Fujikura’s tweener shaft profiles get the VeloCore+ upgrade, rounding out the TR line with updated low and mid/high release options.
When Fujikura launched the Ventus TR Blue VeloCore+ earlier this year, I figured it was only a matter of time before the Black and Red got the same treatment. That time is now. Fujikura is expanding the TR VeloCore+ line with updated versions of the Ventus TR Black and Ventus TR Red, giving the rest of the TR family access to the same construction improvements that made the TR Blue update worth paying attention to.
Will we see a TR White? Who knows? (I don’t.)
TR concept (a rapid refresh)
If you missed the TR Blue part, here’s the short version. Ventus TR profiles are placed between models in the standard Ventus line. They’re pincer shafts—stiffer than their color-matched Ventus counterpart, but not as extreme as the next step down the launch/spin scale. In general, if you’re swinging enough to load a TR, you’ll probably see lower launch and less spin than you would with the standard Ventus equivalent.
What’s new with the VeloCore+ is the pairing of Fujikura’s Spread Tow material with the updated VeloCore+ construction. The promise is more stability, tighter distribution and improved power transfer without changing the launch and roll characteristics that define each profile. If you liked the original TR Black or TR Red, the VeloCore+ versions should feel familiar but perform better.
Ventus TR Black VeloCore+
The original Ventus TR Black was, to put it charitably, not for everyone. It was sandwiched between the standard Ventus Black and a piece of armor, making it one of the strongest aftermarket driver shafts you can buy. Low launch, low spin and a tip section that didn’t suffer fools. If you had the speed to charge it, it was a laser. If you didn’t, it was a ground ball.
Fujikura says the new version is more playable while still delivering what players expect from a Ventus Black profile. The TR Black VeloCore+ is stiffer in the midsection and very stiff in the tip and grip compared to the TR Blue, while maintaining its low/low character for faster swing speeds. But word is that the profile has been brought back just enough to be less punitive without losing its identity.
This is a welcome fix. A shaft can be low release and low spin without being so hot that it only works for guys who hit 180-plus on the ball speed gun. Making TR Black more accessible without turning it into something it’s not is the right call.
Wind TR Red VeloCore+
On the other end of the spectrum, the TR Red VeloCore+ is slightly softer in the mid and top sections compared to the TR Blue, offering a mid-to-high release with extra spin. It’s designed for golfers who need help on both fairways and sits between the standard Ventus Red and Blue.
That’s the one I’m curious about. I’ve been a TR Blue guy for a few years now—a happy one, for the record—but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t at least a little curious, especially in fairway woods where higher flight and extra spin are often desirable. There is a version of my game where TR Red on a cheap wood makes a lot of sense and I’m probably overdue to explore it.
What about black? That ship has sailed. I used to be a Ventus Black guy. A proper one. Then age, injury and general lack of body intervened and I moved to a TR Blue guy. I’d like to think I could earn my way back, but that would take some mouthing off and some work, and honestly, maybe I can get one at a high level.
Complete lineup of TR VeloCore+
With all three profiles now updated, here’s how the TR VeloCore+ family ranks.
TR Red: Medium/high launch, higher rev. The most TR-friendly option for players who need help picking up the ball and keeping it in the air.
TR Blue: Mid launch, low spin. The middle child. Stiffer on top than the standard Ventus Blue without being as demanding as the TR Black.
TR Black: Low launch, low spin. The stiffest option in the TR lineup, it’s now said to be more playable than its predecessor.
All three share the same VeloCore+ and Spread Tow construction, so the differentiator is simply the profile. Choose the profile that matches your swing and course goals and let the build do its work.
Price and availability
The Fujikura Ventus TR Black VeloCore+ and Ventus TR Red VeloCore+ will be available at retail beginning April 20th through authorized Fujikura Charter dealers and select OEM order programs.
MSRP is $350, in line with the TR Blue and the rest of the Ventus VeloCore+ line. Both models are available in weights ranging from 50 to 90 grams and regularly through extra-stiff flex options for driver and fairway woods.
Fujikura does not apply MAP pricing, so street pricing is at the dealer’s discretion. OEMs have some flexibility in upgrade pricing as well, though with the need to maintain margins where they are, expect most to control every penny.
For more information or to find a Charter Dealer near you, visit FujikuraGolf.com.
