Product Review: Hybrid Shaft Comparison

Posted by Rob Rigg
May 2009

The Walking Golfer would like to thank Aldila for their support in conducting the hybrid shaft reviews discussed below.

The shaft is the engine of any golf club. I have heard many golfers discuss club fitting in terms of drivers and irons, but rarely have I heard anyone talk about different hybrid shafts.

As hybrids continue to become more relevant in the average golfer’s bag, I thought it would be interesting to conduct a shaft comparison between the Aldila VS Proto 80-S and the Aldila NV 85-S to determine how a few changes in a manufacturer’s shaft design can significantly alter how a shaft performs.

VS Proto 80-S

Torque: 2.2
Launch: Low-Mid
Weight: 83 grams
Retail: $89.99

NV 85-S
Torque: 2.6
Launch: Low-Mid
Weight: 82 grams
Retail:  $47.99

For context, my driver swing speed is between 105 and 110 mph and my 6 iron swing speed is about 90 mph. I tend to hit a high slight draw with a lot of spin. These two shafts were tested on a 23* Titleist 585h PT that is played often during a round (it acts as a 5 wood through 4 iron for me).

The VS Proto 80-S and NV 85-S are essentially the same weight, but they feel quite different. As with the driver, the NV has higher torque and a softer tip which resulted in a strong draw ball flight for me, while the VS Proto has a lower torque rating and stiffer tip which produced a higher and straighter ball flight. In terms of distance and control, I thought the NV was longer while the VS Proto was more accurate.

A smooth swing was effective with both shafts, but I felt like I could load the VS a little more than the NV which was nice out of the rough. Overall, the VS Proto’s shot dispersion was tighter and the ball flight was more predictable which is why I preferred it to the NV. On average, the NVs ball flight was a bit lower, while the VS Proto flew higher and landed softer.

The NV is a great hybrid shaft that will fit many golfers and the price for performance is excellent. Since the NV provides more of a draw flight, at least in the Titleist 585h, it will probably be a good fit for higher handicap players looking to avoid a slice from long iron distance.

The VS Proto is more expensive, and will probably be a better fit for lower handicap players because of the stiffer tip, lower torque and workability. There may be some loss of distance versus the NV, but the ability to control and shape the ball is more important to scoring.

If nothing else, this shaft comparison illustrates that the “stock” shaft in whatever club you purchase may not be the best fit for you. Your enjoyment of the game will improve if you take the time to test out equipment on the launch monitor and on the course, even if you have to pay for an upgraded ”custom” shaft. At the end of the day, testing out a lot of shafts/club heads and then buying the right one will save you money in the long run and also improve your confidence and scoring.

Review by Rob Rigg