It’s one thing to produce a golf iron players love, and it’s another thing to produce two decent shafts that leave golfers spoilt for choice. PING, a leading brand in the golf industry, has managed to achieve a rare feat by creating models that can take your game to the next level. The PING AWT and CFS shafts are taking the industry by storm, and for a good reason.
The PING AWT is a shaft that uses Ascending Weight Technology, making it a variable weight shaft; while the PING CFS (Control, Feel, Stability) uses a constant weight design. Pick the AWT if you need a heavier shaft with less torque, and the CFS if you need a lighter model with more torque.
Choosing between PING AWT and CFS can be a hard nut to crack, especially if you don’t know their specs. However, I’ll save you the hassle of spending hours trying to find their features. To start, here’s a table comparison of the AWT and CFS.
PING AWT vs CFS: Comparison Table
PING AWT | PING CFS | |
Material | Steel | Steel |
Flex | Soft, Regular, Stiff, X-Stiff | Soft, Regular, Stiff, X-Stiff |
Torque | 2.1° – 1.5° | 2.2° – 1.6° |
Weight | 96 – 117 g (0.21 – 0.26 lb) | 94 -114 g (0.21 – 0.25 lb) |
PING AWT Features
The PING AWT (Ascending Weight Technology) was designed with one thing in mind — optimal ball control! The iron comes in both short and long variants, each delivering the best performance during gameplay. Specifically, the longer shafts are lightweight for increased swing speed and higher ball flight; while the shorter irons are heavy, improving control and accuracy.
And while PING AWT comes in different flexes, ranging from Soft to X-Stiff, most previous users find the model stiffer than the CFS. Besides, it has a lower torque, making it an excellent pick if you need the least twisting with each swing.
PING AWT Pros
Here’s a summary of the AWT’s pros:
- Smooth shaft with excellent stability
- Remarkable control and accuracy
- Decent ball flight
- Excellent swing speed
- Durable steel material
PING AWT Cons
Here are the main downsides of the Ping AWT:
- It may take a while to adjust to the shaft.
- You may get lower launches due to the heavier, shorter irons.
- It may not be suitable for golfers who need a constant weight shaft.
- It is more expensive than other shafts.
PING CFS Features
The PING CFS (Control, Feel, Stability) shaft lives up to its name. The iron features a constant weight design that delivers a smoother feel and incredible stability. The CFS is incredibly soft and has a similar design to the old Z-Z65, so expect similar gameplay and comfort if you’ve ever used the Z-Z65.
If you’re looking for a quality shaft with a consistent feel throughout the set, I recommend the PING CFS. The shaft makes transitioning between clubs a breeze, making it a worthwhile purchase in the short and long term.
PING CFS Pros
Here are the CFS’s pros:
- Smooth shaft
- Comfortable gameplay
- Durable steel construction
- Softer flex than the AWT
- Higher torque than the AWT
PING CFS Cons
Here are the CFS’s downsides:
- It may not suit golfers who need heavier shafts.
- It may not be the best fit if you need a variable weight shaft.
- It is pricier than other brands.
Tip: When choosing between PING AWT and CFS, weigh these pros and cons to determine the best shaft. And if you’re unsure, consult a professional fitter or your coach for advice.
Final Remarks
The PING AWT and CFS are decent shafts that offer complete control and stability. They are incredibly durable and light, though the CFS is lighter than the AWT.
That said, choosing between these irons comes down to personal preference. Here are the main guidelines:
- Go with the AWT if you need higher ball flight and swing speed.
- Go with the CFS if you prefer a constant weight design with a smoother experience and excellent stability.