Golf enthusiasts know the value of having specially-designed golf balls that match their skill set and their swing speed and strength.
Knowing the golf ball that works for you helps in improving player morale and confidence because you are already familiar with how your golf ball works and therefore, you are able to adjust your play accordingly.
Golf is a game that requires a lot of equipment of many designs, types, specifications, and functions. Golf balls are included in that.
Over the years of innovation, golf balls have undergone many improvements, and it has become harder to choose because of the many types that have come up. Features and functions have become more complex.
In this article, we will help you get acquainted with the newest golf balls that have emerged in the market and help you choose the one that will work for you.
Trust that we conducted thorough and accurate research on this, along with some personal feedback from our own experience.
Table of Contents
The average golfer
To consider yourself an average golfer, you have to be a high handicap golfer and be able to shoot above 90 on a par 72 golf course. A golfer that shoots at 90 on the dot is referred to as a “bogey” player, and anything higher than that makes one an average golfer.
There is an inaccuracy in the data by the USGA stating that the average golf score is 91 for all ages. But in actuality, that number should be close to 100 because of the weekend hackers that do not record their handicaps.
The average score for golfers has declined lately, even with the new innovations made to golf clubs and balls that should make playing easier. This is our own definition of a handicap since we could not find any legitimate and reliable information.
- If you shoot in the 70s = low handicap.
- If you shoot in the 80s = mid handicap.
- If you shoot above 90 = you have a high handicap.
A shot below 90 might need a different ball. Feel free to read our other article about golf balls for mid-handicappers. Those might work better for you.
Our 10 picks for the best golf balls this 2021
Let’s get right into the rundown for the ten best golf balls for the average golfer this 2021, along with a brief review and some important details.
1. Titleist Pro V1 Golf Balls
(Overall best choice – Editor’s Choice)
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Titleist
- Color options: White
- Cover material: Urethane
- Construction: Three-piece
- Performance: Tour
- Dimples: 392
- Compression: High (over 100)
- Swing speed: 98-105
Tournament-level solid core plus a triple-layer coat and a reliable Urethane Elastomer cover, you can find all that in the Titleist Pro V1 Golf Balls. This brand is among the top-tier brands in the golf industry and has since received brilliant feedback from players that have used it.
It is known for straight flights and long iron shots. It also has an outstanding Drop-and-Stop performance for approach shots.
This recent Pro V1 release really showed major improvements from the previous versions in aspects of aerodynamics and performance consistency.
If you’re looking for the right mix of speed, spin, and softness, along with extended coverage and a 392 dimple design for optimal performance, this could be perfect for you.
Key Features:
- Feature the three-piece multi-layer construction
- A new formulation of the solid core
- Engineered from Urethane Elastomer material
- Tour-proven 392 dimple design
- The additional ionomeric casing layer
Pros
- Total performance
- Better Drop-and-Stop scoring performance
- Improved durability
- Fast initial velocity with higher launch, straighter trajectory and an exceptional driver and long iron distance
- Improved aerodynamics
Cons
- Expensive
2. Callaway Supersoft Golf Balls
(Best value for money)
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Callaway
- Color options: 6
- Cover material: Ionomer
- Construction: Two-piece
- Performance: Feel
- Dimples: HEX (332)
- Compression: Low (38)
Golfers on a budget have their eye on the Callaway Supersoft golf balls for the reason that it has an extremely soft feel that is attributed to the two-piece construction along with its ultra-low compression core. This innovation makes for a steady ball flight while also adding to the distance that it can reach.
The build reduces its tendency for spinning, which is why consistency and accuracy of hits can be achieved easier. The HEX aerodynamic design that makes for a lower drag is also something that golfers love about this product.
There is less air resistance which can also add to the increased ball flight and air time. Therefore, long-distance shots are more maximized with this brand of a golf balls. This also works well for players who are still starting out and getting the hang of the game.
Key Features:
- Two-piece construction with an ultra-low compression core
- Trigonometry cover formulation
- Low drag HEX aerodynamics design
- Multiple color variants
- Great for high handicappers and senior golfers
Pros
- Reduced sidespan resulting to a straighter ball flight angle
- A high level of soft feel and velocity
- Reduced drag and increased distance
- Easily visible with bright colors
Cons
- Too much softness to maximize your performance
- Color coats might fade easily
3. Srixon Men’s Soft Feel Golf Ball
(Best for a 20 handicapper)
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Srixon
- Color options: White
- Cover material: Ionomer
- Construction: Two-piece
- Performance: Feel
- Dimples: 344
- Compression: Mid (72)
- Swing Speed: 70+
For a new golfer who wants to up their game with a slight challenge or an average golfer who is in the middle of perfecting a mid-swing speed, you may want to check out the Srixon Men’s Soft Feel Golf Balls. It is targeted mainly at 70+ swing speed golfers.
The super soft core of this particular golf ball brand has proven to be highly resilient with its Energetic Gradient Growth technology that absorbs shock energy upon impact. As a result, greater distances and speeds are achieved.
The enhanced ionomer cover and 334-speed dimple pattern on the ball’s surface also add to its steadiness and reduced spin tendency during flight, allowing for better trajectory, reduced slices, and improved accuracy.
Key Features:
- Two-piece construction
- Energetic Gradient Growth core
- 6mm ionomer cover
- Straight ball flight trajectory
- Ideal for male players
- Great balls for high handicappers with slow to moderate swing speed
Pros
- Lessens the drag, better aerodynamics
- Greater distance and a high level of soft feel
- Higher launch altitude and more penetrating trajectory
- Consistent and accurate ball flight
- Great velocity with low spin
Cons
- Too much softness makes it difficult to maneuver on grass
4. Snell MTB Black Golf Balls
(Best for a 15 Handicapper)
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Snell Golf
- Color options: White
- Cover material: Urethane
- Construction: Three-piece
- Performance: Tour
- Dimples: 360
- Compression: Mid (75 – 80)
This is a close contender to the Pro V1 golf balls that we previously mentioned. The Snell MTB Black Golf Balls are ideal for average golfers with a mid handicap.
It has a Urethane-made cover with a premium look while not compromising durability and a comfortable soft feel. The manufacturer claims this version to be more advanced and packed with new technology as opposed to the red model.
The compression core is much lower than before and that means a lower spin and greater distance for your shots. The three-piece construction consists of an ultra-thick, sturdy mantle layer and a 360-dimple pattern.
All these new features enhance the distance and top-notch short-game control for golfers.
Key Features:
- Tour caliber performance
- Three-piece construction with a low compression core, a cast urethane cover, and a thick, firm mantle layer
- 360 dimple pattern
- Premium upgraded black version
Pros
- Better speed and longer distance
- Premium look with reliable durability
- Reduced spin for straighter and more accurate shots
- Improved aerodynamics for low lift, low drag, and controlled flight
- Comfortable feel and better control on green
Cons
- Not much improvement when it comes to backspin
5. TaylorMade Project (a) Golf Balls
(Most forgiving)
Product Specifications:
- Brand: TaylorMade
- Color options: White, Yellow
- Cover material: Urethane
- Construction: Three-piece
- Performance: Tour
- Dimples: 332
- Compression: Mid (70)
The TaylorMade Project (a) golf balls are made of premium cast urethane for their covers and the large cores are incorporated with dual distance technology. They are also very affordable, which is why they are quite in demand in the market when it comes to mid-range priced products.
Furthermore, these golf balls feature a three-piece design along with a 332 aerodynamic dimple pattern on the surface for great distance coverage. It also has a great spin and performance on the greens.
Compared to the previous versions released last 2016, there may not be any other noticeable changes aside from the cover.
Key Features:
- Three-piece construction
- Dual-distance large core
- Urethane seamless cover with 332 dimple pattern aerodynamic design
- Tour-level technology
- Upgraded version from the 2016 version
- Two color variants
Pros
- More spin on greens
- Minimize spin off the driver
- Outstanding performance on grass
- More aerodynamics for reduced drag and added speed and distance
- Added distance for your driver
- Added forgiveness
Cons
- Unimpressive yellow coating that is prone to deterioration
6. Srixon Q-Star Tour 2 Golf Balls
(Best for Average Swing Speeds)
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Srixon
- Color options: White
- Cover material: Urethane
- Construction: Three-piece
- Performance: Tour
- Dimples: 338
- Compression: Mid (75)
Three generations from the Srixon packed with immense distance coverage, and topnotch greenside spin control is the Q-Star Tour 2 golf balls. This is mainly ideal for golfers with moderate or average swing speeds.
They have an ultra-soft feel while also remaining firm for iron and drivers, even with their 75 compression rating. You can have good stoppability with high pitches that resemble authentic tour-caliber golf balls for short-game performances.
You can also expect straight flight angles and strong resistance, and maximized distance even if the weather condition is kind of windy. With its 338 Aerodynamic Speed Dimple Pattern, you will experience optimal ball flight, less drag, and more lift.
Key Features:
- Three-piece construction
- Lightweight urethane cover
- Energetic gradient growth advanced core
- 338-speed dimple pattern
- Tour performance for those with a moderate swing speed
- Two color selections: yellow and white
Pros
- Offer a tour-level greenside control
- Increased ball travel distance
- Straight flights with less drag
- Ultra-soft feel
- Supports mid to high launch
Cons
- Off the driver does not perform as consistently as they claim
7. Titleist TruFeel Golf Balls
(Best distance)
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Titleist
- Color options: 3
- Cover material: Ionomer
- Construction: Two-piece
- Performance: Distance
- Dimples: 376
- Compression: Low
Titleist boasts that TruFeel is the softest golf ball model that they have released so far in their line, softer than the previous release, which is the DT TruSoft. It’s not every day that a soft-feel Titleist ball with a low compression core is produced, so the Titleist TruFeel is quite a rare find.
With the patented TruTouch core, the improved compression core design makes for greater distance coverage along with a better greenside feel.
The ionomer cover is integrated with new TruFlex technology, thus improving overall spin and control. Aerodynamics is also enhanced with the improvements made on the dimple pattern plus TruFit technology as well for better trajectory and flight angles to go with the longer distance.
Key Features:
- Two-piece construction
- TruFlex cover and a TruTouch low compression core
- Generate mid-spin rate
- Feature the 376 dimple pattern with the new TruFit aerodynamic design
- Three color choices: classic white, yellow, and red
Pros
- Softest golf balls produced by Titleist
- Premium look at a reasonable price
- Ultra soft feel with improved greenside spin control
- Built with the asymmetrically optimized pattern to enhance long-game performance and distance
Cons
- Outer cover is of low quality and may be prone to scratches
8. Bridgestone Golf e12 Contact Balls
(Most innovative)
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Bridgestone
- Color options: 4
- Cover material: Surlyn
- Construction: Three-piece
- Performance: Distance
- Dimples: 376
- Swing Speed: Less than 105 mph
The Bridgestone Golf e12 Contact is a worthy option for average golfers as well. It was just released recently along with the newest 2021 model, and it comes packed with multiple features and technological innovations.
First of all, let’s start with the three-piece surlyn construction with the additional active acceleration mantle layer. The noticeable difference between the two models is their dimple patterns.
This one has a new technology integrated called the contact force dimple that has not been used in any other golf ball brand so far. You might be wondering what makes this so special. To answer your question, there is a 38% increase in the contact surface that it has with the golf club, which allows for maximum energy transfer from club to ball core.
Expect enhanced velocity in your tee shots with lesser hooks and slices and straighter and better ball flights. There are 4 matte color variants for you to choose from.
Key Features:
- Three-piece surlyn build with an extra active acceleration mantle layer
- Feature the patented Delta Wing Dimple pattern
- 50 compression core
- 4 color variants with a matte finish
- Ideal for golfers with less than 105 mph swing speed
- Contact force dimple pattern
Pros
- Deliver a soft feel with increased distance off the tee
- The active acceleration mantle layer allows higher initial velocity
- Offer greater forgiveness
- Increase the interactive contact between the balls and the clubface by 38%
- Improved aerodynamics and reduced drag
- Enhanced visibility with matte color options
Cons
- The feel is not that impressive
9. Wilson Golf Staff Fifty Elite Balls
(Best for swing speed of 90 mph)
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Wilson
- Color options: 4
- Cover material: Ionomer
- Construction: Two-piece
- Performance: Feel
- Dimples: 302
- Compression: Low (50)
- Swing Speed: Under 90 mph
The “50” mark on the surface pertains to the 50 compression feature of this golf ball, a low number intended for low to mid-swing speed golfers that do not exceed 90 mph.
The vibrant colors are a catch for senior golfers, along with the extremely soft feel, outstanding distance, reduced driver spin, and better visibility which is obviously attributed to the brightness of the golf ball colors.
The Wilson Golf Staff Elite has a 22% softer rubber core that responds better upon impact because of enhanced energy transfer efficiency from club to core. Greater distance and better ball flight are guaranteed.
Key Features:
- Two-piece build
- 50 compression
- For golfers with a swing speed under 90 mph
- Improved 22% softer core
- Ionomer outer cover
- 302 Ph.D. aerodynamic dimple pattern
- Has four color variants
Pros
- Explosive distance
- Extremely soft feel with a high spin around the green
- Reduce spin off the driver
- Powerful acceleration with improved aerodynamics
- Better visibility of the balls
Cons
- Reduced stoppability
10. Titleist Tour Soft Golf Balls
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Titleist
- Color options: White, Yellow
- Cover material: Ionomer
- Construction: Two-piece
- Performance: Feel
- Compression: Low (65)
- Dimples: Cuboctahedron (342)
For the last one on our list, the Titleist Tour Soft golf balls possess a two-piece construction together with the largest cores in the entire line. For that reason, the product has a softer feel, reaches greater distances, and has an overall improved spin on the greens.
The 4CE grafted cover is also made thinner than the previous model, which makes for better control during short shots whilst not jeopardizing good speed as well. In fact, this version also has a faster speed compared to the one previously released.
The 342 cuboctahedron dimple pattern construction retains the consistency of the flight and makes the trajectory more penetrating. The vibrant yellow color also contributes to better visibility.
There is also an added “T” stamp on the surface that can be used by players as alignment marks on the green or for tee shots.
Key Features:
- Two-piece construction
- Ultra-thin 4CE grafted cover
- Engineered with the spherically-tiled 342 cuboctahedron dimple design
- Titleist largest core
- Added “T” side stamp on their covers
- Two bright color options
Pros
- Longer distance and better spin on green
- Reduced drag, deliver a more penetrating ball trajectory
- Softer feel on green
- Consistent ball flight
- Gives player more control for tee shots
- More accurate alignment on the green
Cons
- Easily scratchable surface
An average golfer’s guide to choosing the right ball
1. Construction
The make of the golf ball should be the top priority and consideration of a golfer. Basically, a golf ball consists of two layers – the outer cover and the compression core. Here are the different variants and a brief overview of each of them.
- 1-piece
This is the simplest design of all golf ball construction. Beginners usually opt for this since it has the least spin and, therefore, is easier to control. It is also the cheapest option.
- 2-piece
A urethane or Surlyn cover wrapped around a solid rubber core is the composition of 2-piece construction. Surlyn has proved to have better durability and resistance to abrasion compared to urethane and produces a much lower spin.
- 3-piece
The innermost rubber core is enclosed in another rubberized layer and then wrapped in durable Surlyn cover for 3-piece construction golf balls. This is highly recommended for average golfers who want more spin but still retain a soft feel. Golfers have better control in ball trajectory and stoppability when using this type of golf ball.
- 4-piece
2 added layers surround a solid rubber core, and the outermost layer is a soft urethane cover making the total number of layers 4. This type of golf ball construction is difficult to maneuver for average golfers due to difficulty in spin control on the greenside.
- 5-piece
This is the most complex kind of golf ball construction that only the most experienced and professional players are able to handle properly. The inner layers add a different kind of feature that contribute specific functions to the overall performance of the golf ball.
2. Compression
A measure of the compressibility of a golf ball against the clubface upon impact is called the compression rating. Low compression rating equates to a softer feel for the reason that the binding of the ball is less tight than usual, and that results in more elasticity and reactivity upon club impact.
The common golf balls being sold in the market today are made with low compression rates, so this is now typically regarded as a regular feature instead of a product specification.
Golfers, regardless of their level of expertise, would prefer balls with low compression ratings because of the added distance. But that also means that it would be harder to control for golfers with generally fast swings.
It is also known that low compression rating golf balls are better for use under cold weather.
3. Spin
The outer cover and the overall construction of the golf ball affect its spin rate. Two-piece construction golf balls, which have a softer feel, are more likely to have a lesser spin control compared to three-piece construction balls and higher.
The lesser the spin, the straighter the flight of the ball, but that does not always mean more distance achieved. For golfers who are still working on hooks and slices on the tee, shots work better using balls with low spin.
High handicappers are also more fond of low-spin golf balls. Higher spin rates are suitable for golfers who want more feel for the ball and want to gain better control of them on the green.
More spin means more travel, and that allows golfers to adjust their shots accordingly.
4. Cover material
We already mentioned that the material from which the outer cover of the golf ball is made could also have a significant impact on the performance of the golf ball, along with its durability and lifespan. Surlyn and urethane are the two most common materials used to construct a golf ball’s outer cover.
There are some golf balls that have an ionomer cover. Don’t be confused. Surlyn is basically just a resin derivative of ionomer material that was originally formulated by DuPont.
Surlyn material is known for its durability and hardness and is commonly used for two-piece construction balls. Take note that not all ionomer golf balls are surlyn. There are softer types available that are also easier to handle on the green because of more spin control.
Ionomer materials are also cheaper compared to urethane. Urethane, on the other hand, is a more high-end material used in three-piece and other multiple-layer construction golf balls that are intended for professional and experienced golf players.
While it may offer a softer feel and better spin, urethane is not as durable as ionomer materials.
5. Performance
Overall performance is the sum of the factors that were previously mentioned. Golf ball performance is classified in three categories, namely tour level, distance, and feel.
Tour-level golf balls are commonly covered with urethane, especially those with more than 3 outer layer construction. More spin is generated for better handling and control and to give the low and mid handicappers an enhanced feel.
The distance performance golf balls are typical of three-piece construction paired with a large and high-energy core. This reduces hooks and slices to have a straighter ball trajectory upon impact and during flight.
For the third type, the feel is the feature that is most focused upon. With its low compression and spin rating, this is the type most enjoyed and favored by golfers with low swing speeds and needing additional support for straighter and longer strikes.
6. Accuracy
The main objective of the sport is to have fewer shots taken. Accuracy is a skill that every golfer should hone and develop and this can be achieved not only through training and practice but also with a good golf ball as a companion to match a golfer’s skill set.
More accurate hits mean fewer shots and lower handicaps. It takes years of practice to be able to improve accuracy and perform straight shots, and consistent ball flights, but even the most veteran golfers know how important golf ball selection is when it comes to getting that gold.
7. Affordability
Golf clubs can last years as well as other golf equipment. However, a golf ball is an exception. Because golf balls are the ones that handle the most stress and impact during games, they need frequent replacement. Prices depend on brand and construction.
Expensive golf balls will also mean that you have to spend a lot on a single game because you may tend to lose a few of them. You can always opt for the ones that are within your budget if you aren’t that confident in your skills yet and you know that there is a high possibility of losing a lot of golf balls during your game.
The common price range is 5 to 50 USD per dozen.
8. Brand
Different brands all have different features that they offer with their product. There are brands that have already established a good reputation in the golf community, and there are also new brands that have emerged in the market that bring new value due to the effort they exerted in research and innovation.
Some golfers find a brand, and they remain loyal to it because they often find it hard to adjust to new golf ball brands, especially when they have become accustomed to using it for a long time.
Premium brands make high-end golf balls often used by professional players and variants that are great for beginners as well. We suggest trying out different brands first before you can figure out which one suits you well.
9. Durability
Core construction and the material used for the outermost layer are the major determinants of a golf ball’s durability. For every strike, a golf ball’s durability is most definitely reduced because of the stress and impact of the club. Little by little, over the course of the entire game, the ball loses its efficiency.
If you are not yet an expert in the game, the golf ball will receive a lot of hits from you, and that will decrease its durability.
You have to choose a sturdy and reliable golf ball that coincides with your skill level so that you won’t have to spend a lot of golf balls for every game just because you need to replace the ball every few holes.
10. Technology
With the new heights being reached by modern technology, there are also new aspects of technological features achieved by golf equipment manufacturers nowadays. New releases on the market are now integrated with mind-blowing technology that improves overall performance and gameplay for players.
The dimple patterns on the golf ball surface are the most common part being modified by manufacturers to adjust distance and control, especially on the green field.
For average golfers, a 2 or 3-piece construction is ideal since it allows more control for shots.
11. Dimple Pattern
The little dimple patterns reduce drag to make for a smooth ball flight. The deeper the hollow of the dimple pattern, the higher the spin it generates. This is inversely proportional to the trajectory as well.
For beginners and average golfers, it is best to opt for the shallow dimple patterns first for the lesser spin generation to gain a better handle on the ball.
FAQs
Below are straightforward answers to some of the most common questions asked by average golfers.
Do golf balls make a difference for average golfers?
Absolutely. There are golf balls that are designed specifically for average golfers who fit in the criteria that we mentioned in the beginning of this post.
There are distinct features in those types of golf balls that are able to cater to the skills of an average golfer. From two to three-piece construction, low-to-mid compression, and the generally sturdy surlyn cover, these are sure to contribute to the ease in handling the ball.
Average golfers need a golf ball with a softer feel and provide good spin control on the green, all the while retaining good flight performance.
What is the recommended golf ball for a mid-handicapper?
Mid handicappers need better control on green and maximized distance coverage along with enhanced spin rate on a two or three-piece construction golf ball.
The Srixon Q Star, Callaway Warbird, Titleist Soft, and Bridgestone E12 Soft are the most preferred brands for mid-handicappers.
Is Bridgestone a good golf ball brand?
Bridgestone is a popular manufacturer of a wide variety of sports equipment. Their golf balls cater to players with different skill sets and expertise, from beginners to professionals.
Bridgestone is a world-renowned brand and their tour-level golf ball products have been used by famous names in the golf community like Tiger Woods, Matt Kuchar, Bryson DeChambeau, Fred Couples, Rocco Mediate, and Lexi Thompson.
The Bridgestone Golf e12, Bridgestone e6, and Bridgestone Golf Tour B RXS Balls are the top choices for average golfers with mid-swing speeds.
How many golf balls are lost in every round of an average golfer’s game?
Based on a 2009 survey conducted by the American Golfer, one game per week by an average golfer equates to 46 rounds a year, and with an average handicap of 15.1, 1-2 balls per round are lost.
To estimate, approximately one dozen balls are lost in a year.
Can distance be boosted with the type of golf ball?
Golf balls with low compression ratings can add more yards to the total distance covered by the flight.
If you do not have a fixed swing speed yet, golf balls with flexible aerodynamics can be used to reduce drag while lengthening the distance.
When is the right time to upgrade my golf ball?
When you notice a difference in the quality of your gameplay and variations in the accuracy of your shots, you may need to upgrade. If you feel that you are improving, but your scores somehow remain in the same range, that already calls for an upgrade.
You will have to evaluate your skills and your gameplay before deciding to upgrade and choosing the right kind of golf ball to upgrade to.
Conclusion
It’s much easier to pick a golf ball for average golfers compared to beginners and professionals because the skill set is just right in the middle, and there are a lot of golf ball brands available in the market today that cater to players of that caliber.
You just need to keep in mind that your swing speed and handicap should always be considered when choosing the golf ball that would work well for you.
We have already laid out the different elements that make up a golf ball’s overall performance and quality and what makes each one unique. All you have to do is do an evaluation of your skills and performance and figure out what you need to work on for you to be able to determine the criteria of the appropriate golf ball for you.
Low spin might be something you need or better distance might be what you need to work on. Either way, the information you need is here.
