Golf is a game of precision, strategy, and skill. For beginners, the myriad of available equipment choices, especially regarding golf balls, can be daunting.
The right golf ball can significantly impact your game, affecting everything from distance to control.
This article aims to guide beginners through choosing the best golf balls for their needs, focusing on five top picks ideal for new players.
Understanding Golf Ball Basics for Beginners
Beginners should look for golf balls with an ultra-soft feel, a low compression rating, and relatively inexpensive.
Some of the best golf balls for beginners include the Callaway Supersoft, Srixon AD333, Srixon Ultisoft, TaylorMade Noodle Long and Soft, TaylorMade Project (s), Pinnacle Soft, and Titleist Tour Soft.
Golf Ball Spin
The spin of a golf ball can influence its trajectory and behavior on the course. Backspin can help the ball gain height and move from side to side.
Too much spin can result in hooks and slices, harming your game. As a beginner, you should aim for a golf ball that produces less spin, such as a two- or three-piece ball.
Golf Ball Compression
Golf ball compression refers to the interaction of the club face with the ball’s core. The softer the golf ball, the more it compresses.
High-compression golf balls are designed for high-swing speed players, while lower-compression balls are better for slower swing speeds.
Matching the compression level with your swing speed is crucial for optimal performance.
Golf Ball Construction
Golf balls can be constructed in one to five pieces, each offering different performance characteristics.
One-piece golf balls are the most basic and cheapest, often used by beginners and at driving ranges.
Two-piece golf balls have a solid core and an exterior cover, offering more distance, and are also suitable for beginners.
Three-piece golf balls provide greater feel and control, while four and five-piece golf balls are less forgiving and more suited to advanced players.
Remember, choosing the right golf ball can significantly impact your game, so it’s worth taking the time to understand these basics as you start your golfing journey.
The Best Golf Balls for Beginners
1. Titleist TruFeel
The Titleist TruFeel golf balls are designed to provide a soft feel, long distance, and excellent control around the green.
They are the softest Titleist golf balls designed with a thinner cover for a more responsive feel.
The TruFeel golf balls feature a TruTouch Core and a 2.0 TruFlex Cover. The large, fast TruTouch core and high-performance aerodynamics deliver longer distances, while the thin TruFlex cover delivers excellent feel and control for all your shots around the green.
The balls also have a spherically-tiled 376 tetrahedral dimple design, contributing to their aerodynamic performance. They are available in white, high optic yellow, and matte red.
The TruFeel golf balls are an excellent, low-cost option for a soft, all-around, high-quality golf ball for beginner and intermediate golfers or anyone seeking an inexpensive ball from a premium brand.
Top Features:
- TruTouch Core: The large 1.6-inch core is designed to provide extra distance with a new type of faster rubber material.
- TruFlex Cover: Titleist’s thinnest cover, aimed at delivering the softest feel around the greens.
- Spherically-tiled 376 Tetrahedral Dimple Design: Optimizes aerodynamics for a penetrating ball flight and added distance.
- Alignment Aid Sidestamp: Offers an easy alignment option for golfers inspired by popular custom options.
- Soft Feel: Engineered for a soft feel, particularly on greenside shots, without sacrificing overall performance.
Pros:
- Soft Feel: The TruFeel is known for its soft feel on all shots, particularly around the greens.
- Value for Money: It is an excellent option for beginner and intermediate golfers due to its affordable price point and premium brand quality.
- Consistent Performance: Golfers can expect consistent performance and quality, a hallmark of the Titleist brand.
- Good Greenside Control: The ball provides sufficient greenside spin and control despite not having a urethane cover.
- Durability: The high-quality cover and overall build quality contribute to the ball’s durability, even with extensive use.
Cons:
- Reduced Distance: Some golfers may experience a slight drop-off in distance (~5%) compared to more premium golf ball options.
- Spin Performance: High-speed players might not get the best out of it, particularly around the greens where spin can drop off.
- Price Perception: Some golfers feel that the TruFeel is overpriced for a 2-piece ball and that equivalent or better balls could be found at a lower price.
- Not Ideal for High Swing Speeds: The ball is best suited for golfers with slower swing speeds (below 95mph), and those with higher speeds may not see optimal performance.
- Limited Premium Features: Compared to Titleist’s top-tier models like Pro V1, TruFeel lacks some advanced features contributing to higher performance.
2. Bridgestone Golf e12 Contact
The Bridgestone Golf e12 Contact is designed to improve a golfer’s game by providing more efficient energy transfer and a longer, straighter distance from the driver.
Bridgestone’s revolutionary FLEXATIV Cover Technology and Contact Force Dimple achieves this by creating 46% more surface contact between the golf ball and the club.
The FLEXATIV cover is soft and quickly repels off the club face, increasing ball velocity for greater distance. This cover also helps control spin.
The Contact Force Dimple design is unique. It features wide, hexagonal, and deep dimples with raised circles set into them.
This design increases the surface contact between the clubface and ball by 38%, enhancing energy transfer at impact.
The e12 Contact has a softer core that contributes to a significantly enhanced feel on all shots and reduces slice and hook spin on full shots.
Due to increased friction, it also provides more spin around the green. The ball is available in classic white, matte red, matte green, and matte yellow.
The Bridgestone e12 Contact is a versatile golf ball that fits many players, from beginners to experienced golfers.
It is particularly noted for its durability, making it a value-packed choice for golfers. Despite its low compression, it is expected to provide a high launch and low spin on full shots.
Top Features:
- Contact Force Dimple Design: This design offers 38% more surface contact for more efficient energy transfer, resulting in straighter and longer shots.
- Active Acceleration Mantle: A new high-performance polymer material increases thrust and initial ball speed.
- FLEXATIV Cover Technology: Enhances control and spin around the greens while repelling quickly off the club face to increase ball velocity for greater distance.
- Gradational Core: This core allows for easy compression relative to swing speed, aiding in control and distance benefits from tee to green.
- Durable Ionomer Cover: Ensures exceptional durability and performance, making the ball a value-packed choice for golfers.
Pros:
- Straight Flight: The unique dimple design and ball construction promote a straighter flight, reducing sidespin and aiding golfers who struggle with accuracy.
- Distance: The Active Acceleration Mantle and FLEXATIV Cover Technology combination contributes to notable distance gains comparable to premium golf balls.
- Greenside Control: Despite not being a urethane cover ball, the e12 Contact provides good spin and control around the greens.
- Soft Feel: It offers a reasonably soft feel at impact, which is especially beneficial for mid-to-high handicappers looking for a blend of distance and feel.
- Affordability: The e12 Contact is priced competitively and is an excellent option for golfers seeking performance without breaking the bank.
Cons:
- Less Workability: Better players may find the ball less workable because its design focuses on straight flight, limiting the ability to shape shots.
- Spin Performance: While it offers good greenside control, players accustomed to premium balls might find the spin performance lacking in comparison.
- Durability Concerns: Some players may notice wear over time, especially with heavy use, although overall durability is generally good.
- Feel Preference: Golfers who prefer a soft or firm feel might find the e12 Contact’s balance unsatisfactory.
- Limited Premium Features: Compared to Bridgestone’s higher-end models, the e12 Contact lacks advanced features that could further enhance performance.
3. WILSON Profile Distance Golf Ball 36 Pack
The Wilson Profile Distance Golf Ball 36 Pack is designed for golfers seeking to improve their game by achieving longer distances with each shot.
These golf balls feature a high-energy core that enables long-distance flight, making them suitable for players looking to get from the tee to the green in fewer strokes.
The low compression technology incorporated into these balls provides a soft feel, enhancing the playing experience.
Additionally, the balls are designed with tour accuracy in mind, thanks to a specially designed inner cover that creates less ball spin and maximizes distance.
The spin-reducing dimple pattern technology also helps reduce hooks and slices, making the balls more forgiving and easier to control.
Customers have expressed satisfaction with the performance, quality, and value of the Wilson Profile Distance Golf Balls. They appreciate the balls’ durability, soft feel, and reduced spin, which helps them achieve straighter shots.
The balls are also praised for their performance around the greens, with users noting improvements in their short game.
Despite some users experiencing less spin on wedge shots, the overall feedback is positive, with many planning to repurchase due to the excellent value for money.
The packaging of the Wilson Profile Distance Golf Balls is also highlighted for its simplicity and environmental responsibility.
The balls are packaged in a straightforward cardboard box without unnecessary frills, breaking from traditional golf ball packaging and reducing waste.
This approach aligns with a growing consumer preference for sustainable packaging options.
Top Features:
- High Energy Core: Designed for longer flights, the high-energy core maximizes distance off the tee.
- Low Compression Technology: Offers a soft feel, making it easier for golfers to achieve a satisfying touch on their shots.
- Tour Accuracy: A specially designed inner cover creates less ball spin for straighter shots, enhancing accuracy on the course.
- Durable Construction: The balls are built to last, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of play without significant wear.
- Value Pack: The 36-pack offers great value, providing a substantial supply of quality golf balls at an affordable price.
Pros:
- Affordability: The 36-pack provides excellent value for golfers looking to stock up on quality balls without breaking the bank.
- Distance: The high-energy core is engineered for long-distance flight, helping golfers achieve greater distance off the tee.
- Soft Feel: Low compression technology ensures a soft feel, which is particularly beneficial for golfers who prefer a softer touch.
- Straight Flight: The tour accuracy design minimizes ball spin, resulting in straighter shots and improved accuracy.
- Durability: Constructed to last, these golf balls can endure multiple rounds of play and maintain their performance over time.
Cons:
- Spin Control: Some golfers, especially those with higher skill levels, might find the reduced spin limits their ability to control the ball on the greens.
- Feel Preference: While the low compression technology provides a soft feel, some players may prefer a firmer feel for more feedback during play.
- Limited Advanced Features: Compared to premium golf balls, the WILSON Profile Distance may lack some of the advanced features that enhance performance.
- Packaging: While simple cardboard packaging is environmentally friendly, it may not appeal to all golfers who prefer traditional packaging.
- Performance for High Swing Speeds: Golfers with very high swing speeds might not find these balls optimal for maximizing their game potential.
4. Callaway Golf 2023 Supersoft (One Dozen)
The Callaway Golf 2023 Supersoft Golf Balls are popular among golfers for their long, straight distance and super soft feel.
These two-piece golf balls feature a Hybrid cover with HEX Aerodynamics and a HyperElastic SoftFast Core, which deliver increased ball speed and a soft feel.
The balls are optimized for faster speed and a soft feel around the green, providing exceptional feel, control, and spin over long distances.
The advanced cover, core, and construction technologies enhance these key benefits, improving performance from tee to green.
Top Features:
- HyperElastic SoftFast Core: Designed for increased ball speed while maintaining a soft feel, optimized for both distance and softness around the green.
- Hybrid Cover: This cover material is engineered to enhance greenside spin without sacrificing distance, providing a balance of control and long play.
- 332-Dimple Ionomer Cover: Shares the same dimple count as other Callaway balls but with adjusted depth and geometry for improved aerodynamics.
- Soft Feel: Known for its exceptionally soft feel, it is a favorite among golfers who prioritize comfort and control.
- Variety of Colors: Available in standard white along with matte yellow, green, orange, red, and pink, catering to personal preferences and visibility.
Pros:
- Exceptional Softness: Offers a very soft feel, which is particularly appreciated in short game shots and putts, enhancing overall playability.
- Improved Distance: The HyperElastic SoftFast Core is designed to give golfers increased ball speed, contributing to longer distances off the tee.
- Enhanced Greenside Spin: The hybrid cover material is tailored to improve spin around the greens, allowing for better control and stopping power.
- Aerodynamic Design: The 332-dimple pattern is optimized for a penetrating ball flight, reducing drag and enhancing distance.
- Value for Money: Priced competitively, the Supersoft offers a blend of performance features at an accessible price point, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of golfers.
Cons:
- Spin Control for Advanced Players: While it offers improved greenside spin, advanced players might find the spin control lacking compared to premium tour-level balls.
- Compression Feel: Golfers who prefer a firmer feel may not like the Supersoft’s extremely soft compression.
- Performance in Wind: Its softness and designed flight characteristics might affect performance in strong wind conditions, potentially impacting distance and accuracy.
- Limited Workability: The focus on straight flight and soft feel may limit the ability of skilled golfers to shape shots as desired.
- Consistency in Compression: There was a noted range in compression across the sample, indicating some variability in the softness from ball to ball.
5. TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Balls
The TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Balls are engineered for golfers seeking to maximize distance on all shots while enjoying a soft feel. These balls feature a two-piece construction with a 77 compression rating, designed to enhance ball speed.
The ball’s core is made from a soft REACT™ material, intended for easy compression, thereby aiding in achieving distance off the tee.
A key feature of the Distance+ Golf Balls is the aerodynamic dimple pattern, with 342 dimples designed to reduce drag and promote fast ball speeds off the tee.
This design contributes to the high-velocity performance that these golf balls offer, making them suitable for golfers looking to improve their game through increased distance.
The new Plus Alignment Aid is another notable aspect of the Distance+ Golf Balls.
This alignment aid is built directly into the side stamp of the ball, providing golfers with immediate feedback and easy alignment on all shots, which can help in draining more putts.
The ball’s outer layer is made from a soft ionomer cover, which increases the greenside feel and improves the ball’s durability by offering better scuff and shear resistance.
This makes the Distance+ Golf Balls a good choice for golfers who value performance and durability.
Golfers have found the Distance+ Golf Balls to offer consistent and reliable distance, attributed to the ball’s speed design and 77 compression rating.
The balls are praised for their soft touch and greenside feel, as well as the immediate feedback they provide on all shots.
The Plus Alignment Aid is highlighted as a beneficial feature for improving putting accuracy.
Top Features:
- 77 Compression Rating: Designed for speed, this medium compression rating helps to achieve extra yards on the fairway or anywhere on the course.
- REACT™ Speed Core: Engineered for easy compression and distance off the tee, this core contributes to the overall soft feel Distance+ is known for.
- Ionomer Cover: Increases greenside feel while achieving improved scuff resistance, shear resistance, and overall durability.
- 342 Aerodynamic Dimple Pattern: This pattern reduces drag and promotes fast ball speeds off the tee, enhancing distance.
- Plus Alignment Aid: This new, easy-to-use alignment aid is built directly into the Distance+ side stamp. It helps golfers line up putts and provides feedback on how they roll the golf ball.
Pros:
- Distance: The Distance+ is consistently praised for its reliable distance. It is designed for speed and has a 77 compression rating, giving golfers those extra yards.
- Feel: Offers an ultra-soft feel with great compression, making it comfortable for golfers who prioritize a soft touch.
- Green Spin: This spin performs well on greens, allowing the ball to sit well in conditions other than very dry, hard greens.
- Durability: The golf ball holds up well against typical wear and tear, allowing multiple rounds of play before showing signs of scuffing or wear.
- Affordability: The TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls are incredibly affordable compared to premium golf balls, offering great value for performance.
Cons:
- Green Spin Limitations: In these conditions, the ball struggles to get chips to sit down on hard and dry greens, indicating a lack of wedge spin for low to mid-handicap golfers.
- Takes Getting Used to on the Greens: The lack of spin with chips and the different feel on the greens compared to premium balls may require an adjustment period.
- Lack of Premium Features: While offering great value, Distance+ may lack some advanced features in higher-priced, premium golf balls.
- Sound and Feel on Greens: Some golfers may find the sound a bit “clicky” and the feel different from what they’re used to with higher-end golf balls, especially when putting.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Golf Balls for Beginners
When choosing golf balls as a beginner, several factors are crucial to consider to enhance your learning experience and improve your game.
Here’s a comprehensive guide based on expert advice and industry insights:
Ultra-Soft Feel
Beginners often have slower swing speeds than experienced players. An ultra-soft golf ball can yield better results for those just starting.
Soft golf balls offer higher levels of forgiveness, meaning they can mitigate poor results from subpar swings by limiting the amount of sidespin, which minimizes the chances of hitting the ball far off course.
Low Compression Rating
The compression rating of a golf ball, which ranges between 30 and 120, indicates how soft or hard a ball is. For beginners, it’s advisable to choose balls with a low compression rating, close to 30.
Low-compression balls are softer, making them easier to hit for players with slower swing speeds. Despite variations in how manufacturers interpret compression ratings, they provide a useful starting point for assessing a ball’s feel.
Cost-Effectiveness
As a beginner, you’ll likely lose many balls to hazards and out-of-bounds areas. Therefore, choosing inexpensive golf balls allows you to maintain a plentiful stock without breaking the bank.
This approach ensures you can focus on improving your game without worrying about the cost of lost balls. For an 18-hole round, having 9 to 12 golf balls is recommended.
Durability
For beginners, choosing durable golf balls is important. While some cheaper models may not last as long due to lower-quality covers that can easily sustain cuts, there are affordable options that offer good durability.
Balls with firmer covers tend to be more resistant to cuts and scrapes.
Long Game vs. Short Game
Consider what aspect of the game you wish to improve. If distance is your priority, firmer golf balls that spin less in the air might be the best choice.
However, opt for balls with a premium feel if you want to enhance your short game and gain better control around the greens.
Color and Visibility
Golf balls are available in various colors, which can be particularly useful for beginners who might struggle to track their ball or frequently search for it off the fairway.
Brightly colored balls can make locating your ball in rough or wooded areas easier.
Construction and Spin
The construction of a golf ball affects its performance. Two-piece golf balls, which combine a solid core with a durable cover, offer distance and are suitable for beginners.
Spin is another consideration; low-spin balls are recommended for beginners as they travel farther distances and are easier to control.
Additional Considerations for Beginner Golfers
Understanding Golf Ball Compression
Golf ball compression refers to the ball’s hardness. Golfers with slower swing speeds can benefit from softer golf balls, as they compress more upon impact, allowing for more distance.
Choosing the Right Fit for Your Swing Speed
Swing speed is a crucial factor when choosing a golf ball. Golfers with slower swing speeds can benefit from softer golf balls, while those with faster swing speeds may prefer harder golf balls.
Finding the Sweet Spot for Beginner Golfers
The sweet spot is the point on the clubface where the ball is hit efficiently. Consistently hitting the sweet spot can significantly improve your game.
Finding Value Without Sacrificing Performance
Beginners should look for golf balls that offer good performance at a reasonable price. The Titleist TruFeel and the Bridgestone e12 Contact are examples of such balls.
Do Golf Balls Matter for Beginners?
Yes, golf balls do matter for beginners, but not to the same extent as for more experienced players. The type of golf ball a beginner uses can impact their game regarding distance, control, and feel.
However, the nuances of golf ball performance may not be as critical for beginners as for advanced players.
Golf balls come with different features that can affect their performance.
For instance, the hardness of a golf ball’s cover can impact its spin, affecting the carry distance and the control a golfer has over their shot.
The golf ball’s compression impacts the energy transfer between the ball and the club at impact, which can suit different golfers based on their swing speed.
For beginners, it’s recommended to use golf balls that have an ultra-soft feel, low compression rating, and are relatively inexpensive.
Two-piece balls, known for their durability and distance, are a good choice.
Brands like Callaway, Srixon, and TaylorMade offer golf balls suitable for beginners.
However, you don’t necessarily need to invest in premium golf balls as a beginner. Many golfers suggest starting with cheaper balls, as beginners tend to lose more balls.
You might consider upgrading your golf balls as you improve and start shooting in the 80s.
FAQs
What type of golf ball is best for beginners?
Golf balls with softer compression cores can benefit players with slower swing speeds, maximizing distance and control.
How many golf balls does a beginner need?
Beginners tend to lose more balls on the course, so it’s wise to carry a few extra balls in the bag.
Should beginners use soft or hard golf balls?
Beginners with slower swing speeds should use softer golf balls as they compress more upon impact.
What are the most important factors to consider when choosing golf balls for beginners?
The ball’s construction, compression, and spin are the most important factors. Durability and color are also important considerations.
How can beginners improve their golf game?
Beginners can improve their golf game by practicing regularly, taking lessons, and using the right equipment, including golf balls.
What are some common mistakes that beginners make when choosing golf balls?
Common mistakes include choosing golf balls based on price, not considering their swing speed, and not testing different types of balls to see which best suits their game.
How much should I spend on golf balls for beginners?
The amount you should spend on golf balls depends on your budget. However, many affordable options offer good performance.
How often should I change my golf balls?
The frequency of changing golf balls depends on their condition. If a ball is scuffed or cut, it should be replaced.
What is the best way to clean my golf balls?
The best way to clean golf balls is to soak them in warm soapy water and scrub them with a brush.
Conclusion
Choosing the right golf ball for a beginner can significantly impact your game. Factors such as the ball’s construction, compression, and spin should be considered.
The Titleist TruFeel, Bridgestone e12 Contact, WILSON Profile Distance Golf Ball, Callaway Golf 2023 Supersoft Golf Balls, and TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Balls are excellent beginner choices.
Remember, the best golf ball for you is one that complements your swing speed and skill level.
