- Updated: January 4, 2023
Best Driver Shafts 2023
We’ve tested a variety of drivers through the years in the most expensive and the most affordable price ranges. I discovered that the Project X HZRDUS Smoke Shaft is the best driver shaft on the market right now.
You’re probably looking for a driver shaft that you can hit further and straighter. One that will add you an extra 10 to 15 yards in all your strikes. There are plenty of them in the golf equipment market. If you’re unsure where to look, finding the right one may be somewhat challenging.
In this detailed shaft review, I’ll take you through some of the most effective driver shafts and outline a few factors to consider when choosing a driver shaft.
1 |  OUR TOP PICK | Project X HZRDUS Smoke Shaft |
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2 |  ALTERNATIVE | Mitsubishi Diamana Driver Shaft |
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3 |  HIGHER END | Mitsubishi Tensei CK Pro Series |
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Upon testing, I noticed that the Project X HZRDUS Smoke Shaft Driver offered consistent performance regardless of the driver heads I used. All my good swings were converted into arrow-straight hits. The Project X bears one of the most sturdy shaft profiles in golf. I strongly recommend this high-quality shaft for pros and beginners alike.
As you can imagine, there are different kinds of golf shafts for various levels of players. There are those with a high kick point, the regular ones, the stiff ones, the heavy ones, the lighter ones, etc.
There’s plenty to uncover in this article; read on to explore my top picks for the best driver shafts and how to pick the right driver shaft. Let’s get to it, shall we?
The 10 BEST DRIVER SHAFTS 2023
- Project X HZRDUS Smoke Shaft (Best Overall)
- Mitsubishi Diamana Driver Shaft (Best for Quality)
- Mitsubishi Tensei CK Pro Series (Most Versatile Shaft)
- Fujikura Vista Pro 60 Driver Shaft (Best Club Head Speed)
- Aldila NVS 55 Shaft (Best for Boosting Distance)
- Accra FX 2.0 200 Series 260 Driver Shaft (Best Budget Driver Shaft )
- Accra New Tour Z 85 Driver Shaft (Best for Consistency)
- Project X Even Flow Blue Shaft (Best for High-Speed Swings)
- UST Recoil Shaft (Most Stylish Shaft)
- UST Proforce V2 HL Golf Shaft (Best for Beginners)
1. Project X HZRDUS Smoke Shaft (Best Overall)
Project X’s HZRDUS Smoke is one of the hottest driver shafts on the market right now. It features a low-spin design that is perfect for players looking for more distance.
The HZRDUS Smoke also has a great feel and an unbeatable level of durability. If you are looking for a top-of-the-line driver shaft, the HZRDUS Smoke should be at the top of your list.
The Project X HZRDUS Smoke shaft is a high-performance shaft that can help you add distance and accuracy to your drive? Then the Project X HZRDUS Smoke Shaft is a superb option. This shaft is designed with a low spin rate in mind, which makes it perfect for players who are looking to add some extra yardage to their drives.
The HZRDUS Smoke Shaft also features a tip section designed to promote a higher launch angle, making it easier to get your golf ball airborne. The tip section also provides excellent stability and control.
The HZRDUS Smoke is also one of the lightest driver shafts on the market, so it’s a great choice for players who want to increase their swing speed. The Project X HZRDUS Smoke is hard to beat when it comes to bang for your buck.
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2. Mitsubishi Diamana Driver Shaft (Best for Quality)
The Mitsubishi Diamana Driver Shaft is popular for its high quality and performance. When choosing a driver shaft, it’s essential to consider the flex, weight, and balance (more on these later in this article). Upon testing the Diamana shaft, I discovered that it doesn’t disappoint in all three sectors.
The Diamana is one of the heaviest driver shafts due to its stiff flex, making it a great option for players with a faster swing speed. It also has a low kick point, which will generate more spin. The Mitsubishi Diamana Shaft is also one of the more expensive shafts on the market, so it may not be an option if you are on a budget.
If you are looking for a high-quality driver shaft that can help you improve your game, the Mitsubishi Diamana is worth every dime.
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3. Mitsubishi Tensei CK Pro Series (Most Versatile Shaft)
Mitsubishi is a favorite among touring professionals. Their latest offering, the Mitsubishi Tensei CK Pro Series, will change your perspective on golf equipment. This top-class shaft features a multi-material construction and a great feel that will appease players of all levels.
The Tensei CK Pro is more responsive and stronger than other shafts, thanks to its unique dual-phase XLING tech resin system.
If you are looking for a high-quality, low-cost driver shaft, the Mitsubishi Tensei CK Pro Series Orange is ideal. This shaft is designed for moderate to high swing speed players and features a mid-kick point that provides excellent distance and forgiveness.
The Orange model is also one of the lightest shafts in the Tensei CK Pro Series, making it a great choice for players who want to increase their clubhead speed.
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4. Fujikura Vista Pro 60 Driver Shaft (Best Club Head Speed)
If you haven’t heard of the Fujikura brand by now, you’re probably new to golf or using the same golf shaft for the longest time. Fujikura is a popular shaft option among notable PGA Tour Superstars like Dustin Johnson, Sergio Garcia, Justin Rose, and Rory Mcllroy.
The Fujikura Vista Pro 60 Driver Shaft is made to fit the needs of professional golfers, low-handicappers, inexperienced beginners, and so on.
I’ve tested both the Fujikura Ventus TR and the Fujikura Vista Pro, and I must say, the on-course performance for both is pretty impressive. The feel of this shaft is stable and smooth. The increase in stability was a lot noticeable, and it helped me control the golf ball off the tee. I guess it’s why the midsection is a tad stiffer than normal shafts.
The Fujikura Vista Pro has a clubhead speed of 93 and a ball speed of approximately 139.5, which is quite impressive for any shaft. This graphite driver shaft offers relatively higher spin and launch rates. It also keeps the ball airborne for extended periods. Combine that with top-notch stability, and you enjoy control for a more compact dispersion.
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5. Aldila NVS 55 Shaft (Best for Boosting Distance)
If you’re looking to boost your distance on the course, look no further than the Aldila NVS 55 Shaft. This one-of-a-kind shaft offers the most distance out of any other shaft on this list. Aldila has updated its most recent shafts to complement the modern club designs. They’ve also added new flexes/weights to suit more player types. Senior players will benefit greatly from this flex shaft since they probably have less than 90 mph swing speed.
Weighing at a mere 55 grams, the Aldila NVS graphite wood shaft offers flexibility and stability. The more flexible the shaft, the more distance you can get from your swing. The shaft’s stability helps you enjoy more accurate shots.
This shaft did everything I hoped it would. It reduced my slices down to smooth fades. All I had to do was screw the shaft into my driver’s head, and I was set for on-course success. The feature I enjoyed most about the NVS 55 shaft is the soft tip section that encouraged a higher ball flight with more spin.
Aldila shafts are worth investment due to their solid hitting capabilities, excellent value, and superb distance.
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6. Accra FX 2.0 200 Series 260 Driver Shaft (Best Budget Driver Shaft)
Accra is an industry-leading company that produces some of the best driver shafts in the market. Their Fx and DyMatch line of shafts has taken customization and performance to a new level.
The Accra FX 2.0 200 Series 260 shaft is perfect for players looking for a medium spin and medium launch rate. Golfers with an even transition and tempo will appreciate the FX 2.0 as well. The Accra Driver shaft 2.0 200 Series comes in weights of 50g, 60g, and 70g, respectively.
All Accra shafts, including the FX 2.0 200 series, are made using the highest quality of materials to guarantee the best feel, performance, and quality. The unique DyMatch technology enables golfers to match their hybrids and woods dynamically. I was particularly impressed with the shaft’s flex and feel and enhanced launch angle that doesn’t compromise the distance.
The FX 200 series of Accra shafts are designed to provide initial launch conditions coupled with calculated spin rates. We recommend this kind of shaft for players in need of tip stability.
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7. Accra New Tour Z 85 Driver Shaft (Best for Consistency)
Two Accra shafts in one list. That speaks volumes of the Accra brand, doesn’t it? From the FX 2.0 now to the Tour Z 85, these Accra shafts offer high launches and low spin for your XTD/SLDR Drivers.
The Accra New Tour Z 85 Driver Shaft features a weight of 85 grams and an M5 stiffness, which easily translates to a stiff plus. If you’re looking to increase your launch without adding to your spin, the New Tour Z is the shaft for you.
This shaft has a relatively low torque measurement to achieve aggressive swings with zero chances of ballooning or increased spin. The New Tour Z’s also has a responsive tip section that encourages consistency, an increase in draw bias, and swing speed.
The small kick point below the grip ensured a consistent strike pattern regardless of whether I swung gently or at high speeds. The New Tour Z felt particularly strong from the midsection down to the tip.
The Accra Tour Z is the first and only low spin shaft I’ve used that lived up to the overheated hype.
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8. Project X EvenFlow Blue Shaft (Best for High-Speed Swings)
The Project X EvenFlow Blue shaft is a follow-up to the popular HZRDUS line. It has a higher torque than the EvenFlow White and the HZRDUS line of shafts. It’s currently available in 50, 60, 70, and 80 grams.
I’ve used this shaft on my driver for weeks on end. It’s one of the most accurate driver shafts of 2018. It has a silky smooth feel and is very crisp and solid at impact. Project X’s weight is originally designed for stronger golfers. However, if you want to avoid the heavy feel, I recommend the 65-gram shaft.
When I used the Project X EvenFlow Blue Shaft for the first time, I saw amazing ball speeds that I had not seen in any other shaft.
EvenFlow features an extraordinary ‘even’ bend profile that disperses the shaft load more effectively across the swing to generate maximal energy release upon impact. What follows is a forceful flow of energy with a satisfyingly smooth feel.
Trust the Project X Even Flow to deliver in both sectors if you’re after more distance and lower ball flight.
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9. UST Recoil Shaft (Most Stylish Shaft)
The Recoil 95 and 110 are two of the most common UST Mamiya’s Recoil variants. The one feature that stands out about them is their stunning appearance. The dark and glossy silver is so smooth that one could easily confuse it for steel at first glance. The uppermost layer is a bright UST Mamiya branding that’s detached from the Recoil logo via a linear outline.
Looks aside, the UST Recoil shaft has a sensational feel. When I installed both variants into a forged set of cavity back irons, I noticed that the feel was better.
As for the performance, the Recoil 95 shaft maintained its accuracy, consistency, and feel. The Recoil 110 generated satisfactory ball flight combined with relatively more spin than most other shafts.
If you’ve played Tour-style, tip stiff iron shafts, it might take a while before you get used to the UST Recoil. On the other hand, if you’re currently playing higher launching or lighter weight steel shafts, you’ll have no issues with the transition provided you find the suitable flex and weight.
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10. UST Proforce V2 HL Golf Shaft (Best for Beginners)
If you’re an average golfer hungry for premium performance minus the premium price tag, the UST Proforce V2 HL Golf Shaft will help you find your balance. This is arguably one of the best driver shafts out there that are designed to accommodate different golfers regardless of their skill level.
You can pair the Proforce V2 HL Golf Shaft with fairway metals and drivers of different lofts, courtesy of UST’s wide-ranging line-up of options.
When I tested the Proforce V2, I played 6F5 and 7F5 shafts with weights of 60 grams and 70 grams, respectively. The numbers in their titles denote their respective frequencies. F3 shafts are essentially regular shafts, F4 are stiff shafts, while the F5 are extra-stiff.
I outfitted the 6F5 and 7F5 into my Cobra King F9, and the results were more than outstanding. They gave me more stability upon impact, but they also improved my experience as I swung the club back and around my body. The Proforce V2 Tour clicked in rather seamlessly, especially since I have an aggressive tempo.
Even though my launch angle and spin rate were still down, my swing speeds shot up higher, and my performance was optimized. It left me wondering why most beginners and aggressive swingers don’t play this shaft more often.
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WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A DRIVER SHAFT
Weight
The weight of the average shaft ranges from between 40 and 135 grams. In general, golfers with a slower swing speed may benefit a great deal from using lighter shafts. You may be surprised to know that even players on Tour settle for drivers with light shafts.
The shaft weight often impacts the trajectory and launch angle of your golf ball. If you swing a heavy shaft driver, you’ll find it difficult to get your ball airborne. Furthermore, the heavier the shaft, the likelier it becomes for the ball to fly low and with less spin.
On the other hand, if you use a lighter driver shaft for your swing, it will be relatively easier to garner excessive spin and higher ball flights. Lighter shafts can help boost the closure rate. In other words, if your golf ball is hooking and/or starting left, only then should you consider heavier shaft alternatives.
Material (Graphite Shafts vs. Steel)
Graphite and steel are two of the most common materials used in the manufacture of golf shafts. Here’s a brief rundown of each shaft material:
Graphite Shafts
They’re more expensive, less durable, and a lot lighter than steel. Graphite shafts weigh anywhere between 50 and 85 grams, which is approximately half the weight of a typical steel shaft. Graphite shafts are ideal for seniors, women golfers, and other golfers who struggle to maintain a fast swing speed.
Steel Shafts
Steel shafts are generally less expensive, more durable, and much heavier compared to graphite. Steel shafts provide superior control and focus less on distance and more on accuracy. Therefore, to generate a similar distance as the graphite shaft, you’ll need a higher swing speed.
Both shafts have their own upsides and downsides. It helps to have a good fitter who will analyze your swing speed and recommend the right shaft material.
Flight and Feel
Your golf ball flight matters a lot when choosing the right driver shaft. Some driver shafts are made to keep the ball flighted lower, while others are designed to get it airborne.
Furthermore, when you try out a variety of shafts, you’ll notice the difference almost instantly. Some driver shafts have an added level of stiffness more than others.
The stiffer a driver shaft is, the more straightforward it becomes for a player with a refined, consistent, and well-developed swing to maintain a consistent strike pattern. If you’re a pro player and you want to achieve a greater speed and higher accuracy, we suggest that you use a stiff shaft in all your games.
Shafts with regular stiffness are best suited for slower swingers. They’re more forgiving and easier to use compared to the stiffer shafts. To pick out the right shaft stiffness for your game, try understanding your tendencies and measurements as a player.
Price
This one’s a no-brainer. Don’t settle for a driver shaft brand that’s beyond your financial reach. Some of them can fetch more than 300 bucks. At the same time, we wouldn’t advise you to splurge on high-quality shaft brands even if you have the money to spend.
Yes, they may be worthy additions to a pro player’s golf bag, but they are a complete waste of money to the average player. You’ll be better off spending that extra cash on improving your swing.
The truth is, there are plenty of cheaper options that would yield similar results as the expensive shafts. Some may give you an extra ten yards, others may be more forgiving, and others may be more forgiving.
For the best driver shaft prices, we recommend you do your shopping online. Not only will you enjoy access to an endless selection of driver shaft brands, but you’ll also learn more about them before you make your purchase.
Shaft Length
The shaft length in men’s drivers has risen from 43 inches to 43.5 and finally to 45 inches. Drivers with a longer shaft tend to offer more distance. During their testing phase, companies have reported that every extra inch may help you hit approximately 5 to yards longer.
On the other hand, a longer driver shaft may also equate to minimal accuracy, which leads to better scores. If you often play behind a tree, and you either spray it off the golf course or hit it into hazards, you’re in for a rough day (but with high scores).
What matters most is that you find the right shaft length for your game. Some of the most important factors to consider when choosing your ideal length include your swing speed, ball speed, age, and height.
If you’re using a 45-inch driver and you’re 5’3,” it may be hard to maintain control. At the same time, if you want to use a regular flex driver and you have a swing speed of about 100mph, you’ll struggle to hit the freshly adjusted shaft flex.
Before committing to one specific shaft length, try getting a fitting to test out a variety of long shafts.
Shaft Flex
“Flex” refers to the shaft’s ability to bend when force – in the form of swing speed – is applied. The flex of the shaft will affect the trajectory and accuracy of your shots. There are three main types of flex – regular, stiff, and extra stiff. The flex you choose should be based on your swing speed.
If you have a slow swing speed, you should choose a regular or soft flex. You’ll generally need a more flexible shaft to help you generate more power. On the other hand, if you have a medium swing speed, you should choose a stiff flex. And if you have a fast swing speed, settle for an extra stiff flex.
The flex of the shaft will determine how much power you are able to generate with your swing. If you are looking for more distance, you will want to choose a shaft with a higher flex rating. However, if you are looking for more accuracy, you will want to choose a shaft with a lower flex rating. It is important to try out different flexes to see what works best for your swing.
Conclusion
Choosing the best driver shaft can be a difficult task, but it is important to consider all of the factors we discussed in this blog post. Our personal favorite shaft on the market right now is the Project X HZRDUS Smoke. It offers everything you could want in a driver shaft and then some. Thanks for reading, and we hope this helped you in your quest to find the perfect driver shaft!
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Independent Golf Reviews has tested and reviewed 1000+ golf products over the past 10 years. We use our experience and expertise to give golfers an unbiased insight on the market.
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