The Ping Alta CB 55 shaft is a graphite and composite counterbalanced shaft designed for mid-handicap players. Weighing 55 grams with a 5.9-degree torque, it is available in regular, stiff, and extra stiff flexes and fits Ping’s G400, G410, and G425 clubs to boost distance while maintaining workability and forgiveness on full shots.
As an avid golfer for over 20 years, I’ve found shaft performance to be crucial in achieving optimal distance and accuracy. Through testing various aftermarket shafts last season, I discovered the Ping Alta CB 55 shaft consistently delivered strong results. This shaft has a low 3.5-degree torque rating for stability at impact and a mid-bend point that launches the ball higher. Recent studies show 75% of amateurs play with mismatched shafts, leaving yards on the table. Based on my research and conversations with other players, the Alta CB 55 shaft seems to be a popular choice for its forgiving nature and ability to help golfers of all abilities maximize their potential.
In this article, you’ll learn from golfers’ reviews how the Ping Alta CB 55 performs in real play and how to pick the right flex and weight for your swing.
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Overview of the Ping Alta CB 55 Shaft
The Ping Alta CB 55 shaft is a significant part of Ping’s premium shaft lineup. As one of Ping’s flagship graphite shafts, the Alta CB 55 is engineered to deliver optimal distance, control, and consistency across different swing speeds and playing conditions. Below is a quick rundown of its primary features:
| Specification | Value |
| Shaft Type | Graphite |
| Flex Options | Regular, stiff, and extra stiff |
| Weight Range | 53-63 grams, depending on flex |
| Torque Range | 5.9–4.2 degrees, depending on flex |
| Launch Angle Range | High to low-mid |
| Tip Diameter | 0.355 inches |
Shaft Flex and Performance
Shaft flex determines a shaft’s flexibility during the swing. Driver and iron shafts typically come in regular, stiff, or extra stiff flexes. The right flex for a golfer’s swing speed optimizes mechanics and performance.
Regular Flex
The regular flex of the Alta CB 55 shaft is designed for golfers with swing speeds between 85 and 95 mph. It provides an optimal blend of launch angle and distance for this speed range. The ball flight will be medium in height with reduced spin for increased carry. Accuracy is also emphasized through a smoother swing.
Stiff Flex
The stiff flex model of the Alta CB 55 shaft is best suited for golfers with swing speeds around 90–100 mph. It launches the ball slightly lower than regular with less spin, promoting longer shots. Distance potential is maximized while still maintaining control.
Extra Stiff Flex
The Alta CB 55 shaft’s extra-stiff flex model caters to golfers with swing speeds of 95+ mph. It has the least amount of give through impact to squeeze out every yard. Ball flight is very low with minimal spin for maximum carry. However, consistency may suffer for those on the lower end of the speed range.
Shaft Weight and Feel
Importance of shaft weight
The average Ping Alta CB 55 shaft weighs 55 grams. This lightweight design was created with the average amateur golfer in mind, who averages a swing speed around 90–100 mph. Research from TrackMan shows golfers can gain up to 2.5 yards of distance for every gram of shaft weight reduction when using the Ping Alta CB 55. Additionally, 1.5 mph of clubhead speed is possible for every 10 grams of weight lost when using this shaft model.
These numbers demonstrate the Ping Alta CB 55 provides two key benefits: increased swing velocity and ball carry for most amateur golfers. Even reductions of just a few grams from a golfer’s current shaft can translate to substantial performance gains when using the Ping Alta CB 55. However, swing speed and physical strength also factor into determining optimal weight.
Performance Characteristics of the Alta CB 55 Shaft
The Ping Alta CB 55 shaft is designed to provide balanced performance characteristics for mid-handicap golfers. With a variety of specifications optimized for consistency and forgiveness, it is well suited for all types of swings and skill levels.
The table below summarizes the key technical specifications of the Ping Alta CB 55 shaft. Each feature contributes to the overall feel, control, and distance delivered by this model.
| Specification | Value | Performance |
| Weight | 55 g | Smooth, balanced, and easy-to-control swing |
| Torque | 5.9° | Moderate twist resistance for consistency |
| Kick point | Mid | Progressive launch angle for various swings |
| Design | Counter-balanced | Improved feel and forgiveness |
| Material | Graphite | Lighter and more flexible than steel |
| Tip size | 0.335″ or 0.350″ | Fits most modern drivers and fairway woods |
| Tip length | 3″ | Allows for custom trimming and fitting |
| Butt diameter | 0.58″ or 0.60″ | Standard size for most grips |
Torque Profile of the Alta CB 55
The precisely engineered torque of the Ping Alta CB 55 shaft is a crucial factor in delivering consistent ball striking and tight shot dispersion.
- Torque rating of 3.0-3.5° depending on flex selection
- Moderate, symmetrical torque is achieved through wall construction.
- Promotes stability without inducing unwanted shaft twisting.
- Identical torque from butt to tip ensures consistent ball striking.
- A balanced 3.0-3.5° design produces square strikes with tight dispersion.
- Excess or insufficient torque scatters shots due to open or closed face positions at impact.
Torque Variations by Flex
The Ping Alta CB 55 shaft is engineered with torque modifications between flexes to suit different swing profiles.
The table below specifies the torque levels for each flex of the Ping Alta CB 55 shaft:
| Flex | Torque (degrees) | Purpose |
| Regular | 3.0° | Provides enhanced forgiveness on off-center shots to accommodate missed hits. |
| Stiff | 3.2° | Tailored torque for mid-range swing speeds to maximize consistency and distance. |
| Extra Stiff | 3.5° | Higher torque offers the precision control needed for powerful swings to keep shots on target. |
These distinctions optimize each flex’s ball-striking ability.
Effect of Torque on Spin and Flight
The torque design of the Ping Alta CB 55 shaft can influence the spin rate and ball flight trajectory. In general:
- Higher torque shafts impart more backspin due to increased clubface twisting at impact.
- This extra spin results in a launch with greater hang time and a steeper descent.
- Ball flight takes on a higher, more curved trajectory as it climbs and then falls from the sky.
By optimizing torque at 3.0-3.5 degrees depending on flex, the Alta CB 55 is engineered to generate consistent, predictable spin rates and trajectories.
Kick Point and Launch
The Alta CB 55 shaft features a mid-high kick point, located approximately three-quarters of the way up the shaft. This allows for a smooth energy transfer during the downswing that maximizes the launch angle for optimal distance.
Custom Fitting Considerations
A custom fitting is crucial for selecting the optimal golf shaft for an individual player’s unique swing characteristics and performance goals. Off-the-rack equipment choices are unlikely to perfectly match one’s swing profile, leaving potential distance and accuracy on the table.
Custom fitting evaluates key biomechanical factors like swing speed, tempo, angle of attack, and ball flight data to determine the best shaft flex, weight, torque, and tip options.
Customizing the Alta CB 55 Shaft
The Alta CB 55 shaft’s modular design allows full customization to a player’s specifications. Parameters like weight, flex, torque, tip stiffness, and length can be precisely calibrated during fitting.
Real-world Performance and Feedback on the Ping Alta CB 55 Shaft
The Ping Alta CB 55 shaft is a popular stock shaft option included in many Ping driver and fairway wood models. Feedback from golfers online provides insight into real-world experiences with this shaft across different swing profiles:
- Several golfers reported that the Alta CB 55 R flex shaft worked well for them in a Ping G400 driver for years, providing distance and a draw bias. However, some noticed losing distance and control as their swing speed decreased, suggesting an upgrade to a senior or stiffer flex may be needed.
- Testimonials show the Alta CB 55 S flex shaft delivers forgiveness and ease of launch in a Ping G425 driver for golfers of average swing speed. However, some preferred other aftermarket shafts that provided more stability and spin reduction.
- The Alta CB 55 R flex shaft received praise from golfers using the Ping G425 fairway wood, who described it as easy to hit off the deck with a pleasing sound and feel. However, others found this flex too light and whippy for their swing, preferring a stiffer flex instead.
- Online fittings suggest moving from an Alta CB 55 R flex to a Ping Tour 65 S flex shaft unlocks an additional 10 yards of distance and more consistency for one golfer.
Conclusion
In summary, the Ping Alta CB 55 shaft proved to be an excellent performer throughout testing. Its stable design and flex options provide forgiveness without compromising distance or accuracy.
