Golfer swing during a full bag fitting session at NiceOn Golf Fitting Studio, featuring various equipment brands.

Clubhead or Shaft - What Matters More in a Fitting?

When it comes to custom golf fittings, one of the most debated questions we hear at NiceOn Golf is:

“Is the clubhead or the shaft more important?”

While both components are critical to performance, our fitting philosophy—backed by years of testing and real player results—leans clearly in one direction: the shaft matters more.

Why the Shaft Is the Engine of Your Club

Think of the shaft as the engine of your golf club. It’s the only component responsible for:

  • Tempo and timing

  • Feel at impact

  • Launch angle and spin rate

  • Consistency across the bag

Even with the best clubhead on the market, if the shaft doesn’t match your swing, you’ll struggle with inconsistent dispersion, poor feel, and distance gaps.

Clubheads Are Finishing Touches, Not Foundations

The clubhead—whether it's forged, cavity-back, or blade—does affect performance through forgiveness, turf interaction, and aesthetics, but its influence is largely dependent on how well the shaft delivers it.

For example:

  • A well-fit shaft can transform a mid-tier clubhead into a high-performance tool.

  • A poorly fit shaft will make even the most expensive head feel unpredictable or “off.”

What We See in the Fitting Studio

Using our GC QuadMax launch monitor, we’ve fitted hundreds of golfers through irons, drivers, and full bags. What stands out?

  • When we tune in the shaft, players instantly notice better rhythm, higher smash factors, and more confidence.

  • Only after the shaft is dialed in does the choice of clubhead really start to shine.

This is why our fittings often begin with shaft testing first, especially with brands like TPT, Nippon, KBS, True Temper, Project X and more, where shaft profiles can be matched precisely to your swing tempo and load characteristics.

Our Recommendation

If you’re investing in a custom fitting and want to get the most out of your game:

👉 Prioritise the shaft.
👉 Let data drive your decision.
👉 Choose a clubhead that complements the right shaft, not the other way around.

At NiceOn Golf, we believe in building from the shaft up, ensuring that your equipment works with your swing, not against it.

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