What Golf Ball Should I Use? The Comprehensive Guide with QUIZ in 2024

What golf ball should I use? A common question when you’re looking to replenish your supply after hitting all your balls out of bounds and into lakes. With so many options, making the right choice for your swing speed and skill level can be difficult.

That’s why we put together this guide to help you determine which is best suited for your needs to get your game up a notch!

Here we’ll look at how different aspects of design affect performance when it comes to golf balls, from materials used down to aerodynamics.

Short Summary

• Find the right golf ball based on your skill level, swing speed, and desired characteristics.

• Compression affects distance, spin & feel so consider expert advice or test different balls.

• The best golf ball on the market is unsurprisingly the Titleist Pro V1, but is it the right ball for your game?

Understanding Golf Ball Types

Golf balls come in many varieties, all designed to cater to different abilities and tastes. To understand these golf ball constructions better, they are usually classified according to the number of layers: two-piece, three-piece, four-piece, or even five.

At its center lies a core made from either rubber or artificial materials that are encased by one layer (or multiple) plus an outer cover.

When picking out which will be right for you, it’s vital to consider factors such as launch angle/height off the ground on impact with distance traveled being key things.

Professional players should aim at purchasing premium options whereas beginners and high handicappers can go cheaper.

A two-piece hardcover manufactured using Surlyn or Ionomer might work best but someone more experienced may prefer urethane soft covers instead. Examples of some popular types would include Callaway Chrome Softs, Titleist Pro V1’s & Bridgestone Tour Balls meaning there will be something suited specifically to your own personal preference, style playing level, etc.

Ultimately finding the ultimate fit requires taking into account aspects such as swing speed balance between short and long-game performance.

What Our Testing Found

To provide you with the most reliable data, we conducted thorough experiments and investigations on multiple golf balls.

We tested a LOT of balls, and while we did get outputs in terms of launch angles, swing rates and ball speed: it’s pretty clear that most golfers do not want to decipher all this information. To keep it simple, we took a high handicapper (my friend Cameron), a mid-handicapper (myself) and a low handicapper (my friend Lloyd).

Over a couple of weeks we each hit everything on the range and then took our favourites out to the course.

A high handicap (25), Cameron stuck mostly with TaylorMade Distance + balls. He felt they just gave him more distance. This makes sense, given the low compression.

For me (handicap 14), I loved playing with Pro V1’s. There is a reason pretty much every Tour Pro uses them. I’ m not sure how much of this is performance vs me buying into the brand value. The actual best performing ball for my game was the Callaway Chrome Soft balls. The ball flight was reliable and consistent. It seemed to get me up the fairway off the tee and offer a good amount of bite on approach shots.

For Lloyd (handicap 6), the Bridgestone Tour BR X was love at first sight. He is predominantly a Pro V1 guy, but came away raving about his new found ball. He commented that he had never tried it before, but it allowed him to attack greens while keeping big distances off the tee. This was all in pretty heavy winds. They are now in his bag permanently.

Top Picks for Different Skill Levels

We didn’t just test the balls above. We also wanted to give context on the other balls we tested and who they might be suitable for.

Beginner players should consider soft balls with a low spin like:

• TaylorMade Distance+
• Srixon Soft Feel

Mid-level users may be better off with softer covers made out of urethane such as:

• Callaway Chrome Soft
• Titleist Pro V1

At the same time, advanced golfers will benefit more from high-performance offerings that deliver ultimate control plus great spin capabilities including: .

• Bridgestone Tour B RX
• TaylorMade TP5x

Remember it is just an orientation point. What truly matters in choosing a perfect golf ball for yourself is based on how you play, your preferences, and your skill level. So take some time exploring different ones until you determine which suits best your needs!

TaylorMade Distance+ – Best for High Handicappers

Overview and Features

The TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls are designed to provide exceptional performance for golfers with slower swing speeds. With their low-compression core, these balls offer enhanced distance without sacrificing control. The aerodynamic dimple pattern ensures a consistent and penetrating ball flight, maximizing distance off the tee.

TaylorMade golf balls are trusted by professionals and amateurs alike, and Distance+ is no exception.

Pricing

The Distance+ is retailing at $19.99/dozen. These are available in white and yellow colors.

Our View from Testing

I took Cameron with me to the golf course. As a golfer with a slower swing speed, he loved trying out the TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls for 9 holes. Right from the first swing, there wasa noticeable difference in his yardage. The low-compression core helped him achieve greater ball speed, resulting in impressive long shots off the tee. The consistent ball flight allowed him to confidently navigate the fairways, while still maintaining control over the ball.

I must say, TaylorMade once again delivers a reliable and high-performing golf ball option with the Distance+.

Srixon Soft Feel – Best for Beginners

Overview and Features

The Srixon Soft Feel golf balls are the epitome of a soft golf ball, providing an exceptional feel and enhanced performance for golfers of all skill levels. Engineered with a low-compression core, these balls are perfect for players with slower swing speeds, offering maximum distance without compromising control.

The thin and soft cover promotes optimal greenside spin, ensuring precise shots around the green. Srixon Soft Feel golf balls are consistently ranked among the best golf balls in the market.

Pricing

These are priced at $22.99/13 balls a pack. Srixon offers these soft golf balls in white and yellow colors.

Our View from Testing

For the next 9 holes, I asked Cameron to try out this ball. He was also eager to test out the Srixon Soft Feel golf balls. The low compression core allowed him to generate impressive distance, even with his slower swing speed.

Around the greens, the ball displayed control and spin, making it easy to execute accurate shots. Overall, Cameron preferred the TaylorMade Distance +, but there was not a lot in it.

Callaway Chrome Soft – Best for Mid Handicappers

Overview and Features

The Callaway Chrome Soft golf balls are renowned for their exceptional softness and high performance. These soft golf balls feature a high-compression core that delivers impressive distance while maintaining an incredibly soft feel off the clubface. The innovative HEX Aerodynamics pattern ensures a stable and penetrating ball flight, optimizing distance and accuracy.

Callaway, one of the leading golf ball manufacturers, has once again raised the bar with Chrome Soft.

Pricing

The Callaway Chrome Soft golf balls are priced at $49.99/dozen. These are available in white and yellow colors.

Our View from Testing

I was excited to put the Callaway Chrome Soft golf balls to the test. I noticed the incredible softness of these balls. Despite the soft feel, the high-compression core generated impressive distance, allowing me to keep reaching long distances with ease. The HEX Aerodynamics pattern seemed to contribute to a consistent and predictable ball flight, giving me confidence.

Titleist Pro V1 – Overall Best Golf Ball

Overview and Features

The Titleist Pro V1 golf balls are widely regarded as the best golf balls on the market. These premium golf balls are crafted with advanced technology and meticulous attention to detail. With their exceptional performance and versatility, they cater to golfers of all skill levels.

The Pro V1 is specifically designed for players with high swing speeds, delivering unmatched distance, control, and greenside spin. The multi-component construction ensures optimal launch conditions and durability, making the Pro V1 a top choice for golfers seeking ultimate performance.

Pricing

These are amongst the most popular golf balls, priced at $54.99/dozen. The Pro V1s are also available in white and yellow. Additionally, they offer different numbering on the golf ball covers.

Our View from Testing

I also tried out the Titleist Pro V1 golf balls. It is clear why these balls are considered the best in the industry. The combination of distance and control was remarkable, allowing me to confidently attack the fairways and greens. The greenside spin was precise. It enabled me to execute delicate shots around the green.

The Pro V1’s multi-component construction provided a solid feel off the clubface while maintaining exceptional durability. Undoubtedly setting the standard, Titleist has established the Pro V1 as a premium golf ball trusted by professionals and amateurs alike. I really enjoyed the soft feel of the Callaway Chromes, but would never be disappointed to use Pro V1s.

Bridgestone Tour B RX – Best for Low Handicappers

Overview and Features

Bridgestone designed the Tour B RX golf balls to deliver exceptional performance specifically for golfers with high swing speeds. With their innovative technology, these compression golf balls deliver impressive ball flight, maximizing distance and accuracy. The soft urethane cover ensures excellent greenside control and spin, while the gradational core construction enhances overall performance.

The Tour B RX is a must-have for golfers looking to optimize their game.

Pricing

Retailing at $49.99, these are also available in white and yellow colors.

Our View from Testing

My friend Lloyd is an avid golfer with a high swing speed, he had never tested the Bridgestone Tour B RX golf balls before this experiment. The ball flight he experienced was simply outstanding. The combination of distance and accuracy was unparalleled, allowing him to attack the fairways with ridiculous levels of confidence. Around the greens, he said the soft urethane cover provided exceptional control and spin, allowing him to execute precise shots.

The Tour B RX is a game-changer for golfers seeking to maximize their performance with high-quality golf equipment.

TaylorMade TP5x – Best for Maximum Performance

Overview and Features:

The TaylorMade TP5x golf balls are the go-to choice for golfers with fast swing speeds seeking maximum performance. Low-handicap golfers specifically benefit from these popular golf balls, as they are designed to provide exceptional distance, control, and spin.

With its high compression and multi-layer construction, the TP5x delivers a powerful and precise ball flight, making it a top choice for golfers looking for hard, high-performance golf balls.

Pricing

These golf balls are available in white and yellow colors, and they are priced at $49.99/dozen.

Our View from Testing:

These really are a golfer’s choice, and during testing, these balls lived up to their reputation as some of the best in the game. The combination of distance and control was unparalleled. Lloyd unleashed a lot of powerful drives while maintaining accuracy.

The TP5x’s multi-layer construction provided a responsive feel off the clubface, and the high compression offered the perfect amount of firmness for his swing. TaylorMade has undoubtedly created a remarkable golf ball for low-handicap players with the TP5x.

Key Factors to Consider about What Golf Ball Should I Use

The Importance of Compression

When selecting golf balls, compression plays an integral role in the overall performance. Compression is measured on a scale from 40 to 110 and usually falls within the 65-90 range – this figure determines how much it squeezes when struck with force.

If your swing speed exceeds 100 MPH, then you should look for high compressions (above 90), while those whose velocity is 85 – 100 would require a low or mid rate of compression depending on their strength.

The amount of squashiness has important implications as too little can lead to inadequate distance along with excessive spin, whereas if compressed overly there will be fewer rollouts but shots may fly higher than intended.

To acquire the correct degree suitable for one’s game plan, professional advice must be sought after and/or distinctive models tested before results are observed based on personal statistics.

Correcting the optimal level of compaction related to own power helps maximize playing potential dramatically. It impacts all aspects such as travel time, rotation pattern produced by impact plus feel at the contact point which varies immensely between different types existing across market space due to varying densities experienced through each model type available today.

Soft vs. Hard Golf Balls: Which to Choose?

Golfers who prefer more control and feel tend to opt for the softer golf balls, as they are advantageous with slower swing speeds. Conversely, those players wanting greater distance have been known to select hard golf ball options because of their durability.

The type of ball that best suits one’s individual preferences comes down to their personal needs regarding playing style and skill level. It is important to keep in mind that soft golf balls may provide better greenside performance, while harder variants could add extra yards off the tee. However, regardless of the choice you make when selecting a specific golf ball, accuracy should always be paramount.

Spin Control: High Spin vs. Low Spin Golf Balls

When it comes to golf ball spin, control is essential for all types of players. High-spinning balls will provide more maneuverability on the green while a low-spin golf ball offers increased accuracy and range from the tee box. Many things must be taken into consideration when selecting between high or low-spinning balls, including club angle, where one impacts with their shot, and how fast they swing their clubs.

It’s important to note that style preferences come into play as well, high spinning models could prove beneficial to those who aim for precision near the hole whereas someone looking at distance off tees should lean towards getting lower speed variations instead.

Golf Ball Dimples and Their Impact on Performance

Golf balls with their dimples have a major influence on the trajectory and proficiency. These dents in the surface of golf balls give them more hang time, reducing drag which boosts the length and they also create higher spin plus accuracy while playing greenside shots.

Different configurations as well as patterns impact lift forces from air resistance – including specialized aerodynamic designs such as Callaway SuperSoft’s HEX design to cut through wind friction. Being aware of what this effect has on ball performance can be useful when selecting which one would suit you best for your game.

Factoring in Swing Speed

Discovering the correct golf ball for your game starts with determining your swing speed. A slower velocity can be improved by low-compression balls, while faster-swinging players may prefer higher-compression varieties. If you don’t have a radar to measure your swing rate, ask an experienced golfer or professional for help so that you get it right on the first try.

Once you have completed this initial step, narrowing down and choosing the ideal ball will become more accessible than ever.

Cover Material: Surlyn, Urethane, and Ionomer

When choosing the right golf ball for your preferences and skill level, it’s important to take into consideration factors such as durability, spin control, and softness. Manufacturers often use cover materials like Surlyn and Ionomer in hardcover balls, which are more resilient against impacts and thus suitable for beginners or high-handicap golfers.

As opposed to those harder ones, urethane covers provide excellent spin control plus a softer feel that intermediate-to-advanced users would enjoy using during playtime. Understanding how each material benefits you is key when selecting the ideal golf ball!

Resources and Quiz: Find Your Perfect Golf Ball

If you want to find the best golf ball suited for your needs, try taking a quiz. This will allow you to consider factors such as handicap and swing speed to select the ideal choice of golf ball for yourself. You can also take advantage of tools like Vice Golf’s Ball Recommendations tool, which takes into account six different metrics when finding suitable balls for players. We strongly advise taking time out and exploring all your options if you hope to improve your performance on the course. It all starts with choosing the right golf ball!

Which Golf Ball Should You Use

Golf ball selection can be a tricky process. Here are some tips to help you better understand what matters when choosing the right one. Firstly, consider your skill level and desired performance characteristics such as spin rate or trajectory before making your decision.

Swing speed is an important factor – more advanced golfers with faster swings will benefit from expensive balls offering increased control and spin while slower-swinging beginners may find cheaper options just as effective. To figure out how fast you’re swinging, there are several ways: professional assessment at a driving range or radar-based solutions for self-assessment in practice sessions.

Finally, each ball typically lasts about three to four rounds of pure golfing action!

Which Golf Ball Should I Use Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know Which Golf Ball to Use?

Golfers who want to determine the best ball for their game should look at their swing speed. We suggest those with a slower motion go for an 80 compression or lower.

While those with faster swings require 100 compressions and above. For players whose swing speeds fall into the middle range, it is wise to select one of 90 compression-rating golf balls. Taking time in choosing the correct type of ball can have a massive benefit on your performance overall. Ultimately, this makes finding that perfect golf ball key!

What Golf Ball Does Tiger Woods Use?

Bridgestone specially designed the Tour B XS TW Edition golf ball to meet Tiger Woods’ needs on the course. This particular ball offers extra distance off tee shots. An increased spin for greater accuracy with approach shots, tailored perfectly to his swing speed. It is made exclusively for him as a perfect fit so he can make the most of each round.

How Do I Choose The Right Golf Ball for My Swing Speed?

When selecting the right golf ball for your swing speed, choose low compression if you are swinging less than 85 MPH. You should use mid-compression if the speed is between 85 and 100 MPH. While higher levels of compression apply for swings faster than 100.

How Do I Know My Swing Speed?

To measure your swing speed, you have a few options. Firstly, handheld devices such as radar guns can collect this data. FlightScope is an online program that uses 3D tracking technology. It provides more detailed information on the golf game including ball speed and spin rate.

Finally, for comparison purposes, one could refer to the average swing speeds of professionals playing at the PGA. Tour level – thus getting a good indication of where they might stand in terms of velocity performance. In conclusion, thanks to these sources it’s easy enough to obtain accurate insights into one’s swing speed metrics!

How Does Compression Affect Golf Ball Performance?

Choosing the right golf ball is essential for optimizing your swing speed and creating optimal distance, spin rate, and feel. Golfers with slower swings should go for a lower compression rating on their balls. While those with faster speeds ought to pick ones that have higher compression ratings. This will ensure you are playing at your peak potential when it comes time to tee off!

Summary

Researching to find the right golf ball for your skill level and swing speed is essential. Now that you are well-informed, it’s time to get out there and give it a try! Remember, selecting the correct golf balls can make an immense difference in your gameplay. So take care when making this important decision. However, our best pick overall is still the Titleist Pro V1

This guide has hopefully furnished you with all of the details necessary as far as finding perfect-fit golf balls goes. Thus allowing you to have a fully enjoyable experience while playing some great rounds of golf! Good luck!