[Kim Maengnyeong's Golf English Conversation] "The Relationship Between Shaft Length and Driving Distance"

Phil Mickelson uses a 47.5-inch long driver.

"The Era of the Long Driver."

Phil Mickelson (USA) recently made headlines at the Masters by choosing a 47.5-inch driver. Last month, US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau (USA) also became the center of attention after revealing that he was testing a 48-inch driver. Both players are hitting drives of 370 to 400 yards with their long shafts, drawing significant attention from amateur golfers.

In the driver market, it is expected that drivers longer than 46 inches will become the mainstream. However, fitting experts believe that the maximum length at which amateur golfers can consistently hit the sweet spot is between 44 and 45 inches. A good drive requires not only impressive distance, but also stable direction and solid feel. The longer the driver, the faster the swing speed, which naturally leads to greater distance.

Typically, every additional inch adds about 5 to 10 yards. The problem is that the probability of hitting the center of the clubface decreases. It becomes difficult to maintain consistency. In fact, Mickelson’s fairway hit rate was only 36% over four tournaments using a 47.5-inch driver. Tiger Woods (USA) generally plays with a 43.5-inch driver because it is easier to control than a longer club.

So, what is the ideal length? It depends on body type, swing pattern, head speed, and ball speed. The standard for men is 43 to 45 inches, for women 43 to 44 inches, and for American golfers 44 to 45 inches. The average driver shaft length on the PGA Tour is approximately 44.75 inches. According to the rules of golf, the maximum allowed length is 48 inches.

A (golfer): I'd like to see the latest driver, please.

B (golf shop): Yes, certainly. What kind of driver are you interested in?

A: I'd like to have the driver with a titanium head and a 48-inch carbon-graphite shaft.

B: Yes, I understand. A long shaft is good, but the most important thing with any driver is being able to make a solid shot with a correct swing.

Written by Kim Maengnyeong, golf columnist