7-S

Mizuno Pro 225 4-GW DG 105 S300 Mizuno T24 Denim 54S/58V DG S400

L.A.B. DF 2.1 Broomstick

20 minutes ago, OspreyCI said: I am with you on the AD TP. I have been fit twice at PXG and tried to get the Ventus Blue to beat out my AD TP and it could not... for me. AD TP is the most underrated GD shaft out there and I have owned almost all fo them. AD DI was the worst for me and IZ being second to the TP.

You should try the black. I had a AD TP and now in the black. Feels pretty similar to me although I went down in weight. (AD TP 7x to a ventus black 6x).

To the OP, on paper the AD DI is most similar to the ventus blue. I will say the feeling I got when hitting these wasnt exactly the same. AD DI feels more hingy in the mid with a strong kick. Ventus blue softer in the hands, or just below, still with a nice kick. The soft feeling in the hands made it hard to time for me. The ventus red is different from both and should feel pretty stable in the butt and mid, but the softer tip helps it with the smooth feeling. JMI, good luck.

I play both the DI 6X and Ventus Red 6S (tipped 1") in the same driver TSi3 head.  The DI is a great feeling shaft, but was a little erratic for me with 2-way misses.  The tipped Ventus Red, on the other hand, is just as smooth feeling, but much more stable.  My misses are just a little right, but never any left misses.  Launch with the Ventus is just a little bit higher than the DI 6X, which I was looking for since the TSi3 head launches lower than my older 910D3.  Hope that helps.

Titleist  TSR3 10° Diamana ZF 60S Titleist TSR2 16.5° Graphite Design Tour AD DI 7S

Titleist  818H1 21° Graphite Design Tour AD DI-95X

Srixon ZX4/ZX5/ZX7 MKII 4-PW Nippon N.S. Pro Modus 3 Tour 120S

Cleveland RTX4 50° (mid), 54° (mid) TI DG S400

Cleveland RTX6 58° (low) TI DG S400 Byron Morgan DH89 34/350

45 minutes ago, OspreyCI said: I am with you on the AD TP. I have been fit twice at PXG and tried to get the Ventus Blue to beat out my AD TP and it could not... for me. AD TP is the most underrated GD shaft out there and I have owned almost all fo them. AD DI was the worst for me and IZ being second to the TP.

 I tried the VR recently but it spun a bit much and felt a little hollow.  I have an IZ on the way as I have not hit the IZ or HD as they both have my interest but they will have a hard time beating out the TP.

57 minutes ago, Radeon962 said:  I tried the VR recently but it spun a bit much and felt a little hollow.  I have an IZ on the way as I have not hit the IZ or HD as they both have my interest but they will have a hard time beating out the TP.

Agree. VR was not good for me at all. The IZ is very good. That would be a shaft I would go back to if I need more launch. 

• 2 years later...

Resurrecting this thread to see what a similar GD shaft to ventus red might be for a fairway wood? Looking to go GD in 4W and 7W

TSR2 10* @D1 Tour AD UB 6s

G430 5W @ flat neutral Tour AD UB 7s

'24 APEX UW 21* AD IZ 8S

'23 T200 Utility AD IZ 95S

'23 King Tour 5-G Modus 105S

RTX 6 Zipcore Tour Rack 54 Low+ and 58 Low

Custom PLD Anser 2D Carbon Steel / Stability Tour

Chrome Soft X

24 minutes ago, JourdanM said: Resurrecting this thread to see what a similar GD shaft to ventus red might be for a fairway wood? Looking to go GD in 4W and 7W

Callaway AI Smoke Paradym 💎 💎 💎 9* - Tour AD VF-7TX

TM SIM ti 15* - Diamana GT 80TX

TM Tour Issue Rescue 11 TP Deep Face Proto 16* - Ventus Black HB 9TX

New Level NLU-01 21* - KBS Hybrid Proto 105X

New Level 623-M 5-PW - MMT 125TX

Miura Tour 54* HB - KBS 610 125 S+, New Level SPN forged M-grind 58* - KBS Tour 130X

Scotty Cameron Studio Select Newport 2

7 minutes ago, phizzy30 said: CQ or VR. 

Thank you, sir!

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