Fujikura Ventus HB Red
It’s finally here, ladies and gentlemen! The Ventus Red profile is now available for hybrid shafts! When Fujikura first introduced Ventus hybrid shafts with the same VeloCore technology as their renowned wood shafts, only the Blue and Black profiles were available. These quickly gained popularity among golfers for their exceptional feel and stability. However, players who thrived with Ventus Red in their drivers and fairway woods were left yearning for a hybrid sharing the same increased spin and higher launch characteristics. Enter the Fujikura Ventus HB Red. With the introduction of VeloCore+ technology in the latest HB shaft lineup, Fujikura has answered the call. This new addition delivers a smooth feel, effortless launch, and the trademark stability that’s synonymous with the Ventus name.
The Looks
This generation of Fujikura Ventus shafts features a matte finish and a more vivid hue. I originally described the red as ‘black cherry,’ and I still feel that’s an accurate description. I struggled, again, to capture the effect, but there’s a slight “color change” where the finish darkens at the right angle. The matte finish gives the shaft a sleek, modern look. The Red really makes a strong case for the best looking of the three Ventus finishes, in my opinion.
Just like the wood shaft, the Red has the signature Ventus graphics but with the addition of “HB” to indicate – you guessed it – ‘hybrid’. The wordmark is now a white outline instead of solid white lettering. As always, no one will mistake the Ventus band/graphic just beneath the grip section of your club. At the tip section, there’s a new VeloCore+ graphic representing the new technology.
How Does it Feel?
I’ll admit, I was initially a bit apprehensive about testing the Fujikura Ventus HB Red. My concern? That it might feel too soft and be difficult to control. In hindsight, I should have trusted my previous experience with the new Ventus Red wood shaft, where I was more than pleasantly surprised, rather than coming in with preconceived notions. What I actually experienced was an extremely sweet feeling hybrid shaft that felt like all it wanted to do with every fiber (get it?) of its being was help me hit a good golf shot without a fight.
From the very first swing, the Ventus HB Red delivered an incredibly smooth and responsive feel. Striking the ball felt effortless, as if the shaft was working with me rather than making me actually responsible for the golf swing. It gave me the confidence to make natural, full swings while still providing the stability I expect from a Ventus. Even when I pushed for extra yardage with a more aggressive swing, the shaft was up to the task of keeping everything in check.
Keep in mind, this shaft is designed for a medium-high launch and spin, so it’s not overly soft like you’d expect from a higher launching shaft. The kick point sits in the middle, with a stiff handle and tip section and a firm mid-section, ensuring a balanced blend of feel and control.
On-Course Performance
Coming from a history of playing a Ventus Black in my hybrid, I initially expected the Fujikura Ventus Red HB to play a bit too “floaty” for my liking. I assumed it would perform well on 215ish-yard shots that needed to fly high and land soft. I also didn’t anticipate being able to produce a more piercing flight that I rely on regularly with a hybrid.
Let me tell you, I could execute both shots with ease. Despite the higher launch characteristics, I never felt like I was losing control of my ball flight. Hitting little lofty shots that come down soft were very natural. When I needed to step on one to squeeze out some extra yardage, the increased launch provided more carry, while the added spin helped keep the ball in the air. Typically, a shaft of this profile just seems to launch and spin higher when I put more speed into it. That was not the case for me and I was quite pleased with the results. My dispersion was incredibly tight, leading to some of my most consistent hybrid striking in some time.
Final Thoughts – Fujikura Ventus HB Red
I’ve recently been diving deep into the whole ‘7 wood/hybrid replacement’ experiment due to the unpredictable nature of hybrids. Those results have certainly caught my attention, but the Fujikura Ventus HB Red has definitely introduced an interesting curve ball. Its well-balanced combination of launch, control, and distance deliver a level of stability and consistency in my hybrid that I haven’t seen for awhile. Now, I can’t say that I’m fully committed to sticking with a hybrid, but the Ventus HB Red has certainly increased the chances. I really enjoy the Ventus HB Red, and I’m really glad Fujikura added this profile to their hybrid lineup.
