Are You Confused Yet?
by bob
Friday, May 30, 2008 3:28pm (PST)
Every day in every golf shop players walk into a menagerie of equipment. Every manufacturer claims that their driver hits the balls straighter, their golf ball goes farther and their putter makes everything, and on and on it goes. There is no question that golf equipment technology has improved dramatically. As a golfer the options you have are endless. From head designs, shaft types, grips in every color, shape and texture, hybrid clubs (this design has actually been around 20 years) and last but not least- custom club fitting. This is the part of technology that is critical to the consumer. Knowledge is power- a saying that everyone is familiar with. Being "fit" by someone qualified will make all the difference in the world. When a fitter says "You hit that club better" you need to know why- so ask. Their answer shoulfd include explaining why the shaft (this component is the most inportant piece in selecting any club in your bag) that you are hitting is right for you. Overall weight, length, flex, kick-point, loft and type (steel vs graphite) are all items the fitter should explain thouroughly.
My background includes extensive training in club fitting with Henry-Griffiths, a company many people in our industry feel started what everyone refers to as "club fitting". This company was founded in 1983 by two PGA golf professionals who beleived that every individual, regardless of their playing ability, should have clubs that enhance their swing motion. If you are properly fit, your clubs may help you improve your golf swing- period! There is no question in my mind after being involved with this philosophy and "fitting" for 10 years per the Henry-Griffiths guidelines, a player will respond per their ball flight, which is dictated by the euipment they're playing.
I don't need to tell you how expensive equipment has become. Make sure whoever is helping you, has the knowledge to fit you correctly! Ask them about lie angle. What is it and how does it affect my ball flight? Ask them what information a fitter needs in order to determine your shaft flex? When hitting a shot, your club should come into the hitting area square to the ball - square to the target. If your club comes in on its heel or toe, it will affect ball flight. Often, the player blames himself, when it could be the golf club.
Club head speed is the single most important factor in selecting your shaft flex. Preference can play a part, but be very careful about picking the right shaft-it's the most important component in a golf club!
Well, good luck with your shopping, if you need help, don't hesitate to call me at Wolf Run Golf Club or The Links at Kiley Ranch- and I will be more than happy to help!
Post my comment
49˚ Partly Cloudy