#143 Driver Fitting for a Mid-Handicapper.

The Podcast outlines the fitting process for a golf driver tailored to a mid-handicap golfer struggling with a slice. Analysis of the golfer's swing and ball flight revealed high spin and an out-to-in swing path. The solution involved adjustments to the clubhead (Cobra), shaft (60X with reinforced tip), length (45 inches), and weight distribution to reduce spin and enhance control. The result was a significant improvement in distance and accuracy.

Key Insights:

This case serves as a detailed example of driver fitting, where the club is customized to compensate for the player’s weaknesses and optimize performance. The golfer exhibited two primary issues:

1. An out-to-in swing path causing a pronounced slice.

2. A club setup that amplified this error.

Analysis:

Swing Analysis:

The golfer's out-to-in swing caused a high ball flight with excessive spin and a strong slice to the right. This is common for players with powerful swings who struggle to square the clubface at impact.

Club Setup Analysis:

The golfer used a driver with a 10.5-degree loft and a stiff-flex shaft, which naturally produces high spin. Combined with their swing fault, this setup exacerbated the slice.

Solutions:

Club Adjustments:

- Shaft: Switched to an X-Stiff Flex shaft with reduced torque to improve control and minimize the slice.

- Clubhead: Opted for a Cobra driver known for forgiving off-center hits and reduced spin.

- Loft: Reduced loft to achieve a lower ball flight.

- Length: Shortened the shaft to 45 inches for greater control.

- Weight: Adjusted the clubhead weight to neutralize the ball flight.

- Grip: Modified the grip for better handling.

Training Recommendations:

- The golfer should work on correcting the out-to-in swing path for long-term improvement.

Results:

- Spin rate reduced from 4,000 to 2,900 RPM.

- Driving distance increased from 224 to 245 meters.

- Improved control and precision with drives.

Summary:

The combination of an out-to-in swing path and an unsuitable club setup caused severe slicing and loss of control. By tailoring the driver to the golfer's specific needs and reducing spin, these issues were addressed, leading to notable performance enhancements.