Ping is an American sports equipment manufacturing company largely known for its high-performing, reasonably priced golfing gear. Their shafts, in particular, have grabbed the attention of many players and enthusiasts, so today, I’ll be comparing two of their most popular releases – the Alta 55 and the Tour 65.
Ping Alta 55 and Ping Tour 65 are both high-performing shafts manufactured by the same company. However, the former is a lightweight graphite shaft designed to promote improved launch and distance, while the latter is a mid-weight model that optimizes control and precision.
If you’re looking to learn more about these two popular Ping shafts, this article is for you. Below, I’ll go over some of their most distinct differences as well as their advantages and drawbacks, so make sure to read on.
Ping Alta 55 vs. Tour 65: Comparison Table
Following increased demand, the golfing equipment industry has quickly become oversaturated, with a wide array of new lines and models being released every year.
That’s why it has become harder for players to choose an option that’ll truly serve them best, even when they’ve narrowed down their alternatives to a couple of models from the same brand. So, let’s see how Alta 55 and Tour 65 compare in terms of their most notable features.
| Alta 55 | Tour 65 | |
| Weight | Light | Moderate |
| Feel | Excellent | Good |
| Consistency | High | Moderate |
| Handicap Range | Mid-handicappers | Low-handicappers |
| Playing Style | Consistent | Aggressive |
| Control | High | Moderate |
| Launch Angle | High (increased distance) | Low (more penetrating ball flight) |
| Price Point | Moderate | High |
Now that you’ve got a better idea of how these two models compare, it’s time to dive into their individual pros and cons.
Ping Alta 55
If you’re a higher-handicapper looking for a shaft that helps you get the ball into the air while also boasting a consistent performance and great feel, Ping Alta 55 might be the best choice for you. However, before you commit to a purchase, here’s what you should consider:
Pros
- Lightweight
- Impressive distance
- Higher launch angle
- Extremely consistent
- Ideal for players with slower swing speeds
- Highly customizable
- Cheaper than its counterpart
Cons
- Not the best choice for lower handicappers
- Doesn’t offer as much control as its counterpart
- Speed is sacrificed in favor of distance
Tour 65
On the flip side, if you’re a lower handicapper thinking about getting the Tour 65 shaft, here are the advantages and drawbacks to consider beforehand:
Pros
- Penetrating ball flight
- Increased speed
- Remarkable control
- Ideal for lower handicappers
- Highly customizable
- Unparalleled precision and shot shaping abilities
Cons
- Expensive
- Not the best choice for higher handicappers
- Doesn’t optimize feel and distance
Conclusion
Though these models are manufactured by the same brand, they couldn’t be more different in terms of their intended purpose. That’s why comparing them objectively is impossible (they’re apples and oranges), and the choice between them will ultimately come down to your swing speed, playing style, and personal preferences.
If you’re someone with a slower swing speed looking for some help getting the ball into the air and reaching greater distances, the Alta 55 shaft will be ideal for you. However, if you boast a fast swing speed and are after optimized speed and control, go with Tour 65.