The Best Golf Balls of 2021
Many golfers have watched their buddy pull a scuffed up and dingy golf ball out of their bag on the first tee, only to slice it into oblivion. Although morning stiffness is the cause of many bad golf shots, so are golf balls ill-suited for the swing of the player. For some reason, many players believe that you have to be a single digit handicapper before you can intentionally play a specific golf ball. The truth is, you’ll never get to be a single digit handicap golfer if you don’t understand your swing, your game type, and the best golf balls that fit your game. The bottom line is that the golf ball matters…a lot.
Each of the big companies make a golf ball type for the many types of swings used by amateur golfers. Our aim is to help readers pinpoint the best golf ball for their game. Rest assured, all of the best golf balls on this list conform with USGA rules and are perfectly legal to use in tournaments. We’ve broken down our best golf ball reviews into two categories: 1) The Best Golf Balls of 2021, and 2) The Best Golf Balls for Weekend Golfers. While we initially focused on the every day player, we have become inundated with requests to review premium golf balls as well. Now that we’ve covered a wider range of products, you should find exactly what you’re looking for below.
Whether you’re someone who plays competitively at a golf club or someone that just gets out on the weekends, this article should provide you with the information that you need to choose the best golf ball for your game. With that said, here are our recommendations:
The Best Golf Balls of 2021 are:
- Titleist Pro V1 (best overall premium golf ball)
- Taylormade TP5x (best premium ball for distance)
- Titleist Pro V1x (best golf ball for high spin)
- Callaway Chrome Soft (best premium golf ball for the money)
- Bridgestone Tour B RX (best premium golf ball for distance and accuracy)
- Vice Pro (best golf ball by a new company)
- Titleist AVX (best golf ball for soft feel)
The Best Golf Balls for Weekend Golfers are:
- Titleist NXT Tour (best golf ball overall)
- Taylormade Project (a) (best tour quality ball for low swing speeds)
- Titleist Velocity (best golf ball for distance)
- Srixon Q Star (best golf ball for greenside spin)
- Bridgestone e6 (best golf ball for straight ball flight)
- Titleist Tour Soft (best golf ball for soft feel)
- Costco Kirkland Signature (best golf ball for the money)
Although most the best golf balls have similar features, not all golf balls are created equal. Many of the best golf balls offer complex multi-piece components, while others are simpler but more affordable. For example, there are many different “distance golf balls” our there, but there are tiers even within this category. Titleist’s amateur distance ball may be better than Callaway’s, while Callaway’s soft feel golf ball may be better than Titleist’s. It’s important to understand these distinctions and to choose the best golf ball for your game.
[click here for more information on how to choose a golf ball]
What if my golf ball wasn’t on a list?
Although there are a ton of golf balls on the market, we can only rank so many. There are a host of other great golf balls on the market that are fantastic options and worth learning about. If you didn’t see the golf ball that you’re looking for above, perhaps it will be contained in the list below. If a golf ball that you would like to try doesn’t appear on this page, please leave a comment requesting us to review the particular golf ball. We are always happy to hear from you!
Other Golf Balls Reviewed Below Include:
Titleist ProV1 Golf Ball Review
The Titleist ProV1 needs no introduction. It’s easily the most played golf ball in the world. Titleist has dominated the golf ball market longer than any other company. Put simply, they have manufactured the best golf balls for a very long time. Few manufacturers have gained any significant ground on Titleist over the past two decades, but that’s not intimidating companies today. Manufacturers like Bridgestone, Callaway, and Srixon are making some serious headway. That being said, the ProV1 is still one of the best golf balls today.
Who is this golf ball for?
The Titleist Pro V1 golf ball has historically been geared toward advanced players, but with the modern adjustments to the golf ball any player can play the Pro V1 nowadays. Traditionally, this golf ball has been built for mid-trajectory ball flight and a solid amount of spin around the greens. Although it has always spun less than its brother the Titleist Pro V1x, it still spins at rate that is far above many competitors. With the 2021 version of the Titleist Pro V1, Titleist has made a few modifications that seem to make the golf ball playable by more golfers.
The new Pro V1 spins less, has a thinner cover, and features a thicker casing cover. All traits that should appeal to the amateur golfer. Perhaps Titleist is reacting to some of the competition by making a premium golf ball suitable for both good and elite players. Though we always encourage you to play a Titleist AVX over a Pro V1 if you’re afraid of shots ballooning into the air or spinning into oblivion, the new Titleist Pro V1 can be played by way more players.
Thinner cover this year
Titleist takes immense pride in their craft. Titleist still produces and designs the molds used to create their golf balls in the USA using custom-crafted laser engineering before sending the molds overseas to their factories to be used in production. The 2021 version of the Titleist ProV1 has a 17% thinner cover than last year’s model. This gives it a better spin profile around the greens on pitch and chip shots. The new version of the Titleist ProV1 is also fairly firm giving it a little more pop off of the clubface. A recent trend among ball manufacturers tends to focus on the softness of the golf ball a bit too much. Although they made this ball firmer than the AVX, the Titleist ProV1 doesn’t feel hard, it just feels solid.
More Distance, Less Spin
Other than the solid feel, the 2021 Titleist ProV1 has been designed to spin a bit less. The new version has a thicker casing layer that lowers the spin rates on the driver, long and mid irons. Lower spin rates lead to distance gains and players report picking up 5-10 yards on drives and a handful of yards with their irons when using the new ProV1. This is generally a welcomed improvement in the Pro V1 and those who are addicted to spin can easily transition to the Titleist Pro V1x if the middle trajectory and spin rates don’t suit your game.
The Titleist ProV1 is still a three-piece golf ball with a urethane cover but Titleist has introduced a thicker casing layer. This patented three-piece design by Titleist was created after they received feedback from Tour players who wanted to see some added distance without sacrificing too much of the patented high-spin and control around the greens.
Around and On the Greens
The three-piece design of the ProV1 allows it to have a high spin rate on wedges and chip shots. Although the ball spins less, it barely spins less. Titleist somehow added 5-10 yards to this ball without sacrificing too much spin. You won’t have as much zip on this ball as the Pro V1x, you have plenty of control around the green. The cover is also quite durable for a premium ball. This is a welcomed improvement for a ball that costs $4-$5.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Titleist Pro V1 is still a golf ball designed for players looking for a middle trajectory golf ball with plenty of distance and bit around the greens. Titleist’s improvements on the golf ball definitely make this golf ball more playable for more golfers. While Titleist probably didn’t need to improve the ProV1, they’ve somehow managed to do so. Added distance off the tee relative to the prior version, tight spin control around the greens, and enhanced durability make the 2021 ProV1 one of the best golf balls on the market.
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The Titleist ProV1x Golf Ball Review
Most PGA Tour professionals play Titleist golf balls and it’s pretty evenly divided among the ProV1 and the ProV1x. The new Titleist Pro V1x boasts phenomenal features. It’s the higher spinning, higher launching brother of the Pro V1. Golfers who choose the Titleist Pro V1x over the Pro V1 are players looking for a high launch trajectory and low spin off the tee, stop and drop action with wedges and approach shots, a solid yet soft feel on and around the greens. If you’re looking for high ball flight and lots of spin, this might be the best golf ball for you.
Who Is This Ball For?
As we’ve already mentioned, the Titleist ProV1x spins more and launches higher than the ProV1 and is designed for elite players. Particularly those who like to shape shots and really control their wedges. However, if you play this golf ball before you’re ready, don’t be surprised when you hook it into the woods. If it’s not struck properly, it will not produce the desired shot it’s meant to react to the clubface fairly severely. Because of this, it truly one of the best golf balls out there for both distance and spin. From a performance standpoint, the Titleist ProV1x is worth every penny and has proven time and time again why its one of the best golf balls on the market.
The Specs
The ProV1x is a four-piece golf ball featuring a dual core, an inonomeric casing layer, a soft yet durable urethane elastomer cover, and a unique dimple design. The ZG Process Dual Core is responsible for providing exceptional distance off of the tee and from the fairway. The casing layer adds speed on long shots and helps to control the spin rate on shots closer to the green. The urethane elastomer cover provides lasting durability and provides drop and stop action on approach shots. Finally, the spherically tilted 328 tetrahedral dimple design has been engineered to provide a high yet penetrating and consistent flight. Without overloading you with the details of each of these specifications, this golf ball does everything. It flies far, it penetrates the air, and it drops on a dime.
Tee Shots
This ball is long. As we said earlier, it is longer than the Pro V1. It boasts a high launch and with low spin which translates to more distance. It’s complex for piece construction allows it to have these seemingly contradictory characteristics. This is now a scientifically verifiable fact in the golf world thanks to new launch monitor technology like trackman. And the Titleist ProV1x provides the optimal combination of high launch and low spin. You can expect to pick up some yardage off the tee when you put this ball in play making it one of the best golf balls for distance (among other things).
On and Around the Greens
We’ve covered the high launch angle of the golf ball and stop and drop approach characteristics on approach shots. But the ProV1x is also impressive on and around the greens. It is designed to spin more than the Titleist ProV1 and will zip hard around the greens. If you really like to spin your wedges or like to hit one hop stop pitches around the green, this is a great golf ball.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Titleist Pro V1x is simply one of the best golf balls that you can buy. It has staying power for a reason and it’s tough to say there’s a better ball out there. Long off the tee with a consistent flight, stop and drop action on approach shots, and a solid yet soft feel on and around the greens. This golf ball gives you everything you need (except for a good swing).
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Titleist AVX Golf Ball Review
The AVX is a new premium golf ball from Titleist. It’s a sibling to the tried and true Titleist Pro V1 and Titleist Pro V1x. While the Pro V1 and Pro V1x are middle and high trajectory golf balls designed for elevated levels of spin, the Titleist AVX is a lower trajectory golf ball designed for less spin than either the Pro V1 or Pro V1x. With this golf ball, Titleist seems to have either replaced the renowned Titleist NXT Tour or simply plugged a hole between the Pro V1 and Pro V1x lineup. If you’re a golfer that likes a softer feeling golf ball, lower trajectory, and a little zip around the greens, this may be the best golf ball for you. Let’s get into the details.
Who is this golf ball for?
The Titleist Pro AVX golf ball is really built for any player. While some golfers may find that the Pro V1 and Pro V1x balloon up into the air and spin too much for reliable control with the driver, long and mid-irons, the Titleist AVX is built to fly lower and spin less. This makes it a more playable golf ball for more golfers. Although we typically steer high-handicap weekend golfers away from premium golf balls, the Titleist AVX seems to thread the needle between less sophisticated two-layer golf balls and multi-layer premium golf balls. Like any of the best golf balls, the only way to figure out if the Titleist AVX is the best golf ball for your game is to try it out.
Soft Feel
Soft feel golf balls are tremendously popular these days. Everyone loves the responsiveness and the feel of compression that you get when you strike a soft golf ball just right. Harder golf balls sometimes feel “clicky” or “tacky,” and to some players, feel like they rocket off of wedges and the putter face during delicate shots around the green. Although there is a theory floating out there that soft golf balls don’t fly as far as harder golf balls, this hasn’t seemed to drive down market demand for a soft feel. Accordingly, Titleist has given the AVX a soft feel to satisfy the demands of the golfing community without sacrificing distance.
More Distance, Less Spin
Other than the soft feel, the Titleist AVX has been designed for less spin. Lower spin rates off of the driver face lead to distance gains and players report picking up a few yards with the Titleist AVX. However, the best golf balls are so long these days, there’s not much difference between this golf ball and the distance you’ll get with the Pro V1 or the Pro V1x. The reason to play this ball is really all about spin, trajectory, and feel.
Thin Urethane Cover and Large Core
Titleist has re-engineered the design of the new AVX. It features a thinner urethane cover for bite with the wedges and three-layer design to reduce spin off of the tee and to keep the trajectory of the ball from ballooning up into the air. The new AVX also features a larger and softer core. This gives it its soft feel, easy-to-compress characteristic. The casing layer of this golf ball, in addition to the thinner urethane core, give the ball zip around the greens.
Around the Greens
The three-piece design of the Titleist AVX affords it a respectable spin profile on wedges and chip shots. Although the ball spins less than the Pro V1 and Pro V1x, it still checks on the green on properly struck approach and pitch shots. The soft feel profile of this golf ball is also satisfying around the greens. You really get a sense of confidence and control when you have a short iron or putter in your hand and the golf ball feels responsive without that “rocket” feel you can get with two-layer surlyn cover golf balls.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Titleist AVX is no doubt one of the best golf balls of 2021. It will reward properly struck shots off of the tee with great distance and roll due to its lower trajectory and spin profile. However, Titleist’s improvements on the AVX golf ball also make it more playable for golfers who like responsiveness and spin around the greens. These days, you really can have the best of both worlds. While Titleist probably didn’t need to improve the AVX, they’ve somehow managed to do so. If you’re looking for a lower trajectory, soft feel golf ball that spins a bit with wedges, then this is the best golf ball for you.
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Titleist Tour Soft Golf Ball: Best Golf Ball for Soft Feel 2019
The Titleist Tour Soft is Titleist’s replacement for the NXT Tour S and NXT Tour line of golf balls. Titleist decided to make a “mid-level” golf ball for players who don’t want to play/purchase Pro Vs, but are looking for more than just a distance ball. The company is also attempting to keep up with its competitors who are selling soft feel golf balls. Titleist boasts that this is the best golf ball in its category. Titleist has designed this golf ball to fly far, maintain soft feel, and spin around the greens. While these golf balls share many of the same characteristics, as the old NXT Tour S, Titleist has made some improvements. Let’s get into the details.
Greenside Spin and Super Soft Feel
The Titleist Tour Soft has been designed for golfers looking for distance, soft feel, and spin. The Titleist Tour Soft is a two piece golf ball with an extremely soft and large core. Titleist has combined this extra large core with a new cover material that gives the golf ball its distance. Although the NXT Tour and NXT Tour S were three piece golf balls, Titleist has moved towards the two-piece with the Tour Soft. The combination of the new core and cover produce the intended results without the need for a mantle.
How can a ball produce spin, distance, and soft feel?
Dimple Pattern –
The Titleist NXT Tour and NXT Tour S both featured a 302-dimple pattern on a urethane cover. Impressive characteristics, but the Titleist Tour Soft takes the cover design to the next level. The Tour Soft comes with a spherically-tiled 342 cuboctahedron dimple design for the golf ball. This dimple pattern is designed to produce penetrating ball flight and consistent trajectories. Overall, this golf ball is great to play in the wind. Titleist improved the cover design and made a even more impressive ball.
4CE Grafted Cover –
Titleist has produced an all new cover for the Titleist Tour Soft. The new super thin cover is engineered to generate increased greenside spin. This benefit was previously absent when choosing amongst two layer golf balls. Traditionally, two layer golf balls were distance balls and offered little spin, control, or feel. But this golf ball isn’t exactly traditional. The materials used to develop this cover are a blend of four different materials. This cover type was not only designed to create increased spin on this golf ball, but also to accommodate the golf ball’s massive core.
Large Compression Core –
The Titleist Tour Soft contains the largest core Titleist has ever released. The philosophy behind this is simple. The larger the core, the longer the ball flies. In total, the Titleist Tour Soft core is 1.6 inches in diameter. This super soft core generates tremendous ball speed. If you’ve watched the PGA Tour this year, you’ll have noticed that they’ve reduced the amount that they track clubhead speed. Instead, Trackman now tracks ball speed. That’s because ball speed is the true measure of potential distance – so its a good thing the Titleist Tour Soft is engineered to maximize it.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Titleist Tour Soft is a great improvement on an old favorite. The golf ball is a fantastic option for golfers who love soft feel and have swings speed below 100MPH. The Titleist Tour Soft features big distance, is responsive on the greens, and doesn’t feel like a rock. If you’re looking for a soft feeling golf ball that reacts on the greens, but are afraid of hitting wild shots off of the tee, this the best golf ball for you.
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The Titleist Pro V1x Left Dash
The mysterious Titleist Pro V1x left dash started out as a prototype golf ball for professional golfers. The golf ball was intended to provide pros with a unique golf ball whose characteristics were not captured by either the Pro V1 or the Pro V1x. This practice is fairly common. Many pro golfers sponsored by Titleist (and other golf ball companies) play customized golf balls that are tailored to their games (i.e. Tiger Woods’s old Nike ball). The Titleist Pro V1x left dash is essentially a customized golf ball that has been released to the masses. Let’s get into the details:
Titleist Pro V1x Left Dash Characteristics
High Ball Flight
The left dash is a four-piece golf ball with a durable urethane cover – just like the Pro V1x. It has similar high-trajectory characteristics and is intended for golfers who prefer a higher ball flight. However, this is where the similarities end.
Less Spin
The Titleist Pro V1x left dash is built for way less spin that the traditional Pro V1x. The Pro V1x is one of the highest spinning golf balls on the market. Players who liked the high trajectory but not the intense spin prefer to play the Pro V1x left dash to avoid zipping the golf ball off of the green or over cutting/drawing on approach.
Harder Feel
While the Pro V1x is traditionally a soft feeling golf ball, the Titleist Pro V1x left dash has a harder cover and a different core and casing construction giving it a firmer feel. While it doesn’t feel like a two-piece distance ball with a Surlyn cover, it certainly feels firmer than the traditional Pro V1x.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Titleist Pro V1x left dash is a less spinny and harder feeling version of the Titleist Pro V1x. If you like high ball flight and Titleist products this may be the best golf ball for you. If you want less spin but a lower-trajectory soft-feeling goll ball, check out the Titleist AVX.
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TaylorMade TP5 Golf Ball Review
Taylormade is a well-known crafter of golf clubs and boasts the number one selling drivers in golf (the M1 & M2). However, traditionally they haven’t really been known for making golf balls. With the advent of the Taylormade TP5 and TP5x, Taylormade is trying to change that – and they’re doing a pretty good job. The Taylormade TP5 offers you spin, spin, and more spin. This golf ball took 10 years to develop and is a 5-layer piece of engineering marvel that is somehow tournament legal. The RNA and USGA are going to have to do something about golf ball technology soon, but in the meantime let’s explore the best golf ball for maximum spin.
A Flexible Five Layer Ball
Five layers. This golf ball has five layers. Five. Why so many layers? Simple – adding layers to a golf ball is one of the best ways to get a golf ball to react in an optimal way regardless of what golf club you have in your hand. More layers equals more complexity, which equates to a more diverse golf ball. Virtually all players want to maximize spin on their short irons while minimizing spin on their driver. With simple golf balls you sacrifice one or two things to gain something else. For example, with the Titleist Velocity, you sacrifice feel and greenside control to maximize distance. With the TP5 golf ball, Taylormade is trying to allow you to have your cake and eat it to.
The Layers
Urethane Cover and Gripping Layer
This shouldn’t surprise you, but the Taylormade TP5 has a urethane cover. This is common to virtually all premium golf balls and is meant to maximize feel around the greens and spin on short irons and wedges. As long as you strike the ball cleanly, the ball should react consistently with spin. When you explore the layer just beneath the TP5s urethane cover, you’ll find a “rigid” layer underneath. This combination is what makes this one of the best golf balls for spin. This second layer is meant to “pinch” the urethane cover between the club and the rigid layer when the golf ball is struck – generating maximum spin.
Tri-Fast Core
We’ve covered why this golf ball spins so much on short irons and around the greens. Now we’ll cover why this golf ball flies longer than other similar high-spinning golf balls off of the tee. The three piece Tri-Fast core designed by Taylormade is meant to reduce the spin of the golf ball off of the tee just like other multi-piece golf balls. Less spin on your driver prevents the ball from climbing above the optimal trajectory to maximize distance.
However, in addition to the layers meant to lower spin off of the tee, the TP5 features a characteristic that makes it launch higher off of the tee than comparable golf balls while maintaining low ball spin. Launching higher (initially) off of the tee with low spin allows the Tp5 to climb to its apex altitude longer than comparable golf balls and allows it to maintain greater ball speed through elevation. When a golf ball is traveling faster at its peak elevation, it has more carry. This, as you might imagine, translates to more distance.
Great Feel
Your choice of golf ball not only matters when making full swings, but it also matters around the greens. You need to have a golf ball that feels good coming off of your wedges and your putter if you are going to perform at a high level. Thanks to the soft urethane cover we mentioned above, the TP5 has great feel and performance for short game shots.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The TaylorMade TP5 golf ball is one of the best golf balls out there – period. They spent ten years making this thing and apparently it was worth the wait. By creating a five layer golf ball, Taylormade has eliminated the need to sacrifice one characteristic for another in a golf ball. The TP5 was specifically designed to be a direct competitor to the Titleist ProV1 and we think Taylormade has hits it mark. Priced in the same general range, the TP5 should offer more distance and more spin than the the ProV1. If you currently use the ProV1 and are thinking about making a switch, this is the best golf ball for you.
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TaylorMade TP5x Golf Ball Review
The Taylormade TP5x is the brother to the Taylormade TP5. Major golf companies are making strikingly similar golf balls with slightly different characteristics these days. The two different golf balls are meant to appease the two types of elite players. Those who want more spin – and those who want more predictability. This is an increasingly common phenomenon among golf ball companies. Although the TP5 and TP5x are similar, they do provide golfers with slightly different performance characteristics. The TP5x provides golfers with a firmer feel, longer ball flight, lower spin on long irons, and the same amount of spin on wedges. The Taylormade TP5x is basically the distance version of the TP5.
5 Piece Construction
The TP5x like the TP5 is a five-piece golf ball, designed to maximize distance off of the tee and spin with wedges and short irons. The small differences between the TP5 and TP5x lie primarily with spin rates on long irons and feel around the greens. While the TP5 is an extraordinarily soft golf ball that will feature a piercing mid-level trajectory off of the tee and with long irons, the TP5x is built to fly high with low spin for more launch and more roll. If you’re bombing off of the tee already and like to work the ball with your irons, the TP5 may be a better ball choice. If you’d like a little extra distance and don’t mind a lower spin rate on your long irons, the TP5x is the best golf ball for you.
A Little Firmer
For a detailed breakdown of the construction of these golf balls, please check out our review of the TP5. Because these golf balls are so similar, there is no need to repeat that information here. However, the one major construction difference can be found n the compression rating of the TP5x. While the compression rating for the TP5 golf ball is 83, the TP5x comes in at 90. This means the golf ball is a little firmer, which explains why they TP5 is a little softer, but doesn’t fly quite as far.
Around the Greens
Overall, you are likely to see very similar performance from the TP5 and TP5x. Both golf balls are fundamentally built to spin a lot with a wedge in your hand. As we mentioned before, you can expect this golf ball to be a little firmer on chip shots and when you’re putting. The ball doesn’t have an annoying “clicky” sound like distance balls with Surlyn covers, but there’s a noticeable difference between the TP5 and the TP5x. It’s nothing that will distract you, after all the TP5x still has a urethane cover, but it’s something to keep in mind – especially if you love the feel of a super soft ball.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
TaylorMade has broken away from the pack and revolutionized the golf ball. This all new five layer construction allows you to have your cake and eat it too. The TP5x is one of the best golf balls out there for both distance and spin. Even if you are happy with your current premium ball choice, the TP5x should be on your radar. It’s a golf ball that is worth giving a shot due to its impressive performance characteristics. If you like high-spinning premium golf balls, but do not want to sacrifice distance, the TaylorMade TP5x is definitely one of the best golf balls for your game.
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Vice Pro Golf Ball Review
Traditionally, new and smaller companies have struggled to gain footing in the golf industry. The industry is dominated by the big names, such as TaylorMade, Titleist, and Callaway. These are titans that out spend their competition in advertisements and can undercut them in terms of cost. Despite that fact, the last two years have seen a number of smaller companies make a name for themselves amongst the industry giants. One of these companies is Vice Golf. Vice Golf manufactures golf balls and various golf accessories like gloves, hats, and umbrellas. For many, this company represents a breath of ‘fresh air’ in the golf equipment space.
The theory behind their golf business reminds us of Costco (back when they produced the Kirkland Signature). Vice Golf essentially eliminates the middleman in the production line allowing them to offer wholesale prices. When comparing their golf balls to other premium balls, you’ll find that they are much cheaper than Titleist Pro V1 and on par with Srixon’s premium golf balls. For this reason, they’re stealing a lot of market share from the big guys, and for good reason.
The Basics
The Vice Pro golf ball rivals the best golf balls played by elite golfers. This is a premium golf ball that you can play without a premium price tag. The Vice Pro is a three piece golf ball with a 318 dimple design. It has a urethane cover for soft feel and reaction around the greens and is built for solid distance. In addition to being a great golf ball for distance ball that also offers spin, the Vice line of golf balls have their patented S2TG technology that (according to Vice Golf) repairs the golf ball’s outer cover after it gets scuffed.
Dimple Design
The dimple design of the Vice Pro is a bit unique. The 318 dimple design is a bit lower than you might expect, especially when some other best golf balls boast upwards of 360 dimples. However, the lower dimple count is due to the increased size of the dimples on this golf ball, which lowers drag and allows for increased ball speed. More ball speed means more distance. In addition to the increased dimple size, the Vice Pro also features a high speed core to add distance.
Bulk Pricing
By far the most interesting aspect of the Vice Golf line of golf balls is their pricing. They have a refreshing approach to golf that is increasingly common in today’s world. Vice golf has committed to bulk (or wholesale) pricing. Rather than distributing golf balls through the traditional channels (manufacturer, distributor, potential retailer, and then shipping service), Vice Golf sells their product without all of the extra actors. Essentially, Vice Golf has cut out the middle man, which saves you money. This is a very similar approach that Costco used when developing the Kirkland signature. Plain and simple, Vice Golf balls are sold for a lower price than their competitors.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
If you’re a golfer on a budget who enjoys premium golf balls and doesn’t mind trying something new, this is a great golf ball to try. Although playing a Vice golf ball will be something of a leap of faith, golfers tend to really like this ball. When we tried this golf ball on the course we found that it played like hybrid between a Titleist NXT tour and a Pro V. Overall, it had great distance (as it advertises) and checked up on the greens with short irons in hand without spinning so much that it was unpredictable. It’s definitely worth a shot if you’re up for trying something new.
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Bridgestone Tour B X
The Bridgestone Tour B X was made for golfers with lower handicaps who desire a firm golf ball. The Bridgestone Tour B X was designed with control and accuracy as the driving force. This golf ball doesn’t boast crazy high spin rates because it isn’t designed to produce maximum spin around the greens. This golf ball was designed to ensure ultimate control and accuracy while also providing great distance.
Gradational Core
The Tour B X features a Gradational Compression Core. The result of the core design is higher initial ball speed for added distance. It also gives the Bridgestone Tour B lower side spin rates, which ensures accuracy. These characteristics are perfect for golfers looking for accuracy and a bit more distance.
SlipRes Urethane Cover
Like almost all premium golf balls, the Tour B X features a urethane cover, but not an ordinary urethane cover. The cover on the Bridgestone Tour B X features Bridgestone’s proprietary SlipRes technology. This technology makes the cover more durable and provides added feel and control. The cover also offers decent spin rates around the greens, but remember, the Bridgestone Tour B is a distance ball, not a spin ball.
Dual Dimple Design
The Dual Dimple design on the Bridgestone Tour B X features enhanced aerodynamics. The aerodynamic dimple design adds distance as you might have guessed. Most golf ball companies market aerodynamic design for a golf ball’s dimple pattern. The dual dimple reduces drag as the ball takes flight. Although this doesn’t really make the Bridgestone Tour B stand out (because companies design all golf balls aerodynamically), it’s worth noting.
SCT Seamless Cover Technology
The Bridgestone Tour B X also features a seamless cover. Bridgestone’s proprietary Seamless Cover Technology makes the golf ball’s dimple pattern perfectly balanced. As you might have guessed, this feature also “adds” distance – but it was really designed with trajectory in mind. Consistent trajectory translates to consistent distance and control.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Bridgestone Tour B X gives you great accuracy, trajectory control, and distance. It doesn’t overspin on the driver and long irons and may add a few yards to your long game. Around the greens, it will provide some bite due to its layers and urethane cover. But don’t expect it to zip back five feet because it’s not designed to do that. The cover on this golf ball is also durable, an underrated quality in the premium golf ball market. It’s frustrating to play a ball for one round only for it to turn offwhite and lose its pop. The Tour B X is a high-quality golf ball trusted by some of the best players on both the PGA Tour and LPGA Tour. If you’re a low-digit handicap golfer looking for distance and accuracy, this is one of the best golf balls you can buy.
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Bridgestone Tour B XS
This is the ball that Tiger Woods plays. Let’s just start there. After leaving Nike and having his pick of any golf ball on the market, Tiger Woods chose the Bridgestone B XS. Although that doesn’t automatically make this the best golf ball for you, it does mean that it’s one of the best golf balls on the market. It’s principally designed for lower handicapped golfers. You may have guessed this by Tiger Woods choosing to (partially design) and play this golf ball. In comparison to the Bridgestone Tour B X model, the Bridgestone Tour B XS tends to feel a bit softer around the greens. However, the overall construction of the Bridgestone Tour B XS is similar to the Bridgestone Tour B X golf ball with only a few slight (but important) variations. Let’s get into the details.
Gradational Core
The Bridgestone Tour B XS features a Gradational Compression Core. The gradational core is principally designed to deliver high initial ball speeds, which translates to more distance. Bridgestone gave the Bridgestone Tour B XS a low compression rating for a golf ball designed for low handicappers. The compression rating for the Bridgestone Tour B XS is 75. This rating is much lower than one would expect and arguably gives this golf ball its distance characteristics. Another feature of the Gradational Compression Core is a decrease in side spin. This gives the Bridgestone Tour B XS a bit more accuracy than other low compression golf balls. Typically, a golf ball offers less control as it’s compression rating drops.
SlipRes Cover
The Bridgestone Tour B XS has a urethane cover that features Bridgestone’s SlipRes technology. This is the same patented Bridgestone technology that was used for the 330 line of golf balls. The urethane cover on the Bridgestone Tour B XS serves multiple purposes. The cover makes the golf ball extremely durable and also gives golfers added feel and control around the greens.
Dual Dimple Technology
Enhanced aerodynamics is synonymous with speed, improved trajectory, and distance. The Dual Dimple technology featured in the Bridgestone Tour B XS golf ball is aerodynamics personified. If less drag on an airplane makes it fly further and faster than less drag on a golf ball during flight will make it fly further and faster. Bridgestone has improved upon their dimple design in this version of the golf ball. These slight little tweaks sound gimmicky and insignificant but are what make golf balls longer every year. Although this is not a good thing in many circles on the PGA Tour, for average weekend golfers, distance is always a plus.
SCT Seamless Cover Technology
Just like all the other Bridgestone Tour B golf balls, the Bridgestone Tour B XS features a seamless cover. Seamless covers lead to better balance in a golf ball. This, in turn, leads to more accuracy, consistency, and control.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Bridgestone Tour B XS is a high performing golf ball that is played by some of the best golfers in the world. The golf ball’s combination of distance and accuracy is what most golfers are looking for regardless of their handicap. This golf ball was designed with low handicap golfers in mind, but surprisingly has a low compression rating, which benefits slow swing speeds. If you’re a low handicap golfer looking to try something other than a Pro V, Z star, or TP5, this golf ball may be the best golf ball for you to try. If Tiger tried it and loved it, maybe you will too.
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Bridgestone Tour B RX
What if we told you that Tiger Wood’s niece, LPGA Tour pro Cheyenne Woods, plays the Bridgestone Tour B RX golf ball? Well, it’s true. The Bridgestone Tour B RX is designed for low to mid-level handicap players who are looking for both distance and accuracy. Both professional players and amateurs can benefit from increased distance. When you couple increased distance with accuracy, it’s hard to argue against trying the Bridgestone Tour B RX golf ball. The Bridgestone Tour B RX was designed with a very low compression rating for a three-piece golf ball, which benefits golfers with lower swing speeds. For the most part, this golf ball features the same technology as the rest of the Bridgestone Tour B range of golf balls, but with an added emphasis on distance.
Gradational Core
The Tour B RX features a Gradational Compression Core just like all the other golf balls in the Bridgestone Tour B range. The effect of this core is a golf ball that delivers extremely high initial ball speeds. The compression rating of the Bridgestone Tour B RX is lower than both the Tour B X and XS. The Bridgestone Tour B RX has a compression rating of 66 making it even better for players with lower swing speeds. The core’s ability to decrease in side-spin combined with its low compression make it great for both distance and accuracy.
SlipRes Cover
The Tour B RX features an extremely durable urethane cover with Bridgestone’s SlipRes technology. Urethane covers are found on almost all premium golf balls due to the feel and greenside spin.
Dual Dimple
The Tour B RX features the same aerodynamic Dual Dimple design that is found on both the Bridgestone Tour B X and XS. This design provides extra ball speed and distance – especially off the tee.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
If you’re interested in trying out the Bridgestone Tour B line of golf balls and want to add yards off the tee, the Bridgestone Tour B RX may be the best golf ball for you. It offers great distance and accuracy with the three-piece construction that better golfers prefer. Ultimately, this is a pretty straightforward golf ball that does not overpromise. It’s packed with technology and is worth a shot if you’re looking for more distance and control.
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Bridgestone Tour B RXS
The Bridgestone Tour B RXS is the next logical outgrowth of the Bridgestone Tour B line of golf balls. This golf ball is made for mid-low handicap golfers who are looking for increased distance in a premium golf ball, but who also love soft feel. This golf ball features a very low compression rating (the lowest of all of the Bridgestone Tour B Line) and will add yards to your game without feeling hard and clicky.
Gradational Core
The Bridgestone Tour B RXS features a Gradational Compression Core just like the other golf balls in the Tour B line. The Gradational Compression core produces extremely fast initial ball speeds that lead to maximum distance off of the tee. The Gradational Compression Core also decreases side spin to enhance accuracy. The one stand-out feature of the Bridgestone Tour B RXS Gradational Compression Core is its compression rating. The compression rating of this golf ball is a 64. That makes it the easiest golf ball to compress in the Bridgestone Tour B line. If you don’t have a fast swing speed, want to reduce side spin off of the tee, and want to try out a Tour B line golf ball, this is the best golf ball for you.
SlipRes Cover
The Bridgestone Tour B RXS features the same slipres cover as the other Bridgestone Tour B line golf balls. Nothing to add here except that the golf ball has been engineered to have soft feel. This is in part due to the urethane cover and in part due to the golf ball’s mantle and core. If you like soft feel (think Callaway Chromesoft), then you’ll like the Bridgestone Tour B RXS.
Dual Dimple
The Bridgestone Tour B RXS features the same Dual Dimple design as the rest of the Tour B line of golf balls. This is meant to reduce drag and increase distance.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Tour B RXS is a technology-packed golf ball that can compete with the best golf balls currently on the market. If you are seeking maximum distance combined with a soft and forgiving feel, then the Tour B RXS is without a doubt the ball for you. Some golfers might not realize how big of a difference playing the correct ball makes but it can really transform your game for the better if you play a golf ball that is fitted to you personally.
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Srixon Z Star Golf Ball Review
Who is this Golf Ball For?
The Srixon Z Star golf ball is a premium golf ball designed for players that shoot in the single digits. Srixon and Cleveland golf merged a number of years ago and virtually all Cleveland staff players on tour switched to the Srixon Z Star when it was introduced. If you can get players to switch from Titleist to a new golf ball, you’ve produced a quality product. As a premium golf ball, you can expect this ball to spin more on short irons and react more when shot shaping. In that regard, it’s not for the average weekend golfer and may not be the best golf ball for you. Although this golf ball doesn’t have any real “standout features,” it boasts affordability. If you’re looking to play a premium golf ball and don’t want to break the bank, this is one of the best golf balls for the money.
The Basics
The Srixon Z Star golf ball is a three piece golf ball. With companies like TaylorMade making a five piece golf ball these days, it’s not jammed with tech like some of the latest technology. That being said, a three piece golf ball has plenty of technology to get the job done. If you’re not convinced, the Titleist Pro V1 is a three piece golf ball. The Srixon Z star boasts a 338 speed dimple pattern that improved the ball flight and green side control of this golf ball when compared to previous models. The Srixon Z star is not the longest golf ball on tour, its not the one with the most spin, but it’s a great “value” premium golf ball. Because a dozen can be about $20 less than the competition, it’s one of the best golf balls for the money.
Off the Tee
As we already mentioned, golfers find the Srixon Z Star to be fairly long off the tee and with long irons, but it’s not the longest ball out there. Srixon markets this ball as having a high launch angle (beware high ball hitters), so it’s a great option for you low ball hitters. Off of the tee you want optimal ball flight, not too high and not too low. If you already hit the ball sky high, you may want to try the TaylorMade TP5x or the Bridgestone B330.
From the Fairway
You may gain a few yards when hitting your long irons if you play the Srixon Z star. The high launch angle tends to get the ball up in the air a bit better with 5-iron and 4-iron in hand. This is welcomed news for us, and may be something that you can benefit from too. We’ve also found that when combining the stopping power of the Z Star with the high launch angle, we got the ball to stick closer to its landing shot on long iron approach shots. Think of that 180+ yard par 3 or a long par.
On and Around the Greens
Premium golf balls like the Srixon Z Star really shine on and around the greens. This golf ball is no different. It has a urethane cover like all other premium golf balls, but also boasts “spin skin” technology. This is Srixon’s patented cover that supposedly spins more around the greens. Fro what we can tell, this is largely a marketing gimmick as this golf ball does not spin as much as a TaylorMade TP5 or Titleist Pro V1. That being said, it still offers a lot of control around the greens. The Z Star feels very soft on short shots and reacts well to properly struck wedges. While this golf ball isn’t beating down the competition, its priced way better. Not to beat a dead horse, but this is the best golf ball for the money if you’re looking for a high flying, high spinning premium golf ball.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
As the flagship ball from Srixon, the Z Star is a great option. If you like the feel and playability of a premium golf ball but don’t want to spend $4 every time you lose one, this is the best golf ball for you.
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Srixon Z Star XV Golf Ball
Who is this Golf Ball For?
The Srixon Z Star XV golf ball is a premium ball designed for elite players on a budget looking for more distance through increase ball speed and penetrating ball flight. As with other manufacturers, the “X” seems to designate a slightly firmer feeling golf ball that is built to fly further down the fairway. If you find the Srixon Z Star too soft with for your game and want to add yards without sacrificing meaningful spin, the Z Star XV could be the best golf ball for you.
The Basics
Srixon has come a long way in the past 7 years or so. Like many other companies who have recently made headways in the golf ball industry, Srixon is beginning to make waves. Srixon has risen to challenge some of the best golf ball manufacturers on the market. They’ve done this by creating high quality golf balls like the Z Star XV at a slightly lower price than their competitors. The Z Star XV is a technically a four-piece golf ball featuring Srixon’s Dual Energetic Gradient Growth core. The inner core is larger and softer while the outer core is harder and thinner. This combination allows for maximum distance on all shots.
Off the Tee
The Srixon Z Star XV is long. It’s definitely a few yards longer off the tee than the Srixon Z Star. The Z Star XV provides added distance because of the previously mentioned Dual Energetic Gradient Growth core and the optimally designed 338 Speed Dimple Pattern. The dual core provides added and sustained ball speed while the dimple pattern reduces drag. As we all know, more ball speed and less drag equal more distance. Srixon also pays very close attention to the precise production of their golf balls and players note a consistent and penetrating flight with the Z Star XV as a result.
From the Fairway
You should expect your iron shots from the fairway to go a few yards farther with the Z Star XV as well. The distance gains of the Z Star XV tend to stay consistent when hitting shots with shorter clubs because of the dual core. Though it feels a little firmer than the Z Star, this golf ball is far from feeling like a rock. The Z Star XV feels pure when struck solidly from the fairway.
On and Around the Greens
When playing approach shots with short irons, golfers tend to focus more on the feel of a golf ball. It’s important to feel like you are in control when you’re hitting a shot from 130 yards and in. As we’ve discussed, the Srixon Z Star XV is a little firmer than the Z star, but this doesn’t take away from the playability of the golf ball. The Z Star XV has a urethane cover and still has plenty of feel on wedges, pitches, and chips. In addition to the playability and feel on approach shots, the Srixon Z Star XV still has plenty of spin around the greens. This is due in part to Srixon’s SpinSkin technology. SpinSkin is the name given to the patented coating of the Z Star XV cover and provides a more consistent spin rate around the greens.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Srixon Z Star XV is a premium golf ball designed for elite players who are on a budget and looking too add yards to their game. This premium golf ball will provide you with everything that you need without breaking the bank. Priced about $20 below the Titleist Pro V1, the Z Star XV is one of the best golf balls on the market for elite players.
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Callaway Chrome Soft Golf Ball Review
Who is this Golf Ball For?
Most of the best golf balls on the market are designed for elite players. They are meant to reward well struck shots, and as a result, unintentionally punish those that are not. Callaway has done something slightly different with the Callaway Chrome Soft. They’ve designed a golf ball that can be played by a wide range of players. This is similar to Bridgestone’s approach to the golf ball, and perhaps its a direct response. The Callaway Chrome Soft is technically a premium golf ball and Phil Mickelson uses a slightly modified version (with more spin) on the PGA Tour. But the version of the golf ball available to the public is well crafted, muted for slower and less accurate swings, and is reasonably priced at around $35 per dozen.
For these reasons, the Callaway Chrome Soft is one of the best golf balls for the money. On top of that it’s a great option for better players that want to move from a two piece golf ball to a three piece but are not ready for the technology jammed into a Titleist Pro V1 or a Taylormade TP5.
The Basics
Based on the name, you can probably guess that the golf this golf ball has a soft feel. But the Callaway Chrome Soft is much more than another soft golf ball. The Chrome Soft is a three-piece golf ball with a Soft Fast core and an incredibly soft feeling DuraSpin cover. This combination provides a low-compression golf ball for lower spin on drives, woods, and long irons but higher spin rates on shorter shots, pitches, and chips.
Off the Tee
Usually when a ball has “Soft” in the name, we think that it a trade off for the soft feel is distance off of the tee. But the best golf ball technology has come a long way and the best golf balls on the market today are designed in a way that gives golfers the best of both worlds. Callaway has designed the Chrome Soft to defy the average golfer’s expectations. The Soft Fast core allows for increased ball speed with drivers and long irons, while the Hex dimple pattern allows for a penetrating flight and stability in the wind. Not only is this one of the best golf balls for the money, but it will save you strokes.
However, please don’t think that this is a miracle ball. It’s simply a golf ball that offers you the best of both worlds. It’s not the golf ball with the most spin and it’s not the golf ball with the most distance, its simply pound for pound one of the best golf balls for the money. If you’re looking for pure distance, play a distance ball (like the Titleist Velocity).
From the Fairway
Players report exceptional feel with little to know distance losses with the Chrome Soft from the fairway. This makes sense as the biggest distance gains and losses tend to happen with the longer clubs. Again, the Hex dimple pattern proves itself useful for shots from the fairway as it provides a consistent and penetrating flight.
On and Around the Greens
This is where the Chrome Soft really shines. Phil Mickelson has said that playing the Callaway Chrome Soft improved his short game. And Mickelson is nothing short of a magician with a wedge in his hands. The Chrome soft feels fantastic on pitches and chips and provides a consistent spin rate to add a new level of control to your short game. This golf ball also feels very soft off the putter face. If you like to really “feel” putts, chips, and pitches, you should definitely consider this golf ball.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Callaway Chrome Soft is a fantastic option for players that are exploring the world of premium golf balls. This golf ball doesn’t overload golfers with too much spin, but allows better players to really control their spin rates with short irons and wedges. This golf ball also won’t cost you yardage off of the tee and is fairly inexpensive when compared to other premium golf balls. All told we think this is one of the best golf balls for the money and worth a shot if you’re looking to move up from a Titleist NXT Tour or Taylormade Project (a).
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Bridgestone Tour B330 Golf Ball Review
In the past, Bridgestone was known as the company in the car business that made golf balls. They weren’t well respected and not that many people played them. All of that has changed. Today, Bridgestone is synonymous with golf and some of the best players play their golf balls. As we all should know by now, even Tiger Woods plays a Bridgestone (when he plays). The B330 Tour golf ball, is among the best golf balls on the market today and is impressive premium golf ball for players with fast swing speeds.
Who is this golf ball for?
If you didn’t guess by the name, the Bridgestone Tour B330 is not meant for mid or high handicap golfers. The Bridgestone B330 is a golf ball designed for better players with fast swing speeds. However, keep in mind that there are a variety of B330 models available. Depending on your skill level and personal preference, you don’t necessarily have to play at a high level to find a golf ball in this ‘family’ which works for you. That being said, we would recommend anyone with a slower swing speed to check out the Bridgestone “e series” golf balls, which are meant for slow swing speeds and to minimize spin. But back to the Tour B330. The basic B330, which is the one we are talking about in this article, has been popular among pros and low handicap players for a long time.
Swing Fast
To get the most from the B330, you need to swing really fast. If you don’t know you’re swing speed, then you probably don’t swing fast enough to play this golf ball. But for reference, the average amateur (driver) swing speed is between 80-90 mph. That’s 25-15 mph slower than you need to swing to play this golf ball.
Fast swing speeds are necessary with this golf ball due to its firm compression. This means its harder to “smash” this golf ball, which transforms potential energy into kinetic energy (ball speed). However, the firm compression of the Tour B330 makes it great for high swing speeds. If you can swing your driver 105 mph, you’ll see serious results. If you don’t swing that fast, don’t worry – Bridgestone still has plenty of golf balls for you. Specifically, check out the B330 RX. The Bridgestone RX is built for swing speeds below 100 mph and won’t cost you yards off of the tee.
Standard Urethane Cover
The Bridgestone B330 golf ball has a urethane cover. Urethane covers are pretty standard today for premium golf balls. Urethane covers gives golf balls excellent feel and spin, especially on with short irons and wedges. The best golf balls with urethane covers consistently record higher spin rates than golf balls with other cover materials. However, one of the biggest drawbacks of urethane covers is their lack of durability. If you hit the cart path or a tree with this golf ball, it will get scuffed which can effect ball flight.
Affordable!
When shopping for a premium golf ball, the ruled used to be that most of the best golf balls cost about the same price. You would have been hard pressed to find a dozen of the best golf ball for under $45. However, there’s a current trend among start up premium golf ball companies and some of our old favorite companies to end the madness. Although the name brand super sellers still cost around $50, alternatives are getting cheaper. The Bridgestone Tour B330 is significantly cheaper than a box of Titleist ProV1’s. At times, you can find this golf ball for $15-20 below the price of a Titleist Pro V1.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Bridgestone B330 is one of the best golf balls on the market. If you have a fast enough swing speed, this is definitely a fantastic option. It is long off of the tee, zips around the greens, and has piercing ball flight when struck properly. While this is not the best golf ball for players with swing speeds under 100 MPH, it is definitely the best golf ball for the money for those who swing fast.
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Bridgestone B330-S Golf Ball Review
The Bridgestone B330 has become popular amongst the best golf balls. Many professionals and low-handicap amateurs are playing this ball because of its performance characteristics, durability, and overall playability. It’s an all around solid golf ball that is typically priced well below its competition. The Bridgestone B330S golf ball is the higher spinning brother of the Bridgestone Tour B330. Think of the relationship between the Titleist Pro V1 and the Titleist ProV1x. If you have the swing speed needed to use this kind of ball (over 100 MPH with the driver) and you love a high spinning golf ball, then there’s a lot to love about the Bridgestone B330S.
Who is this golf ball for?
When you hear about the backspin rates of golf balls off of the tee, the modern trend is a ‘less is more’ approach. While this is true in many cases, it’s not always the case. For many golfers, the key to hitting longer drives it in optimizing the trajectory of the golf ball off of the clubface. Essentially, getting more air under the ball so that it can fly farther. For golfers that have low ball flight, a high spinning golf ball can be an advantage. What you should be looking for off of the tee is a perfect balance of spin. Enough to get the ball in the air, but not so much that the golf ball balloons or has no roll when hitting the fairway.
Greenside Reaction
If you’re a fast swinging low-trajectory golfer that could use a little more spin around the greens, this is definitely the golf ball for you. This golf ball famously boasts more spin than the Titleist Pro V1. With the extra spin created at impact, you should see your drives fly higher, and they should carry farther down the fairway as a result. While this one change won’t result in massive distance gains, you can definitely add 5-10 yards while adding more control around the greens.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
Bridgestone makes some of the best golf balls these days, and the Tour B330-S certainly falls into that category. This is a high quality premium golf ball with the performance characteristics demanded by some of the top players in the game. If you have a high swing speed, want to get the ball in the air, and like a super high spinning golf ball, this is the best golf ball for you.
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The Bridgestone e5 Golf Ball
Who is this golf ball for?
The Bridgestone e5 golf ball is one of the best golf balls out there. It’s meant for amateur players with swing speeds between 80-95 mph who hit low trajectory golf shots but do not want to sacrifice spin. The Bridgestone e5 is specifically designed to fly high in the air and land with lots of spin. However, if you tend to slice (or hook) the ball off of the tee and already have high ball flight, this is not the ball for you (consider the e6).
High ball flight and lots of spin:
To start, let’s take a look at why the Bridgestone e5 is one of the best golf balls out there. This golf ball model is focused on providing the amateur golfer with a higher ball flight off of the tee without sacrificing spin around the greens. The Bridgestone e5 golf ball is the only two piece golf ball on the market that features a urethan cover, which usually is found on high-end high-spin golf balls.
The Bridgestone e5 golf ball is specifically designed to get the ball up into the air. Countless amateur golfers often have trouble getting enough air under their shots, and this golf ball helps to solve that exact problem. If you consistently hit low shots that struggle to stop when they land on the green, the Bridgestone e5 is the best golf ball for you.
Why this golf ball flies so high:
From a technical standpoint, the ball has 326 dimples, a urethane cover, and a large core. This is a two-piece golf ball, meaning it is principally designed for distance, but its urethane cover adds spin where you would not expect to find it.
The core –
The core of the Bridgestone e5 golf ball is a large gradational core. It is definitely one of the reasons we think it is one of the best golf balls right now. This feature of the golf ball assists players with slower swing speeds to maximize the velocity of the golf ball as it leaves the face of the golf club. This feature will maximize distance for amateur golfers with slower swing speeds.
The cover/shell –
The shell of the Bridgestone e5 golf ball is made from a hard urethane. This type of soft shell is usually found on the best golf balls which are intended to maximize spin and feel. Urethane covers are less durable than surlyn covers (compare to the e6 and e7), but are preferred for players looking to get their golf ball to react on the green. If you’re an amateur player who looks to shape the ball or hits a low trajectory golf shots, you should stick to urethane covers.
Modified Dimple Pattern –
The Bridgestone e5 golf ball has a modified dimple pattern, which features a seamless 330 dimple design. This new dimple design by Bridgestone is meant to help the golf ball reach peak trajectory (to maximize distance) while increasing the spin rate of the golf ball (for higher ball flight).
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Bridgestone e5 is definitely on of the best golf balls that you can play. If you’re looking for a golf ball that spins around the greens, has soft feel and that you can shape this is the best golf ball for you. If you don’t want a ton of spin off the clubface, then you should consider the Bridgestone e6.
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The Bridgestone e6 Golf Ball: Best Golf Ball for Average Golfers
Who is this golf ball for?
The Bridgestone e6 golf ball is designed for amateur golfers with swing speeds between 80-95 mph who want to focus on hitting the ball straight without sacrificing a soft feel. The predictable straight flight of the Bridgestone e6 is what makes it one of the best golf balls for amateurs. The Bridgestone e6 golf ball is designed to fly as straight as possible – reducing the prevalence of big slices and hooks. If you like the feel of a softer high-end ball, but just simply want to keep it straight, this is the best golf ball for you.
Straight Ball Flight and a Soft Feel:
The Bridgestone e6 golf ball is another golf ball that is aimed at the mid to high handicapper, but don’t get confused, this golf ball is not the same as the Bridgestone e5 or e7. The e6 golf ball has a few traits which set it apart from the e5. This golf ball is meant for the golfer that wants to avoid sidespin off of the tee (slice), but does not want to sacrifice feel around the greens.
The Bridgestone e6 golf ball is meant to be a middle ground between the two-piece golf balls designed to increase distance and the 5 piece golf balls that emphasize maximum spin and feel for low handicap players. With the Bridgestone e6 golf ball, you’re getting the best of both worlds, distance and feel without unintended side spin. However, if you’re a lower handicap player that likes to shape shots and back it up on the green, this is not the ball for you. The e6 is specifically designed to hit straight shots.
Why this golf ball flies straight and feels soft:
The Bridgestone e6 golf ball is a three-piece golf ball as opposed to the two-piece design of the e5. The three pieces of this golf ball include a ‘mantle’ layer which surrounds the core, the rubber core itself, and an soft plastic cover on the outside of the ball. The additional piece of this golf ball acts as an ‘anti-spin mantle’ designed to take sidespin off of your shots as they leave the club face.
The core –
The core of the Bridgestone e6 golf ball is a soft compression core. This feature of the golf ball assists players with slower swing speeds to compress (or smash) the core of the golf ball maximizing distance. The compression core on this golf ball is the softest among any Bridgestone e series golf ball and is great for amateur players who want to hit the golf ball further. This soft compression core also maximizes the feel of the golf ball so that the e6 avoids the hard “rock-like” feel we all hate.
The mantle –
The mantle layer of the Bridgestone e6 may be why it is one of the best golf balls today and gives the golf ball a soft feel. This inner layer of the Bridgestone e6 softens the golf ball to increase the feel of the ball around the green. The benefits of the mantle piece are evident in the e6. The e6’s mantle reduces the spin of the golf ball off of the tee (to avoid a slice or hook) but is soft to increase feel. A very good mix for the amateur golfer.
The cover/shell –
The shell of the Bridgestone e6 golf ball is made from Surlyn, a tough material made for distance golf balls. This shell type is ideal for amateur golfers because it is resistant to scrapes and scuffs that come along with everyday play. Surlyn is harder than the urethane covers that are featured on high-end high-spin golf balls used by professional golfers. Although the drawback is less spin and reaction on the greens, amateur golfers benefit greatly from reduced spin off of the tee and on long to mid-iron golf shots.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Bridgestone e6 is probably the golf ball that we should all be playing right now. It is the best golf ball on the market for straight flight, which puts it near the top of the best golf balls list. The e6 takes all of the guess work out of the game and simplifies the strategy on the golf course. Pick your spots and hit the ball straight. Stop buying the Titleist Pro V1 and purchase a dozen of these. You’ll thank me later.
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The Bridgestone e7 Golf Ball
Who is this golf ball for?
The Bridgestone e7 golf ball is designed for amateur golfers with any swing speed below 95 mph. This golf ball is for those of us who want to focus on hitting the golf ball as long as possible with our current swing. The e7 golf ball is designed to launch off of the club face with little spin at a slight lower launch angle to maximize run yards. If you don’t mind playing a harder feeling golf ball and want to maximize distance, this is the best golf ball for you.
Increase your distance with each club:
The Bridgestone e7 golf ball is one of the best golf balls for distance. It is principally focused on offering amateur golfers maximum distance, plain and simple. All golfers love distance, so any ball that promises to take you farther down the fairway is one that deserves your attention. Of course, when you focus on distance you sacrifice something else. No golf ball on the market will give you absolutely everything you want. What is important to focus on is finding a golf ball that best fits your game. If you’re looking to increase your distance and you’re not concerned about losing a bit of forgiveness, then the Bridgestone e7 golf ball is for you.
Why you’ll crush it with the Bridgestone e7:
The Bridgestone e7 golf ball is specifically designed to give you maximum distance off of the tee. The golf ball doesn’t have a the soft feel of the e6 and doesn’t quite fly as straight, but you will definitely get more yardage out of the golf ball. Unlike other pure distance golf balls, the Bridgestone e7 is a three piece golf ball similar to the e6. Lets get into what that means.
Just like the other two e-series balls, this one also has 326 dimples on its cover/shell. Just like the e6, the Bridgestone e7 features a Surlyn cover which is harder than urethane. The Bridgestone e7 also features the spin reducing mantle that is found in the e6, meaning those two golf balls are closely related.
The core –
The core of the Bridgestone e7 golf ball is one of the main differences between the e6 and e7. While the e6 has a relatively soft core, the e7 features a ‘speed enhancing’ larger core. This core is designed to give you more distance by boosting the velocity of the ball off of the club face.
The mantle –
The mantle layer is what makes the e7 one of the best golf balls for distance. It’s built to reduce the spin of the ball off of the tee. This feature maximizes distance by preventing the golf ball from ballooning up in the air or launching too high. The theory behind this golf ball is maximum explosiveness off of the club face and lots of roll. The mantle of the e7 golf ball is not soft and you’ll notice the pop that it has on impact.
The cover/shell –
The shell of the Bridgestone e7 golf ball is made from Surlyn just like the e6. This is a tough material that is resistant to scrapes and scuffs. The suryln cover on this golf ball will maximize your distance, but will detract from its feel around the greens. Don’t expect the e7 to stop on a dime or launch high in the air, expect it to go far.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Bridgestone e7 can’t be left out of the conversation when discussing the best golf balls for amateurs. However, it is not as long as the Titleist Velocity. If you’re looking for raw distance at any cost, the velocity might be a better fit for your game. However, the e7 provides a mix of low spin and great distance off of the tee and is much more affordable than the velocity. If you’re looking for a low cost high performance distance ball, this is the best golf ball for you.
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The Taylormade Project (a): Best (tour quality) Golf Ball for Amateurs
Who is this golf ball for?
The Taylormade Project (a) golf ball is one of the best golf ball options for mid-level golfers looking for more spin around the greens. This golf ball is designed to behave like a “toned down” tour level golf ball. It can be compared to the Titleist NXT Tour in terms of both price and performance and features a low compression core. The low compression rate of 70 is meant to help out golfers with swing speeds below 100 mph, but virtually all of its other characteristics are built for reactionary performance.
This golf ball can be shaped for those looking to work the ball and will maintain high spin rates around the greens. It is not meant for high-handicap beginners as the spin produced by the urethane cover and mantle will cause the ball to slice or hook if not hit properly. If you’re looking to take your game from the 90s and high 80s to something lower, this is the best golf ball for you. If you’re looking for a cheaper and simpler golf ball that maximizes distance, consider the Srixon Soft Feel.
Workability and Excellent Spin:
Let’s get into the specifics on why the Taylormade Project (a) is one of the best golf balls for mid-level golfers. This golf ball was created for good golfers looking to play more than a simple distance ball. The Taylormade Project (a) is a three piece golf ball with a low compression core, mantle, and high-performance urethan cover. It will move from right to left and vice versa when hit properly and will check on the greens. In designing this golf ball, Taylormade intentionally didn’t place all the emphasis on distance. With a higher priced ball, golf ball manufacturers have the luxury of using better materials, and more of them, to increase performance. That is exactly what Taylor made did here.
Why this golf ball performs so well:
The Taylormade Project (a) has a price point that is a bit higher than some of the other best golf balls for amateurs. This higher price point means that Taylormade has jammed more technology into this golf ball than others. More tech means more performance.
The cover/shell –
The Taylormade Project (a) features a high-performance thin urethane cover. If you’ve read our other reviews, you already know that this means more spin and a softer feel. Virtually every high-end golf ball features a urethane cover. This materials is sticky and soft and creates great reaction around the greens.
The core –
The core of the Taylormade Project (a) has a compression rating of 70. The average tour quality ball typically has a compression rating of 100, so this golf ball has much lower compression. This is a good thing for golfers with swing speeds below 100 mph. The lower the compression rating, the more distance you will get our of the ball.
Mantle –
Like other balls that can be listed among the best golf balls our there, the mantle of the Taylormade Project (a) is meant to reduce driver spin and increase wedge spin. The tech of the golf ball makes it react just like a tour ball around the greens. If you want a comparison, this golf ball will have slightly less spin than a Pro V1x.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Taylormade Project (a) is one of the best golf balls for all around performance. It will fly far off of the tee and feel soft due to its low compression. It will also provide great spin around the greens due to its urethane cover and mantle. In a nutshell, its one of the best golf balls for overall performance. If you want to take your game from bogey golf to the mid to low 80s, this is the best golf ball for you.
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Titleist NXT Tour Golf Ball Review: Best Golf Ball for Amateurs (overall)
Who is this golf ball for?
Overall, the Titleist NXT Tour is the best golf ball for amateur golfers. The NXT Tour is a mid-level ball designed for the high-handicap amateur player. Amateur golfers typically have relatively slow clubhead speed at impact (81 mph). Ultimately, this golf ball is designed for golfers with a swing speeds somewhere near 90 mph. The golf ball is designed to reduce driver and mid iron golf ball spin, which often cost amateurs distance and accuracy. However, golfers who shape the ball can still take advantage of ball spin offered by the NXT Tour on mid and short irons. With the NXT Tour, Titleist has created a golf ball that should be long and straight off of the tee, but reactive around the green. Its diverse characteristics makes it the best golf ball for amateurs.
As is the case with any golf ball, the NXT Tour has multiple features and characteristics. Let’s get into the details of the Titleist NXT Tour.
Low Driver Spin and Soft Feel
The NXT Tour has been designed to give amateur golfers a golf ball that maximizes distance off of the tee while providing spin and soft feel around the greens. It’s a three piece golf ball that is meant to compete with the Pro V1 and Pro V1x. Titleist understands that most amateur players shouldn’t play their top of the line golf balls. At the same, Titleist also knows that most amateur golfers want the ball to fly far and zip on the greens. With the NXT Tour, Titleist is attempting to give the people what they want without giving them what they don’t need. The NXT Tour does exactly that with one of the best golf ball component combinations on the market.
Why this golf ball is long and soft
Dimple Pattern –
The Titleist NXT Tour features a 302-dimple pattern on the cover of the golf ball. The golf ball has a spherically-tiled 302 octahedral dimple design to maximize the aerodynamic nature of the ball. This component of the golf ball creates penetrating ball flight. As we mentioned before, the NXT Tour’s dimple pattern is intended to maximize distance while allowing for consistent performance in a variety of conditions. If you have ever played golf during windy conditions, you know that some golf balls struggle in the wind. High spin golf balls without an aerodynamic design can ballon up into the wind affecting distance and aim. While the NXT Tour is not immune to the wind, it should be able to hold its own thanks to the dimple pattern.
Fusablend Cover –
The Titleist NXT Tour features a fusablend cover material specifically designed by Titleist. This cover is meant to give the golf ball a very soft feel, almost akin the the Pro V1. The soft feel of the NXT Tour is meant to avoid that “clicky” or rock-like feel that plagues many of the cheaper distance balls. This hard feel can be particularly harmful when chipping and putting. It’s always frustrating when the ball unexpectedly rockets of the clubface and doesn’t check. The NXT Tour doesn’t suffer from this problem. It’s soft upon impact and has a great spin rate on short irons that gives the ball the consistent bite we all desperately want.
Dual Core Design –
The NXT Tour golf ball features a dual core design with a soft center. In fact, the center of the golf ball is 66% larger than previous models of the same ball. This larger core reduces the amount of spin produced on longer shots. A high spin rate on shots hit with your woods and long irons can often lead to an untimely slice or hook. With the large dual core, the NXT Tour helps reduce an unwanted high spin rate for increased consistency outside of 150 yards. Most golfers will find that the NXT Tour offers a bit more distance and predictability off of the tee than the Pro V1 or Pro V1x.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Titleist NXT Tour is a fantastic golf ball for amateur golfers. This is one of the best golf balls off of the tee and maintains its spin and soft feel around the greens. Because most amateur golfers truly should not be playing Pro V1s, this is a great alternative. With the dual core and fusablend characteristics, Titleist has killed two birds with one stone and created one of the best golf balls for mid to high handicap golfers.
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Titleist NXT Tour S Golf Ball: Best Golf Ball for Soft Feel 2017
The Titleist NXT Tour and NXT Tour S golf balls are very similar in both design and purpose. Both golf balls are designed for distance and greenside spin. While these golf balls share many of the same characteristics, the key difference between the NXT Tour and NXT tour S comes down to softness and feel. Unlike the NXT Tour, the NXT Tour S is a two piece golf ball with a large soft core. This means that upon impact, the NXT Tour S will feel very soft and will have excellent compression. Though you may sacrifice a bit of distance off of the tee, if you put a premium on soft feel, this is the best golf ball for you. Let’s get into the details.
Low Spin and Super Soft Feel
The NXT Tour S has been designed for amateur golfers looking for low spin off of the tee but soft feel around the greens. The NXT Tour S is a two piece golf ball with a soft cover that features a super large and compression friendly core. With the NXT Tour S, you’ll feel the ball crushing at impact from driver to wedge. This “crushing” feel is a high smash factor that gives the ball great distance and great feel. The NXT Tour S is one of the best golf balls for players who want the best of both worlds (distance and spin), but hate playing a hard golf ball.
Why does this golf ball feel so soft?
Dimple Pattern –
Just like the Titleist NXT Tour, the NXT Tour S also features a 302-dimple pattern on the cover of the golf ball. This is the same spherically-tiled 302 octahedral dimple design for maximum aerodynamic quality. The NXT Tour S will have little spin off of the tee and will play great in the wind. In this regard, there is virtually no difference between the cover of the NXT Tour S and that of the NXT Tour.
Fusablend Cover –
Just like the dimple pattern mention above, both the NXT Tour and NXT Tour S have the same type of fusablend cover. Fusablend is a tough but soft cover that gives you great feel and great durability. Not only will this golf ball react on greens, but it is more durable than more expensive golf balls. This is because fusablend is a more durable material than urethane, which is used on high end high spinning golf balls (think Pro V1 and Pro V1x).
Large Compression Core –
The real difference between the NXT Tour and the NXT Tour S lies in the core of the golf ball. It’s large and soft core is what makes the NXT Tour S the best golf ball for players looking for soft feel. While the NXT Tour has an inner core and an outer core, the NXT Tour S has a single large core. This large core maximizes compression on impact and gives the golf ball is soft feel. You can also expect the NXT Tour S to have a moderate height on shots due to the low spin rate. This means that your driver and long irons won’t balloon up into the atmosphere.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The best golf balls for soft feel players often sacrifice other important characteristics. The NXT Tour S is no different in that you will lose a bit of distance off of the tee. Nonetheless, the Titleist NXT Tour S is a fantastic golf ball for amateur golfers that love a soft feel. The NXT Tour S features a low spin rate, is responsive on the greens, and doesn’t feel like a rock. If you’re looking for a soft feeling golf ball that reacts on the greens, but are afraid of hitting wild shots off of the tee, this is one of the best golf balls that you can play.
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Titleist Velocity Golf Ball Review: Best Golf Ball for Distance
Who is This Golf Ball For?
The Titleist Velocity golf ball, as the name implies, is designed for golfers looking to add ball speed to their game. As we all know, increased golf ball speed = increased distance. If you’re strictly looking to add yards to your game, this is the best golf ball out there. This golf ball is purely about getting more yardage out of your driver and irons. Of all of the distance balls, this tops the list of the best golf balls for maximum yardage. It has been specifically engineered to significantly increase ball speed off of the clubface and to produce a high launch angle and lower spin rate. These properties translate to longer drives, longer irons, and longer fairway woods. You’re not going to hit the ball as far as Dustin Johnson, but this golf ball will definitely get you further down the fairway and closer to the green.
Effortless Power
Because the Titleist Velocity golf ball has been engineered to launch high with a low spin rate, you can count on it to add yards to your drives and iron shots. Advancements in golf technology like TrackMan have clearly demonstrated the advantages of a lower spin rate coupled with a high launch angle. Every tour pro is looking to maximize their launch angle and spin rate because it translates to effortless power and lower scores. The Titleist Velocity golf ball will help you achieve exactly that. However, this comes at a cost. Don’t expect this golf ball to zip back on the greens or feel soft off of the clubface. That’s not the point of the Titleist Velocity. The purpose of this golf ball is to hit it further.
Why This Golf Ball Goes So Far
The secret to the Titleist Velocity golf ball is the science behind it. The Titleist Velocity is a two piece golf ball that features a large core. The large core of the golf ball produces added speed off of the clubface generating longer distance. The Titleist Velocity also has a spherically-tilted 328 tetrahedral dimple design engineered to improve the launch angle and the flight of the golf ball. There is no need to swing as hard as you possibly can to get this golf ball to go far (though you might as well give it at least one rip, right?). But be warned, better to land this ball short of your target because it will have a lot of roll.
The Core –
The Titleist Velocity is a two-piece golf ball with a large diameter core of 1.575 inches. The large core can be thought of as the engine that produces the added speed and longer distances of the Titleist Velocity. The core is always the secret to distance and is what makes this one of the best golf balls for added yardage. The Titleist Velocity’s large core is what produces its high ball speeds.
The Cover –
Titleist decided to give the Velocity golf ball a thin NaZ2 Suryln cover. Suryln golf balls are typically used for distance balls due to the efficient energy transfer the cover provides at impact. Suryln is a harder material than urethane (used on soft and spinning balls) and is very durable. While you wont find a lot of bite on golf balls with a suryln cover, the ball will go further. This golf ball will also feel slightly harder than premium golf balls like the ProV1 and Pro V1x on and around the greens.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Titleist Velocity will give you more yardage off of the tee – plain and simple. It’s one of the best golf balls out there for pure distance. Don’t expect it to bite and zip and react on short irons. But know that it will fly farther than most other golf balls. The Titleist Velocity golf ball will give you the distance you need to get more distance out of your longer clubs. If you want more distance and high ball flight, this is the best golf ball for you.
For more information, feel free to check out the video below:
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The Titleist DT TrueSoft Golf Ball Review
Who is This Golf Ball For?
The Titleist DT TrueSoft is designed for beginners and weekend golfers looking for a combination of feel and overall performance. The DT TruSoft is Titleist’s updated version of the old DT SoLo. People loved Titleist’s DT SoLo golf ball, but Titleist decided to rename the golf ball after making a few improvements. Now we have the DT TrueSoft. Like most of the cheaper balls designed for amateurs, this golf ball has been designed to reduce spin. Reducing the spin on a golf ball translates to more distance on long irons and fewer erratic shots. At $25-$30 per dozen, this golf ball is also affordable.
Why it’s a Great Golf Ball for Everyday
The Titleist DT TruSoft golf ball is a great “everyday” ball for knocking it around at your local muni. Because the DT TrueSoft spins less, it will benefit your game by helping you avoid “the big miss”. Low spin off of the tee means longer drives and shorter approach shots. The DT TrueSoft, as the name implies is a soft feeling golf ball at an affordable price. While it’s not a pure distance ball like the Titleist Velocity, it’s designed to give you the best of both feel and distance without sacrificing affordability.
The Core –
The Titleist DT TrueSoft is a two-piece golf ball with a very low compression core designed to enhance feel. Because the ball is designed to produce lower spin rates with drives and long irons, you still get plenty of distance while reaping the benefits of its soft feel. Because of its super compression characteristics, the ball will not “click” off of the face of your clubs. It will have a more spongy and receptive feel when striking the ball.
The Cover –
Titleist gave the DT TrueSoft a super soft pure ionomer cover. The cover also features a spherically-tilted 376 tetrahedral dimple design. The dimple design and ionomer cover combine to give this golf ball the ability to spin lower with longer clubs and higher on short shots and chips. But again, this ball is all about the soft feel. It is principally a more affordable version of the Titleist NXT Tour S.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
If you have a swing speed below 90 mph and you’re looking for an affordable ball with great feel, this is the best golf ball for you. The Titleist DT TrueSoft golf ball in an impressive improvement on an old favorite (DT SoLo). While not as long as a distance ball (Velocity) this is an affordable golf ball with tremendous feel. The Titleist DT TourSoft improves your short game through its overall feel and it feels like a dream with a putter.
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Srixon Q-Star Golf Ball Review: Best Golf Ball for Greenside Spin (amateur)
Who is This Golf Ball For?
The Srixon Q-Star is the best golf ball out there for greenside spin for golfers on a budget. This golf ball is designed for average golfers who want more bite around the greens and control with their short irons. The key to the Q-Star’s great spin around the greens lies in its unique cover characteristics. But unlike other high spinning golf balls, Srixon has specifically designed it to have low driver spin. A great combination for average golfers. If you’re focused more on spin and less on pure distance, the Srixon Q-star is a great fit.
High Launch and Soft Touch
A little secret about the Srixon Q-Star and Z-Star golf balls is that the “STAR” is actually an acronym. The “STAR” stands for Spin, Trajectory, Acceleration, and Responsiveness. The combination of these factors produces both distance and control. The Srixon Q-Star golf ball helps you to consistently launch it higher and spin it around the greens on approach shots. Quite simply, its one of the best golf balls out there for checking shots on the green. Every golfer can benefit from that.
Why This Golf Ball Launches High and Lands Soft
Spin Skin Technology –
The Q-Star golf ball boasts an innovation by Srixon called “Spin Skin”. Spin Skin is a special coating on the golf ball that increases the frictional force at impact. The additional frictional force gives the golf ball additional spin. This translates to more touch and feel for greenside chips and pitches. Statistically, improving from 100 yards and in is the key to lower scores. Who doesn’t enjoy throwing darts with their wedges and saving strokes around the greens? With the Srixon Q-Star’s spin skin technology, you stand a much better chance of hitting it closer to the pin.
The Cover –
The cover or outer layer of the Q-Star is constructed from a Rabalon and Pana-Tetra chemical blend. The blend gives the golf ball an overall soft feel and bright white color. It is also more resistant to scuffs and scratches than most other premium golf balls on the market. The cover of the Q-Star is designed for durability and outlasts golf balls with urethane covers. The Srixon Q-Star also features a 324 Speed Dimple pattern engineered to improve the aerodynamic design and reduce drag. This gives you with the ability to hit higher shots effortlessly.
The Core –
The Srixon Q-star’s core is built for long distance and a soft feel. It’s a two-piece golf ball with a large core and a soft cover. It features what Srixon calls an Energetic Gradient Growth core. This core is responsible for the Acceleration of the Q-Star. It transfers the energy generated at impact in the most efficient way possible to maximize distance. The proprietary core technology also accounts for the high trajectory and increased distance of the Srixon Q-Star.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
As earlier noted, the Srixon Q-Star golf ball is one of the best golf balls out there specifically built for amateur players to maximize greenside spin. The exclusive Speed Dimple design allows you to launch the ball higher and helps to optimize spin rates. The soft spin-skin outer coating of the Q-Star provides you with great feel and great control. Additionally, the compression of the ball is a mild 75 which means a subtle soft feel on chips and putts. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a high spinning a premium golf ball that won’t break the bank, this is the best golf ball for you.
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Srixon Soft Feel Golf Ball Review: Best Golf Balls for the Money
Who is This Golf Ball For?
The Srixon Soft Feel Golf Ball is designed for the high handicap golfer who wants a soft feeling golf ball at an affordable price. Obviously, we all can’t hit it like the pros. Intentional shot shaping and consistent control takes thousands of hours of practice. For golfers who don’t have time to spend thousands of hours on the range, simple golf balls are simply better. If you know you have a simple game and that you like soft feel, the Srixon Soft Feel is a great option. Designed to produce a slightly higher launch angle and reduced spin rate, the Srixon Soft Feel golf ball makes finding the short grass much easier while providing an extremely soft feel. Without a doubt, this is the best golf ball for the money.
A Soft Distance Ball?
Yup, a soft distance ball. The Srixon Soft Feel golf ball is a distance ball through and through. The Soft Feel ball has a compression level of 71. This compression level is four points lower than the Srixon Q-Star premium golf ball designed for more advanced players. The slightly lower compression provides a softer overall feel while preserving distance gains. Average golfers often make the mistake of associating soft feel with less distance. The reality is that in today’s world, with all of the technological improvements to the golf ball, you can have soft feel and great distance. Sounds great, right? We think so too, which is why we think this is one of the best golf balls for the money.
How This Golf Ball Adds Yardage
The Srixon Soft Feel golf ball is meant for those of us who naturally have slower swing speeds. On average an amateur swings the club about 81 mph. As we all know too well, this translates to about 230-240 yards of distance off of the tee if we keep it in the fairway. Basically, most amateurs need all the help they can get when it comes to driving the golf ball. Why does this ball fly so far? The answer lies in the compression. Many amateur golfers are mistakenly playing golf balls with compressions that are too high for their clubhead speeds. High compression means the golf ball will back up on the greens, but it will lose a lot of energy in the process. This loss of energy results in a loss of yards.
In addition to efficiently transferring impact energy, the Srixon Soft Feel also produces a high launch angle. Higher launch angles result in increased yardage on all shots (as long as you don’t balloon it). If you tend to hit it short and low, the Srixon Soft Feel could be the perfect ball for your game. Let’s get into the details of this two piece distance ball.
The Core –
The Srixon Soft Feel is a two-piece golf ball with an Energetic Gradient Growth core just like premium Srixon golf balls – like the Q-Star. This core is engineered to promote increased acceleration and longer distances. As we mentioned above, the Soft Feel is all about getting the right level of compression. Many tour quality balls have super low compression levels to maximize spin, which inevitably affects distance to some degree. With the Soft Feel, Srixon is focusing on distance and only distance. A compression core of 71 which is means that it will fly super far.
The Cover –
The Srixon Soft Feel features an outer layer, or cover, made from Ionomer. The cover is softer than most conventional outer layers and is available in Pure White and Tour Yellow for those golfers who like high visability balls. This Ionomer cover is also thinner than previous versions of the Soft Feel. This thinner cover is meant to add a bit of bite around the greens so that you don’t totally sacrifice responsiveness for distance. That being said, let’s not kid ourselves. This is a simple two-piece ball that is meant to do one thing – go far.
Around the greens you can expect this golf ball to run out a bit more on pitches, chips, and putts. That might make you grimace, but it can actually be a good thing. Most casual golfers have a habit of coming up short when chipping. While we’d all like to flop it like Phil, it’s better to actually get the ball closer to the hole. After all, when you add up the score, you don’t get to shave strokes for making a par save look cool.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
If you want a bar that will fly far but feels soft, buy the Srixon Soft Feel. It is designed with the weekend golfer in mind and the price is right. The technology that you get in the Srixon is well worth the low price. The golf ball feels like a tour quality ball, but flies way longer and way straighter. It’s one of the best golf balls for the money and definitely worth checking out.
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The Callaway Superhot 70 Golf Ball
Who is this golf ball for?
The Callaway Superhot 70 golf ball is one of the best golf balls on the market for players looking for distance. This golf ball is designed for super low compression and will fly high and far. This is one of the best golf balls for slower and lower trajectory swing speeds. However, due to its 3 piece design, is also meant to provide some reaction on the greens. But don’t kid yourself, this ball is meant for distance. If you’re in the market for spin, then check out the Srixon Q-Star. Unlike other golf balls out there, the Callaway Superhot 70 comes in a box of 15 as opposed to 12. Honestly, we’re not really sure why Callaway is offering 3 additional golf balls. But at least its a confusing way to get more bang for your buck.
High ball flight and lots of distance:
To start, let’s examine why the Callaway Superhot 70 is one of the best golf balls for distance. This golf ball is focused on providing golfers with a high ball flight off of the tee. Although you never want to hit the golf ball too high, a high trajectory is key to distance. Low ball flight prevents the ball from reaching an optimum trajectory, which sacrifices valuable yards. This golf ball’s low compression core, ionomer cover, and spin reducing mantle makes it long off of the tee.
The Callaway Superhot 70 golf ball is a three piece golf ball designed to reduce spin on longer clubs and rocket off of the clubface. Although there is more to optimum ball flight than the ball you play (driver shaft and loft is huge), it is still important. Countless golfers hit low trajectory shots and wonder why the ball never stays on the green. This golf ball is designed to help to solve this problem.
Why this golf ball flies so high:
A key characteristic that separates Callaway golf balls from other companies is the hexagonal dimple pattern used on its golf balls (more below). In addition to this key characteristic, the low compression level of the golf ball stands out. These two characteristics together make the golf ball fly farther, straighter, and higher. A pretty good combination.
The cover/shell –
According to Callaway, the hexagonal pattern on its golf balls reduces drag on the golf ball allowing it to fly higher and further. This is because the hexagonal pattern reduces the amount of space on the golf ball’s outer layer covered by flat surfaces. Flat surfaces increase drag when golf balls are flying though the air, so the fewer flat surfaces, the less drag. In addition to the hexagonal design, the cover of the Callaway Superhot 70 is made with Ionomer. Ionomer is a harder more durable cover that is great for distance, but not that great for spin. This means longer and straighter drives, but less reaction on the greens.
The core –
The core of the Callawy Superhot 70 is one of the lowest compression core’s in the game. Its compression rating of 70 means that the golf ball is harder than most of the tour quality golf balls. Low compression golf balls are meant for slow swing speeds due to the efficient energy transfer produced when the club impacts the ball. The Callaway Superhot 70 has a higher compression than the previous version of the golf ball (Callaway Superhot 55), but is still much lower than other balls. While it’s not the highest spinning golf ball out there, it will certainly produce more distance.
Mantle –
The mantle of the Callaway Superhot 70 golf ball is meant to reduce spin off of the tee and with long irons. The hexagonal cover of the golf ball (mentioned above) gives the ball excellent workability which is what produces this golf ball’s exceptionally high ball flight. However, this high spin can cause dramatic slices and hooks for amateur golfers. To counteract this effect, Callaway added a mantle to the Superhot 70 to reduce some of the spin.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
The Callaway Superhot 70 is a top contender when choosing amongst the best golf balls for distance. Remember, it is by no means a golf ball that will spin a lot around greens. But if you’re looking for a soft golf ball that will go long, this is the best golf ball for you.
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The Kirkland Signature Golf Ball: Best golf ball for the money
The Kirkland Signature golf ball, which is sold by Costco, has received a lot of hype. When Costco announced that they were producing a high-performance golf ball at an affordable price, amateur golfers went nuts. The golf ball sold out at Costco after its initial release, prompting Costco to publicly apologize to consumers for under-producing the Kirkland Signature. Costco then restocked its shelves only to sell out AGAIN!! I initially thought the logic of the Kirkland Signature golf ball was all about convenience. In other words, you can get tires, milk, and a T.V. at Costco, so why not shop for golf gear there too? It turns out that the Kirkland Signature is more than just a bargain-basement golf ball. Let’s get into why this is one of the best golf balls for the money.
The Cost
The Kirkland Signature golf ball is a high-performance tour quality golf ball. It’s actually proved to be one of the best golf balls on the market, period. It is meant to rival the very golf ball that tour players use to draw the ball around trees on a dogleg and make the ball moonwalk on the green. However, unlike similar products (Pro V1, Pro V1x, Tour B330, etc.), the Kirkland Signature golf ball is priced well below its competitors. While Titleist sells a dozen Pro V1 golf balls for $48 plus tax, Costco sells two dozen Kirkland Signature golf balls for $29.99. The Kirkland Signature golf balls sell for approximately $1.25 per golf ball. This is significantly less than similar golf balls, which typically average $4.00 per ball. Put simply, this is the best golf ball for the money.
Although hitting a $1.25 golf ball into the trees or a pond isn’t as costly as losing a $4 golf ball, there’s more to golf ball selection than price. It is important to remember that you should be choosing a golf ball based on your game. You should never choose a golf ball just because it’s cheap. Kirkland Signature golf balls are high-performance high spinning golf balls. If you’re game isn’t ready for a professional golf ball (hint: it probably isn’t) than these may not be the best golf balls for you. However, we realize that they may be impossible to resist.
Who is this golf ball for?
As we mentioned before, the Kirkland Signature golf ball is a high-spinning, high-performance golf ball. This golf ball is meant for golfers who are looking for great greenside feel and spin. You can work this golf ball if you’re a shot shaper and it will certainly check-up around the greens.
Good Distance and LOTS of spin:
Let’s take a look at what the Kirkland Signature golf ball brings to the table. This golf ball model is focused on providing the low handicap amateur golfer with a high-spinning high performance golf ball that can be shaped from tee to green. This golf ball is likely most similar to the Titleist Pro V1 in terms of performance at less than a third of the price.
The Kirkland Signature is specifically designed with a large core to maximize distance without giving up any control. Typically, high spin golf balls are tough on golfers with slower swing speeds because the technology that contributes to the high spin rates, by its very nature, sacrifices distance. However, the advantage of a four piece golf ball is that Kirkland can offset the drawbacks of trying to maximize distance or spin by adding counterbalancing technology.
Why this golf ball flies so high and spins so much:
From a technical standpoint, the ball has 360 dimples on a urethane cover, an outer core layer, the mantle, and a large core. This is a four-piece golf ball, meaning it is principally designed for both distance and spin.
The cover/shell –
The shell of the Kirkland Signature golf ball is made from urethane. Urethane is the same type of shell used for the Titleist Pro V1 golf ball, and arguably, offers the softest feel of any cover substance or blend. This soft shell is usually found on high end golf balls intended to maximize spin and feel. However, don’t expect this ball to hold up if you hit it into the trees and/or the cart path frequently. Urethane covers are a bit more susceptible to damage due to their soft nature. Remember, a scratched up and rough surface golf ball compromises the flight of the ball and its responsiveness to the golf swing. Playing a damaged ball is like swinging on one leg. It can be done, but don’t expect it to be consistent.
The Kirkland Signature golf ball has a 360 dimple pattern to maximize spin and to create a penetrating ball flight. This dimple design by Kirkland Signature helps the golf ball reach an optimal trajectory while increasing the spin rate. That’s what you get on the outside, now let’s discuss the inside.
The Core –
The core of the Kirkland Signature golf ball is a large and soft core. This feature of the golf ball assists players with slower swing speeds to maximize the velocity of the golf ball as it leaves the face of the golf club. The large core prevents energy generated from the clubhead impacting the golf ball from being lost while the soft aspect of the core allows for maximum compression.
The Mantle –
The Kirkland Signature golf ball features a mantle that is intended to reduce driver spin while increasing the soft feel of the golf ball at impact. What many golfers find with two piece ionomer golf balls is that they feel “clicky” or rock-like when you strike them. The mantle in the Kirkland Signature is meant to prevent the golf ball from ballooning into the air off of the tee (due to lots of back spin on the ball) while allowing the ball to zip when hitting your wedges.
The Outer Core –
The outer core of the Kirkland Signature golf ball is also meant to affect the feel and spin of the golf ball. The advantage of a four-piece golf ball is that the manufacturer can counter balance different properties of the ball to create an ideal universe of factors in the final product. The outer core is a rubber core with varying thickness depending on what the golf ball is designed to do. In the Kirkland Signature golf ball, it is designed to provide the playability and feel that we all desire without sacrificing distance.
Is this the best golf ball for you?
Priced WAY below where it could be, this golf ball delivers just about everything that you get out of the Titleist Pro V1 at less than a third of the cost. Pound for pound this is the best golf ball for the money. This makes it one of the best golf balls period.
The only reason not to buy this golf ball is if you are a mid to high handicapper who does not need this much technology on the course. Any reasonable golfer will tell you, just because the pros play the Pro V1, doesn’t mean that you should. In fact, it probably means that you shouldn’t! But let’s be honest, when we find a Pro V1 on the golf course we get excited because we want to play what the pros play. At least with the Kirkland Signature golf ball, you won’t be hitting a meal at a burger joint or two gallons of gas into the woods every time you slice it off of the tee.
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What Makes the Best Golf Ball the Best?
When we talk about what makes the best golf ball it really comes down to three things, 1) technology, 2) personal preference, and 3) cost. However, there is no top dog on the best golf ball list that will automatically make you a better golfer. If golf were that easy, a lot more people would be playing the game. Despite this unfortunate truth, some aspects of the best golf balls are matters of science and testing. The technological improvements to the best golf balls are objective, which is why the best golfers playing the best golf balls are hitting the ball further than ever before. But you and I are not the best golfers in the world. As such, the best golf ball for Dustin Johnson is likely not the best golf ball for us. For that reason, let’s explore how you can find the best golf ball for you.
Technology: Does it really matter?
Yes, technology really matters. The technology of the best golf balls is hotly contested and highly secret. Our reviews of the best golf balls take tons of testing and data gathering from various sources. However, there’s no doubt that technology has changed the game of golf and is highly important. Yes, the guys on the PGA tour now are more athletic. And yes they play with better clubs than Snead, Hogan, Palmer, and Nicklaus – but Dustin Johnson hit the green from the tee on a 320-yard par 4 with an IRON not too long ago. AN IRON! That’s not a typo. It was amazing. Remember when Tiger Woods was the big hitter on tour because he regularly hit it 300 yards with his DRIVER!? Needless to say, technological advancements are here to stay.
How we got here:
Traditionally, golf clubs tend to get most of the attention when it comes to new golf technology. But golf clubs aren’t the only golf products that are making the game easier and a bit more accessible. Over the past two decades, a stunning amount of research and development (money) has gone into developing the best golf balls. Golf balls like the first generation Titleist ProV1 were game changers. They redefined what it meant to be the best golf ball by flying farther and spinning more around the greens. The best golf balls on the market have only gotten better over time. As a result, a strong argument can be made that the golf ball is actually more responsible than anything else for the incredibly long drives and dart like irons the pros hit every day.
Titleist may have been first out of the gate, but since the debut of the now flagship ProV1, every ball manufacturer has invested heavily in producing some of the best golf balls. TaylorMade, Callaway, Srixon, Bridgestone, Nike and others all produce a version of their own best golf ball. As you might imagine, they all claim to produce the best golf ball on the planet. But here’s a little secret that you may be surprised to hear. None of them are definitively correct, and none of them are definitively wrong (pretty straightforward, right?). Although the lines are blurred, we will do our best to clear things up.
What is the best golf ball?
The best golf balls on the planet tend to have more similarities than differences. Yes, every manufacturer uses their own proprietary dimple design and they patent names for their cores and covers – but in reality the golf ball world is very much commoditized at the top of the chain. The best golf balls tend to boast (and produce) the same features. A solid core engineered for distance and speed and an advanced cover designed to feel soft. Some have mantles, some have high compression cores, some have 5 components, and some have urethane covers – but they’re all trying to do the same things (within their respective categories).
We’ve tested and reviewed the best golf balls from all of the big manufacturers and there is honestly little difference between golf balls that are designed to accomplish a particular goal. What we mean by that is, there’s little difference between Nike’s distance ball and Callaway’s. They’re both going to be similarly designed and they’re both going to accomplish the same thing. These best golf balls for distance will go far off of the tee and won’t spin a ton on the greens. There’s a continuous arms race among our favorite golf companies to produce the best golf ball in the world, but you shouldn’t lose sleep worrying over which one is the absolute best golf ball. What you should concern yourself with is which one is the best golf ball for your game.
How to Choose the Best Golf Ball
Now that we’ve told you that the best golf balls aren’t snowflakes, we are now going to seemingly contradict ourselves and give you advice about how to choose the best golf ball for your game. There is indeed a difference between the best golf balls in different categories. Before, we pointed out that the distinctions between the best golf balls trying to achieve a particular goal are slim. What you should remember is that the difference between the best golf balls trying to achieve different goals is huge. We’ve all seen the slick “V vs. X” Titleist commercial where tour pros say which Titleist ball they play. But notice how none of them say “I play the Titleist Velocity”?
All golf balls are designed with things like swing speed, spin rate, and skill level taken into consideration. As such, to find the best golf ball you need to do an honest self assessment of your game. If you just started playing or have a swing speed in the 80s than you don’t need to play a TaylorMade Tour Preferred or a Srixon Z-Star. The best golf ball for your game is going to be a golf ball engineered for your swing speed and type. If you don’t know your swing speed, head to your local golf shop for advice and a testing. Figuring out how fast you swing the club will take about 3 minutes. In addition to swing speed analysis, many golf stores provide ball fitting services to help you choose the best golf ball for your skill set.
How much do the best golf balls cost?
The best golf balls out there range in price, but are grouped into categories. While two piece distance balls are on one side of the spectrum, five piece tour balls are on the other. Typically a two piece distance golf ball will cost between $20-30 per dozen. Five piece tour golf balls can run you upwards of $50 for a dozen. As we’ve mentioned over and over again at this point, choose the best golf ball for your game first and go from there. However, don’t feel bad about buying Titleist DT Trusoft distance golf balls over Titleist Velocity balls because of cost. The difference between these two golf balls isn’t going to be dramatic (though small differences do exist). What’s far more important, is that you understand that you are playing a distance golf ball and that the distance golf ball is the best golf ball for you.
Now what?
Think about your golf game and be honest with yourself. Figure out what type of swing you have and what type of golf you play. Ask yourself some of these types of questions:
- Do I swing fast or slow?
- Am I having trouble keeping the golf ball in the fairway?
- Do I intentionally shape the ball from right to left (or vice versa)?
- Is adding distance to my drives and long irons important?
- Do I want the golf ball to check more around the greens?
After asking yourself these types of questions rank them in order of importance and figure out what type of golf ball you need to improve your game. DON’T put too much emphasis on spin around the greens, this is a classic mistake for amateur golfers. For example, if you aren’t hitting greens in regulation, does it matter whether the ball spins when you chip it from the rough for bogey ? (hint: it won’t spin from there anyway)
As your swing changes and your game improves you can move up to the best golf balls designed for more advanced players. Until then, the world is your oyster and we recommend trying out golf balls as your game advances. Once you figure out what type of game you have, buy a few sleeves of the best golf balls for your game and head to the course. Experience is the best teacher so try out two or three different brands and models to find out which one really is the best golf ball for you.
Have fun!
