Purchasing the best golf balls you can afford is essential to the success of your game. After all, you need a golf ball for every shot, and that ball is going to affect your shot. So, you better make sure you select the right ones.
The history of golf is the subject of much debate. However, most historians say that the modern game of golf can trace its roots to 15th century Scotland.
Back then, golf balls were called “featheries” and were hand-sewn round leather balls filled with compressed feathers. In the mid-1800s, Robert Paterson made the first molded golf balls from the sap from a sapodilla tree. Then, the precursor to the modern golf ball was invented by Coburn Haskell in 1898.
Dimples appeared in the early 1900s, and the modern golf balls took flight.
Comparison Table
How to Select the Best Golf Balls
As we noted above, the golf ball is the only piece of gear used for every shot. For that reason alone, you should purchase the best golf balls that you can afford.
There are several factors to consider when selecting the best golf balls for your game.
Golf ball construction
Generally speaking, the best golf-balls fall into two categories: two-piece and multi-layer golf balls.
- Two-piece golf balls are made with a single solid core of high-energy acrylate or resin enclosed in a tough blended cover. These balls are popular with beginners because they maximize distance. At the same time, they minimize spin and movement, making them ideal for golfers with a high handicap.
- Multi-layer golf balls are made using three to five layers. Typically, they include a solid core, a liquid-produced layer or enhanced rubber and a Surlyn or urethane cover. These balls are softer and provide more spin, making them ideal for golfers with a medium to low handicap.
Golf ball spin
The best golf balls are also designed to produce three levels of spin, a vital element to distance and control.
- Low spin golf balls are constructed to minimize spin. As a result, they travel straighter but not as far as other balls. On the other hand, due to the low spin, the balls roll less once they hit the ground.
- Mid spin golf balls provide better distance and control. For that reason, these are the best golf balls for fairways.
- High spin golf balls give you more control, particularly if you shoot with a hook or a draw. Additionally, they offer the best performance on greens. However, these balls are difficult to use for amateur golfers and even some intermediate players.
Compression
The next point to consider when selecting the best golf balls is compression. Simply put, compression relates to the amount of deflection golf balls sustain when struck.
Compression is measured from 0 to 200 with 0 indicating the ball will deflect 5mm or about 1/5 of an inch. Inversely, a rating of 200 indicates no deflection. The majority of golf balls fall within the range of 50 to 100.
Balls with lower compression ratings are softer and provide greater distance off the tee. On the flip side, balls with higher compression offer greater control. For that reason, higher compression balls are the choice of experienced golfers who can produce faster swing speeds.
Golf ball prices
A final point to consider when selecting the best golf balls is their price. The general rule is to purchase the best golf balls you can afford. However, that is not always the best plan.
For example, beginners tend to lose a lot of balls. Therefore, if you are starting out, it might be best to purchase less expensive golf balls. Inversely, experience golfers should feel free to buy more expensive golf balls.
However, whichever path you choose, take note of each ball’s control and distance. And, be sure to remember their feel on the green.
How We Selected the Best Golf Balls
image source: pixabay.com
We selected this year’s list of the best golf balls by researching top-selling brands. Additionally, we considered the reputation of each brand, its construction, durability, price, and consumer ratings.
Likewise, we researched the best golf balls using high consumer and industry authority websites such as the PGA of America, Golf Digest, and Business Insider.
The 10 Best Golf Balls
Here is our list of the 10 best picks for you:
1. Titleist Pro V1 Prior Generation Golf Balls (One Dozen)
- Extraordinary Distance with Consistent Flight
- Very Low Long Game Spin and Penetrating Trajectory
- Drop-and-Stop Short Game Control
Titleist balls are some of the best golf balls on the market, particularly for experienced players. And, the Titleist Pro V1 Prior Generation golf balls are no exception. However, the value does come at a cost, and these balls are in the upper price range.
These golf balls feature the Next Generation 2.0 ZG Process core for maximum distance. Additionally, the 352 tetrahedral dimple design provides an even consistent flight. Also, Titleist balls are known for their durability due to their flexible urethane elastomer cover system.
You can find Titleist Pro V1 Prior Generation Golf Balls on Amazon. Also, these golf balls are an Amazon’s Choice and an Amazon Prime selection.
Customers love these balls, praising their design and durability. On the negative side, a few customers complained about the price. However, most reviewers wrote that they thought they were an excellent value for the cost.
2. Wilson Ultra 500 Distance Golf Balls (15-Pack)
- Advanced two-piece construction
- Designed to reduce spin for straighter flight
- A high-energy titanium core generates maximum initial velocity
Wilson Ultras are some of the best golf balls for distance. Additionally, the Wilson Ultra 500 features a cut-proof cover for maximum playability and endurance backed by a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. These golf balls also feature a custom high energy core and are budget-priced.
You can find Wilson Ultra 500 Distance Golf Balls on Amazon. Also, these golf balls are an Amazon’s Choice and an Amazon Prime selection.
Customers praised these golf balls price, distance, and durable covers. On the negative side, several customers complained that these golf balls are very hard and give little to no feedback when striking the ball.
3. TaylorMade Distance Plus Golf Balls (One Dozen)
- REACT Speed Core offers high speed
- Low-drag cover and aerodynamics for more distance
- Short game performance with a soft feel around the greens
TaylorMades are some of the best golf balls for distance. The Taylor Made Distance Plus features a thin cover and low-drag aerodynamics with a React Speed Core to provide greater velocity and distance. These golf balls also feature a 342 Aero dimple pattern and are budget-priced.
You can find TaylorMade Distance Plus Golf Balls on Amazon. Also, these golf balls are an Amazon’s Choice and an Amazon Prime selection.
Customers praised these golf balls, calling them a good value for the price. They also praised its distance, writing that they shoot straight. On the negative side, several customers complained that this golf ball feels hard coming off the club.
4. Callaway Superhot Bold Matte Golf Balls (15-Pack)
- Pattern : HEX Aerodynamics and Long Distance From Tee-to-Green
- Increased Short Game Spin and Control
- New Superhot BOLD options are available in MATTE finish: yellow, red, or orange.
Calloways are some of the best golf balls for distance. The new Superhot Bold Matte features three-piece construction, a soft cover, and HEX Aerodynamics. For that reason, this golf ball’s design promotes optimal lift for increased distance.
Additionally, this gold ball is designed for increased spin and control on the green and falls in the medium price range.
You can find Callaway Golf Superhot Bold Matte Golf Balls on Amazon. Also, these golf balls are an Amazon’s Choice and an Amazon Prime selection.
Customers praised this golf ball’s “easy distance” and control on the green. They also praised its matte finish available in five colors. However, several customers complained that they could not see the red ones. Also, several customers complained that these golf balls were sticky on the putter.
5. Titleist Velocity Prior Generation Golf Balls (One Dozen)
- Explosive initial Velocity for powerful distance
- Low long game spin
- Soaring flight for remarkable carry and roll
Titleist golf balls are some of the best golf balls, particularly for advanced players. And, the Titleist Velocity Prior Generation Golf balls are no exception. However, quality costs and these golf balls are in the upper price range.
The Titleist Velocity features spherically-tiled 328 tetrahedral dimples and a larger-sized LSX core. For that reason, these golf balls are great for distance on all shots. Also, the Velocity’s thinner NaZ2 cover creates high launch on approach shots with a steep angle of descent, ideal for stopping power on the green.
You can find Titleist Velocity Prior Generation Golf Balls on Amazon. Also, these golf balls include free shipping.
Customers loved these golf balls for their straight flight and distance. Additionally, several customers wrote that these golf balls feel great off every club. On the negative side, several customers wrote that they experienced no marked improvement in their game using these golf balls.
6. Wilson Staff 50 Elite Golf Balls (One Dozen)
- Performance Balance - The aggressive core is offset by a response cover creating a balance between explosive distance...
- Improved rubber chemistry yields a lively core that's 22% softer than the competition
- New 302 PhD aerodynamics feature unique flat bottomed, shallow dimples that rip through the air to create a more stable,...
Wilson Staff 50s are some of the best golf balls for distance and greenside control. These golf balls feature unique flat-bottomed, shallow dimples. For that reason, these golf balls rip through the airs to create a stable flight and distance.
Likewise, this golf ball’s cover combines low driver spin for powerful acceleration and adequate softness on the green. These golf balls are in the medium price range.
You can find Wilson Staff 50 Elite Golf Balls on Amazon.
Customers praised these golf balls for their quality design and affordable price. On the negative side, several customers complained that these golf balls wear out after a full 18-hole round of play.
7. Callaway Chrome Soft Golf Balls, Prior Generation (One Dozen)
- Fast ball speed off the driver: Callaway is the only golf ball companythat has the new dual soft fast core. It's...
- More spin and control from 100 yards and in: the 4-piece construction, mantle layer and Tour urethane cover all combine...
- Low compression for incredibly soft feel: the dual soft fast core lets you compress the ball on iron shots for long,...
The Callaway Chrome is one of the best golf balls for players wanting superb distance and control on the green. This golf ball features four-piece construction and Dual SoftFast Core. For that reason, this golf ball provides higher ball speeds and optimal spin to maximize performance.
Additionally, the Mantle Layer produces extra spin when using your shorter irons and wedges. This golf ball falls in the upper price range.
You can find Callaway Chrome Soft Golf Balls, Prior Generation on Amazon. Also, these golf balls are an Amazon Prime selection.
Customers loved these golf balls for their distance and superb greenside control. Also, several customers wrote that the Callaway Chrome was the best golf ball they ever used. On the negative side, a few customers complained that the red paint pattern on the balls chips off easily.
8. Vice Golf Tour Golf Balls (One Dozen)
Vice Golf offers some of the best golf balls when it comes to stability and durability. The Vice Golf Tour Balls feature three-piece design and 392 aerodynamic dimples. For that reason, ball dispersion is minimized, providing a stable trajectory.
Also, the Vice Gold Tour balls offer straight alignment. As a result, they are ideal for players wanting to practice their putting skills. These golf balls fall in the medium price range.
You can find Vice Golf Tour Golf Balls on Amazon. Also, these golf balls are an Amazon’s Choice and an Amazon Prime selection.
Customers praised these balls greenside feel and putting accuracy. On the negative side, several customers complained that these balls feel hard upon impact.
9. Nitro Ultimate Distance Golf Ball (15-Pack)
- SUPER REACTIVE 2 PIECE TITANIUM CORE tournament construction maximizes the energy transfer from club head to ball, spins...
- HIGH VELOCITY LONG DISTANCE The aerodynamic and symmetrical dimple design increases lift and decreases drag allowing for...
- VIRTUALLY INDESTRUCTIBLE cut-proof cover is constructed of Dupont Lithium Surlyn for long term durability, high...
Nitro offers some of the best golf balls for distance. The Nitro Ultimate features a two-piece titanium core. For that reason, the ball spins less, providing greater distance off your metal woods.
Additionally, the Nitro Ultimate includes a virtually indestructible cut-proof cover made with Dupont Lithium Surlyn. Additionally, this golf ball conforms to all USGA rules and are budget-priced.
You can find Nitro Ultimate Distance Golf Balls on Amazon. Also, these golf balls are an Amazon’s Choice and an Amazon Prime selection.
Customers praised this golf ball’s price and resistance to cuts and abrasions. On the negative side, a few customers complained that these balls wear out quickly.
10. Wilson Smart Core Golf Ball (24-Pack)
- Smart Core technology that reacts to a player's swing speed
- Yields spin and control on short shots
- Minimizes spin for distance and accuracy on long shots
Wilson Smart Cores are some of the best golf balls for players looking to increase their distance and spin. This golf ball features a smart core that reacts to your swing speed.
For example, on shorter shots, spin is increased to improve control. And, on longer shots, spin is reduced for greater distance and accuracy.
Additionally, these golf ball’s lonomer cover provides long-lasting playability in a variety of conditions. These golf balls are budget-priced.
You can find Wilson Smart Core Golf Balls on Amazon.
Several customers praised the distance of these balls, calling them a great balance between value and price. On the negative side, a few customers complained that the cover is soft and damages easily.
Our Verdict
Image Source: Pixabay
With so many choices out there, it is difficult to state which company makes the best golf balls authoritatively. It all comes down to your budget and desired features.
For example, if you have a slow-to-average swing speed, you might prefer using a two-piece golf ball. On the other hand, if you have a low handicap and can control the ball’s flight, the best golf balls for you might be ones with multiple layers.
Now we would love some feedback from you. Using the comments section, tell us your choice for the best golf balls. Also, let us know any favorites we did not list.
Until we meet again, have a good round.
featured image source: pixabay.com
I began my writing career writing for various content firms, but it was under the tutelage of the editors here at SavantMag.com that I grew as a writer and editor. I love the content we write here and bringing solid reviews to consumers is rewarding beyond what I can even describe.
Last update on 2023-04-27 at 02:51 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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