Fujikura Ventus HB Blue
Following the success of VeloCore+ technology in Fujikura’s wood shafts, the brand has now introduced this innovation to their hybrid models. VeloCore+ improves stability providing tighter dispersion and a more efficient energy transfer. The Fujikura Ventus HB Blue is designed for players who seek these benefits in a mid-launch, mid-spin profile, offering a solid balance of control and carry. If you’re looking for reliable performance in your hybrid that doesn’t sacrifice feel, the new HB Blue might be just what you need.
The Looks
There are two major differences in the appearance of the Fujikura Ventus HB Blue compared to previous hybrid shafts from Fujikura. The first is the striking new shade of blue. While Ventus shafts have always been instantly recognizable thanks to their signature branding, the original hybrid versions leaned toward a more understated, darker navy. The new Ventus HB Blue is a brighter, more vibrant shade that immediately stands out with its bold presence.
The second noticeable change is the matte finish. Unlike the previous Ventus hybrid models that featured a glossy coating, the new HB Blue adopts a more refined texture. Fujikura has maintained the iconic Ventus graphics, with a slight tweak. The wordmark now features a white outline rather than solid white lettering. Just below the grip, the unmistakable Ventus band remains, ensuring it’s easily recognizable. A new VeloCore+ graphic at the tip highlights the latest technology packed into this shaft, reinforcing its reputation for stability and performance.
How Does it Feel?
Like both of the other Ventus hybrid shafts, VeloCore+ definitely enhances the feel in the Fujikura Ventus HB Blue. It’s ultra-stiff tip section, stiff mid section, and firm handle section give the Blue a sort of “Goldilocks” feel between the Ventus HB Red and Black. Firm enough to feel stable and controlled, but “soft” enough to feel easy to launch and release. Soft probably isn’t a totally fair or accurate description, but I think it makes the point I’m going for. You definitely notice the kick taking place in the middle of the shaft, but that ultra-stiff tip section makes it feel tight and easy to keep on its line.
Compared to its predecessor, the Ventus HB Blue with VeloCore+ feels generally tighter and more precise in your hands. This is really a great example of “it does everything that Ventus did before – just better” that I mentioned in the HB Black review. The precision in feel makes the Ventus HB Blue easier to groove your swing with and maintain consistent performance.
On-Course Performance
Like with the feel, I found the Fujikura Ventus HB Blue to be the Goldilocks option between the Red and Black models in performance as well. The updated Ventus HB Blue really delivered a balanced blend of launch and control. It’s easy to elevate, yet produces a contained, piercing flight. You can float one in for a soft landing with minimal rollout, or flight it lower when a penetrating dart if needed. The ultra-stiff tip section keeps dispersion tight and makes shot control surprisingly easy. (Relative to a hybrid, at least.) The key difference between the Red and Blue will likely come down to a player’s desired stock shot, and which profile offers the best stability for their swing. While I performed well with the Ventus HB Red, I found better control with the Blue on shots when I really had to step on it.
Final Thoughts – Fujikura Ventus HB Blue
Fujikura’s Ventus HB Blue with VeloCore+ delivers exactly what you’d expect from the Ventus name: stability, control, and consistency. Sitting right between the Red and Black models, it offers a well-balanced profile that makes it easy to launch while maintaining tight dispersion and reliable shot shaping. The mid-launch, mid-spin design makes it a versatile option for a soft-landing approach, or a more powerful, piercing flight. It has the stability to handle aggressive swings while still feeling smooth and responsive, making the Ventus HB Blue an intriguing option for those looking to dial in their hybrid performance.
