What is the Perfect Driver Length?

Over the last year I have talked with a few individuals who use drivers in the 50 inch plus range.  They feel they hit the ball further with less effort.  The average men’s driver length is 43” to 45”.  As hard as I try I cannot get them to swing on my computer.  Because of that, I cannot tell you how effective the length is when compared with them swinging more conventional length drivers.

There are many who claim to hit the ball further after switching to a 45” plus driver.  But claiming to hit it further and actually receiving the distance increase are two different things.  In a study I read it seems the greater the purchase price the greater the perceived distance increase.

The table below shows the effect of length on head velocity, ball velocity, and carry distance.  These figures were developed by True Temper’s Research Department and are the result of machine testing.

Shaft Length      Shaft Weight      Head Weight      Head Velocity     Ball Velocity       Carry

42.0”                 120.0 gm           200gm              99.88 mph        138.04 mph       210.75 yds.

43.0”                 120.0 gm           200gm              100.00 mph       138.21 mph       211.11 yds.

44.0”                 120.0 gm           200gm              100.12 mph       138.38 mph       211.46 yds.

45.0”                 120.0 gm           200gm              100.23 mph       138.53 mph       211.80 yds.

46.0”                 120.0 gm           200gm              100.34 mph       138.68 mph       212.14 yds.

Actual player testing will sometimes show a greater increase in distance than what the table shows.  This is due to the many variables that affect distance such as individual swing dynamics, a possibly better loft, and better energy partitioning during the downswing.  By adding 4 inches to the length of the driver a person will receive an additional 1.39 yards.  Even doubled to 2.78 yards, the return is small.

The table assumes an impact point on the center of gravity or sweet spot on every shot.  Only the very best player could ever switch to a longer driver and continue to consistently hit shots on the sweet spot.  The vast majority of players will experience a serious erosion in the consistency with which solid impact is made.  The number of off center shots will increase and the average impact point will be further from the sweet spot.  The further from the sweet spot the slower the ball speed which means a decrease in speed and dispersion will go up dramatically.

Every individual has what is an optimal driver length.  This is the length of driver which they find center of the face consistently and swing with speed.  For every half inch your optimal driver length is exceeded, given your ball striking ability, the ball impact pattern gets worse and worse.  So while on a slightly longer club you may hit the ball farther on the rare occasion when the club’s sweet spot and ball collide, most of your drives will be more off-line and shorter!

If you wish to maximize your driver distance the key is effectively increasing the head speed.  This can be done by establishing the correct length as we have stated above.  Research has shown a decrease in weight creates a more dramatic change in head speed than an increase in length.  Loosing weight in what I call the delivery system (the grip and the shaft) is the best help.  In some cases, a lighter head will also help generate swing speed.  The weight loss must be at least an ounce to produce any effective additional speed.  Using a club with a head of the optimal loft for the speed of the swing will also be a big help in maximizing distance.

How do I find out what my optimal driver length is for me?  How can I find out what alterations can be made to my driver to maximize my distance?  You need to see a qualified clubfitter who uses computer to analyze your swing.  The clubfitter can develop precise and creditable information for a quality analysis of your needs.