Fujikura Ventus Blue 5 Review: Is It Worth The Hype In [2024!]?
With the Ventus 5, TaylorMade promises tighter dispersion and increased ball speed. It’s designed to offer more control and greater carry distance. However, after testing the shaft on the course, here’s what I found:
- The Ventus 5 is comparatively lightweight, so it’s easier to strike and get the ball in the air without extra effort.
- With its multi-material VeloCore, the shaft offers excellent energy shift, low ball spin, and high launch. Meaning, your carry distance increases while also providing stability.
- It’s not designed for golfers with high swing speed as it negatively impacts their striking angles and timing.
- As the shaft makes the ball follow an arcing flight path, it’s not a good option for players who want a penetrating ball flight.
Altogether, the Ventus 5 is a great lightweight shaft with soft launch angles. However, it’s not the right fit for everyone.
Fujikura Ventus Blue 5 Overview
Features a technologically advanced VeloCore design to serve more ball speed without discounting control. Launches at a higher angle and follows a high and straight ball path. A low bend point favors slow swingers.
The shaft has a modern look and tour-inspired profile. You can expect low ball spin and increased speed with this lightweight and highly forgiving shaft.
Why Consider the Ventus Blue 5?
If you find it difficult to get the ball in the air, consider the Ventus 5 to achieve your desired ball height. Its reduced weight is ideal for slow hitters who want to get extra distance.
I like the slightly softer tip and midsection as it provides a responsive feel during the swing. Players seeking a mid-launch trajectory should definitely give it a try.
Specifications and Features of the Fujikura Ventus Blue 5
- Flex Options: R2, R, S
- Length: 46 inches
- Weight: 58g, 58.5g, and 59g
- Tip Flex: 112, 103, 94
- Butt Flex: 109, 99, 89
- Torque: 4.0, 3.7, 3.3
- Spin: Low/Medium
- Launch: Medium/High
- Bend Point: Low/Medium
- Multi-material bias core called VeloCore keeps the shaft stable at impact.
- Pitch 70 Ton Carbon Fiber core with additional 40 Ton bias layers is 150% stronger than the previous models.
- Ultra-stiff tip, stiff mid, and firm grip.
Testing the Fujikura Ventus Blue 5
For my ground testing, I hit an equal number of shots with my 3-wood and driver combined with a Standard Lamkin Crossline grip. Most of the strikes were off the tee and I tried some putter shots as well.
The weather was moderately windy, and I didn’t use any extra tools to improve shot angles or accuracy.
My Experience with the Fujikura Ventus Blue 5
Right from the get-go, I felt the Ventus 5 shaft was a better fit for my driver. While I liked the look of the shaft, it didn’t provide any overwhelming feel. Thankfully, the shaft wasn’t overly stiff, and I got my preferred launch.
Be it a putter shot or striking off of the tee, the shaft was stable and consistent. Even when I was hitting low on the toe, it wasn’t very punishing due to its low spin. I was impressed by the flight path of my shots and most of them hung in the air for a long time.
Fujikura Ventus Blue 5 Reviewed
Let’s get into the ratings now to find out how well the Ventus Blue 5 performs.
● Look and Feel (4 Stars)
From the three versions, I prefer the blue shafts over the black and red ones. The blue looks elegant with its silver accentuated markings. Although the Ventus 5 has a very different feel, it’s not overwhelming or particularly impressive.
On a positive note, Ventus 5 offers customization options, and you can choose from various flex options. This way, you get to pick the right flex based on your specific swing characteristics.
● Launch and Shot Stability (4.5 Stars)
When it comes to launching at your preferred angles without losing stability, the Ventus 5 shines. The VeloCore technology makes the shaft incredibly stable at impact and optimizes energy transfer.
Even when I was hitting off-the-center, the club head didn’t twist much. Unlike the heavier Blue shafts, the Ventus 5 launches at a softer angle.
From my testing, I got higher launch angles averaging 15° to 17°. Therefore, it’s a perfect pick for players with slow swing speed who want more control at impact.
● Ball Speed and Distance (5 Stars)
Thanks to the Accelerated Taper Design and lightweight shaft material, the shaft easily picks up speed and effectively transfers it to the ball. The noticeable distance gains for many golfers.
I was getting 5 to 10 yards of extra distance with lesser muscle activation. And for the ball speed, it delivered 1 to 2 mph extra compared to shafts of the same specs.
● Forgiveness (5 Stars)
As the stiffer tip of the section increases stability at impact, I noticed straighter ball flights even for my mishits. The shaft also reduces unwanted hooks or slices.
If you’re looking for a smooth transition and tighter dispersion off the tee, the added forgiveness of this shaft will be an ideal partner on the course.
● Accuracy (3.5 Stars)
Although the Ventus 5 is great for hitting off the tee, it’s not the best for precise putting shots. It might be due to the differences in stiffness between the tip and midsection. However, once you get used to the shaft, you might achieve more accurate shots.
● User Reviews (4.0 Stars Avg.)
Most regular players like the performance of Ventus 5 over their previous shafts. However, some are disappointed as it doesn’t match their swing style and preferences. Overall, it’s got a good load of 5-star ratings across various platforms.
Who Are the Ventus Blue 5 Shafts for?
- Players with Slow Swing Speed: An ideal choice to get the ball in the air and improve their game.
- Players with High Swing Speed: Not suitable as it negatively affects their swing and launch characteristics.
- Professional Players: No tour players use the Ventus 5 shaft, so it’s best for regular players only.
Alternatives to the Ventus Blue 5
Here are some excellent alternatives to the Ventus 5 shaft for a wider range of players:
Ventus Black 7
Pros
- Combines an ultra-tip and handle with a stiff midsection to deliver maximum stability
- VeloCore technology increases club head MOI and ball speed
- Incredibly strong multi-material core and long-lasting PHANTIUM finish
- Low torque and low spin to shape the shots accurately
Cons
- Might be too heavy for beginners
ACCRA FX 3.0 100F
- Lightweight, easy to pick up higher speed and velocity
- High-launch profile, smooth feel at impact
- Improved accuracy and control
- High torque and responsive kick enhance the feel of the shaft
Cons
- Less stable
Project X HZRDUS Smoke Green RDX 70
- Tighter head tracking and minimized clubhead deflection at impact
- Offers a powerful and responsive feel that translates to explosive distance gains
- Mid-launch profile for ideal peak height and increased carry distance
- Straighter and more consistent ball striking for aggressive swing tempos
Cons
- Too stiff for slow swingers
Our Verdict on Fujikura Ventus Blue 5 Review
If you’re a beginner looking forward to improving your speed, the Ventus 5 is an ideal choice. Its tour-inspired profile and super-strong core ensure a premium feel and enhanced longevity.
The perfect use of this shaft would be to get the ball in the air at a high launch angle. However, it’s definitely not a good match for fast swingers.