Why Heavier Golf Clubs Might Be the Game Changer You've Been Missing

Heavier golf clubs can maximize your control and feel, leading to straighter, more accurate shots. There is a reason many professional golfers are using 70 and 80 gram shafts in their drivers while many amateurs are usings 50/60 gram shaft options. It is important to understand that a proper fit needs to be reached to maximize a golfer's current capabilities.

Why Heavier Golf Clubs Might Be the Game-Changer You've Been Missing

Opinion & Analysis | External Focus Golf

At External Focus Golf, we're all about helping you connect with your swing and unlock consistency. One overlooked area that can change everything? The weight of your equipment.

After decades in the game and years working with clients on golf-specific performance, I’ve come to a simple realization: lighter isn’t always better—especially when it comes to controlling the club and striking the center of the face consistently.

Testing an old persimmon driver revealed that it was much easier to hit the center of the face during the golf swing, and the club felt more under control, leading to improved mechanics and coordination.

Discover Why Adding Weight to Your Clubs Could Improve Your Game:

Years ago, during a brief (and humbling) journey into the world of competitive long drive, I discovered something surprising. Despite the common obsession with ultra-light shafts to generate more clubhead speed, some of the longest hitters in the game used heavier, stiffer shafts. Why? Because control matters. Without it, added speed just means spraying shots across the fairway—or worse, into the trees.

The Myth of Lighter = Longer

Today's marketing messages shout “longer drives” with promises of featherlight shafts and extended club lengths. But in reality, that formula often works against consistency. Many of today’s off-the-rack drivers are creeping past 46 or even 47 inches, with shafts dipping into the 50-gram range. Sure, that might bump your peak distance on a perfectly struck ball. But how often are you truly striking it perfectly?

The real secret is centered contact and clubface control—and heavier clubs help you do just that.

The Shift in Irons and Hybrids

This trend toward lighter gear isn't just in drivers anymore. We’re now seeing stock irons and hybrids with ultra-light shafts that used to be reserved for senior and ladies’ clubs. While great for some, these lighter builds often cause tempo and timing issues in amateur male golfers. Clubs feel “whippy” or disconnected, and the result is a mix of mishits and inconsistency. This is another reason why heavier golf clubs might be the game-changer you've been missing

Meanwhile, tour pros and better ball-strikers are still sticking with heavier shafts for one clear reason: they perform better over time.

Our Philosophy at External Focus Golf

We believe in swinging the heaviest club you can comfortably control. Not because it’s trendy, but because it leads to better rhythm, better feel, and better strikes. The average golfer isn’t trying to win a long-drive contest. You're trying to hit more fairways, find more greens, and drop a few strokes. And heavier clubs often help you do just that.

Here’s a good rule of thumb for shaft weights to improve control and consistency:

• Driver: 65–75g shaft, ~300g total club weight

• Fairway Woods: 80–130g

• Hybrids: 90–130g

• Irons/Wedges: 110–140g

These ranges strike a balance—enough mass to keep your swing on plane and the clubhead stable through impact, without draining you physically.

“But Robbie, Won’t Heavier Clubs Wear Me Out?”

Let’s address that concern. If you’re a walker, it’s fair to consider the added weight. But in most cases, the total increase is equivalent to tossing a couple extra sleeves of balls into your bag. If that’s enough to throw off your round, consider mixing in some golf-specific strength training—a huge part of our programming here at External Focus Golf. A stronger, more resilient body means better posture, more power, and more control—regardless of club weight.

Go Old School and Feel the Difference

Here’s your challenge: Go find an old persimmon driver. These wooden-headed classics are significantly heavier than today’s hollow titanium clubs. Take it to the driving range and give it a session. Focus on rhythm, tempo, and solid contact.

Chances are, you’ll feel more in tune with your swing. You’ll likely notice better clubface awareness, cleaner strikes, and more consistent ball flights. And no, we’re not saying ditch your current setup forever—but testing heavier gear could spark a breakthrough in your game.

Want to learn more about finding the right equipment weight for your swing? Visit www.externalfocusgolf.com for more insights, training programs, and practical tips to elevate your performance from tee to green.

Cheers,

Robbie Potesta

External Focus Golf - "There is a Better Way"