We should all remember that resistance to deceleration is going to be a very small fraction of the distance equation. We should first look at clubhead speed at impact. So how could a shaft contribute to clubhead speed? With enough of a change in total weight it could, but we're assuming the only variable is flex. Some will say the softer shaft will whip through impact and add speed, or, if you can't load the stiffer shaft that will cost you distance. My belief is that, by itself, the shaft never adds to or costs clubhead speed. Golfers who experience changes in clubhead speed with nothing but a flex change, have done so due to a preference for the feel of that shaft over another, and how that affects their swing. So, with the same weight, balance point and profile (same club MOI/swingweight), IMO the softer shaft will only increase clubhead speed if the golfer, with his swing, prefers the feel of that shaft and his swing and contact improves because of it.
As to the issue of flex affecting the resistance to deceleration... is there any data?
Side note/rant
Like swing theory and instruction, how much of the general equipment "knowledge" is hand me down opinion and based on feel? Much of it has a similar ring to the BS swing instruction we've all come to Brian's site to avoid. We come hear to get away from that crap and hear the real deal on swing instruction and theory. I think it's possible to get as good information on equipment from people who have spent as long designing and fitting it, as Brian has spent teaching golfers in the trenches. For me that's Tom Wishon, but for sure there are other guru's. Why avoid the BS and illusions in one case, but accept them in another? I've only just realised this and am slowly clearing away the sh!t.
