Rapport Core Blue Shaft
Some time ago, VA Composites acquired the Rapport brand and reintroduced it to the market, offering their products exclusively through GolfWorks. The return of Rapport aims to provide high-quality shafts at an attractive price, with options suited to a wide range of players. The Rapport Core Blue features an optimized blend of performance, stability, and precision, thanks to its Zone Frequency Profiling technology. Whether you’re a competitive golfer or a weekend player, the Core Blue shaft delivers balanced performance for various swing speeds and playing styles. The Core Blue is available in hybrid and iron shafts as well, though my testing was limited to the driver version.
The Looks
The Rapport Core Blue golf shaft has a sleek, understated design that combines both function and style. Its gunmetal base gives it a polished appearance. The white Rapport logo, accented by a blue rectangle around the “O,” adds a subtle touch of distinction without being flashy. A small “Core Blue” graphic is tastefully placed next to the shaft’s specs. On the “top side”, a faint “Powered by VA Composites” graphic hints at its advanced construction without distracting at address. The overall design is clean and appealing, perfect for golfers who prefer a minimalist aesthetic.
How Does it Feel?
With a smooth, stable feel, the Rapport Core Blue is a reliable choice for many golfers. Zone Frequency Profiling technology optimizes launch and spin based on the shaft’s weight and flex, adapting to different swing styles. In the 60-gram stiff flex I tested, the shaft felt stable and responsive. It loaded easily and released smoothly. A consistent bend profile offers a predictable response that’s neither too soft nor too stiff. The Core Blue offers a versatile and forgiving feel that’s well-suited for golfers looking for a dependable, all-around shaft.
On-Course Performance
| Club Speed | Ball Speed | Launch Angle | Spin | Carry (Yds) | Total (Yds) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 112.3 | 167.3 | 14.6º | 2687 | 277.2 | 283.3 |
After putting the Rapport Core Blue 60g Stiff Flex shaft to the test, I can confidently say that it performs exactly as advertised. The shaft offers a player-friendly feel that makes consistency on the course effortless. The launch and spin characteristics complement this, allowing the ball to get in the air and carrying easily, but without ballooning.
Although I can’t speak to the benefits of Zone Frequency Profiling across the full lineup, the performance of the shaft I tested was balanced. (I only tested this particular weight and flex, and have my own specific swing, of course.) The launch characteristics and spin rate aligned with what I’d expect from a shaft of this profile, weight, and flex.
Final Thoughts – Rapport Core Blue Shaft
The Rapport Core Blue shaft is an excellent option for golfers looking for a balance of performance, stability, and versatility at an affordable price. Whether you’re a competitive player or a weekend warrior, its consistent launch and spin, along with a smooth feel, will work well for a variety of swing types. While I only tested the driver shaft, its performance was impressive. Especially at a price point under $100. I’m confident the Core Blue will meet the needs of many golfers seeking a reliable, all-around option. With VA Composites’ backing, the Rapport brand seems set for a successful return to the market.
