Ping Tour 65 Shaft Review (2024): Better Than The KBS Tour?
A few features of the Ping Tour 65 caught my attention after testing it extensively. This premium golf club shaft with phenomenal craftsmanship boasts high stability and control.
Here are the key features of this shaft:
- The strength and flexibility of the shaft are balanced beautifully, so the shaft provides the right power and accuracy.
- This shaft has a low torque rating, so the dispersion is tighter than other shafts.
- Its weight distribution is extraordinary and helps improve the swing dynamics.
- The shaft can withstand successive swings without any issues over a long period.
While keeping these features under the spotlight, let me share my complete experience with this premium shaft.
Why should someone Consider the Ping Tour 65 Shaft?
The biggest reason behind choosing this shaft is the brand Ping itself. It is one of the major manufacturers of golf equipment. I believe large brands like Ping put a lot of money and effort into fine-tuning their shafts.
My next consideration was the Tour series. As it is the top series of shafts from Ping, these shafts should possess some additional features that make them stand out from regular shafts.
And then I saw the shaft specifications, such as the material and other aspects. The premium graphite build hooked me with its lusty yet sturdy appearance.
Ping Tour 65 Shaft reviews – Testing the Ping Tour 65 Shaft
During my test of the Ping Tour 65 shaft, I used 3-iron, 5-iron, and 7-iron to see how the shaft performs with different clubs. The results were almost consistent and I was awed by the smooth performance of the shaft. The following chart might give you a glimpse of what I experienced on the course.
Clubs | Loft | Total Distance | Spin |
---|---|---|---|
3-iron | 12 degrees | 247.5 yards | 2,350 RPM |
5-iron | 13 degrees | 257.7 yards | 2,400 RPM |
7-iron | 14 degrees | 272.2 yards | 2,500 RPM |
I want to give a gentle reminder here. These tests were done under dry conditions in moderate weather. So, the results might vary a bit depending on your testing condition. Let me explain the results a bit.
Spin (A)
The spin can be categorized both as low and moderate. About 2,500 RPM is a moderate spin but you will almost feel an urge to consider it low because of the lightweight construction of the shaft. The spin was consistent throughout the test.
Loft Adjustment (A)
I loved the loft adjustment feature of this shaft. With the adjustable loft option, you can control the launch angle more precisely. So, the carry distance should be more in your favor with this shaft. I experienced a bit steep angle at first, but the loft was perfect after slight adjustments.
Distance Control (A+)
This shaft is available in three flex options. So, the flight distance will greatly depend on the stiffness you are using. With the regular flex shaft, you will able to achieve a total distance of around 250 yards. Shafts with stiff and extra stiff flexes will give a higher distance. And the distance is consistent as long as the testing conditions are similar.
Weight Distribution (A-)
Ping mastered the art of weight distribution, which is evident in this shaft. The shaft is already lightweight, but the perfect distribution of the weight takes your swings to the next level. If I compare my swing speeds in the beginning and at the end, the ending speeds were slightly higher.
Bend Point (A+)
The Tour 65 shaft has a low/mid bend point. Due to the lower bend point, the shaft had an excellent whip during the tests. Combined with the loft angle, the shaft launched the ball higher than other shafts.
Ping Tour 65 Shaft – things that caught my attention
Besides the performance features of the shaft, I have seen a lot more to admire about it. Here are the things that caught my attention but are often overlooked in most reviews.
Praiseworthy Build Quality
The Tour 65 shaft uses premium graphite, which gives the shaft its characteristic robustness and lightweight feel. Even at high swing speeds of about 85-90 mph, the shaft seemed to keep its cool.
I played many different balls on different courses with this shaft. Regardless of the swing speed, the shaft delivered highly precise shots every time. Even though I use a different shaft now, the Tour 65 is still worth every penny.
It Is Customizable?
Advanced golfers prefer to fine-tune their equipment, even if it is a high-performance shaft. Fortunately, the Tour 65 shaft has multiple adjustment options. You can adjust the ball trajectory to achieve the desired distances. The spin control is also available. So, this shaft is great for shot shaping.
The Hand Feel Is So Nice?
I have seen many shafts taxiing in the hand while swinging the club. But the Tour 65 shaft has no such movement. It provides a comfortable grip with the least twisting force on your palm.
My Experience with the Ping Tour 65 Shaft
I just love the optimization of the shaft to be a versatile piece of equipment for any level of golfers. The dimensions of this shaft should get an honorable mention here. I tried this shaft with several clubs from different brands. These clubs included Fairway Woods and Drivers. Each time the shaft had a snug fit.
The transfer of energy was seamless for all clubs. I am impressed with the shaft except for the fact that this shaft won’t suit aggressive players with a swing speed over 90 mph.
Who Is the Ping Tour 65 Shaft for?
Ping Tour 65 shaft is for both amateurs and professionals. The optimized design and forgiveness of the shaft will help amateurs improve their games through consistent shots. They can also experiment with different loft angles, swing speeds, etc.
On the other hand, professional golfers could utilize the flexibility of this shaft. With multiple customizable features, expert golfers could make their shots more precise. So, this shaft will suit a wide range of players.
Some Potential Alternatives of Ping Tour 65 Shaft
The Tour 65 is so optimized that it is difficult for other shafts in the Tour series or Ping’s product lineup to compete with it. Still, G400 can be a notable alternative to the Tour 65 shat.
If you consider other manufacturers, the Fujikura Ventus can be a good alternative due to its graphite build and low spin setting. Project X HZRDUS Black also seemed to be a good alternative to the Tour 65 shaft.
Our Verdict on the Ping Tour 65 Shaft
Besides testing the shaft myself, I talked with fellow golfers who have used this shaft. Everyone agreed that the Ping Tour 65 shaft is highly adaptable and reliable. The consistency in spin, launch angle, and distance I experienced with this shaft was mind-blowing.
Keeping its durable build and adjustable features in mind, this shaft can be an excellent investment for any golfer. While this shaft will withstand the abuse from beginners, it will be more of a flexible companion to pro golfers out there.
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