A longer shaft in your driver? It’s working for Justin Thomas.

It’s that time of year on the PGA Tour where players tend to try something a little different.

The Hero World Challenge, where 20 of the top ranked players in the world head to the Bahamas, is the ideal time to scratch any technique or equipment related itches that players might have.

Want to make a big tweak the week before a major? Probably not wise. A few weeks before Christmas, however, is a little more palatable.

Take Scottie Scheffler for example, who caught our eyes with a new grip on the putting green. Eagle eyed viewers will also spot some new drivers making their way into player’s bags.

One man who is also experimenting with something new this week is Justin Thomas. The American has explained why he’s got a new shaft in his driver, after he shot an impressive six-under-par round to get started in Albany.

A new driver shaft wouldn’t usually register on our radar as a noteworthy gear change, but this one is slightly different, as it refers to length. Thomas has added around an inch and a half to the shaft in his driver, taking it to 46”. Incidentally, 46” is right on the number for the longest length of shaft allowed in your driver.

• What’s in Justin Thomas’ bag?

According to Thomas, it’s making a pretty big difference to his game, too. The two time major champion said that he gets around three miles per hour extra ball speed with the driver. That is equating to around eight to 15 yards extra on the course.

“I mean, I’ve messed with a longer driver this offseason and I put it in play today just because with not much wind I felt like it was a good opportunity. I can use it at home, but putting something in and playing it in competition I think is just different.”

Thomas did add, however, that he wouldn’t rush to put this in play at every course, where the stakes might be a little higher and the penalty for missing the fairway a little more severe.

“I want to be able to have that because I think there’s some courses that it’s a huge advantage. This isn’t necessarily one.

“You know, some of those drives that I hit in the, I don’t know if you want to call it sandy area, desert area, whatever the heck it is, you know, those aren’t bad tee shots in a lot of places.”

“It’s something that you can use it all you want at home, but once it’s in competition it’s just a little bit different.

“Again, it’s very specific for courses, but I gave it a try.”

Well, it looks to be working so far. An average drive of 320 yards and a final total of 66 in his first round might be enough to convert Thomas to the longer shaft for good.

Want more on the new gear coming in 2025? Check out the bunkered YouTube channel for all the latest.

Lewis Fraser As bunkered’s Performance Editor, Lewis oversees the content that’s designed to make you a better player. From the latest gear to tuition, nutrition, strategy and more, he’s the man. A graduate of the University of Stirling, Lewis joined bunkered in 2021. Formerly a caddie at Castle Stuart Golf Links, he is a member of Bathgate Golf Club where he plays off four.

Performance Editor