50 Words or Less
The Fujikura Speeder Pro XLR8 shaft has the premium feel of the Speeder Pro with even more speed. The most lively feel of any Fujikura shaft in memory.
Introduction
“Sold out” and “backordered” are phrases that golf gear heads are pretty familiar with. We expect to hear them when shopping for limited edition accessories or high end putters, but hearing them in connection with a shaft? That’s unusual, but it’s been the case with the new Fujikura Speeder Pro XLR8 since it first hit retail. In this review, we’ll tell you what all the fuss is about.
Feel
There was a substantial feel difference between last year’s Fujikura Speeder Pro and the standard Pro. That difference exists between the two XLR8 models as well. Where the Pro XLR8 has a good, middle-of-the-road feel, the Speeder Pro XLR8 is much more lively. It also has the lowest kick point of any Fujikura shaft in memory. If you’ve steered clear of Fujikura in the past because you wanted more kick, it’s time to check them out again.
Looks
The look of the Speeder Pro XLR8 is consistent with the rest of Fujikura’s shafts from the last couple years. The large, wraparound graphics announce “Fujkura” in black-on-orange and “Speeder” in orange-on-black. The orange used here is a unique shade that’s a few notches down from bright Rickie Fowler orange which will help it to appeal to a broader range of golfers.
Performance
I pitted the Speeder Pro XLR8 head to head against the Pro XLR8 in an on-range launch monitor test in my PING G LS Tec driver. The performance differences were predictable to me based on the feel.
The Pro XLR8 is a solid, workhorse shaft. The tip is stout enough that I was able to swing hard without worrying about a hook, and it has enough kick to add some speed and feel good. The Speeder Pro XLR8 is more of a race horse. The feel is lively and there’s a lot of kick. For me, that created a mix of absolute bombs and some gnarly hooks.
As we always emphasize, fitting is key. As someone who primarily hits draws and hooks, the Pro XLR8 led to more consistent results. A player who hits cuts and slices may find the Speeder Pro XLR8 more consistent. To get the most from these new shafts, you need to work with a qualified fitter.
Conclusion
Having seen the top end potential for myself, it’s no surprise that the Fujikura Speeder Pro XLR8 has been a blockbuster. Thanks to the counter balanced, kick-enhancing XLR8 technology, this shaft helped me to hit some of the longest drives I’ve ever seen. Visit your local Fujikura fitter to see if it can do the same for you.
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He founded Plugged In Golf in 2013 with the goal of helping all golfers play better and enjoy the game more.
Matt lives in the northwest suburbs of Chicago with his wife and two daughters.
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10 Comments
The review says this shaft has a low kick point, would you classify this as high launch?
Clay,
A low kick point will perform differently for different players/swings. Generally, manufacturers label low kick as high launch.
-Matt
Hi Matt,
How does it compare to Speeder Evolution 757 or Matrix C type?
Thanks,
Richard,
In what sense?
We have reviews of both of those shafts on the site.
-Matt
Hi Mat, It is interesting to see from your test result chart (Speeder Pro XLR8 vs Pro XLR8) that the Speeder Pro XLR8 produced lower launch and lower spin because the Pro XLR8 supposed to produce lower launch and lower spin than the Speeder Pro XLR8 according to Fujikura’s info on these two models’ specs. I have the Pro XLR8 on my Callaway BB Alpha 816 (tip trimmed 1/2″ to bring the ball flight down). I love it. A friend recently got fitted with the Speeder Pro XLR8. He is bombing it 40 yard longer than his Fujikura’s Pro (original one with blue design). We hit balls at range a number of times side by side. Our driver distance is comparable but I might be a bit longer. His result with the Speeder Pro XLR8 got me interested in putting one on my driver. I just ordered one yesterday. I will test it probably first week of September. I hope it will prove your test result and my friend’s positive result to be the case for me. Thanks for bringing the art and science driven reviews to us – golf nuts. I enjoyed reading your reviews.
Liz,
Thank you! I hope the Speeder Pro XLR8 works out well for you.
Best,
Matt
Hi Matt, do you know a good fitter in the Amsterdam Area. I already have the shaft, but I have question marks if it’s adjusted right for me
Looking forward to hear from you
Regards,
Richard
Richard,
Unfortunately, I’m not familiar with any fitters outside the US. Sorry I couldn’t be of assistance.
Best,
Matt
Played the Speeder Pro 64 in stiff this weekend in my Titleist 917 D2 driver and was pleasantly surprised. How does the Speeder Pro XLR8 compare in performance and distance? Thanx
Billy,
How it performs for you will be very different than how it performs for me. It has a lower kick point, and that may or may not be a good thing for you. Best to work with a fitter to find out.
Best,
Matt