It’s the finer details of golf equipment that can often make the more profound difference in a player’s game. There are few components that are more misunderstood or underutilised than the kick point of a golf club shaft.
While golfers often focus on clubheads and flex ratings, the kick point quietly plays just as a vital role. The kick point is essentially the precise location where a shaft bends most during the swing. Just like all the other elements of the golf club it helps to effect the launch, spin, feel, and overall trajectory of a golf shot.
To find out more, we sat down with the experts at KBS, one of the most respected names in the world of golf shafts, and their Marketing Director, Rhett Taylor. In this Q&A, KBS breaks down how different kick points affect ball flight, what types of golfers benefit most from each profile, and why understanding kick point can transform both your equipment setup and your confidence on the course.
No matter your playing ability, this discussion is packed with insights to help you make more informed decisions when it comes to shaft fitting.
What is the kick point of a golf club shaft, and why is it important?
The kick point, also called the bend point, of a golf shaft is the specific area along the shaft where it bends the most during the swing. It significantly affects launch angle, ball flight, spin, and feel, making it a key factor in shaft performance.
How do high, mid, and low kick points affect trajectory and launch?
- Low Kick Point (bends near the clubhead)
- Mid Kick Point (bends in the middle)
- High Kick Point (bends closer to the grip)
Taking the effects of the four characteristics above, this is how they would be affected:
1. Launch Angle
- Low Kick Point → Higher launch (shaft whips more at the bottom).
- High Kick Point → Lower launch (shaft stays firmer through impact).
- Mid Kick Point → Balanced launch characteristics.
2. Spin Rate
- Lower kick points tend to increase spin.
- Higher kick points reduce spin and are therefore good for players who need a flatter trajectory.
3. Ball Flight
- Kick point helps shape trajectory:
- Low KP = Higher ball flight
- High KP = Lower, more penetrating flight
4. Feel and Timing
- Fast swingers or those with aggressive transitions often prefer higher kick points for stability.
- Smooth swingers or those needing help with height benefit from lower kick points, which feel more “whippy.”
Which type of golfers benefit from a low kick point shaft?
Slower swing speed golfers that need help getting the ball airborne.
“The kick point can significantly alter the feel of the club during the swing.” – Rhett Taylor, KBS
Can changing the kick point alter the feel of the club during the swing?
Yes, changing the kick point can significantly alter the feel of the club during the swing and this change in feel can influence timing, rhythm, and even confidence at address.
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Low Kick Point (Near the Clubhead) – This is when players get the ‘whippy’ feeling especially during the downswing.
Mid Kick Point – Balanced
High Kick Point – Firmer, more stable – especially through impact.
How does kick point correlate with golf club shaft stiffness and flex?
Kick point, shaft stiffness, and flex are all interconnected, but they are distinct characteristics of a golf shaft.
When it comes to the flex, it is the overall bendiness of the shaft.
The stiffness is a more detailed measurement of resistance to bending but it can vary along different points of the shaft.
Kick Point is the specific spot along the shaft where it bends most during the swing.
Is kick point adjustment a key factor in professional club fitting?
Yes, kick point adjustment is a key factor in professional club fitting, especially for optimising launch angle, spin rate, trajectory, and feel.
While factors like shaft flex, weight, and length tend to be more immediately noticeable to most golfers, kick point becomes critically important in fine-tuning the performance for a player’s specific swing characteristics especially at more advanced levels.
• Created by renowned shaft designer Kim Braly and built from player feedback, KBS Golf Shafts offer the most advanced shaft technology in the industry. To learn more, click here.
• This piece is part of a special series on golf shaft technology. Read more here.
