Fujikura Ventus vs Kuro Kage XD

[kygolfer81]

Anyone have experience with these two shafts side-by-side?

I've got a Kuro Kage XD TX tipped .5" currently and love it. But, given the buzz surrounding the Ventus I can't help but wonder. Curious if anyone's hit them together and see much of a difference in numbers?

[Valtiel]

That is an interesting comparison because while being similar shafts on paper in terms of performance, they both use very different materials and have interesting differences in their EI Profiles. On the surface, they are both stout, low/low shafts with similar tip to butt ratios, meaning performance wise they will be pretty similar. However the EI profiles and the different material technologies will, on paper, lead to pretty different feel if you're sensitive to such things.

Based on the Fit2Score EI profile information, their curves sort of bobble back and forth. Where one shaft gets stiffer, the other gets softer, and vice versa. The biggest difference seems to be in the tip area where Fuji looks like they are using the same formula from the HZRDUS T1100 and the old beloved Motore Speeds; a loss in stiffness coming out of the mid section and a big bump if stiffness approaching the tip. Honestly based on the EI profile and material tech, it looks like the Ventus Black is just trying to be a better feeling T1100. They are almost identical from the mid section to the tip with the Ventus just being softer below the handle. Overall this looks like a formula for maximum stability.

The Kuro Kage XD on the other hand is following a lot of the same patterns as previous "White" profiles, with a bump in stiffness in the mid section and a loss in stiffness towards the tip with a stiffening at the end. This follows the same pattern as the previous Kuro Kage XT and the current Tensei Pro White; a blend of feel and "kick" while maintaining firm stability.

Honestly, if you love a shaft then I wouldn't go chasing for something better. Its all about feel and timing, and if something works then stick with it. For comparative purposes I have attached two images comparing the Ventus/KK XD and Ventus/T1100. Ventus in black, XD in grey and T1100 in green.

 

[kygolfer81]

@Valtiel Wow. Thanks a lot for that feedback. Given the graphs you supplied, it seems like I'm definitely not going to notice some magical difference in numbers or anything (and honestly I didn't expect to). Feel may be different (I like to think I'm pretty sensitive to feel and have a touch of OCD when things just aren't quite "right" to me). I keep reading posts on the Ventus and the materials they used in it and how it's remarkable how much dispersion tightens with it compared to other shafts. Maybe one of these days I'll try it out, but you're right, it's probably not worth chasing given that I really like the XD.

[03trdblack]

Were you asking about the Ventus Black or the Ventus Blue? The Blue has a different profile than the black that @Valtiel posted above.

[Valtiel]

No problem! Evaluating dispersion when it comes to shaft characteristics is tricky because marketing would have you believe that certain shafts are inherently "more accurate" than others, which is misleading at best. The reason I suggested sticking with the XD is because dispersion is first and foremost a product of how the shaft fits you and your swing and sense of timing and feel. This is not something you can objectively engineer or quantify. There are certainly tendencies that can serve as basic guidelines, but those can very easily go out the window for many players. This is the reason you can often find older model shafts sticking around tour player's bags. Once it works, it works and will take a lot to be replaced. That is a good point, I assumed Black for some reason given the nature of the XD. The Ventus Blue is a modified mid-soft "Blue" profile that would be very different overall from a feel and performance standpoint.

[Ryan5508]

I went from an XD 70 TX to a Ventus blue 6x.

Feel is definitely different between the two. Longest drives are similar in distance.

Ventus has been a significant improvement in dispersion for me personally. I have been hitting much less miss hits that lead to a lost ball. I also seem to have less of a chance to hook the ventus vs the XD as well.

I would like to try a ventus black but worry my spin would drop too much vs the 2200 rpm I average currently with the blue.

[kygolfer81]

Yeah, Black because I figured it's the profile most similar to the XD. Sorry should have specified.

Thanks. Yeah the dispersion is the one thing I've read about the Ventus that really has me intrigued. I figured that my longest drives with either would be similar so gaining distance wouldn't be my motivator. I think I probably hit the XD about as far as I can hit it given my swing speed.

I like to draw the ball on every shot. Problem is, I get a random big over draw sometimes and if the Ventus could help out with that even a little it may be worth the switch. Do you find that it eliminates the left miss and most of your balls are now fades with the Ventus? Or just that it's still easy to draw the ball, you're just not missing big left?

[Ryan5508]

XD - I was day to day either fade or draw with the random big hooks. Random bomb went a mile.

Ventus - I have been really straight or slight fade. Unless I get lazy or really try to turn the ball. Its been a lot easier to attack a set spot off the tee box.

 

I originally started with the ventus blue 7x but found the spin was too low in the 1800-2000. The 6x put me around 2200-2300 range. XD was any where from 1900-2200 for me. All in a G410 plus head.

[Ryan5508]

I will add the XD just feels more powerful when you hit it.

The ventus feels good but the flight and distance always surprises me based off the feel.

 

I am usually around 113-115 swing speed for a driver

[kygolfer81]

@Ryan5508 thanks! Sounds like we are very similar. I’m around 115 average.
I’ll have to keep my eyes open here and on eBay and see if I can get one at a decent price to try.
I don’t think I’d want any lower spin. Had the Rogue previously (before my G400 LST) and the spin was always below 2000 and I just felt like it was so unforgiving on less than perfect swings.
thanks

[shellbmb]

I have both currently and have been comparing them in the same heads, a 2016 M2 8.5, and a SIM 9. The XD60 TX has been my gamer so I'm more familiar with it, but so far I've seen better numbers (for me) with the XD. My AOA is positive 3-4 degrees so I don't need a lot of spin. Plus my tempo is quick with an aggressive transition. The XD is right in the sweet spot for me with the Ventus being just a tad higher, but not by much. XD is tipped 0.5" and the Ventus is straight in. Ventus is likely going to BST or eBay.

[kygolfer81]

Thanks. Your XD sounds identical to mine. It's a TX tipped .5". I really like the shaft so I'll probably just stick with it. I have one in my three wood too but unfortunately it's not working out quite as well as it did for me in driver. I'll probably be listing it soon if you need one for a fairway! :) I'd love to try the Ventus, but no going to buy it sight unseen for $300 and have it be a dud for me

 

[SC-TX 88]

Just got a Ventus Black 7X that I plan on putting up against my XD 70TX (tipped 1”). Going to try the Ventus untipped (the shaft was already cut to length but a good deal). The 1” is honestly probably too much on the XD for me, it makes you feel like you have to work for it at times when the swing isn’t there. I had switched over to a DF 70TX tipped 1” for awhile and it didn’t require as good of a swing as the XD but it felt too loose and I could really turn one over at times (I always want to like “White” profiles but struggle with them from time to time). Will be curious to see if the Ventus can fill the gap.  I used to love my AD GP and am hoping this performs similar. 

[cw1209]

4 hours ago, SC-TX 88 said:

Just got a Ventus Black 7X that I plan on putting up against my XD 70TX (tipped 1”). Going to try the Ventus untipped (the shaft was already cut to length but a good deal). The 1” is honestly probably too much on the XD for me, it makes you feel like you have to work for it at times when the swing isn’t there. I had switched over to a DF 70TX tipped 1” for awhile and it didn’t require as good of a swing as the XD but it felt too loose and I could really turn one over at times (I always want to like “White” profiles but struggle with them from time to time). Will be curious to see if the Ventus can fill the gap.  I used to love my AD GP and am hoping this performs similar. 

 

I think it is fair to say the Diamana 4th gen shafts are all closer to blue board profiles, including the DF. The Kuro Kage XD will have a softer handle and firmer mid than the DF, which can make it a little harder to turn over. The Ventus Black is just firm the whole way down in a good way. Total control with good feel. Looking forward to your review. 

[bonescu]

As someone that has played these two basically as my shaft options that past 2 years can share my findings.  Ventus was black 6X, XD is 60TX.  Have had success with both in various TM heads.  All in best combo for me was M5 with XD but head cracked (consistent problem I had with that model).  This year transitioned to SIM and found varying success with each shaft.  Ventus has the “oh wow” moments both good and bad.  Had some rounds were it was nothing but really long little curve tee ball after tee ball.  But others where I was off with my strike and just was a fight all day.

 

The XD has proven to narrow the pattern for me.  Not doubt the best of the best are with the ventus but overall I feel Ike the XD performs better on the course.  Not short by any means but not the occasional 15 yard hammer out of no where but misses are more on the property.  
 

i have a TSi3 9* in route that I am going to start with the XD and have Raw White and Blue as options as well. Hoping the XD pairs well as on course I am comfortable with the feel and performance. 

[drbonesvt]

Lot of great results with the XD 

 

have 70tx XD , my fav out of the Mitsubishi family driver shafts 

 

got a ventus 6x to test tipped 1” , played mostly 70 and 80g in the driver for control , 6x trial bc of the profile I read on the VB 6x is stout 

Edited October 20, 2020 by drbonesvt

[drbonesvt]

On 10/20/2020 at 7:08 AM, bonescu said:

As someone that has played these two basically as my shaft options that past 2 years can share my findings.  Ventus was black 6X, XD is 60TX.  Have had success with both in various TM heads.  All in best combo for me was M5 with XD but head cracked (consistent problem I had with that model).  This year transitioned to SIM and found varying success with each shaft.  Ventus has the “oh wow” moments both good and bad.  Had some rounds were it was nothing but really long little curve tee ball after tee ball.  But others where I was off with my strike and just was a fight all day.

 

The XD has proven to narrow the pattern for me.  Not doubt the best of the best are with the ventus but overall I feel Ike the XD performs better on the course.  Not short by any means but not the occasional 15 yard hammer out of no where but misses are more on the property.  
 

i have a TSi3 9* in route that I am going to start with the XD and have Raw White and Blue as options as well. Hoping the XD pairs well as on course I am comfortable with the feel and performance. 

How did the XD work in the TSI3 , what’s the final build 

[bonescu]

Combo never got off of the ground.  Hit 3 shots with the TSi3 and knew it wasn’t for me so didn’t want to change tips and such on the XD.  I can say the last two rounds with XD in a ‘17 M2 TI head, heavier back weight have shown very promising results.  I fight the left miss and for me, this shaft has managed that better than anything else I have tried.  And... as a true WRX’er. I have tried a bunch!! 

[drbonesvt]

Kk xd tx still very much anti left in tsi3 

 

will take more testing on kk xd vs ventus ,   What’s truly intriguing about the 6x , it continues to hangs with all my heavier options.  historically I’ve hated 60ish gram shafts - still favorite 90g fairways 

 

 

Edited January 23, 2021 by drbonesvt

[drbonesvt]

Anyone else XD tx vs VB or ventus 

[Mario Good Times]

I have both the XD 70tx tipped 1”

and 

Ventus Black 6x tipped 1”

the xd feels more stout and when hit  good it feels like I crushed it.  The ventus I hit good, make good contact and for whatever reason I just doesn’t feel the crushing blow. xD is longer for me by a little and also just gives me that baby draw I like.  The ventus is straight and a good shaft but not getting that feel I love.  I’ve also tried the ventus black 7x but felt to heavy and the 6x feels to light I think I need a middle ground.  I’ll be playing 2021 with my sim2 xd 

the ventus black 6x sits in my backup M6 waiting on the side lines.  

[drbonesvt]

On 4/21/2021 at 1:59 PM, Mario Good Times said:

I have both the XD 70tx tipped 1”

and 

Ventus Black 6x tipped 1”

the xd feels more stout and when hit  good it feels like I crushed it.  The ventus I hit good, make good contact and for whatever reason I just doesn’t feel the crushing blow. xD is longer for me by a little and also just gives me that baby draw I like.  The ventus is straight and a good shaft but not getting that feel I love.  I’ve also tried the ventus black 7x but felt to heavy and the 6x feels to light I think I need a middle ground.  I’ll be playing 2021 with my sim2 xd 

the ventus black 6x sits in my backup M6 waiting on the side lines.  

Still gaming the KKXD?

[Mario Good Times]

Yes I am 

[drbonesvt]

Bouncing btw VB 6x and KKXD 70tx 

 

love that diamana kick , but the Ventus is sneaky long and stable at 6x 

[Pnwpingi210]

Anyone playing the 70xd tx at 45 inches or less?  If so did you tip it?

[drbonesvt]

On 10/9/2021 at 8:08 PM, Pnwpingi210 said:

Anyone playing the 70xd tx at 45 inches or less?  If so did you tip it?

Roughly an 1”

[drbonesvt]

Been battling these against one another 

 

Org D+ limited 70tx

Kuro Kage XD 70tx

ventus blk 6x 

 

blk longest of the long , but the lighter weight messes with my tempo 

 

the org D+ Limited , always the back up

 

shockingly the KK XD 70tx paired with a m5 tour issue 8* has the launch and spin  characteristics

 

(d+ limited is close with a bit more lively handle )

[Pnwpingi210]

1 hour ago, drbonesvt said:

Been battling these against one another 

 

Org D+ limited 70tx

Kuro Kage XD 70tx

ventus blk 6x 

 

blk longest of the long , but the lighter weight messes with my tempo 

 

the org D+ Limited , always the back up

 

shockingly the KK XD 70tx paired with a m5 tour issue 8* has the launch and spin  characteristics

 

(d+ limited is close with a bit more lively handle )

Thanks for this information.

 

Currently  playing a Ventus black 7x at 45.25 in a g425 lst head and it feels “heavy”.

 

Debating on trying either a:

Smoke green 70tx

kuro kage xd 70tx

 

both tipped 1 inch and playing 44.5.  Tested a used smoke green 70tx in the past and was amazed at how easy it was to swing compared to the ventus black.

[drbonesvt]

7 hours ago, Pnwpingi210 said:

Thanks for this information.

 

Currently  playing a Ventus black 7x at 45.25 in a g425 lst head and it feels “heavy”.

 

Debating on trying either a:

Smoke green 70tx

kuro kage xd 70tx

 

both tipped 1 inch and playing 44.5.  Tested a used smoke green 70tx in the past and was amazed at how easy it was to swing compared to the ventus black.

Imop kk xd tx , if the d+ limited + the tensi pro w tx , mated and had a baby shaft u would get = KK XD TX

[Pnwpingi210]

Thanks for this.

 

I was able to snag a Kkxd 80 tx I’m going to put in a g425 5 wood.  Excited to give this a go.  70 tx for the driver to follow next.