The graphite shaft was introduced in 1973 which offers rigidity, lightness and increased strength over steel shafts. Most amateur golfers still use steel shafted clubs because of their affordability. Taylor-Made was the first company to manufacture metal woods. Only recently have they become more popular than persimmon woods. The most successful club in history is Callaway's over sized wood, the Big Berta which was introduced in 1991.
Today there is an enormous variety of woods to choose from.
The latest trend is woods with titanium heads and graphite shafts which are very expensive. Antique golf clubs are avidly collected and are becoming increasingly valuable.