Need a New Driver in 2025? Here's How to Get Fitted Properly

Driver Head Selection/Loft Setting
Pick the RIGHT model, not the coolest looking one!

Picking the right driver head model is an important start to the process. Manufacturers typically make 3 different categories of head models - a “max” forgiveness head, a standard head with higher launch, and a low spin model. Your selection will heavily depend on your desired ball flight - if you want to hit it higher, pick either the max or the base model. Conversely, if you want to lower your flight, the lower spin head would be better, of course. 

A big factor in selecting driver heads, however, is the forgiveness factor.  Forgiveness refers how far the ball will go with an off-center strike (i.e. when you miss the center of the club face). The “max” model driver heads typically have the most forgiveness due to their oversized face/head. The base model heads usually have a good amount of forgiveness, but the lower spin models typically have the least amount of forgiveness and require a much more precise strike on the face - some things to consider when picking a driver model. 

In this video, golf influencer Peter Finch explains the differences in driver head models and categorizes them based on playing ability:

When you’ve selected what head you want, LOFT is the easy part. Typically, loft settings are decided by the amount of spin that you experience with your driver. Optimal backspin numbers on a launch monitor normally need to be between 2200-2800. Adjusting loft up will increase spin and vice versa - so make sure you get fit by a specialist with a launch monitor!

Driver Shaft
Matching your swing to the proper shaft is most important

Most club builders consider the shaft the “engine of the club”, and the thing that is most important in the fitting process. A properly fit shaft can optimize the ball flight of the driver and add effortless distance and accuracy when done correctly! When selecting a shaft, the overall profile of the shaft is something to consider - if you hit the ball high, a low-launch profile would be best, and if you launch it too low and need help getting the ball up, a medium/high-launch shaft would achieve that.  

Stiffness and the overall weight of the shaft play a significant factor in feel and ball flight as well. Having a shaft that is too flexible will make the player significantly less accurate on shots, while a shaft that is too stiff won’t allow the player to maximize carry distance and could hinder accuracy as well. When you get fit, be sure to try a few different models, even if your spin numbers are good. When you hit a good shot, you want to truly feel it in your bones.

Below is a general chart that outlines what flex shaft would be suitable based on your swing speed.

Pro Tip: There isn’t just “one shaft profile” that works for everyone - the categories above are a good starting point, but by no means are they set in stone. Different shafts can also offer different ideal ball flights. Like seeing the ball launch high? There are shafts you can get fit for that achieve this. Do you like seeing it lower? There is a shaft for that too!

Driver Grip
Believe it or not, picking the correct grip truly matters

Believe it or not, the grip style that you choose is an important part of fitting the club to your specific swing. Think about it- your hands are the only point of contact on the club, so why wouldn’t it make a difference? Having a grip that is too skinny means that your hands will be more active through the hitting area and it’s harder to control consistently.  A grip that’s too big, however, may prevent your hands from properly releasing the club through impact. If your grip is properly fitted to your swing, you should be able to efficiently rotate your hands with a stable club face through the hitting zone.

The graphic below shows what to look for in a grip. Grab a club and see what feels right, then test it out on the range.

Pro Tip: Similar to the shaft guidance above, don’t be afraid to experiment. While there are RECOMMENDATIONS as to what will work, it all comes down to what is most comfortable to you and your tendencies. Fighting a hook? A bigger grip will help you stop over-releasing the club.. and vice versa for a slice!

TODAY’S TRIVIA
Answer to Win 5 Dozen Custom Titleist ProV1 Golf Balls
(1 winner chosen on 4/30/25 across all April trivia entries, 1,000 correct respondents minimum)

LIKE THIS EDITION?
Forward it to a friend! —> —>

SPONSORSHIPS
Feature Your Brand in this Newsletter!

We have a growing audience of 21K+ loyal readers and an additional 24K Facebook + 22K Instagram followers. If you’d like to promote your brand or course to our audience, click the button below!