QUESTION: Hi,

I have a spin rate of 4500+ pretty consistently on my driver, which is a Taylor Made Draw
with a regular flex. I have been told that I should look for a shaft with a
different kick point. What do you think? RS

ANSWER: Hi RS,

I think you are getting some bad advice, and I am assuming that your ball flight and the resulting distance is not all that you want it to be. There are some shaft models that can reduce spin, but please read on for more valuable advice.

First- one has to be real careful with launch monitor readings as all kinds of errors can result in the capturing of the data and the calculation of the spin rate. However, let’s assume that your golf ball spins a great amount.

There can be several factors involved in creating excessive spin. The culprit most responsible of course is the golf swing. Swing mechanics, especially delivering the clubhead in a descending angle of attack can have a profound impact on your ball’s spin rate. Other factors include the golf ball, the head geometry, and the shaft.

The optimal way to achieve a ball that spins optimally is via working with a skilled swing teacher.

Equipment-wise- You may want to test different golf balls and choose a lower spinning ball. Compare and test shafts to insure that the flex of the shaft is not too flexible for your swing. Finally, find a head that is designed for your swing. There is a reason why most golfers who create excessive ball spin play with more loft and a lower spinning head. One of the most popular driver heads on the market today for this category is the Bridgestone J33 460. This model, and heads like it, have a geometry that reduces the spin and creates a more efficient ball flight for higher spinning golf shots.

Like most things in golf, it is a combination of things, finding the right ball, working on an understanding of your golf swing mechanics, fitting a shaft to your optimal body, swing, and game, and using a head geometry that matches your launch, speed and spin needs.

Best regards, Mark