Understanding Launch Monitor Data: What Is Clubhead Speed (and Swing Speed) in Golf?

Clubhead speed is one of the most talked about — and misunderstood — numbers in golf. It’s measured in miles per hour and tells you how fast the clubhead is moving at the moment it strikes the ball.

But what makes this number so important isn’t just bragging rights or distance potential. It’s what clubhead speed reveals about your swing mechanics, your equipment fit, and your ability to improve over time.

And for all the buzz, let’s clear up one thing right away: Clubhead speed and swing speed are the same thing. You’ll hear both terms used interchangeably. Some launch monitors call it one, some the other. But they’re both referring to the speed of the clubhead at impact.

Let’s dig into why speed matters, how it connects to other launch monitor data, and how you can start using it as more than just a vanity stat.

What’s a Good Clubhead Speed?

If you’re looking for trustworthy numbers, Trackman’s Tour Averages report is a great place to start. From their May 2024 release:

• PGA Tour pros average about 115 mph with the driver
• LPGA Tour pros average around 96 mph with the driver

Trackman also provides benchmark numbers for amateurs, organized by skill level. An example of what might be average:

• Male Amateur (14-15 handicap) = ~94 mph
• Female Amateur (10-15 handicap) = ~83-87 mph

Trackman hasn’t published swing speed by age group, but the Titleist Performance Institute says:

• Senior male golfers (over 60) typically swing in the 90 mph range with the driver
• Senior female golfers (over 60) average 73 mph with the driver

These are just averages and generalities. What matters most is understanding where you stand now and what kind of results your speed is producing.

If you’re swinging your driver at 100 mph but only carrying the ball 220 yards, that’s not a clubhead speed problem. That’s likely an efficiency problem. And that’s why we always look at clubhead speed in context, especially with metrics like ball speed and smash factor.

How Clubhead Speed Affects Distance

There’s no mystery here. Higher swing speed means more potential distance. It’s simple physics. The faster you swing the club, the more energy you can transfer to the golf ball.

But here’s the key — “potential” is the operative word.

Let’s say you’re swinging your driver at 100 mph. If you’re striking it perfectly, you could produce a ball speed of around 150 mph. That’s a smash factor of 1.50, which is elite.

But if your ball speed is only 140 mph with the same swing, you’ve got efficiency problems. That could be an off-center strike or suboptimal face angle. And your launch monitor is going to show that.

That’s why clubhead speed alone doesn’t make you longer. It just gives you more ceiling. And the real work is making sure you’re converting that potential into results.

What’s Holding Your Swing Speed Back?

Most golfers think they’re stuck with the swing speed they’ve got.

That’s wrong.

Sure, physical limitations play a role. But even modest improvements in mobility, sequencing, and setup can unlock serious gains.

Here are some common swing speed killers:

• Poor sequencing — If you’re using arms instead of generating speed from the ground up, you’re limiting your speed potential.
• Tension — A tight grip or rigid posture can sap clubhead speed.
• Over-swinging — Whether it be too long of a backswing or too quick and violent of a downswing, either can break your rhythm.
• Ill-fitting equipment — The wrong head, the wrong shaft, the wrong face angle settings… If the gear doesn’t fit your swing, you’re going to be limited.

Use your launch monitor to identify patterns. If your swing speed is dropping off during a session, fatigue or mechanics may be to blame. If your peak numbers vary wildly, they might indicate inconsistency in your swing.

Matching Swing Speed to Shaft Flex

This is one of the most practical reasons to track your clubhead speed: Getting the right shaft.

Too many golfers are playing with the wrong flex for their swing speed. And while there’s no universal swing speed chart that works for everyone, here’s a general guideline for recommended flex based on swing speed:

• <75 mph - Ladies or Senior
• 75-85 mph - Regular
• 85-95 mph - Stiff
• 95+ mph - Extra Stiff

These are not rules. Ball flight, tempo, and feel all factor in. But if you’re swinging a driver at 100-plus mph and playing a regular flex, there’s a good chance your dispersion and spin numbers aren’t optimized.

Launch monitors help take the guesswork out of fitting. You can test different shafts and track changes in speed, spin, and dispersion. That’s real data. Not guesswork.

How to Increase Clubhead Speed (the Right Way)

Just trying to swing harder without any foundation is NOT the way to chase speed.

Instead, your focus should be on:

• Swinging with better sequence
  Train your body to fire from the ground up. Lead with your hips, not your hands.

• Improve mobility
  More range of motion means more potential speed. You don’t need to become a yogi, but better hip and thoracic mobility will go a long way.

• Use speed training tools
  Tools like the SuperSpeed Golf Training System can be incredibly effective. Just make sure that you have a plan.

• Stay balanced
  Many players pick up speed simply by learning to load properly into their trail side and stay centered. It’s not always about effort; often it’s about efficiency.

Ideally, you’ll use a launch monitor to track progress. Seeing a 2 to 3 mph gain in clubhead speed over a few weeks is real momentum, and you’ll notice those extra 5 to 10 yards of distance you’re adding.

But don’t get stuck chasing a number. Clubhead speed is just one part of the picture. Your ultimate goal isn’t just to swing fast, it’s to play better.

Let it be a benchmark. Let it guide your fitting decisions. Let it validate your training. But always make sure your focus stays on functional speed. The kind that delivers real, playable performance.

About PlayBetter Golf Reviewer Marc Sheforgen

Marc "Shef" Sheforgen is a golf writer whose passion for the game far exceeds his ability to play it well. Marc covers all things golf, from product reviews and equipment recommendations to event coverage and tournament analysis. When he’s not playing, watching, or writing about golf, he enjoys traveling (often golf-related), youth sports coaching, volunteering, and record collecting.