The golf ball plays a critical role in a golfer’s success as it is the only equipment utilized in every shot. Therefore, it is imperative to choose a ball that matches your swing and playing style.
Whether you are a high handicapper with a slower swing, a mid handicapper with a moderate swing, a senior player, a beginner, or an accomplished individual with a fast swing, there are balls available that cater to your unique needs.
Ultimately, your choice revolves around opting for a soft ball It is possible to select a golf ball with low compression, high compression for a firmer ball, or a variant that falls in between. The golf ball you choose should provide excellent performance from the tee to the green, regardless of your selection.
Within this article, we will assess and compare our recommendations for the finest golf balls, considering diverse brands and budget ranges.
12 Best Golf Balls Of 2023
1. Chrome Soft by Callaway
Securing the top position on our list, the Chrome Soft by Callaway stands out for various reasons:
- It excels as a well-rounded performer.
- It boasts significant popularity and high ratings.
- It caters to the needs of every type of golfer.
- The Chrome Soft has maintained its status as an immensely favored golf ball for an extended period, garnering impressive average ratings on the Callaway store.
With a soft feel and a medium compression rating of approximately 70, the Chrome Soft is crafted to deliver optimal performance from the tee to the green. This translates to substantial distance off the tee, high launch capabilities with irons, and effective spin control around the greens. The ball is also engineered for forgiveness and precise dispersions.
In its latest version, the Chrome Soft features a three-piece construction, including a mantle layer and:
- A new hyper-elastic SoftFast Core designed for optimal compression and performance across the bag.
- A soft urethane cover contributing to enhanced feel and control.
- A standout technology in the new Chrome Soft is Callaway’s Precision Technology, enabling ultra-precise design manufacturing down to 1/1000 of an inch. This results in heightened ball speed, minimized dispersions, and overall improved performance.
Additionally, the Chrome Soft incorporates a HEX Tour Aero dimple design, aiming to maximize carry and reduce drag.
Golfers have lauded the latest generation of the Chrome Soft, recognizing it as a significant enhancement over previous iterations. It offers superior greenside control, an improved feel, and increased distance.
2. Titleist Pro V1
The Titleist Pro V1, alongside the Pro V1x, has earned the reputation of being the “#1 ball in golf” for an extensive period. Renowned professionals such as Scottie Scheffler, Max Homa, Jessica Korda, Louis Oosthuizen, and Tony Finau have opted for this premium ball.
Boasting remarkable ratings, the Pro V1 features a relatively high compression rating of approximately 90, catering to driver swing speeds of 90 mph and above.
The Pro V1 delivers proven performance, encompassing substantial distance, low long-game spin, a penetrating trajectory, and unparalleled greenside spin control. Its three-piece construction comprises:
● A high-gradient core, with a soft center and firm exterior, engineered to generate even lower long-game spin for increased distance.
● A resilient, high-flex casing layer that enhances ball speeds and reduces long-game spin.
● A cast thermoset urethane cover, facilitating maximum short-game control and spin around the greens.
● The latest iteration of the Pro V1 features a spherically tiled 388 tetrahedral dimple design, aimed at promoting enhanced distance and a consistent, penetrating ball flight.
Available in white, and yellow, and customizable with personalization, the Pro V1 combines excellent durability with a pleasingly soft feel, particularly with shorter irons. It proves beneficial for players seeking to lower excessively high ball flights off the tee and reduce spin with mid and short irons.
However, it’s important to note that unlocking the full potential of the Pro V1 is more attainable for skilled golfers, making it less recommended for beginners or high handicappers.
3. TP5
Together with the TP5x, the TP5 stands as a highly successful Tour ball from TaylorMade, trusted by players like Collin Morikawa and Matthew Wolff.
With a compression rating around 85, the TP5 is favorably suited for mid to high swing speeds. Positioned as the softer ball in the TP5 line, it prioritizes feel, control, and greenside spin.
Simultaneously, the TP5 doesn’t compromise on tee-to-green performance, delivering swift ball speeds off the driver, a mid-high launch, moderate iron spin, and elevated spin with wedges. Its five-piece construction comprises:
- A larger and more responsive Tri-Fast Core, consisting of four increasingly stiff layers known as the Speed-Layer System. This core enhances carry, reduces drag, and boosts greenside spin.
- A dual-spin, ultra-soft cast urethane cover that ensures durability and provides optimal feel throughout the entire bag.
The TP5 incorporates advanced technologies, including:
High-Flex Material (HFM), which acts like a tightly wound spring, producing a greater rebound effect for increased distance.
A new Tour Flight 322 Dimple Pattern with a shallow overall dimple, reducing drag during ascent and maintaining lift during descent.
Available in white, yellow, and featuring USA and sports logos, the TP5 MySymbol offers personalization options with numbers, text, and custom graphics.
For golfers with the necessary swing speed, the TP5 promises exceptional Tour-level performance, albeit with slightly less speed and distance off the tee when compared to the TP5x.
4. Callaway’s Supersoft
Callaway’s Supersoft ball stands out as an excellent choice for golfers with slower swing speeds, thanks to its low compression rating of 38. This low compression allows easy ball compression, facilitating substantial distance generation.
Contrary to its name, the Supersoft isn’t merely soft; it also boasts speed, durability, and produces a high launch with low long-game spin. Impressively, it maintains excellent spin control around the greens.
For golfers grappling with slices and hooks, the relatively low spin of the Supersoft helps mitigate the impact of these misaligned shots.
The Supersoft adopts a two-piece construction, comprising:
A HyperElastic SoftFast Core engineered to boost ball speeds while avoiding a firmer feel.
A refined Hybrid Cover that maximizes contact with the clubhead, enhancing wedge control.
Moreover, HEX Aerodynamics are incorporated to reduce drag and increase lift, resulting in enhanced carry, distance, and stopping power on approach shots.
With stellar ratings on the Callaway store and a consistent position as a best-seller for many years, the Supersoft is praised for its impressive length off the tee, performance around the greens, and affordability compared to other balls. Additionally, golfers have the option of the Supersoft MAX golf ball, featuring a slightly larger diameter for potentially easier hitting—an appealing choice for some.
5. Srixon
Srixon has built a strong reputation for crafting high-quality golf balls over the span of several decades. The Z-STAR model, a favored choice among golfers, not only enjoys widespread popularity but has also earned impressive ratings, securing a spot on the 2021 Golf Digest Hot List.
Specifically designed to deliver maximum distance off the tee with a penetrating flight and mid launch, the Z-STAR offers a progressively softer feel as you transition to the short irons. Additionally, it excels in providing substantial spin, control, and accuracy around the greens.
With a compression rating of 90, leaning toward the higher end, this ball is recommended for golfers with a swing speed of at least 90 mph.
The 2023 Z-STAR 8 ball boasts a three-piece construction, featuring:
- A reformulated FastLayer DG Core characterized by firmness around the edges and softness in the center, optimizing performance across all clubs.
- A thin thermoplastic urethane cover that enhances stopping power around the greens.
- A new Spin Skin+ coating designed to engage with grooves, increasing friction and elevating spin, especially with wedges.
- Furthermore, a 338 Speed Dimple pattern is incorporated to facilitate a penetrating launch and boost lift for maximum carry distance.
Regarded as a premium golf ball, the Z-STAR draws comparisons to the renowned Titleist Pro V1. It excels in both distance and short game precision, coupled with impressive durability.
6. Vice Golf
Vice Golf, a relatively recent entrant to the golfing arena, was established in Germany in 2012 with a focus on crafting premium golf balls. The company made its foray into the U.S. market in 2015.
Among Vice Golf’s successful offerings, the Pro Plus stands out. This golf ball earned a prestigious gold medal on the Golf Digest Hot List and secured a spot in the golf.com performance golf ball recommendation list.
Tailored for golfers boasting the highest swing speeds in the game (110+ mph, ~95 compression), the Pro Plus is engineered to deliver a lower launch with reduced spin, resulting in the longest and most penetrating ball flight in the industry. It also offers a luxurious, soft feel around the greens, accompanied by a high level of spin for short-game precision.
The Pro Plus adopts a four-piece construction, comprising:
- A new, enlarged High Energy Speed Core (HESC) that rewards high swing speeds with substantial distance.
- A thin, flexible Surlyn inner mantle that diminishes long-game spin.
- A thicker, versatile HPF outer mantle designed to enhance carry and mid-iron control.
- A thin cast urethane cover, prioritizing improved feel and short-game spin.
Additional features of the Pro Plus include:
- 336 dimple design,
- KIL alignment aid for enhanced putting performance.
- Stick-to-the-Green (S2TG) technology for a adhesive, controlling feel off wedges
According to swing robot tests conducted at an independent laboratory, the Vice Pro Plus outperforms its more expensive competitor, the Titleist Pro V1x, in terms of ball speed, carry, and total distance, all while producing less driver spin.
Overall, the Vice Pro Plus is noted for its durability, offering tremendous distance and Tour-level spin around the greens, particularly well-suited for those with fast swing speeds.
7. TOUR B RX
Crafting a list of top golf balls would be incomplete without featuring Bridgestone, a globally recognized manufacturer represented by some of the most elite golfers worldwide, including Tiger Woods, Bryson DeChambeau, Fred Couples, and Matt Kuchar.
The TOUR B RX, lauded by critics, caters to golfers with moderate swing speeds seeking Tour-level performance and substantial stopping power on approach shots.
In its latest iteration, this ball boasts a medium compression rating of approximately 75, relatively low for a Tour ball. However, this lower-compression core contributes to increased distance for golfers with slower swing speeds. The design prioritizes excellent accuracy with irons, a soft feel, and abundant greenside spin.
The defining feature of the TOUR B RX is its proprietary REACTIV iQ SMART cover. This innovative technology reacts to the force of impact, optimizing performance throughout the bag. It ensures quick rebound off tee shots and extended stay on the face for approach shots.
Moreover, the three-piece TOUR B RX incorporates a gradational compression core, enhancing initial ball speed and reducing side spin for greater forgiveness. Patented Seamless Cover Technology facilitates maximum dimple coverage, while the Dual Dimple pattern minimizes drag and fosters an efficient ball flight.
Renowned LPGA pro Lexi Thompson competes with the TOUR B RX, attesting to its performance in professional play. Golfers generally express satisfaction with its impressive distance and straight flight, coupled with the finesse and control it offers around the greens.
8. TaylorMade Distance+
For those in search of a quality distance ball, the TaylorMade Distance+ stands out as one of the most widely acclaimed and successful options available.
This ball is dedicated to maximizing speed, catering to a broad spectrum of golfers. Despite having a moderate compression rating of 77, its soft REACT Speed Core is specifically designed for easy compression, making it suitable for individuals with slower swing speeds.
Comprising a two-piece construction, the Distance+ features the REACT core paired with a soft ionomer cover. The cover serves to minimize spin, offering enhanced durability with resistance against scuffing and shearing.
Additional attributes of the Distance+ include:
- A 342 aerodynamic dimple pattern that reduces drag.
- A built-in alignment aid designed to assist in putt alignment and provide feedback on roll.
This ball excels in delivering considerable distance on all shots while maintaining a commendable level of spin and control around the greens. Its notable performance, comparable to high-end balls, is particularly impressive given its more budget-friendly cost.
9. Titleist Velocity
True to its name, the Titleist Velocity prioritizes speed. This highly sought-after distance ball is crafted to achieve maximum ball speed, high launch, and low spin, making it a formula for achieving considerable overall distance.
With a mid-range compression rating of 65, the Velocity features a two-piece construction, incorporating:
- A new high-speed LSX core designed to generate faster speed with longer clubs.
- A proprietary NaX+ cover that reduces spin while maintaining playability around the greens.
The Velocity boasts a 350 octahedral dimple design, strategically arranged in a spherical pattern. This design is instrumental in promoting a consistently high trajectory.
Available in various colors, including white, matte blue, green, and orange, the Velocity ball is well-regarded by golfers for its substantial distance. The firm feel and control it offers are also commended. However, its emphasis on distance, low spin, and firmness may slightly impact its performance around the greens.
10. Wilson Zip
The Wilson Zip stands out as an excellent value golf ball, offering a combination of qualities such as speed and low spin off the tee, effective performance around the greens, a soft feel with low compression, affordability, and strong positive reviews.
With a compression rating of 50, the Zip features a two-piece construction, including:
- A patented Zero Compression Core that incorporates a rubber blend for a soft feel.
- A relatively soft Surlyn (ionomer) cover designed to enhance feel and increase spin, particularly with irons and wedges
The Zip ball introduces a distinctive dimple pattern known as 302 PhD aerodynamics. This pattern comprises flat-bottomed, shallow, pan-head dimples that contribute to reduced drag and the creation of a powerful, stable flight.
While the Zip is exclusively available in white, its value for the price is noteworthy. Its commendable performance from tee to green and the retention of its soft feel even in colder temperatures make it a favorable choice.
11. Srixon Soft Feel
The Srixon Soft Feel, a highly acclaimed golf ball, delivers exceptional softness, impressive distance off the tee, and effective spin control around the greens. With an optimal 60 compression rating suitable for low to moderate swing speeds, it has garnered praise from critics.
In its 13th generation, the Soft Feel incorporates the latest version of Srixon’s FastLayer Core, the same core utilized in their premium balls. This innovative technology minimizes sidespin during long-game shots while maintaining a consistently soft feel from tee to green.
The ball’s two-piece construction includes:
- A reformulated FastLayer Core, transitioning from a soft inner core to a firmer outer edge, enabling quicker rebound after impact for increased ball speed.
- A thin ionomer cover that enhances spin with wedges and provides a softer feel on short game shots.
Featuring Srixon’s proprietary 338 Speed Dimple pattern, the Soft Feel reduces drag, boosts launch, and promotes a longer, straighter trajectory with a penetrating flight.
The Soft Feel is also available in a Lady variant and in Tour Yellow and Pink colors. As Srixon’s more budget-friendly option, the Soft Feel remains highly popular among cost-conscious golfers. Its overall performance is excellent, and while the greenside spin may not match that of a Tour ball, it fulfills the needs of most players who opt for the Soft Feel.
12. New VIVID
The New VIVID stands out as one of Volvik’s premier golf ball offerings, distinguished by its vibrant colors (excluding white) and patented matte finish, ensuring superior visibility compared to other balls on the market.
While prioritizing visibility, the New VIVID doesn’t compromise on performance, delivering consistent play from tee to green with a mid-high launch, lower driver spin, and enhanced wedge spin. The ball has garnered high average ratings on the Volvik website and enjoys strong sales.
With a compression rating of 75 suitable for swing speeds of 70-100 mph, the two-piece construction includes:
- A resilient, high-energy Nano Bi Core, maximizing distance off the tee.
- A matte ionomer cover featuring a 322 dimple pattern for a reliable and stable flight.
- The New VIVID is available in stock colors such as white, red, orange, blue, green, pink, yellow, and purple, with particular popularity among seniors and individuals with vision concerns.
For a personalized touch, golfers can opt for a custom New VIVID golf ball, choosing from over 30 color options, two finishes, and the opportunity to add a personalization message or logo. This customization option allows golfers to express their personality on the course.
Follow this Guide to Make a Purchase Decision
Numerous golf balls are available, and selecting the right one can be challenging, especially if you’re unsure about the criteria to consider. This guide aims to provide the necessary information in this regard.
In general, an ideal golf ball should promote distance off the tee, be manageable with an effective spin around the greens, and offer a satisfying feel.
To identify the suitable golf ball for your needs, consider the following crucial factors:
1. Price Point
The cost of golf balls is undoubtedly a crucial factor in the selection process.
Many individuals are hesitant to invest over $50 for a dozen balls, and this sentiment is entirely reasonable. Fortunately, there are numerous affordable options on the market that offer performance comparable to premium choices like the Titleist Pro V1.
It’s important to note that less expensive golf balls may exhibit a simpler construction, reduced feel, suboptimal energy transfer, or overall inferior performance. However, exceptions exist, and in this guide, we’ve aimed to incorporate quality golf balls spanning various budgets.
For those seeking additional savings, considering recycled balls available on platforms like eBay is a viable option. It’s advisable to focus on balls with condition ratings of AAA or higher to ensure satisfactory quality.
2. Compression
The compressibility of a golf ball is a crucial factor, measured by its compression rating, typically ranging from approximately 30 to 120.
A lower compression rating implies that less club head speed is needed to adequately compress the ball, resulting in an optimal distance due to a “rebound” effect. Conversely, a higher compression rating requires a greater club head speed to achieve sufficient ball compression.
While a general guideline suggests matching swing speed to the compression rating, it may not always be accurate. For instance, a ball with a relatively low compression rating of 60 might be suitable for higher swing speeds around 100 mph.
External factors like temperature can influence ball compressibility, with heat making a ball more compressible and cold weather reducing its compressibility.
It is generally preferable to have a higher swing speed than the compression rating suggests rather than a lower one. If a ball’s compression is too low for the swing speed, it may result in a loss of distance and erratic ball flight.
Individuals with slower swing speeds, such as seniors, high handicappers, and women, benefit from low-compression golf balls. Conversely, more skilled golfers with higher swing speeds perform better with high-compression balls.
3. Dimples
Selecting a golf ball solely based on its dimples is not recommended, but understanding their purpose is valuable.
Modern golf balls typically feature between 300 and 400 dimples. While different manufacturers employ unique dimpling methods, the common objective is to minimize drag and enhance lift, ultimately maximizing distance.
Dimples play a crucial role in achieving the desired aerodynamic performance of contemporary golf balls, distinguishing them from smooth-surfaced alternatives.
In addition to quantity, dimples can vary in shape (spherical or hexagonal) and arrangement patterns. Some brands, like Bridgestone, utilize aggressive “dimple-in-dimple” designs, reflecting a scientific approach.
For the average golfer, predicting the precise impact of a specific dimple configuration is challenging, if not impossible. Consequently, it’s advisable to refer to the manufacturer’s information about the dimples of a particular golf ball. Ensure that the dimple configuration aligns with the requirements and objectives of your game.
4. Colors
The color and finish of a golf ball, which many people might overlook, can be a crucial consideration. While some golfers instinctively choose white balls, there are alternative options to explore.
High-visibility golf balls share the same composition as standard white balls but are available in various colors such as green, yellow, red, and orange. They may also feature a matte finish instead of a glossy one to minimize glare from sunlight.
Apart from adding an aesthetic touch that aligns with your personality, colored golf balls primarily aim to enhance visibility. They make it easier to track the ball while it’s airborne and spot its location on the course.
A helpful tip is to use orange balls in sunny, cloudless conditions during the daytime, yellow balls in lower-light situations, and green balls in overcast conditions.
It’s worthwhile to check if the specific model of golf ball you’re interested in is available in high-visibility colors. While playing with a white ball is perfectly acceptable, colored balls can simplify your experience, especially if you face vision challenges or have a tendency to hit the ball all over the place. Colored balls can also capture your attention at address and boost your confidence in swinging, potentially leading to increased distance.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re aiming for increased distance, well-rounded performance, accuracy, workability, greenside spin, or a soft feel, having a golf ball that aligns with your playing style is a significant advantage. Regardless of your proficiency in golf, there are numerous high-quality options to explore.
For individuals with a slower swing speed below 90 mph, consider softer, low-compression balls like the Callaway Supersoft, Srixon Soft Feel, or the TaylorMade Distance+, specifically crafted for maximum distance off the tee.
If your swing speed exceeds 90 mph, opt for medium or high-compression balls such as the Srixon Z-STAR, Callaway Chrome Soft, Titleist Pro V1, or Bridgestone TOUR B RX.
Discovering a golf ball that suits your preferences becomes relatively straightforward with a bit of knowledge and experimentation. It’s recommended to test several of the featured balls on this page to determine the best-performing one for you.
Each of the golf ball models mentioned above offers exceptional performance relative to their cost. The information provided equips you with the necessary details, leaving the final decision in your hands.
Reading customer reviews can also be highly beneficial, providing valuable insights into how golf balls perform in real-world scenarios. This additional information will greatly aid you in the decision-making process.
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