The golf shaft is a vital component of any golfer’s equipment, significantly influencing the performance of their clubs. With numerous shaft options available in the market, it’s essential to find the perfect match for your golfing style and needs. One such shaft that has gained traction among golf enthusiasts is the Ping Alta CB 55. In this article, we’ll delve into the features, performance, and versatility of this highly sought-after shaft.
Ping Alta CB 55 Shaft: Overview
The Ping Alta CB 55 shaft is a premium, lightweight graphite shaft designed and manufactured by Ping, a renowned golf equipment manufacturer. With a mid-high trajectory and mid-spin profile, this shaft is engineered for golfers who seek a perfect balance of distance, control, and consistency in their shots.
Key Features
a. Counter-Balanced Technology
The Alta CB 55 shaft incorporates a counter-balanced design, which strategically places more weight towards the grip end of the shaft. This feature helps golfers generate more clubhead speed, leading to increased distance and improved overall performance.
b. Lightweight Design
Weighing in at approximately 55 grams, the Ping Alta CB 55 shaft is considered a lightweight option, making it easier for golfers to swing the club faster and with more control. This lightweight design is particularly suitable for golfers with moderate swing speeds seeking added distance without sacrificing accuracy.
c. Aesthetics
The Ping Alta CB 55 shaft features a sleek and eye-catching design with a vibrant copper color, transitioning to black near the tip of the shaft. This distinctive appearance not only adds a touch of elegance to your golf club but also helps improve alignment and focus during your swing.
Performance
The Ping Alta CB 55 shaft is known for its consistent performance across various swing speeds. Its mid-high launch and mid-spin characteristics ensure a penetrating ball flight, optimal for maximizing distance while maintaining accuracy. Golfers have reported improved control and stability, particularly on off-center hits, thanks to its lightweight and counter-balanced design.
Versatility
The Ping Alta CB 55 shaft is suitable for a wide range of golfers, from beginners to advanced players. Its performance characteristics make it an ideal choice for those looking to optimize their swing speed and achieve a higher trajectory for maximum carry and distance. Additionally, this shaft is compatible with various Ping clubheads, allowing golfers to customize their clubs for the best possible performance.
Ping Alta CB 55 Shaft Specifications
| Model | Flex | Weight (grams) | Torque (degrees) | Kick Point | Shaft Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ping Alta CB 55 R-Flex | Regular | 57 | 5.0 | Mid | Graphite |
| Ping Alta CB 55 S-Flex | Stiff | 59 | 4.5 | Mid | Graphite |
| Ping Alta CB 55 X-Flex | X-Stiff | 62 | 4.0 | Mid | Graphite |
Ping Alta CB 55 Shaft Performance Characteristics
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Launch | Mid |
| Spin | Mid |
| Trajectory | Mid |
| Stability | Good |
| Distance | Good |
| Consistency | Good |
Ping Alta CB 55 Shaft Advantages
| Pros | Description |
|---|---|
| Counter-balanced | Helps increase clubhead speed and provides more control |
| Lightweight | Easier to swing, suitable for a wide range of swing speeds |
| Versatility | Available in multiple flexes to suit various player needs |
| Smooth feel | Transfers energy well and provides a smooth feel throughout the swing |
| Affordability | Reasonable price point compared to other premium shafts |
Comparable Shaft Models
| Brand | Model | Flex Options | Weight Range (grams) | Torque Range (degrees) | Kick Point | Shaft Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ping | Alta Distanza Black 40 | Soft-Regular | 40-49 | 7.3-8.3 | Low | Graphite |
| Ping | TFC 189 | Regular-Stiff | 52-62 | 4.0-5.0 | Mid | Graphite |
| Fujikura | Pro 63 | Regular-X-Stiff | 64-68 | 3.5-4.0 | Mid | Graphite |
| Mitsubishi | Tensei AV Blue | Regular-X-Stiff | 57-69 | 3.8-4.9 | Mid | Graphite |
Ping Alta CB 55 Shaft Disadvantages
| Cons | Description |
|---|---|
| Limited options | Only available in Ping clubs |
| Not for high swing speeds | May not provide the desired stability for players with very high swing speeds |
User Feedback on Ping Alta CB 55 Shaft
| User Experience | Feedback |
|---|---|
| Distance | Many users report increased distance with the Ping Alta CB 55 shaft |
| Accuracy | Users report improved accuracy and tighter dispersion |
| Feel | Positive feedback on the smooth feel and energy transfer |
| Adjusting to the shaft | Some users may need time to adjust to the counter-balanced design |
| Satisfaction | Generally, users are satisfied with the performance and value of the Ping Alta CB 55 shaft |
Ping Alta CB 55 Shaft Flex Options
| Flex | Weight (grams) | Torque | Launch | Spin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L | 51 | 5.0 | High | High |
| A | 53 | 4.9 | High | High |
| R | 55 | 4.8 | Mid | Mid |
| S | 58 | 4.6 | Mid | Mid |
| X | 61 | 4.5 | Low | Low |
| 2X | 64 | 4.4 | Low | Low |
| 3X | 67 | 4.3 | Low | Low |
| 4X | 70 | 4.2 | Low | Low |
| 5X | 73 | 4.1 | Low | Low |
| 6X | 76 | 4.0 | Low | Low |
Ping Alta CB 55 Shaft Specifications
| Flex | Weight (grams) | Length (inches) | Tip Diameter (inches) | Butt Diameter (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L | 51 | 44 | 0.335 | 0.594 |
| A | 53 | 44 | 0.335 | 0.594 |
| R | 55 | 44 | 0.335 | 0.594 |
| S | 58 | 44 | 0.335 | 0.594 |
| X | 61 | 44 | 0.335 | 0.594 |
| 2X | 64 | 44 | 0.335 | 0.594 |
| 3X | 67 | 44 | 0.335 | 0.594 |
| 4X | 70 | 44 | 0.335 | 0.594 |
| 5X | 73 | 44 | 0.335 | 0.594 |
| 6X | 76 | 44 | 0.335 | 0.594 |
Ping Alta CB 55 Shaft Swing Speed Recommendations
| Flex | Swing Speed Range (mph) |
|---|---|
| L | 70-80 |
| A | 80-90 |
| R | 90-100 |
| S | 100-110 |
| X | 110+ |
Ping Alta CB 55 Shaft Reviews and Ratings
| Publication | Rating (out of 10) | Review Quote |
|---|---|---|
| Golf Digest | 8.5 | “A solid performer that offers a good blend of distance, accuracy, and feel.” |
| Golfweek | 9.0 | “A great choice for golfers looking for a mid-launch, mid-spin shaft.” |
| MyGolfSpy | 8.8 | “Provides excellent consistency and stability throughout the swing.” |
| Golf.com | 8.7 | “A versatile shaft |
Conclusion:
The Ping Alta CB 55 shaft is an excellent choice for golfers seeking a lightweight, counter-balanced shaft with consistent performance across different swing speeds. Its mid-high launch and mid-spin profile make it a versatile option for those looking to maximize distance and control on the golf course. With its unique design, impressive performance, and adaptability to different clubheads, the Ping Alta CB 55 shaft is worth considering for your next golf club upgrade.
