Choosing the Right Golf Ball

All golf balls are the same, right? The truth is, if you are already a low handicapper, the type of golf ball you use does not matter as much. Those with a high handicap want to do all they can to improve their game. It seems impossible for these little guys to impact our scores very much, but after reading this article, you will understand how picking the right golf ball can make you a better golfer. If you genuinely want to improve, take the time to learn about different balls and their purposes.  

There are many types of golf balls and brands, each formatted for different kinds of players. High handicap players want to choose soft/distance balls. 

What’s in a golf ball?

Many factors make up the golf ball, including a number of layers, compression ratings, and spin rate. 

Golf balls are made of many layers surrounding a core. The core is a pressurized rubber that is extremely hard and considered the engine of the ball. The outside cover is usually made of urethane or surlyn. Many tour performance golf balls have up to four layers, creating high compression. Two-piece balls are designed for high handicappers and average players. Their large core and thin outer layer allow for max distance and forgiveness. 

"What is compression rating?" you may ask.

Well, compression is how much the ball compresses upon contact. Low compression balls need less speed in the swing to compress a ball effectively, making them suitable for beginners. High compression balls require faster swings. 

Spin rate

The spin rate on the golf ball is, obviously, the speed at which the ball spins. Low spin balls generally go farther than high spin balls. Side spin is a big problem with newbies, so high handicappers would benefit from low spin balls like the TITLEIST AVX 2020 GOLF BALL.  Of course, the ball isn't the only element that creates spin, but if you are making sure the angle of impact, the club path, and the club face are all on point, you should see better results with this kind of ball. Less spin=getting the ball where it needs to be. You can also achieve more distance with these balls, as the backspin is significantly diminished. Low handicappers may want more backspin, but if you are just starting your golf journey, backspin is a detriment. 

Types of balls

The four main types of golf balls are tour performance, tour value, straight distance, and soft distance. 

Tour performance balls are made for those with a low handicap and scratch golfers. These are marked by their high spin and high compression ratings. Many people assume the best balls to use are the one's professionals hit. This is not the correct way of thinking, as pros and amateurs have different needs. Pro golfers use tour performance balls like the TaylorMade Pro 2021 V1 Golf Ball, and they are one of the most common balls on regular courses. I suspect that most people using this ball would benefit more from a soft/distance ball. 

Tour value balls are similar to tour performance but at a better price. These typically have three layers (as opposed to four) and a lower compression rating. These are a good option for those who want tour-styled balls at a less hefty price tag. Check out the TITLEIST TOUR SPEED 2022 GOLF BALL .

Straight-distance balls have a large core and thin outer layer. These balls don't perform as well in short game but allow for great distance. They fly straighter than tour balls and have less spin. These are made for mid-range handicappers. The Bridgestone e6 is an excellent choice for those who prioritize distance.

Soft distance balls are made for amateurs with low swing speeds. Their low compression and 2/3 piece construction allow for more distance and less spin. This is the best choice for all high handicappers. The Titleist TourSoft is a great choice as it is one of the cheaper golf balls.

Advanced golfers have strong control over distance, but newbies need more help. This is why high handicappers should use soft/distance balls. The "soft" indicates a low compression ball for players who have a swing around 85 mph. 

A good general rule to go by is: the more layers, the better the player. People trying to improve their game should focus on 2-3 layered balls. You should also make sure to be consistent after finding the ball you like the most.

Golf balls are a lot more complicated than you thought, right? There are so many elements that go into the perfect ball so it may take time to find the one for you. Borrow your golf pal’s balls or try them before you buy.