kbs tour 90 stiff shaft review

KBS Tour 90 Shaft Review

Kbs tour 90 shaft.

The KBS Tour 90 shaft is the lightest steel shaft in the KBS lineup and designed to give players more spin, a higher trajectory, and greater swing speeds.  Though still a firm shaft design, the Tour 90 has softer tip and higher center of gravity to help players get the ball in air with more distance.  Players with lower swing speeds and smoother tempos looking for more distance are a good fit for this iron shaft.  If that’s you, read on.

How Does it Feel?

Let’s not beat around the bush here – the KBS Tour 90 shaft feels extremely light for a steel shaft.  This is, of course, by design to fit a certain type of player or swing.  In fact, the Tour 90 is actually 20% lighter than a standard steel shaft .  While the Tour 90 has a “firm shaft design,” the lighter weight and “2-Flex system” make the shaft feel a little more flexible than normal.  The shaft is very smooth in its kick, but anything other than a smooth tempo’d swing will be a struggle.  Feedback and response is good in your hands, but again, you need a smooth tempo in your swing.  I found anything the least bit aggressive felt sloppy and out of control.  Smooth and easy is the ticket here.

I want to point out that “smooth and easy” doesn’t mean you need to be slow.  You can have plenty of swing speed with the Tour 90 as long as you have the right tempo.  If you don’t fit that profile, this shaft could feel a bit noodley to you.  Keep that in mind!

On-Course Performance

Ultimately, the KBS Tour 90 and Tour 105 performed very similarly for me.  My spin was virtually identical with an average differential of only two rpms between the two shafts.  On average, however, I launched the Tour 90 about a degree higher.  Where I saw the biggest difference with the Tour 90 shaft compared to the rest of the KBS family was in the short irons.  I launched my pitching wedge and 9 iron notably higher and with more spin than any other shaft in the KBS lineup.

Final Thoughts – KBS Tour 90 Shaft

In my opinion, the KBS Tour 90 is best suited for players with lower swing speeds and smooth pure tempos .  If that’s you, you’re absolutely perfect for this shaft.  Let’s be honest, these other 120-gram stiff steel shafts can be really difficult for a lot of players to snap into the air with good carry that ends with that high apex followed by a soft fall to the ground.  Instead you see a more looping shot that creates more of a parabola and less of a triangle through the air barely getting above a low tree line. (#geometry)

If you’re looking for some help getting the ball in the air with good carry, and want to stay in a steel shaft, the KBS Tour 90 is definitely worth a swing.  Seniors, I’m looking at you – albeit not exclusively.

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40 Comments

Hi Bill, how would you compare this to say the XP95 R300 and Nippon Modus 105 R? I had the Mizuno swing analyser suggest these 3 for me – avg 7i swing speed is about 73mph when swinging smoothly

I honestly couldn’t tell you. I don’t have any real extensive experience with the other two shafts.

I am a beginner golfer and struggling using this kbs tour 90 Shaft. Any word of advice?

In what way are you struggling?

I got fit into Tour 90’ Stiff last summer despite having decent swing speed. I hit my 7 iron 165 yards, but with a smooth tempo and not aggressive transition. Mid to early release. I was skeptical since many describe these as shafts for slower swing speeds and seniors. Definitely higher ball flight, but not losing distance compared to the DG S300’s I played previously. Is this in line with your impressions Of how these might fit a player with more swing speed?

You have to remember that it’s not an exact science. There’s the “snowflake” element in that everyone has their own unique swing and will respond to different equipment differently. That’s why you really have to take any description from a product page or review at sort of a surface level. For instance, there are many low spin/launch shafts that I hit high and spin the living daylights out of while someone else might hit low knuckle balls. Know what I mean?

The reality is, it’s dialing in the combination of your speed, tempo/transition style, and natural shot to figure it out.

I think my question to you is that you’re looking back at something you were fit for a year ago. Have you been playing this shaft? If so, how has been for you? If you haven’t been, you got fit a year ago, it might be worth seeing if that’s still the right fit for you.

Ha, I guess its just my ego looking for some validation. I have been playing these shafts over the past year, and now that I have settled in and learned to stay smooth, I have been hitting my irons so much better. My ball flight is surprisingly higher, but I’m hitting my irons just as far, if not further than the old shafts. To your point, everyone is unique in their swing, and it’s not always about how fast you swing it, but how you swing it fast. The proof is in the pudding, so I should probably not second guess it so much. I should be happy to hit Ladies flex if it meant better golf shots!

It sounds like you’ve been playing them pretty well for a year. I don’t think you need any validation unless you’re looking to improve something. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll take the clicks on the posts all day! But don’t go back second guessing a good shaft for you unless you’re actively looking to improve, fix, or change something.

I have the kbs tour 90 r regular shaft on my mizuno hot metal 919 irons ..I feel like every club is going too high and losing distance ..my p 9 8 seems to all be going same distance about 100-125 which is short for me and 5 6 7 distances are all inconsistent ..could this be result of too light or shaft not stiff enough ???

Could really be a wide range of things. It sounds to me like it’s too light for however you swing the club. Were you professionally fit for this setup?

Also might be worth verifying your lofts and lies.

Would these be a good fit for me. Im looking at the mizuno 921 irons. My swing speed is only 80/90mph and just started playing & im off 24. If could help be great. Can get a set from my pro shop but they have kbs tour.

Hard to say without seeing how you actually hit the ball with it. In theory, they should be easier to launch higher with a smooth and easy swing.

I wouldn’t consider your handicap as a determining factor here, fyi. Handicaps can be based off of many elements within your game let alone how an iron shaft is affecting your ball flight.

Hopefully that helps.

Could you tcompare with Project x flijghted 5.5 and KBS 90 S?

I haven’t hit the flighted PX in so long in general, and never in a regular flex. I couldn’t even begin to make that comparison for you.

This is a really good review and fits what my club fitting found. A question, do you think the shafts should go through the SST Pure Process? Is this really worth the extra $30 per club?

That’s sort of a tough one that I can see from every direction. I personally think PUREing a shaft is a great option if this set is a long-term investment. If you’re going to play these clubs for up to 10 years, may as well go all out and do it right. If you’re a regular switcher, that’s a lot of money.

Modern shafts are arguably better constructed and the seams on the shaft aren’t as impacting. Different people have different opinions here, thus my use of “arguably”. At the end of the day, it is a lot of extra money so it sort of comes down to the point above for me.

I will say, I have had some shafts PUREd where I’ve absolutely noticed the difference, and others where I haven’t. I 100% believe in PUREing, but I think experience will vary from player to player and shaft to shaft.

I am reshafting irons for my kid, he is 13 y/o, He´s been using accra 50i for a year and a half but 1 month ago he´s been struggling with the accras. Bought this shafts kbs 90 in stiff flex but I will put them soft stepped, what´s your opinion? swing speed in irons 84 mph average.

Tough to say without any real sense of how he physically responds to them. Yeah, it’s a lightweight shaft, but pretty apples to oranges with the ACCRA he’s currently using. There are a variety of reasons the ACCRA could be causing problems with him. Shaft profile, flex, weight, etc. Sort of have to narrow that down through testing to really advise on next steps. I think I would ask, how do you know a soft stepped stiff is the answer? Why not a regular flex? Or not a “regular stepped” stiff? Regardless, the shift you’re looking to make likely isn’t out of the realm of possibilities, but would need much more data to really have any opinions. It’s basically the concept of getting fit for the gear.

thanks for your comments, Basicallly he grew up almost 8″ the past six months, he is going to be growing up and increasing speed (slowly I know), That´s why I am not buying new irons, just reshafting their callaway apex cf19 that came short in lenght and speed. Sort of anticipating he will need gradually stiff in the short time, the soft stepping will be an approach to stiff without being stiff.

Don’t get me wrong, I can fully understand a growing boy will need to make some gear changes. For sure. I’m just saying, I think there are a lot of variables to consider if you don’t want to just take a shot in the dark. He may just literally get along with the shaft because it just isn’t a match for how it feels in his hands, know what I mean?

I know what you mean, that´s why I thanked your comment. We are going with that shaft and in certain point it is a shot in the dark or definitively it is, but we are in Mexico, traveling to USA is almost impossible due to pandemia and it is the real and one solution that I have in this moment. Sincerely I really appreciate your opinion.

Certainly understandable.

Out of curiosity, what is the fitting industry like in Mexico? Would be interested to know!

really bad and expensive. Most fitters work like staff pros, mainly taylormade, the others work without trackman and there are some of them working professional but in these pandemia conditions orders of new clubs are taking 8 weeks or more. We have some tournaments ahead and have no time to wait that amount of time.

Very interesting. So referring back to your previous comment, in non-COVID times, do you guys usually travel to the US for this kind of stuff?

yes we do very often, in fact last time we fitted at club champions and irons were assembled in LA

Crazy! Thanks for the insight, I love learning about how this game operates outside of the US! Thanks for stopping by and the comments!

thanks Bill for your comments and your expertise about shafts, made me hesitate haha

what´s your opinion between the kbs tour 90 and the kbs tour flt series 110 gr?

Hmmm. I’m not particularly sure. Been awhile since I’ve hit either and couldn’t really fairly compare them now.

For me, 20 grams is a fairly significant weight difference. Nevermind anything else with the shaft design.

Hi, I was fitted a year ago with Mizuno JPX 919 forged irons and the KBS tour 90 regular shafts. WOW, what a difference, even from other KBX shafts. Bottom line is I 100% agree with you that a professional fitting is the ONLY way to go. As soon as the lockdown is over in my part of Canada, I am going to get fitted for driver thru rescue. Thanks so much for the excellent reviews!

I tried these today on a Forged Tec 7iron. I like a lighter shaft and have 100-110 swing speed. Carry was on average 165-170 and it landed soft with minimal roll and sometimes backspin. Had 4.5k-5k spin and was just really liking the feel.

Judging by the description though, I feel like I should be looking at something else?

Would you have any pointers to something else I should try or I should just gun for it?

I mean, if everything you’re experiencing with it says “good to go”, who cares what it says on a piece of paper about what’s supposed to happen? Everyone has a unique swing and response to equipment. What you just experienced is the exact reason why it’s important to test/fit and not just buy based on what a description says.

I have been playing the KBS Tour 90 Stiff (102g) in 2016 Titleist AP1, for five years.

The positives: These shafts feel absolutely wonderful to me. I have an average swing speed and a moderate to smooth tempo, as described in the review. I’m 55 years old, average build, and I hit a well struck 7i about 155-160 yards. They feel really smooth to me, and easy to swing (as opposed to TT DG’s and PX’s, which I hit straight as an arrow, but have to work my butt off with to make good, consistent contact). I have tried them in multiple other iron heads (Mizuno JPX Forged and HMP, Callaway Apex, Taylormade P790), and I hit all of those irons basically the same with that shaft. They don’t all “feel” the same because the heads are different, but I get similar ball flight with all of them with this shaft. It’s obvious, this shaft fits me.

The negatives: There are times on the range (but rarely on the golf course), when I feel like the short irons are ballooning a little. They still travel appropriate distances, but they go very high. This is especially problematic when I play or practice in the wind. Mostly, the PW and 9i. I can bring rain with my PW on some days. But, I think that may be my swing, since some days I hit my blade Cleveland gap wedge a mile in the air on the range, as well. I am in the market for new irons this spring, and I have a Club Champion fitting in April. I plan to start with the Tour 90 in the new irons, and then try the lightest flex Tour 105 (I think it’s about 110g) to see if I can bring that short iron ball flight down a little without killing my middle and long iron flight, which is quite good now.

What is the weight for KBS 90 Regular shaft and Siff shaft ?

Take a look on KBS’s site. They should have those specs. If not, they will be able to provide them if you reach out to them.

Have a 16 son who can hit it 240-250 (good drive) so I would say above average swing speed but not crazy. He has a very old “set” of DCIs…thinking about Takomo which use these shafts.

Generally speaking, these KBS in a stiff probably would be a reasonable fit?

Hard to say based on just the information you provided, but in theory, he should have the swing speed to get a KBS 90 through. Stiff flex could give room for growth, but also possible he will also get bigger and stronger in the next few seasons and need a heavier shaft. Also possible he won’t. If you can do any testing/fitting, you absolutely should for his benefit.

Hi Bill I bought a set of Honma’s TW737P irons, they have the extra stiff Vizard shaft which is way to stiff for me, I was told the KBS tour 90 shaft would be a good fit, I’m 62 still in good shape, swing speed. 95 to 100, I hit the ball high already should I look at a heavier shaft in the KBS tour shaft line up or just try the KBS Tour 90, I would greatly appreciate your input.

Tough to say with just that information, but I would guess if you’re swinging driver around 95-100, already hit the ball high, KBS 90 might not be ideal. That’s based off of limited information and a blind guess, but it’s going to be a higher-flight shaft on paper. The ultimate best thing to do is to get fit and see how your particular swing responds to specific equipment combinations. That interaction is generally unpredictable and why testing/fitting is so important.

Great review. I had A flex graphite shafts with my old set. I hit the ball much more consistent with the KBS 90 steel shafts. Great for my slow swing speed. Smooth tempo does help alot, Sometimes I tend to rush. Thanks

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KBS Tour 90 Review – Setting A New Standard In Steel Shafts

The story of KBS Tour shafts is the joining of two paths into a committed partnership aiming to establish a new vision of golf shaft performance and design.

FEMCO Steel Technology (FST), the golf branch of the Far East Machinery Co. Ltd, aims to provide high-quality and cost-effective steel products including golf shafts through constant innovation and technological advancements. FST continues to provide high-quality shafts at affordable prices.

Kim Braly designed innovative golf shafts throughout his career. He has validated his designs with golfers playing on the various professional golf tours. Furthermore, Kim used feedback from these golfers in the development of new products.

In 2008 FST America Corporation decided to partner with the most sought-after golf shaft designers to incorporate pioneering designs with its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. This led to the partnership between FST and Kim Braly.

Since its launch, KBS has set a new standard in steel shafts with its unparalleled growth and acclaim.

KBS shafts have grown a significant share of the market and are now used in the irons of most major golfing brands as standard or for custom fitment. It is swiftly turning into the fastest growing steel shaft brand in the industry.

Adopted by over 150 professionals, the KBS Tour shafts have recorded multiple wins including several majors.

KBS Tour 90 Review

1. project x lz, 2. n.s. modus 3 shaft, final thoughts, related articles.

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• Stable tip section
• Higher CG location
• Firm shaft design
• Light-weight construction
• Good trajectory
• 2-flex system
• Not suitable for fast tempo golf swings

Design and Technology

As the lightest shaft in the KBS Tour range, the KBS Tour 90 shaft is designed to offer golfers with a slow tempo more spin, a higher trajectory, and distance.  It is 20% lighter than a standard steel shaft thus aiding increasing swing, ball speeds, and distance.

The firm shaft design on the Tour 90 offers a softer tip with a higher center of gravity to create a higher ball trajectory.

Combined with the 2-Flex system on the KBS Tour 90 offer a more flexible than the normal shaft.

Specifications

Tapered tip technical specifications.

Regular shaft flex:

• Tip diameter .355 inches
• Butt diameter .600 inches
• Length 36.5 inches to 40.5inches
• Available for 2-iron through 9-iron, and PW

Stiff shaft flex:

• Weight 102g
• Available for 2-iron through 9-iron

Parallel tip technical specifications

• Weight 101g
• Tip diameter .370 inches
• Length 41.25 inches

.370 Parallel shaft is a single length shaft that will be tip and butt trimmed to your required length which can change how the shaft will play.

For the best feel, you must have a smooth tempo. You can still achieve a high swing speed even if you have a smooth tempo.

With the right tempo, you will receive precise feedback on the impact point of the ball on the clubface. No tingle to your fingers even on the coldest days.

Its kick is remarkably smooth with the right tempo swing but if your tempo is too fast, you are sure to encounter difficulties.

Performance

KBS TOUR 90 is the lightest shaft in the KBS Tour range designed for golfers requiring a higher trajectory, additional spin, and maximum distance.

Performance on the short irons is most noticeable with the wedges and 9-iron generating a high trajectory and more spin. This gives you great green-side control.

Golfers with a moderate-to-slow swing speed and slow tempo will achieve the best performance from the KBS Tour 90.

Independent testing reveals that the KBS Tour 90 to be in the region of 9% longer and generate 5% more spin than its foremost rivals.

Alternatives

Project X shafts are used on all professional tours and a follow up on the Project X Standard version making it accessible to golfers that have swing speed that is lower than that of professional golfers.

Variable wall thickness creates an extra kick at compact for a mid-launch trajectory without sacrificing stability.

Although this is the closest you will come to a universal shaft, it is highly recommended that you conduct proper testing to ensure that the shaft is suited to your swing.

All shafts measure between 36.5 and 40 inches in length, with a tip diameter of 0.355 inches and a butt diameter of 0.600 inches, and produce a mid-flight launch trajectory.

Weight varies between 110g and 125g with 5g intervals.

Flex is available in R, S, and XS.

Nippon’s comprehensive golf shaft use weight and bend to suit every golf swing and tempo offering improved control over trajectory, distance, and direction.

Nippon excels in three key areas

• Desired trajectory
• Accurate distance
• Tight dispersion

The high tip rigidity design steadies the tip through impact thereby reducing unwanted spin, low mid-section rigidity control shaft flex for enhanced control, and the low butt rigidity improve tempo for a smoother feeling on impact.

Shafts are available in 105g, 120g, 125g, and 130g and R, S, X, TX flex options

The shaft lengths vary between 37 and 41 inches, with a tip diameter of 0.355 inches and a butt diameter of 0.600 inches.

Amalgamating the paths of Kim Braly and FST America Corporation In 2008 was a turning point in the golf shaft industry.

The KBS Tour 90 is 20% lighter than comparable steel shafts and ideally suited for golfers with a moderate swing tempo that requires a higher ball trajectory.

Happy golfing with your higher trajectory.

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• Golf Shafts: The Ultimate Guide
• Stiff vs Regular Flex: Which Golf Shaft Should You Choose?

Nick is the founder of GolfSpan and an avid golfer. He's not quite a pro but has over 15 years of experience playing and coaching golfers worldwide. His mission is to bring the golfing community a better experience when it comes to choosing the right golf gear and finding the right setup for your game.

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KBS Tour 90 Regular vs Stiff: Are They Different?

Selecting the appropriate shaft flex for your golf clubs is an essential aspect of optimizing your performance on the course.

The KBS Tour 90 shaft, a popular choice among golfers, is available in both regular and stiff flex options. 

In this comparison, I will be looking at how the KBS Tour 90 Stiff compare with the Regular shafts .

You’ll learn how much difference they have in terms of swing speed, ball flight, and performance so you can make an informed decision.

KBS Tour 90 Regular vs Stiff: How They Compare

Swing speed and shaft flex.

The most critical factor in determining the ideal shaft flex is your swing speed.

The KBS Tour 90 Regular shaft is designed for golfers with moderate swing speeds, typically ranging from 75 to 90 miles per hour (mph) with a driver.

This flex option accommodates players who require additional assistance in generating optimal launch and spin conditions to maximize their distance potential.

Conversely, the KBS Tour 90 Stiff shaft is tailored to golfers with faster swing speeds , typically between 90 and 105 mph with a driver.

This stiffer flex is better suited for players who generate higher clubhead speeds and require a more stable and consistent shaft to maintain control and accuracy.

Ball Flight and Spin

The KBS Tour 90 Regular shaft, with its softer flex, is engineered to produce a higher ball flight with increased spin.

This trajectory is beneficial for golfers with moderate swing speeds who need additional help in achieving optimal carry distances and soft landings on the greens.

The higher spin rates associated with the regular flex can also provide increased control around the greens and during approach shots.

However, the KBS Tour 90 Stiff shaft yields a more penetrating ball flight with reduced spin.

This lower trajectory is advantageous for golfers with faster swing speeds, as it minimizes the impact of wind and other adverse conditions on ball flight.

The reduced spin rates can also result in more roll-out after landing, potentially increasing overall distance.

Feel and Stability

The KBS Tour 90 Regular shaft offers a more flexible and responsive feel, which can be advantageous if you prefer a smoother, effortless swing.

The regular flex also enables you to load the shaft more effectively during the downswing. This will translate to increased energy transfer at impact and maximized distance potential.

On the other hand, the KBS Tour 90 Stiff shaft provides a firmer, more stable feel. The increased stability enables more advanced players to maintain better control of their shots, ensuring accuracy and consistency.

So, if you fancy a more solid, crisp feel at impact, you may find the stiff flex more appealing.

Performance

The performance characteristics of the KBS Tour 90 Regular and Stiff shafts can vary in different playing conditions.

In windy situations, the higher ball flight and increased spin generated by the regular flex may be less advantageous. This is because the ball may be more susceptible to the wind’s influence.

However, in calm conditions or on softer courses, the higher trajectory and spin rates can be beneficial in producing precise approach shots and stopping the ball quickly on the greens.

The KBS Tour 90 Stiff shaft’s lower ball flight and reduced spin can be advantageous in windy or firm conditions.

The penetrating trajectory minimizes the impact of wind and maximizes roll-out on firmer fairways.

Unfortunately, the lower spin rates may make it more challenging to stop the ball quickly on firm greens or during high-pressure approach shots.

Choosing between the KBS Tour 90 Regular and Stiff shafts hinges on factors such as swing speed, playing style, and performance preferences.

The regular flex is better suited for golfers with slower swing speeds who require assistance in generating optimal launch and spin conditions, and who prefer a more flexible, responsive feel.

The higher ball flight and increased spin rates provided by the regular flex can contribute to enhanced control and precision in various playing conditions, particularly on softer courses or during approach shots.

On the other hand, the stiff flex is ideal for golfers with faster swing speeds who demand increased stability and control in their shafts.

The penetrating ball flight and reduced spin rates offered by the stiff flex can be advantageous in any playing condition, while also catering to players who appreciate a firmer, more solid feel at impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

What speed should i use stiff vs regular flex.

Choosing between stiff and regular flex for your golf club largely depends on your swing speed. Here are the general guidelines:

• Regular Flex: Typically, if your driver swing speed is between 85 and 95 miles per hour, or if you carry a driver distance of 200 to 240 yards, a regular flex shaft could be suitable. Regular flex can help moderate swing speed players add distance through additional flex in the shaft at impact.
• Stiff Flex: If your driver swing speed is between 95 and 110 miles per hour, or you carry a driver distance of 240 to 275 yards, a stiff flex might be more appropriate. Players with higher swing speeds generally benefit from stiffer shafts to help control accuracy and trajectory.

Remember, these are just general guidelines, and there can be exceptions.

Are stiff shafts better?

The question of whether stiff shafts are “better” largely depends on your swing characteristics and golfing abilities.

Stiff shafts are typically better for golfers with faster swing speeds (generally, those with driver swing speeds above 95 miles per hour).

This is because a faster swing can cause a more flexible shaft to bend excessively, leading to inconsistent shot direction and potentially reducing control over the shot.

However, for players with slower swing speeds, a stiff shaft could lead to lower ball flights and shorter distances, because the shaft doesn’t flex enough to help create optimal launch conditions.

Can beginners use stiff shafts?

While a beginner golfer can use a stiff shaft, it might not be the optimal choice for most.

The flex of a golf club shaft has a significant impact on the control, accuracy, and distance of shots, and it should match the golfer’s swing speed and style.

Typically, beginner golfers have slower swing speeds as they are still developing their golf swing mechanics. In such cases, a regular or even a senior might be more suitable.

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Which KBS iron shaft is best for you?

Published: 17 January 2024

KBS iron shafts are for everyone from the world’s best golfers to slow-swinging amateurs, but which of their 14 models best suits you? Let us explain…

Golfers rarely give a second thought to which shafts are in a new set of irons . Yet, KBS believe 14 different models (all of which come in numerous weights and flexes) are needed to cover all types of players.

Technology has taught the brains behind KBS – Kim Braly, if he’s to fit hard-hitting tour pros alongside moderate speed, high handicap amateurs the brand needs a vast array of options. The thinking has led to the creation of 14 different steel and graphite KBS iron models.

EXPLAINED: How we test golf equipment

We don’t want to fit you for your perfect iron shaft. That should only ever be done with the help of a decent club fitter in the real world. But, to highlight how shaft technology helps you hit better iron shots more often we’ve taken a look at the full KBS line-up.

When buying your next set remember KBS shafts can change how a shaft feels, launches and spins, so you have the opportunity to choose your perfect ball flight and set-up. Here’s what you need to know about KBS iron shafts.

Players’ models  

Kbs c-taper iron shaft.

There are three-pillar players’ shafts within the KBS line-up and each differs by balance point. The Tour is stiffest in the grip section (for good feel) and it gives mid-launch and mid-spin. The C-Taper is stiffest in the tip section (close to the head) to give a stout and strong feel and deliver low launch with low spin. The S-Taper fits neatly between the pair.

C stands for Constant Taper, so the shaft has no steps, which allows the C-Taper to have a strong and stout feel. Typically the model suits stronger golfers, and players can expect a 5% lower ball flight than True Temper’s Dynamic Gold . Major winners Gary Woodland and Justin Rose have played the C-Taper as has Rickie Fowler .

KBS $-Taper iron shaft

All three KBS pillar players’ iron shafts come in the same five weights, so golfers get to choose based on the launch, spin, and ball flight desired for their own game.

Half flexes (R+ and S+) are brilliant for golfers that sit on the fence between two flexes. They alleviate decisions around whether to go regular flex for more distance or stiff for increased accuracy. The S-Taper (Subtle Taper) is midway between the C-Taper (lowest spin and launch) and Tour shaft (mid-spin and launch).

KBS Tour iron shaft

The Tour is Kim Braly’s signature shaft, it was the first KBS model and it’s the mothership of KBS. Thanks to not being overly strong the Tour can suit a wide audience of golfers. Its consistent step pattern is a good fit for smoother, less aggressive transition players.

Thanks to being a high balance point model (so weight is positioned closer to the grip), golfers get a slightly softer feel and good feedback at the top of the swing. A further Tour FLT (Flighted) shaft model launches long irons higher and short irons lower for a more optimised set.

RELATED: Which Taylo rMade iron suits me ?

How KBS players’ steel shafts differ in launch and spin

KBS Tour V iron shaft

KBS see the Tour V as an outlier shaft because the model is 10g lighter than the C-Taper, $-Taper, and Tour.

KBS Tour Rep Paul Steels says “the Tour V shaft is often a good fit for players who like the shot shape and flight of the C-Taper but want extra feel, as the C-Taper is just so boardy”.

KBS C-Taper Lite, $-Taper Lite, and Tour Lite iron shafts

There’s lots of misunderstanding around lighter iron shafts. But KBS say golfers should see their Lite models (which are 15g lighter than the standard models) as giving a little more launch and being easier to get airborne (than the 3 pillar models).

For players who don’t go at iron shots full tilt Lite models can be a really good option as club speeds increase and shots launch higher. Lite models and aging typically go hand-in-hand. If you happen to overload the shaft you’ll know because shots will start turning over left of the target (for a right-handed golfer).

Also, think about launch windows. A strong but very low launch player could see benefits by going Lite but in a strong flex to up launch and ball flight.  

RELATED: Should you play the KBS TD driver shaft?

KBS iron shaft swing speed recommendations

Average speed KBS iron shaft models

Kbs max and max ct80 iron shafts.

To ensure KBS have shafts to suit every golfer’s speed they produce ultralight Max and Max CT80 shafts as well. Both Max shafts are high-launch, high-spin models which help optimise ball flight for maximum carry distance at moderate speeds.

Remember it’s possible to be a fast but inconsistent high handicapper (in which case you’d be better suited to one of the KBS players’ shaft models), so think about shafts suiting speeds rather than ability. Thanks to their low kick point and high launch properties the Max shafts regularly make an appearance in stronger lofted irons (think TaylorMade Stealth and Callaway Big Bertha B21 ).

Typically high-speed players, irrespective of ability will not touch this product.

RELATED: Which Lamkin grip best suits your game?

There are junior options too   

To ensure golfers can go through their whole golfing career with a familiar KBS feel, the brand also produce two junior steel shafts (the 560 and 580). Both are designed to suit the speed of 8 – 11-year-old players.

Both shafts are lightened steel, so the weights are similar to lightweight graphite iron ranges. But, crucially golfers don’t get a heavy head feel which can cause issues when switching from graphite to steel once a child is a stronger teenager.   

When should you go graphite?

Graphite irons shafts are massively misunderstood in the modern game. Many people think they’re for older golfers and slower speed players, which just isn’t the case. Graphite irons shafts are easier on the body. They remove vibration, and can suit everyone from tour players to very moderate speed club golfers.

In typical KBS fashion, the brand make three graphite models (all are available in numerous weights and flexes), here’s what you need to know about them.

How KBS graphite iron shafts differ in launch and spin

KBS TGI – Tour Graphite Iron shaft

KBS specifically target a steel-like feel from their graphite shafts. They’ve done such a good job fulfilling their brief several tour players swear it’s not actually graphite. Thinking instead it’s a steel shaft painted black.

The TGI can be matched to golfers’ speeds (there are eight weights, so the model can suit from 57mph to 100mph speed players) in exactly the same way as the brand’s steel shafts. The TGI is the company’s lowest launching and spinning graphite iron shaft, it’s pretty strong and stout, so decent players often like it.

KBS PGI – Players Graphite Iron shaft

In developing their shafts KBS have undertaken masses of research, and they say when the flex isn’t disclosed golfers often prefer the feel of graphite over steel. Their advice is to play the flex you need. Don’t be tempted to go stiffer than necessary. And if you swing a 6-iron at 70mph play a shaft that performs at that speed.

The PGI was developed to bring a steel-like feel to graphite and it’s a step up from the lower launching and spinning TGI. The PGI is widely played on the LPGA Tour, it’s the brand’s mid-launch/mid-spin graphite iron shaft. Six weights mean the model can suit from 57mph to 94mph players.

KBS Max graphite iron shaft   

The Max graphite is the highest launching and spinning graphite iron shaft in the KBS line-up. It’s a model for golfers who really need help launching shots high into the air to maximise carry distance. Five weights mean the model can suit swing speeds from 51 to 82mph.

KBS graphite iron shaft swing speed recommendations

Get it right the first time

KBS reckon so long as golfers get fitted correctly the first time they can progress through KBS models throughout their playing career. It means, if like Gary Woodland you’re a C-Taper player or Cameron Smith a Tour shaft player you stay within that family but progress to lighter models as you age.

And to demonstrate how important finding the right family is KBS say to look at Adam Scott and Gary Woodland . Scott has been a Tour shaft player for years (think of his smooth, under-control swing) whereas Woodland is a big strong hitter of the ball, so he’s a C-Taper guy all day long. But, switch their clubs over and both would struggle to play, as they wouldn’t get the ball flight or shot window they’d be expecting.    

Don’t forget your wedges

Today KBS are a through-the-bag shaft company. They make shafts for drivers, fairways, hybrids, irons, wedges, and putters, so if you’re taking the time to get fitted don’t neglect how the company produce five different wedges shafts too.

KBS say the Hi-Rev wedge shaft has been designed from the Tour shaft profile. There’s a lengthened tip section to give a softer feel and generate extra spin. If you play the Tour shaft you’ll likely enjoy this wedge model too. The brand’s 610 wedge shaft was designed to complement the Tour V shaft.

Where C-Taper and S-Taper fans often run shafts from their irons through into the wedges, albeit at a slightly lighter weight as wedge shots are rarely hit full out.

Want more information about KBS iron shafts? Visit their website here   

How do KBS iron shafts compare in data?

Verdict: KBS iron shafts

Lots of people will look at our test pro’s data and think the shafts are performing very much alike. But the data says nothing about how different the shafts felt.

Comparing the C-Taper and S-Taper the data shows the pair as being pretty evenly matched but the difference in feel was phenomenal. So different in fact our test pro felt he just wouldn’t be able to use the C-Taper effectively on the golf course (as it’s so strong). Where the $-Taper felt brilliant and could well be his perfect match within the KBS family.

The Lite shafts produced a faster ball speed, just as KBS promised and the C-Taper Lite in particular launched and flighted shots higher with a steeper descent angle, so there’s a huge amount of tuning in ball flight and feel available from shafts.

Just as KBS promised the TGI graphite shaft produced some very good optimal numbers too, they’d be a very sensible choice for golfers looking to avoid the shock and vibration of using steel shafts. Equally the Max graphite climbed to its peak height very early in its flight, which at lower speeds will be a real benefit in maximising carry distance.   

At the end of the day, KBS are all about the consumer. You get what you want, whether that be higher or lower launching, more or less spin, or a different feel, everything is on offer within the KBS iron family. Our test pro liked the $-Taper for his own game as it didn’t feel too strong, yet it felt stable and produced a good feel through the hands, and he had control over his ball flight.

KBS Founder Kim Braly on a life spend designing golf shafts

Many golfers won’t know the name Kim Braly, but the guy is a shaft legend. He has dedicated his life to creating the highest performance shafts you can buy, and we sat down with him. 

How have shafts evolved over the last 150 years?

A hundred of those years were dominated by hickory shafts. Steel shafts didn’t come about until the 1930s. My father patented “Frequency Matching” (in the 1980s) which has been the biggest breakthrough during my lifetime. Until then there were no standards; the method gave a baseline to compare and match shafts. Everything I’ve achieved since is down to the Frequency Matching method he invented.

How did the Frequency Matching idea come about?

We made titanium irons with tungsten weights and wanted to see how different set-ups affected performance. We organised a golf robot, and tried two identical set ups, yet the results were entirely different. We started questioning if shafts might not be matched. My dad developed Frequency Matching as a way to compare and match (for flex, weight, profile through CPM, cycles per minute) shafts to one another. The process hasn’t changed for 30 years.

You developed the Rifle and Project X shafts which are still popular; what was different about them?

No set of shafts had been designed individually for each club until then. They were a breakthrough. We’d follow the PGA Tour (at a time when there were no tour vans) and explain to players about matching their irons. We could match a whole set to the club they felt most comfortable and confident with. We were custom fitting without really knowing it.

I’m also proud of what we’ve achieved at KBS over the last 10-12 years. If we aren’t the leaders in shaft technology I really don’t know who is.

What was the players’ reaction?

They were super interested. We had lines of people wanting to understand how shafts affected performance. We learned all sorts. In relation to frequency the lightest shaft in the bag (the driver) will be the stiffest. The weakest shaft should be in the lob wedge, as there’s lots of shots hit less than full out, and a fraction weaker shaft allows you to know where the head is.

Today, the correct fit for players is often a flex and a half stiffer than we recommended 15 years ago. At the start we were a couple of guys just trying to understand. It wasn’t about marketing; we had our mathematical theory and we wanted to understand if it worked in practice.

How have launch monitors affected modern shaft fittings?

They’re one of the best things to have happened to golf. Launch monitors have helped people understand ball flight, spin, height and launch. Every shaft I’ve ever designed has been designed with a type of player in mind.

Each KBS shaft fits into a matrix, we’ve worked on them one at a time, and the line-up is nearly 100% complete.

Where do you start designing new shafts? Is it an idea from you, or a request from a player?

We have ideas, but they have to work in practice. In golf “feel” is a huge thing. If the feel is wrong products go nowhere. I’ve enjoyed dialling in the KBS Tour Lite (steel) and KBS PGI (Players’ Graphite Iron shaft) to be “everyman” golf shafts over the last two years.

They work at specific swing speed ranges, and thanks to our options we can optimise launch and spin for golfers swinging 6-iron in the region of 80mph.

You’ve worked on a bunch of top performing shafts, but which are you most proud of?

The Precision Rifle put me on the map, set up my career and I learned loads from it. The first KBS Tour shaft was a really big deal, too. It’s the foundation stone of every other KBS shaft, where all our other current shafts start. I’m awfully proud of it. 

Have you hit hickory shafts? How different are they to today’s models?

The last two tournaments I’ve played have been hickory challenges. Hickory weighs a ton (they’re 180g in a 6-iron), they’re really stiff but the torque is unreal. You can literally twist the head in your hand. Wood is strong in one direction – the one it’s grown in – which is up and down the shaft.

Will graphite shafts ever be the norm through the bag?

I’ve heard so many times how graphite represents the future. In terms of iron shafts steel is still a great material. The reason graphite became popular is its strength to weight ratio. It’s possible to make a 45in driver shaft at a “normal” swingweight.

You just can’t do that with steel, but you don’t need that as much in irons. Steel isn’t going away.    

KBS make 16 different iron shafts; why so many?   

Each of our profiles do different things. You may have the tendency to hit the ball low, so we have shafts designed to spin more and have a higher trajectory, and vice-versa.

For every 2.5mph of club speed change golfers need a different shaft flex, and that’s why we make half flexes. There’s also feel to consider. In our KBS Tour franchise we go from 130g to 90g in 5g increments (nine different weights), so golfers get what they need.

Whereas in a traditional three flex line-up (R, S, X) golfers get pushed into the best option available. KBS have a reputation for making good feeling shafts because golfers get shafts with the correct load at impact, which naturally feels good. Everything really does come back to fitting.

READ NEXT: Best 2022 Iron Test

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KBS Tour 90 Vs KBS Tour 105 Shaft Comparison Overview

Right off the bat, you can see that there is a 15-gram weight difference between the KBS Tour 105 and the KBS Tour 90.

That’s a pretty significant difference that one would think, would produce very different performance.

However, the KBS Tour line of shafts is touted as consistent and accurate. So we wanted to see what differences there were, if any, between these two shafts other than weight. Read on to learn what we discovered.

KBS Tour 90 Shaft Overview

“The KBS Tour 90 is a 95g to 102g shaft that is available in regular and stiff flex.”

One thing that we really liked about the KBS Tour 90 right away is that it was accurate. Even when we were swinging outside of ourselves, the dispersion stayed tight. And swinging outside of oneself is exceptionally easy with this shaft because it is so darn light.

The KBS Tour 90 feels fast throughout your swing and has a soft tip section for a boost in club head speed. But even with the active tip section, it still manages to be accurate. That’s partly because the butt and midsection compensate by being stiff.

Overall, this is a surprisingly stout and stable-feeling shaft for how light it is. And compared to the KBS Tour 105, it is much more manageable.

KBS Tour 105 Shaft Overview

“The KBS Tour 105 is available in regular, stiff and extra stiff flex.”

Amazingly, the KBS Tour 105 has an active transition. You can feel the swing energy transfer down the shaft and into the ball. It is pretty much just as stout as the KBS Tour 90, which is a surprise in itself since this is a significantly heavier shaft.

We were also managing higher spin rates with this shaft which was making for softer landings on the green compared to the KBS Tour 90. The dispersion was also slightly tighter than the KBS Tour 90.

You lose a bit of club head speed with the KBS Tour 105 because there isn’t as much torque in the tip. But at 105 grams, it still feels light compared to a tour-weighted shaft.

“The KBS Tour 105 was overall the more workable and accurate shaft. It also provided a bit more shot stability on slight mis-hits. The KBS Tour 90 is an excellent shaft for anyone who wants the accuracy of a steel iron shaft but with the speed of a graphite shaft.”

Why is it So Good?

The KBS Tour 90 shafts are excellent because they are incredibly lightweight; but they still give you great iron accuracy because they are steel shafts.

They are congenial to the games of smooth tempo, low swing speed players seeking better height.

KBS Tour 90 First Impressions

Obviously, the first thing we thought when we swung with  the KBS Tour 90 shaft was that it was ridiculously light for a steel shaft.

Key Features & Performance

  The 2-flex system used for these shafts is the defining feature. This gives them more flex than your average steel shaft while still allowing for a moderately stout feel.

KBS Tour 90 Wedges Review

If you have a smooth tempo, you will love the KBS Tour 90 with your wedges. It launches noticeably higher than many other steel shafts currently on the market. In short, the KBS Tour 90 will likely help increase the accuracy of your chipping.

KBS Tour 90 Irons Review

The same can be said about using the KBS Tour 90 shafts with your irons.

We noticed great apex height and enhanced spin – especially in the short irons. While the KBS Tour 90 shaft isn’t great for long par 5’s if you’re attacking with your long irons, they still afford you the accuracy of steel shafts with better feel and launch.

KBS Tour 90 Driver Review

Chances are that if you’re a smooth tempo swing with a moderate to slow swing speed, you would benefit more from a graphite shaft. The KBS Tour 90 allows faster swing speed players to gain distance from the tee; but you still need a smooth tempo.

Why is it So Good?  

For us, what makes the KBS Tour 105 so good is that it faithfully replicates the performance of the KBS Tour shaft but makes it more playable for slower, more deliberate swingers.

KBS Tour 105 First Impressions

Our first impression was that the KBS Tour 105 looked and felt a lot like the standard KBS Tour – only with a crisper feel.

Key Features & Performance  

The best feature is that the KBS Tour 105 is lighter than its Tour-weighted counterpart.

It yields a mid launch and moderate spin while offering an active feel at transition and impact.

KBS Tour 105 Iron Review

So long as you maintain a smooth tempo, you can expect world-class consistency from this shaft with all your irons.

KBS Tour 105 Wedges Review

We liked that we were able to work the ball effectively up-and-down with our wedges. The KBS Tour 105 promotes a soft landing and moderate spin so it’s a bit easier to land fast greens from tight lies.

KBS Tour 90 Pros & Cons

• 2-flex design
• Active tip section
• Soft tip area
• Lightweight
• Bad for fast tempos
• Poor long iron control

KBS Tour 105 Pros & Cons

• Responsive feel
• Great for smooth tempos
• Good shot shaping ability
• Controlled launch
• Similar feel to the standard KBS Tour
• Difficult for fast tempos
• Plain design

Who Should Buy it?

The KBS Tour 90 is an excellent shaft if you have a smooth tempo.

Even if you have a fast swing speed, you can still use this shaft effectively; but the name of the game is a deliberate transition. If you get aggressive, the shaft will feel limp and your shot will be erratic. The KBS Tour 90 is a great shaft for anyone seeking more accuracy from a light shaft.

Overall Score:  94/100

Check out more reviews here:.

As we mentioned, it is also ideal if you have a slower swing tempo so we would assume that most aggressive swingers wouldn’t have a great time with this shaft.

Still, the KBS Tour 105 would be a great option for anyone who likes the feel of the KBS Tour, but needs a lighter shaft.

Overall Score: 95/100

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Two quick questions about the KBS 90 shaft...

By nad12 February 12, 2014 in WRX Club Techs

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Question 1:

Has anyone had experience with the KBS 90 Regular and KBS 90 Stiff shafts? What is the difference between them (weight, stiffness, etc..)?

Questions 2:

What other manufacturers shafts can the KBS 90 Stiff shaft that is 1 inch longer that standard be compared to (I understand that it being 1 inch longer will make it weaker)?

The dilemma I have is I demo the R11 irons in a KBS 90 Regular shaft and I liked what I saw but the shaft felt light and short. So I ordered a set in the KBS 90 Stiff shafts, thinking that Stiffer will mean heavier and thus a good fit. However, the KBS 90 Stiff shaft feel light too. Surely the KBS manufacturer make stiffer shafts that what I now have and I cannot believe it is due to the extra inch longer. My 6 iron swing speed is 85mph and carry 180 yards. I am now wondering is the KBS 90 Stiff shaft is too weak for me.

Answers to my questions will be much appreciated. Thanks.

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Feb 12 2014

Feb 19 2014

CallawayKid86

Try either the tour or the tour v. Those are heavier and a little stiffer. The KBS 90 plays pretty soft from my experience with it. Depending on the tip, you can always tip a little extra or hardstep them to make them play firmer.

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I may just be misunderstanding you but it seems that you are confusing weight with stiffness. They are actually two fairly independent aspects of a shaft. In one sentence you say the KBS 90 Stiff's are too light but the next sentence seems to imply you are looking for a stiffer shaft. Is it a weight issue, or a flex issue, or possibly both? The weight specs are here: http://kbsgolfshafts.com/shafts/kbs-tour-90

NevadaGolfGuy

kbs tour 90 stiffs play very very close to a dynamic gold R300, they are a pretty weak shaft. Guys I know that use them swear by them but calling the stiffs a stiff is a bit misleading.

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In the .370 version of the kbs 90 the strongest frequency will be 5.5. Which in many cases will be a regular flex. I played them for a little while, and really liked them. However I switch them out for px 95. 6.0. Which are just as light, but firmer, which lead to better control.

Right so I'm more confused. I didn't think there was a [b]KBS [u]Tour[/u] 90[/b] shaft. I thought there was only a [b]KBS 90[/b] or a [b]KBS Tour[/b]. I have viewed the KBS website and it says the KBS 90 in Regular is 95 grams and the KBS 90 Stiff is 102 grams (hardly a stiff weight). The other version of the KBS shaft is the KBS Tour where there shafts are more stiffer and weigh about 120-130 grams (normal stiff weight). Apparently the KBS 90 Stiff is suited for a swing speed of 65-80 mph -- what? That isn't even regular let alone Stiff. Am I missing something? Can anyone compare the KBS 90 Stiff to other shafts? Thanks for the comparison to the DG R300 but the DG R300 is about 20 grams heavier. If I start ramping my 6i swing speed to 90mph are the balls going to spray all over the place. I'm currently using the DG SL S300 shaft, how closely matched is it to the KBS 90 Stiff? I'm slightly confused and worried. Thank you.

You are still confusing weight with stiffness. It's possible to have a heavy regular shaft (like the DG R300) that plays softer than a lighter shaft (like your DGSL300 at around 100g or less once trimmed). Weight has nothing to do with flex, unless you compare it across same shafts across the same product range. The KBS Tour 90 is a great shaft that gets bad press because people don't understand it's profile and merely look at it's relative FCM, which on paper looks "weak". However the shaft is very stable and suited to a wide variety of swing speeds, but not necessarily those with a stronger transition and a later release. This would suit a heavier shaft with a stiffer tip, which the Tour 90 is not. If you had a smooth swing with a mid release, you would have no problem with it if you were looking for a higher ball flight compared to your DGSL (both stiff). For a like to like comparison, the Tour 90 is somewhat similar to the Dynalite Gold XP - I'd say the Tour 90 is the better shaft of the two.

Weight differences you are seeing are trimmed verses raw (full length). Most manufacturers list a shaft at it's trimmed to length weight. The DG SL S 300 is a much stronger shaft than the KBS Tour 90 S They are close at the butt then the DG SL gets progressively stiffer over the rest of the shaft with the DG SL S being about a flex and a half stronger at the tip. Bottom line is they are completely different bend profiles. here are the bend profile frequencies for the two shafts Model, 36,31,26, 21,16,11 [b]DG SL S300 taper[/b], 212,257,315,402,562,963 (frequency higher = stiffer) [b]KBS Tour 90 S taper[/b], 209,244,304,385,526,825 (frequency higher = stiffer)

Thank you to you both. Funny thing is you both mention [b]KBS Tour 90[/b]. I have only seen [b]KBS 90[/b] or [b]KBS Tour[/b]. Is the KBS 90 really called the KBS Tour 90? The [b]Tour [/b]shafts on the KBS website seem much more heavier and stiffer than the [b]90[/b] version. The sticker on the shaft only says 'KBS 90 S' no Tour is mentioned. So I've been fitted for DG SL S300 in the past but can hit the KBS 90 Stiff would I be wrong in the keeping the KBS 90 Stiff on the R11? The swing weight is D8 which is heavier than my usual D2. I am searching the DSFI list and can find the DG SL S300 ratings but the KBS shafts I can see have C-Taper next to the them. DaveMac = thanks for your numbers but I'm afraid I do not understand them.

Jaskanski hit the nail on the head and addressed the biggest point of confusion. But just a correction to a few other points. [quote name='nad12' timestamp='1392239150' post='8654253'] I didn't think there was a [b]KBS [u]Tour[/u] 90[/b] shaft. I thought there was only a [b]KBS 90[/b] or a [b]KBS Tour[/b]. I have viewed the KBS website and it says the KBS 90 in Regular is 95 grams and the KBS 90 Stiff is 102 grams[b] [s](hardly a stiff weight)[/s].[/b] T [/quote] There is no "KBS 90" that i've ever seen - only the "KBS Tour 90" as per the KBS web site. The r11 irons use parallel tipped shafts, not tapered so the weight difference between stiff and regular is only 1 gm. http://kbsgolfshafts.com/shafts/kbs-tour-90 The KBS Tour 90's are specifically designed with a softer, more active tip section to promote higher launch and that will contribute to it feeling less stiff but that doesn't mean, by any means, that it's not suitable for the swing speeds in the 'normal' stiff range. People who are properly fit to the tour 90 either like or need the more active tip section. But this is certainly not necessarily going to be the best shaft for everyone. The real question is whether the feel of these shafts cause an actual problem for your swing or whether you are concerned because it's just not what you expected. Try to put aside any preconceived notion of how it should be and concentrate on the actual results you get with the shaft. If there is a problem, the next step is to determine if it is the bend profile or the weight (or possibly both). With that info we can then possibly help find a better shaft.

[quote name='Stuart G.' timestamp='1392241824' post='8654613'] There is no "KBS 90" that i've ever seen - only the "KBS Tour 90" as per the KBS web site. [/quote] Just a minor addendum here. "KBS 90" might be a Taylormade specific labeling of the shaft. Not 100% but as far as I know it's the same shaft as the KBS Tour 90's.

Thank you Stuart G. Things are starting to make sense now. So the KBS 90 (as my stickers say) are indeed KBS Tour 90. Don't suppose there is any info on TM customising the original KBS shaft in anyway? I know that Wilson used the SS 105 FST shaft which were indeed the FST Pro 115. Its confusing when they just dont name them the original shaft names. I always thought the '90' was the actual weight of the shaft (90 grams). I didn't realise the shaft was 101g for Regular and 102g for Stiff. My questions here are: 1) The KBS Tour 90 in Stiff is 102 grams. With my shafts being an inch longer than standard what weight do you know think they are? 2) I always thought that a Stiffer shaft would be much heavier than a Regular shaft. How do shaft manufacturers make a Stiff flex by ONLY adding a single gram in weight? 3) Do you think the KBS Tour 90 in Stiff was 102 grams but once TM finish with it it weighed 90 grams? 4) What weight is the DG SL S300 shaft in standard length? Just racking my brains.

[quote name='nad12' timestamp='1392243041' post='8654763'] My questions here are: 1) The KBS Tour 90 in Stiff is 102 grams. With my shafts being an inch longer than standard what weight do you know think they are? 2) I always thought that a Stiffer shaft would be much heavier than a Regular shaft. How do shaft manufacturers make a Stiff flex by ONLY adding a single gram in weight? 3) Do you think the KBS Tour 90 in Stiff was 102 grams but once TM finish with it it weighed 90 grams? 4) What weight is the DG SL S300 shaft in standard length? Just racking my brains. [/quote] 1) The specs on the web site for the parallel tipped shafts typically list the weight before it's cut down for any particular iron. For the Tour 90's that's when the raw shaft length is 41.25". For a rough estimate you can estimate that the weight is evenly distributed over the whole shaft. That would mean for a 102 gm shaft, roughly 2.47 gm per inch of raw shaft length. That would put a standard length 5 iron (38" playing length w/ 1.5" BBTG) at a hair over 90 gm. 2) Magic :-) Sorry. I might be an engineer but dont know exactly how they do it. Could be using different alloys, different taper patterns and how the shaft diameter varies over the length, variable wall thicknesses over the length of the shaft, and probably more that I can't think of. And that's just steel, graphite shafts have a lot more options with varying the graphite fiber size, strength and weave, different layering and even different epoxy formulations. 3) No idea but the 90 label more than likely was just a carry over of the name from KBS 4) Don't know off the top of my head. Someone else might have the specs handy or you can get them from True Temper web site and go through the same calcs I did above. Don't take this the wrong way but part of the problem could be that you are over thinking things. None of the numbers really matter - it's the results that count. Go hit the club and find out how it feels. IF there is a problem, then we can go from there.

[quote] Don't take this the wrong way but part of the problem could be that you are over thinking things. None of the numbers really matter - it's the results that count. Go hit the club and find out how it feels. IF there is a problem, then we can go from there. [/quote] LOL no I didnt take it the wrong way. I often over analyse things. Thank you for your help. BTW, the swing weight is D8 - up from D2 due to the extra inch. I'll stop there but I start over thinking the swing weight.

[url="http://www.golfwrx.com/forums/topic/740015-tom-wishon-irons-shaft-graphs-in-regular-flex/page__st__60#entry8417895"]How to interpret the shaft bend profile data[/url] I don't have the graphs for the two shafts just the frequencies but the interpretation is exactly the same. 1 and 4 The DG SL S300 raw weight is 106 grams so there will only be a few grams difference between the two shafts about 96 - 100 grams at your playing length +1 inch 2 Shaft diameter and step pattern 3 No, the shaft will be around the 96 - 100 gram mark at your playing length Just to throw your head in a bigger spin the DG SL will feel just a little heavier than the KBS Tour 90 because more of the shaft's mass is in the tip. (The shaft balance points are different) This is not the reason you prefer the DGSL over the KBS Tour 90 though, it is simply down to the difference in relative stiffness (bend profile) between the two shafts.

Thanks guys for all your replies. I've had a proper fitting and know now the KBS 90 is not the right shaft for me.

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About the Product

Tour 90 steel shaft.

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• FIRM SHAFT DESIGN
• INTEGRATED WEIGHT AND FLEX
• 2-FLEX SYSTEM

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Kbs Tour Shaft Review

$ 41.99

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The KBS Tour Iron Shafts – Stiff Flex – .355 Taper Tip (4I – S – 120g) by Tour Shop Fresno are an excellent choice for golfers in search of reliable and compatible iron shafts. These shafts have been designed with careful consideration of technical details and customer feedback, resulting in a product that delivers exceptional performance. With precision engineering and high-quality materials, the script of these shafts ensures a responsive and accurate feel, making every swing a masterpiece. You demand the best from your equipment, and the KBS Tour Iron Shafts deliver just that.

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Kbs tour shaft detailed review, design and technology, where can i find the best deals or discounts on kbs tour iron shafts, can i install kbs tour iron shafts on my own, or do i need to take them to a professional for installation, are there any specific club heads that the kbs tour iron shafts are not compatible with, can i customize the kbs tour iron shafts with different grips or colors, do kbs tour iron shafts come with a warranty or guarantee, how does the tour shaft compare, project x lz, kbs c-taper, n.s. pro modus 3.

Updated February 2024 to update current pricing information.

KBS is named after its owner and founder Kim Braly. KBS has worked closely with PGA professionals to build golf shafts that offer versatility and a controlled ball flight. The KBS Tour shaft was designed for players of all abilities. The KBS Tour steel shaft is a mid-trajectory iron and wedge shaft that gives the player a signature smooth feel. The KBS Tour maximizes energy transfer to give players more lift and easier launch with their irons and wedges. Amateur players will love the responsive feel of the KBS Tour and the control of this top-of-the-line golf shaft is trusted by some of the world’s best players.

• 5% lower trajectory, less spin , and more distance gives players an easy-to-hit iron shaft that matches their swings.  
• The KBS signature feel is smooth and responsive and gives players more options even at lower swing speeds .  
• The range of weight and flex options make the KBS Tour available to golfers of almost any fee preference.

The KBS Tour golf shaft is designed with every golfer in mind. With 6 flex and weight ranges, the KBS Tour shaft can be built to any playing preference and ball flight. Used by some of the world’s best golfers, KBS shafts are known for their impressive responses and smooth feel. Players looking to get their irons fit for more distance and accuracy need to be testing the KBS Tour shaft. The first thing that stood out to me during my testing of the KBS Tour shaft was the signature feel that Mr. Braly promises. The KBS Tour shaft is one of the easiest shafts to hit and didn’t require my best swing to get a controlled and accurate ball flight. Playing my iron shafts at 125-grams, I tested the Stiff+ model of the KBS Tour shafts. I thought for the majority of golfers, the KBS Tour iron shaft is a fantastic option and would not hesitate to put it into the hands of players with a variety of swing speeds. KBS delivers a golf shaft that is easy to launch and a pleasure to swing. The KBS Tour is one of the best shafts for players that swing below tour-level swing speeds but desire the ultimate control with their irons and wedges. The KBS Tour shafts are truly versatile and great for players with smooth tempos, especially with high and mid-handicaps .

The KBS Tour Iron Shafts - Stiff Flex - .355 Taper Tip (4I - S - 120g) by Tour Shop Fresno are an excellent choice for golfers in search of reliable and compatible iron shafts. These shafts have been designed with careful consideration of technical details and customer feedback, resulting in a product that delivers exceptional performance. With precision engineering and high-quality materials, the script of these shafts ensures a responsive and accurate feel, making every swing a masterpiece. You demand the best from your equipment, and the KBS Tour Iron Shafts deliver just that.

• Smooth feel and mid-launch attributes help the KBS Tour appeal to a variety of skill levels and swing speeds.
• KBS technology delivers maximum energy transfer for more distance, less spin, and more control.
• Aggressive players looking for a more penetrating ball flight may be better suited to a higher kick-point option.
• The responsive feel may seem too active for players that prefer more rigid iron and wedge shafts.
• Many sets will not come standard with KBS Tour shafts and may require an additional charge to purchase.

The KBS Tour steel shaft comes in six unique models. Increasing in weight and flex, the KBS Tour is available in 110-gram regular, 115-gram regular+, 120-gram stiff, 125-gram stiff+, and 130-gram x-stiff. Each shaft is available in lengths cut to 1 iron through sand and lob wedge lengths and can be custom fit for golfers of any height.

The KBS Tour shaft is one of the best golf shafts for players that do not swing the golf club with an aggressive style or at tour-level speeds. Low, mid, and high handicap players that want more response and a smoother feel in their irons or wedges will love the KBS Tour shafts. By giving players more energy transfer in the shaft design, KBS has created a versatile, easy-to-hit golf shaft that can help a wide range of golfer’s games.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve found the best prices for KBS Tour iron shafts at online retailers. They often offer discount options and a wider selection compared to local stores. I recommend checking out multiple online retailers for the best deals.

I can definitely do a DIY installation of KBS Tour Iron Shafts. It’s relatively straightforward with the right tools and instructions. However, if you’re uncertain, a professional installation could ensure optimal performance. When comparing costs, check online retailers for the best deals.

I can install KBS Tour Iron Shafts on my own, but I need to ensure compatibility with specific club heads. It’s essential to check compatibility and consider professional installation for optimal performance. The shaft customization process should also consider warranty implications.

Yes, you can customize the KBS Tour iron shafts with different grips and colors to fit your preferences. However, it’s essential to consider how these changes may impact the shaft performance.

Yes, KBS Tour Iron Shafts come with a warranty. The warranty coverage ensures product guarantees. You can be confident in the durability and quality of these shafts, knowing that they are backed by a warranty.

The Project X LZ packages Project X performance and control into a smoother, easy to manage golf shaft. The Project X LZ is designed with Loading Zone Technology to give players better energy transfer and more distance. A thinner middle section allows golfers to launch the Project X LZ higher without losing control of their golf ball. Golfers of all abilities and swing speeds looking for a mid-launch iron or wedge shaft with improved feel and control should be testing the newest steel offering from Project X in the LZ model.

Project X LZ Shaft Review

The C-Taper is a perfect complement to the KBS Tour golf shaft. The C-Taper was designed from Tour player feedback to give players a more penetrating trajectory and greater shot control. Players looking to bring their ball flights down into more controlled windows can look to the C-Taper shaft to give them better distance and accuracy in a crisp feel. Aggressive players with a quick swing tempo can get better results with the C-Taper from KBS.

Kbs C Taper Shaft Review

The Modus 3 is a complete golf shaft offering from Nippon Golf. The Modus 3 line of shafts uses a tier system to give golfers more options in their custom fit. Matching a swing weight and flex profile to golfer swing styles, release patterns, and club head speeds give Nippon an unmatched array of custom fitting options. No matter what your feel, ball flight, and weight preferences are, Nippon has created a Modus 3 shaft designed to help you play better golf. The widest range of weight-to-flex ratios help make the Modus 3 a club fitter and serious golfer’s dream.

Nippon Pro Modus 3 Shaft Review

Videos: Kbs Tour Shaft Review

As the Founder of Golfers Authority Paul Liberatore Esq. has spent the last 7+ years writing about the best golf equipment or instruction from the top golf instructors in the world. He has been a contributing writer for Sports Illustrated Golf and GolfWRX . After graduating with honors from Purdue University , he realized that he had a passion for the golf business and the law. When he's not practicing law, or creating golf content on YouTube , he can be found on his syndicated Behind the Golf Brand podcast both on Apple and Spotify talking with the most prolific leaders in the golf industry. 

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TESTED! KBS PGI Shafts Review

Last month KBS added to their shaft lineup with something they called Players Graphite Iron, or PGI for short. The idea behind this is to have the feel, consistency and control of steel, with the benefits of a composite shaft.

Today we are in the THP Tech Studio for another episode of TESTED! Where you see the swings and get a full breakdown of the data on this new set of KBS graphite shafts. The video below starts off with some technology talk, then hops into the hitting bay for some swings. Finally, we will walk you through the information that the Foresight GCQuad presented and give you some final thoughts. 

For the sake of testing, we have paired the KBS PGI shafts with a Tour Edge Exotics C721 iron head and if you missed our full review of that iron set, you can find it here .

This episode is full of information and data. Can the graphite hold up and offer control in the lighter weight? Do they feel stable enough or is there some shutter? We cover all of it in this review of the Players Graphite Iron shafts from KBS.

After watching the THP TV video above, what are your initial thoughts on the PGI shafts?

For more information on this specific shaft or any of the other shafts from the KBS lineup check out their website at  www.kbsgolfshafts.com .

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KBS Tour-V Iron Shaft Review

More in reviews:.

50 Words or Less

The KBS Tour-V iron shaft is designed to be a lighter weight shaft with a mid-trajectory, low spin, and a tight shot dispersion.

Introduction

After riding on the success of the C-Taper and Tour shafts, it was time for KBS to introduce a new option designed to be the best of both worlds.  KBS’s Tour-V was designed to be a shaft that was lighter in weight , but had a stable tip section with less spin which ultimately results in a tighter shot dispersion .  This review will dive into how well KBS executed on this goal.

If you didn’t know any better, you would look at the KBS Tour-V and think it was any other KBS shaft (except the C-Taper).  It’s a basic chrome steel shaft with traditional steps in it and has the signature inconspicuous red and black KBS shaft label.  To the naked eye, the only difference is that the shaft label says Tour-V on it under the KBS logo.  If you want a traditional looking steel shaft in your irons, the Tour-V definitely fits the bill.

It’s important to open this section with our signature “every golfer will have a different experience with different equipment.”  Personally, I think the KBS C-Taper has some of the best feel and response in steel golf shafts, but the KBS Tour-V feels like the other end of the spectrum for me.  Don’t get me wrong, it doesn’t feel bad, but it doesn’t have the same response and feel that I love about the C-Taper.  The Tour-V tends to feel a little stout much like the Tour-V wedge shaft and otherwise a little empty.  I often found myself unsure what kind of shot I had just hit until I looked up at the ball.

Performance

When you have feel issues in golf, you’re more often than not going to have performance issues.  The hallmark of the KBS Tour-V shaft is supposed to be an end result of tighter shot dispersion, but the lack of feel made it tough for me to groove the club to get that tight dispersion.  That said, when I was hitting it well, I was getting a good trajectory with more draw than usual  and definitely low spin .  My biggest problem was that I had difficulty knowing when I was hitting that shot or a shot that sort of fizzled out short and didn’t draw.  When I was hitting good shots, that little bit of higher trajectory gave me about eight more yards in distance, plus the rollout from the lower spin.  The Tour-V definitely has potential for a few extra yards if you’re a good fit for the shaft in your irons.

After testing the KBS Tour-V shaft, I have to say that I generally agree with the claims made by KBS.  As always, I strongly encourage you to get properly fit and test the Tour-V shafts before throwing them into your gamers to make sure they deliver in the way you need them to.  You want to be sure that they not only give you the shape and distance you want, but also the control and accuracy you need.

KBS-Tour-V-1

KBS-Tour-V-2

KBS-Tour-V-3

KBS-Tour-V-4

KBS-Tour-V-5

KBS-Tour-V-6

KBS-Tour-V-7

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It’s interesting in totally the other way around. I can’t get a feeling with the c taper shafts and it feels really harsh, but I love the tour v. As you say it’s all about fitting

You do not mention what stiffness you used. I too, have noticed that the shafts can be “hot”every once in a while and go extra far and tend to over draw. Glad to know it was just not me. I am tinkering with the 120x flex. Guessing you tested extra stiff as well? Can you provide more info on that?

Are you using C-tapers right now? I currently use PX 6.0 and they are very playable to me. I dropped sensicores in them and they feel much better. Looking for a shaft that is smooth, workable (but not a lot), no distance loss etc. Pretty much described my 6.0’s but as I get older would be nice to have all of that plus a few extra yards to offset a declining sspeed. Was hoping the V’s or maybe the new LZ’s can do that. Any suggestions?

If you look in the pictures, they were stiff flex. I also didn’t say they were necessarily “hot” or “over drawing.” My point was they were an easy draw for me and that flight with the lack of spin resulted in a few extra yards for me when I hit them consistently well.

I do not play C-Tapers at this time. In regards to the suggestion you’re looking for, it’s very difficult for me to advise. Much of what you are looking for is subjective and will be best determined through a proper fitting. It’s well worth the investment.

Good luck in your shaft choice.

What’s the difference between the kbs tour v from the kbs tour v 110?

I’m not familiar with the 110, and it doesn’t appear on the KBS web site. It’s possible that it’s a variant of the Tour V made specifically for a certain OEMs irons.

The “Tour V 110” is the stiff flex that you tested. It literally says 110 on the shaft. The 110 on the shaft is the weight of the shaft. Are you sure you even tested these?? It also says 110 on the shaft in your pictures. Shouldn’t have been that hard to put two and two together. If you weren’t in such a hurry to tell someone to get fitted with attitude you might have noticed.

Golf Clown,

Perhaps if you weren’t in such a hurry to leave a “gotcha” comment, you’d have noticed that I didn’t write this review, Bill Bush did. He no longer writes for Plugged In Golf, but I try to offer answers to “his” questions where I can.

Got eeem! 😱 Golf Clown with the L 🤡

I got fitted with the KBSV 100s, and I noticed my accuracy and dispersion improved twofold. I love them I’m at 10 handicap 57 years old.

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• The 19th Hole

Aerotech steelfiber shafts

By 808nation July 1, 2016 in The 19th Hole

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Has anyone used the Aerotech Steelfiber shafted irons? How do they perfom and how do they feel? Thinking about getting some for my Taylormade psi irons.

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They are awesome. Be careful though they tend to be stronger than indicated. R is stronger than R for sure. I have some 85's kicking around.

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Taylor Made Stealth 2 10.5 Diamana S plus 60  Aldila  R flex   - 42.25 inches 

SMT 4 wood bassara R flex, four wood head, 3 wood shaft

Ping G410 7, 9 wood  Alta 65 R flex

Srixon ZX5 MK II  5-GW - UST recoil Dart 65 R flex

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Evon roll ER 5 32 inches

It's our offseason so auditioning candidates - looking for that right mix of low spin long, more spin around the greens - TBD   

One of the most consistent shafts with super tight dispersion that I've found, period. Add in the best vibration reduction capabilities on the market and you have a shaft that fits everyone from the 30 year old 3 handicapper to Mr Havenkamp at the club. I am Not playing them right now, but have in the past and they're fantastic. The key is finding one in the correct weight range and then flex. I don't think they play stiffer than c tapers or project X or any of the others, just different. Snedeker and Kuch play the 95 stiff, so don't be surprised if you end up lighter/softer than anticipated. The bones of the shaft is graphite but then it has 50+ miles of Steelfiber material wrapped around each individual shaft!

Was wondering about these... thx for that info.

Like the feel of graphite but like more the performance of steel - these may be a future splurge.

Somewhere someone had posted a link - I'll have to search and add it to this post, I guess - to a shaft calculator to find the flex code based on your inputs - do you think that would work for these?

Forum Member tester for the Paradym X driver (2023) Forum Member tester for the ExPutt Putting Simulator (2020)

I played them in my last set and really enjoyed them. They feel a little stouter than most graphite shafts and give you a tight dispersion. I don't know if they play firmer than the listed flex or just feel firmer. I was using the i110 in X-Stiff and didn't have any issues.

Titleist TS3 9.5* w/Accra TZ5 65 X-Stiff Titleist TS3 15* w/Fujikura Ventus 7X Callaway Apex19 Hybrid 20* w/Accra TZ5 95X Callaway Apex19 Hybrid 23* w/Accra TZ5 95X Titleist 718 CB 5 iron w/KBS $Taper X-Stiff Titleist 718 MB 6-PW w/KBS $Taper X-Stiff Titleist SM7 Wedges 50*, 54*, 58* w/KBS $Taper X-Stiff Bettinardi Queen B 10 34.5" Titleist Pro V1 or Snell MTB-X

I have played the SF shafts in my last three iron sets and liked them so much have them in my hybrids.  One of the best things about SF is the weight variance.  If you are coming from a steel shaft and want the feel of the steel weight you may opt for a heavier stick.  If you are like me, a bit longer of tooth, you may want a lighter piece.  Currently there are three weights in my bag, light for the hybrids, a bit heavier for the irons and heavier still for the wedges.  Mine are cut with less tip removed for the irons to get a soft regular.  Just make sure you are going to a real fitter who will test you, let you hit and play various weights and stiffness and who will actually do the install when you have made the decision on which you want.  There is nothing like actually hitting a sample and testing on a flight monitor.  DO NOT trust anyone who does not offer the above recommendations.  Your truck mechanic can put together a golf club, but you wouldn't use it on a golf course.  

PlaidJacket

I have the AeroTech Steel Fiber shafts in all my Wishon irons. They are the first an only "graphite" type shafts I've ever played in irons. Mine are all i80-R. I can't really speak to any technical performance data other than to say these shafts combined with my custom fit Wishon 771csi irons have been been a game changer for me. Apprenti says they produce a tight shot dispersion. I say maybe so. My shot pattern is defiantly and noticeably tighter since I purchased my irons. However, I think that's due as much to my club model, build... and the shafts combined. I don't think the shafts alone have done that for me. My irons and the components that make up each club work in unison. Yes, the AeroTech shafts are very good. I'd recommend them to anyone as long as you have them fit to your swing and particular iron model.

FYI: Interestingly... just yesterday I received a new wedge. My fitter made me a Wishon PCF MicroTour-C 60* w/AeroTech i80-R shaft. I'll be putting it to good use later today. After I unpacked the wedge I looked into the box and pulled out some paperwork. There I found an Invoice from AeroTech to my fitter for some iron shafts he'd ordered back in October 2015. The single price excluding any shipping charges were $29.50 each for the i95-R taper tip.

Agree, they do play stiffer than other shafts. I typically play a x100 or KBS X and a fitter put me in a Aerotech S. It's a great shaft and the dispersion was nice, too.

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Has anyone used the Aerotech Steelfiber shafted irons? How do they perfom and how do they feel? Thinking about getting some for my Taylormade psi irons.   Sent from MyGolfSpy mobile

We are getting ready to do a test just for this.  

#TruthDigest  

We are getting ready to do a test just for this. Steel Hybrid Graphite   Same head.

Oh boy! This gets me very excited, can hardly wait to read about these different shafts. I've been thinking really hard about switching to Steel Fibers because of the great reviews, but I need to know if it will make any difference at all to justify the cost. I currently play KBS C Taper 105 stiff shafts in my Psi irons and they feel good.   Sent from MyGolfSpy mobile

Why not go for a fitting? You can hit all the shafts on the same head to see what works best, even if it is your current model, at least you'd have peace of mind knowing that shaft is the best for you.

I must say that the adila rogue shafts in my current irons remind me of my steel fibers in regards to feel and ball flight.

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any review on Carlton Kinesis? Please help me

Discussion in ' Racket Recommendation / Comparison ' started by pat666 , Oct 5, 2012 .

• carlton kinesis

pat666 Regular Member

Hello all, I'm seriously thinking of buying Carlton Kinesis but it is just sooooooo hard to for me to find any reviews. There was a gentleman on here that was kind enough to give me some information from his first hand experience but I would like to find out more about this racket. I already have nanospeed 9000X (which i'm trying to sell) and Yonex Z Force (Which i just bought). So basically i think that Carlton Kinesis will fall somewhere in the middle of these rackets. Nanospeed 9000X is very easy to use, light but I find it quite difficult to get good power out of it. Z force is great for single ....good smash but my arms just get sore after awhile. So basically i think (hope) that Carlton Kinesis will give the best of both worlds. Light but still pack a punch. Over here in UK, it will cost me about 140 pounds so I just want to make sure that i make the right choice. I don't know anyone who owns it therefore i can't try it. I live in Milton Keynes and there are no stores around here that carry Carlton Kinesis so I don't really know if i will like it or not. Any advice, suggestions, review or any information on Carlton Kinesis will be greatly appreciated. Thank you very much in advance for all your help Pat  

gundamzaku Regular Member

pat666 said: ↑ Hello all, I'm seriously thinking of buying Carlton Kinesis but it is just sooooooo hard to for me to find any reviews. There was a gentleman on here that was kind enough to give me some information from his first hand experience but I would like to find out more about this racket. I already have nanospeed 9000X (which i'm trying to sell) and Yonex Z Force (Which i just bought). So basically i think that Carlton Kinesis will fall somewhere in the middle of these rackets. Nanospeed 9000X is very easy to use, light but I find it quite difficult to get good power out of it. Z force is great for single ....good smash but my arms just get sore after awhile. So basically i think (hope) that Carlton Kinesis will give the best of both worlds. Light but still pack a punch. Over here in UK, it will cost me about 140 pounds so I just want to make sure that i make the right choice. I don't know anyone who owns it therefore i can't try it. I live in Milton Keynes and there are no stores around here that carry Carlton Kinesis so I don't really know if i will like it or not. Any advice, suggestions, review or any information on Carlton Kinesis will be greatly appreciated. Thank you very much in advance for all your help Pat Click to expand...

hey... thank you so much for a great review. haha I just realised that you were the one that answered me in the other one of my threads as well...so thank you Because of your review, I think I will buy this carlton kinesis. I guess I won't really know until I actually try it right? the thing is that I'm so new to this (as you already know) and there are so many rackets that i'm looking at right now. I like Yonex but I just want to try something different, something cheaper that is almost as good or even better than Yonex. So I have been looking at brands such as babolat, victor and yesterday my cousin just told me about Talbot Torro so now i'm looking at that as well...  

Richard Traviss New Member

Hello, I've been playing with the Carlton Vapour Trail Tour over the past few years changing them as the new model came out. Just changed to the Kinesis and I find them significantly more powerful but maintaining good control. Had all 4 restrung to 27lbs in BG65ti by my professional stringer and used the in yesterday's county match against Lancashire. I love them.  

brennanlord Regular Member

If you could find an old Carlton Aeroblade TI on the internet you could get the same raquet for much, much cheaper.  

sanredrose Regular Member

I might be posting a little too late on this thread , but i have used a Carlton Kinesis racquet for almost 3 months now and i can give a little insight into this product. Kinesis is an even balance racquet well suited for a doubles game. If you are familiar with Yonex naming convention, then i would say this racquet is 3U-G4 type. Though the racquet specification defines it as an even balance, i would say the head is quite light and you can feel that in a fast swing. I had no problem playing forehand or backhand clears with this racquet. Drop shots, net kills and drivers - Kinesis is the king of these shots. It feels like a ArcSaber 10 in terms of playability and is defintely a champion closer to the net and mid court area. Smash is probably the weak point of this racquet. I have been playing for quite sometime with Yonex ArcSaber 10. Arc10 is slightly a head heavy racquet (though yonex might claim otherwise), moving to Carlton Kinesis might be a problem. I found extremely fast swing with Kinesis and was able to push the game further than usual, but when it comes to finishing off the point, i was struggling. It will take a week or two to settle down this racquet. However it took me close to 2 months and now i feel that my smashes from Arc10 and kinesis are quite comparable. The factory string used on the racquet is a Carlton Xlerate 67 and the string tension feels like 23 lbs. The string is a very good one (i have never used a Carlton string before) and it gives a tad bit of hard feeling with a balance of repulsion and control. The hitting sound is close to a BG80, but nowhere close to NG98. But for a factory string, Carlton has packed a really good one on this racquet. Overall - I would say Kinesis is a very good racquet for folks who like super fast swing ! The racquet is sold for $199 in San Diego. Little expensive, but if priced at $90 - $120, i would buy 3 or 4 pieces and stack them. I am officially fan of Carlton Kinesis. However, there is a new Adizero Tour lurking in my kit bag and it's slowly becoming another doubles favorite racquet !  

Thanks for the review.  

Smashthecock Regular Member

Richard Traviss said: ↑ Hello, I've been playing with the Carlton Vapour Trail Tour over the past few years changing them as the new model came out. Just changed to the Kinesis and I find them significantly more powerful but maintaining good control. Had all 4 restrung to 27lbs in BG65ti by my professional stringer and used the in yesterday's county match against Lancashire. I love them. Click to expand...

Smashthecock said: ↑ Hi Richard, I have read the Kinesis has had a tendancy to snap without cause, have you had any such experiences? Jag Click to expand...

Hey, Thanks for replying but my concerns were more surrounding the racket frame, there have been a number of people with snapped frames without collision. So i was a little worried about buying. Jag  

Smashthecock said: ↑ Hey, Thanks for replying but my concerns were more surrounding the racket frame, there have been a number of people with snapped frames without collision. So i was a little worried about buying. Jag Click to expand...

If you are yet to purchase this racquet, then i would recommend looking for other alternatives. Don't get me wrong, its an awesome racquet but considering the bad experiences i had here w.r.t to stringing i probably would retire this racquet or sell it off in ebay.  

Doreamon New Member

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