Fujikura Speeder Evolution IV Shaft
Fujikura’s Speeder name has been synonymous with smooth feel and premium performance for almost two decades now. One of the most successful lines in the storied Speeder history is the Evolution line consisting of eight different variations. In this review we’ll discuss the Fujikura Speeder Evolution IV designed to be similar to the low/low Evolution II, but with a little more launch.
The Looks
The Speeder Evolution IV departs from the bright “flame looks” of the Evo 2 and 3. Fujikura instead went with a glossy black base coat and gold graphics. It’s a nice play on the always classic black and yellow color combination that never gets old. On the “top half” of that shaft (assuming you go with a label down orientation), the signature larger “Speeder” wordmark graphic is a somewhat ghostly white with pops of small red Speeder wordmarks. There’s also a slick “smokey” pattern woven within the graphics to give the Evo 4 a slight look of mystique.
How Does it Feel?
If you’re familiar with Fujikura’s Speeder Evolution lineup, the IV definitely falls within that distinct “feel”. It’s well balanced and has an extremely smooth profile with clean response. Based on the profile of the Evolution II, but with a higher launch from its softer mid-to-tip section, the Evo 4 has the same amount of life and strong kick, but it’s higher in the shaft. You can really feel the shaft release through impact right about in the dead center of the shaft.
On-Course Performance
| Club Speed | Ball Speed | Launch Angle | Spin | Carry (Yds) | Total (Yds) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 113.9 | 170.9 | 11.5º | 2440 | 279.2 | 305.5 |
My experience with the Fujikura Evolution IV was fairly straightforward because it performed exactly as advertised. The flight was powerful and penetrating, but at a more medium launch and a little extra spin to hold it in the air. The strong feedback mentioned in the Feel section and the lower torque made the Evo 4 easy to control, but you never feel like you’re fighting it. It’s easy to get the ball flighted where you want it with tight dispersion. In my opinion, from a performance perspective, the Evolution IV is the “Goldilocks” of the Speeder Evolution lineup. Its versatility makes it a great option in a driver OR fairway wood.
Final Thoughts – Fujikura Speeder Evolution IV
After my testing, I feel safe calling the Fujikura Evolution IV the more “launch friendly” version of the Evolution II. I felt like I had the same power and control that I loved in the Evo 2, but it was easier to get in the air without ballooning and getting too spinny. So if you’re a player that can get the club around pretty well, but have a smoother tempo, the Evolution IV may be the right choice for you.
