When it comes to choosing the right shafts for your golf irons, there are two major choices on the table: Graphite and steel.
Many of these shafts have their own models and unique benefits, which you can explore on a deeper level if you opt for custom club fitting. But when it comes down to the basics, both steel and graphite shafts have their qualities that distinguish them from each other.
The real question is, if you’re a beginner and want to know which iron shafts suit your playing style and swing mechanics, or you’re an experienced player looking to switch things up, what do you need to know?
At Clarkes Golf, we’re home to a massive selection of golf irons from the sport’s leading brands, in both graphite and steel. We’re here to offer the guidance you need to make an educated decision. Keep reading to learn more.
Graphite vs steel irons - Advantages and disadvantages
Graphite iron shafts
Advantages
Lightweight - Having a lightweight shaft not only makes the club easier to swing compared to steel counterparts, but it can also contribute to longer yardages thanks to more clubhead speed.
Vibration-dampening properties - These shafts absorb more vibrations than steel, producing a silkier strike feel, as well as easing impact on players with joint issues.
Higher swing speeds - As mentioned above, using lighter shafts can offer increased clubhead speed and shaft flex, propelling the ball further.
Disadvantages
Reduced feedback - For players who prefer to make adjustments on the golf course based on “feel”, graphite shafts may not translate well.
Increased price - Because the clubs are harder to produce, graphite shafts tend to be more expensive than steel ones.
Not as durable - These hollow shafts are easier to bend and break than steel shafts, shortening the lifespan of your clubs in the event of an accident or unexpected pressure.
Steel golf shafts
Advantages
Durable - Steel shafts are great at absorbing the regular impacts of play and will prove to be more durable during storage and transport. Carbon steel is particularly durable.
Greater control - Because these clubs are heavier, many players find it easier to bring the club face back square before impact, for better control and accuracy.
Feedback - Golfers can easily adjust their swing and clubface angle based on the responses from each impact.
Not as expensive - The intricacies of graphite shafts make steel shafts the more economical option in many cases, both in terms of initial price and repairs.
Disadvantages
Can feel too heavy - Players moving from lighter-weight clubs to steel for the first time may find them a lot heavier than they were expecting, affecting play.
Increased vibrations - Steel conducts vibrations far more than graphite, which could equate to increased joint pain over time, if you’re vulnerable to these types of injuries.
Tough for beginners - The weight of these clubs can make them difficult to handle for beginners, many of whom find them intimidating compared to graphite.
Less flexible - Reduces flex in the shaft can make steel shafts more difficult to swing, while also affecting ball flight and distance.
Are steel or graphite shafts better for beginners?
The general consensus is that graphite shafts are better for beginner golfers.
The lightweight nature of the clubs makes them easy to carry and even easier to swing - an ideal scenario for players taking their first steps in the game.
Having said that, there are those who believe starting juniors and beginners with steel shafts and heavier weight sets them up well for using similar clubs in the future, while helping them get to grips with some of the more difficult aspects of the game. Steel shafts are also more cost-effective, making them an ideal starting point.
Explore golf irons with steel and graphite shafts at Clarkes Golf
Whatever your preferred shaft material, whether you’re a graphite die-hard or a firm steel supporter, we’ve got all the golf irons you need and more at Clarkes Golf.
With numerous individual irons and golf iron sets to choose, from the sport’s most popular brands - including Ping, Titleist, Callaway and more - you’ll never need to compromise.
And with plenty of other golf clubs too, like drivers, fairway woods and putters, you could build an entire set from the ground up to suit your golf game to a tee.
Explore the Clarkes Golf site to find the best golf irons for you today, or get in touch with a member of the team if you need a helping hand with your order.