Here's everything you need to know about picking the right golf ball for your game.
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There’s the wrong way to find a golf ball for your game, like, say, foraging in the woods or grabbing the first sleeve you spot on the rack.
Then there’s the right way: by doing your research and understanding which ball type is best suited for your swing and game-improvement needs.
Identifying the right golf ball can have a big impact on your performance, from your distance to your accuracy to your overall feel. This is why if you want to maximize your ability, it’s essential you understand how to select the right golf ball.
Many pros and coaches recommend selecting a ball that performs well from the green to the tee, rather than focusing only on how far a ball flies off the tee. This means prioritizing a ball that performs well on your approach shots and short game (putting, chipping) before considering its driver performance.
Here are several important points to consider when ball shopping:
Understand your skill level
Your skill level plays a major role in choosing the right ball. Beginners and high-handicap golfers benefit from balls that provide extra forgiveness and distance, while advanced players may prioritize spin control and feel.
Beginner/High Handicap: Look for two-piece balls with a durable cover and lower compression for extra distance and straighter shots.
Intermediate: Consider a three-piece ball with added spin and control while still maintaining distance.
Advanced/Low Handicap: A multi-layer (three- to five-piece) “Tour” ball will provide precision control, spin and soft feel for better shotmaking.
Think about your short-game needs first
Most of your scoring opportunities happen around the green. The majority of strokes in a round occur within 100 yards, so a ball with good spin, feel and control on approach shots, chips and putts will help you lower scores.
Spin and stopping power are other important characteristics. A ball that provides adequate spin allows you to stop shots on the green, giving you more control over approach shots and chips.
A softer ball also will offer better feedback on the greens, improving distance control and consistency.
Driver distance should be secondary
While distance off the tee is important, most modern balls offer sufficient length. If a ball helps with your short game but is slightly shorter off the tee, it can still lower your overall score.
How to test a golf ball from green to tee
Putting and chipping: Test how the ball feels off the putter face and how it reacts to short chips.
Pitching and approach shots: See how well it stops on the green with wedge shots.
Iron play: Evaluate control, trajectory, and spin.
Driver performance: Ensure it provides acceptable distance and accuracy off the tee.
Compression: Matching the ball to your swing speed
Compression refers to how much the ball compresses upon impact. Choosing the right compression level based on your swing speed can improve distance and control.
Low Compression (Below 70): Ideal for slower swing speeds (below 85 mph), these balls offer a softer feel and greater distance.
Mid Compression (70-90): A balance between distance and control, suitable for moderate swing speeds (85-105 mph).
High Compression (Above 90): Best for faster swing speeds (above 105 mph), providing better control and workability.
Why cover material matters
Golf balls come with two main cover types:
Surlyn covers: More durable, provide less spin, and are ideal for beginners or players who prioritize distance.
Urethane covers: Softer, offer more spin and control, making them preferred by advanced players for short-game precision.
What is spin rate?
Spin affects how the ball reacts on the green and in the air. The right spin rate can improve your performance:
Low spin: Reduces side spin and enhances distance, great for those who struggle with slices or hooks.
Mid spin: A balanced option providing both distance and short-game control.
High spin: Increases greenside control and stopping power, beneficial for skilled players who want to shape shots.
Weather considerations
Weather can affect golf ball performance, so factor in climate conditions:
Cold weather: Use a lower compression ball, as cold air makes golf balls feel firmer and reduces distance.
Windy conditions: A low-spin ball will help maintain a straighter flight path.
Budget: Finding the best value
Premium balls offer better performance, but they come at a higher price. If you tend to lose balls frequently, consider mid-range options that still offer quality without breaking the bank.
Building on a career that has spanned more than 20 years in the golf industry, McCormack has spent the last six years of his career serving as the Vice President of Tour and Education for True Spec Golf. During that time, he curated the training program for the True Spec fitting staff and pushed for more continuing education curriculum. As well as managing their Tour department and building relationships with a multitude of OEM partners. Prior to joining the True Spec team, McCormack worked with several of the industry-leading manufacturers as a Master level Fitting Professional. In addition to being an instructor and partnering with the Golf Channel Academy as a lead instructor and brand-agnostic Fitting Professional. He has also worked with R&D teams to assist in product design, testing, and development for a variety of gear releases. He is a golf enthusiast and lives in the gear space!
