Fujikura Speeder NX Shaft
The Fujikura Speeder name has always been synonymous with smooth feel and elite performance. Regardless of what new carbon fiber was being used, or what new tech was added, there was a certain type of feel you already knew the shaft would have. Credit to Fujikura, they’ve always found a way to keep that signature gradual bend profile with just the right amount of kick from generation to generation of Speeder shafts. Well, after seeing the Speeder Evolution series come to a close after roughly seven successful years, we’re introduced to the new Fujikura Speeder NX which featuring a new technology called “Variable Torque Core” which creates different levels of torque and stability throughout the shaft.
The Looks
Fujikura went with a two-tone color scheme on the Speeder NX. The top half is a navy with a slight hint of sparkle in it, and the lower section is a somewhat royal blue where the sparkle finish really jumps out in the sunlight. Depending on how you orient the shaft, the top label is a traditional Fujikura wordmark logo while the bottom label has a blue and white Speeder NX logo. As always, I appreciate Fujikura’s blend of flair and modesty. The Speeder NX doesn’t scream out for attention but definitely has a cool aesthetic that looks good in the bag. Sort of like “I’m not asking you to look at me, BUT if you’re going to…I look pretty awesome.”
How Does it Feel?
Everything I love about that classic Speeder smoothness with the control and stability of a Ventus. That’s how I’d describe the feel of the Fujikura Speeder NX shaft. Now, of course the Ventus has VeloCore in it and the Speeder NX does not. Instead, the Speeder NX uses a new technology called Variable Torque Core, or VTC. While most shafts utilize a uniform level of torque throughout the entire profile, VTC creates different torque levels in the different regions of the shaft. In the case of the Speeder NX, the torque is lower in the hands and tip, with a softer mid section. So you end up with an extremely smooth feeling profile that’s synonymous with the Speeder reputation. But you also get the stability and control that’s reminiscent of the stake put in the ground by Ventus. The best of both worlds in my opinion.
In more simple terms, the Speeder NX reminds me of a perfect blend of Fujikura’s Speeder DNA from over the years mixed with a Ventus Blue. It just feels so smooth and so sweet, but with solid stability that seems to defy what you’re actually feeling.
On-Course Performance
| Club Speed | Ball Speed | Launch Angle | Spin | Carry (Yds) | Total (Yds) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 116 | 174 | 10.9º | 2555 | 286 | 312.1 |
As I understand it, the Fujikura Speeder NX is supposed to be a somewhat higher-launching shaft with its mid kick point and “tighter” torque in the handle and tip sections. You can see in my data above that my launch was not exceptionally high. ~11º is on the lower end of a medium launch angle for me. However, out on the course I experienced a little more launch than I had during my monitor session. (I’m not a robot.) But the big takeaway I had in terms of launch was the ease of flighting the ball as needed. The stock shot may be a powerful and piercing mid trajectory, but I could easily get the ball higher up to cut over some trees or ride a tail wind.
Just as easily as I could elevate the ball, I could hit low bullets to stay under the wind and/or get some run out on the fairway. While my average spin rate was 2555 rpms, I found the VTC made it easy to manage my spin as needed. Additionally, the VTC made it easy to control shots and keep dispersion tight without making the shaft difficult to launch or manipulate. I could swing away and benefit from the rigidity being built into the right places to help me keep the ball under control, but didn’t need to be super human to achieve an optimal performance.
Final Thoughts – Fujikura Speeder NX Shaft
What the Speeder NX gives you is an extremely smooth feel, impressive stability, easy launch, and versatile playability. I feel like it’s important to point out that Fujikura isn’t replacing the Ventus with the Speeder NX. It’s also not a continuation of or replacement for the Speeder Evolution line. It’s a totally new concept with a focus on that signature Speeder feel, but with a new approach to managing torque in a golf shaft for maximum control and performance. The Speeder NX allowed me to achieve long distances with a full and free aggressive golf swing that felt familiar and reliable. Just like I’ve grown to expect from any Fujikura Speeder shaft over the years.
So is this staying in the bag? I recently am testing a Ventus blue and notice I have to try and force my self to close the face. Is the NX easier to manipulate the face being the variable torque? Might need to try this next if the Ventus doesn’t work for me. Other shaft I have is rdx blue 70g.
I can’t say I noticed that behavior with the Ventus so I can’t really comment on if I think there’s a noticeable performance difference with Speeder NX. Neither of the Fujikura shafts will be reminiscent of the RDX Blue in my opinion.
Feel-wise, I’d love to know how this compares to the Diamana TB (or BF) or the Graphite Design Tour AD HD. On paper, it seems like it might be somewhat similar to those other mid-soft type shafts. They’re two I really like, but I haven’t had a chance to hit the Speeder NX yet. Hope to soon, though.
I haven’t hit either of those two shafts so I can’t really weigh in, sorry.
I am 75 years old and have a senior swing speed. My drives average approximately 150 yards. I want to buy a new set of TaylorMade Stealth irons but don’t know what Fujikura senior shaft to specify. I hit an accurate drive but would love to add 20+ yards.
My shaft options are the Air Speeder, the Speeder NX and the Ventura Red. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
For starters, I’m sort of confused by the options. None of those are iron shafts.
Additionally, I wouldn’t be able to make a recommendation based on the information you provided. Factors related to your swing, angle of attack, your misses, etc will have more of a role in the right shaft for your game. As well as how your hands specifically interact with the equipment.
Best of luck! -Bill
Actually, the Speeder NX is also an iron shaft, as well as a driver shaft. It comes as the standard OEM graphite option with some of the Taylormade irons. I have the Speeder NX Red/Silver in my Taylormade Stealth HD irons. Kind of confusing to name the wood shafts and iron shafts the same.
Yeah, I had no idea until only recently. When I first reviewed this shaft, there was only one!
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is there a review for the Fujikura speeder nx red shaft?
Not on our site, sorry. Never got access to one.