11 Best Golf Balls for Beginners in 2023:
Updated: Oct 1
So you're looking for the best golf balls for beginners? When most golfers first embark on their golfing journey, they fall into the trap of believing that they absolutely have to invest in pricey top-of-the-line golf balls like Titleist Pro V1 golf balls. But you don't! There are plenty of great golf balls out there to choose from for beginner golfers, but how do you know which ones are the best golf balls for beginners and casual golfers?
In order for us to feel confident in our recommendations and reviews, product testing is required, and lots of it. Testing for finding the best golf balls for beginners was a very lengthy, diligent, and rigorous process. A total of 9 golf testers (ranging from PRO to CASUAL golfers), tested hundreds of different golf balls over a 3-month span to make sure we were able to provide you with the most accurate, honest and thorough reviews when coming up with our top picks for the11 best golf balls for beginners in 2023... ENJOY!
Best Golf Balls for Beginners - October 2023 | Top 7 Quick Picks
Top 7 Best Golf Balls For Beginners & Casuals (Amazon links to purchase and check prices/availability) |
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Best Beginner Golf Ball - Best Balls For New Golfers (October 2023)
Choosing the best golf ball for beginners is important because the right ball can help improve your game. Different golf balls have different features that can help you get the most out of your swing. The right ball can also help beginners feel more comfortable with the game and have a better overall experience.
Beginner golfers should look for a ball that has a low spin and a soft core, which will help you hit the ball further and straighter. The softer core will also help reduce the amount of spin you get off the tee. By choosing the right ball, you can optimize your performance and get the most out of your golf game with the best beginner golf ball.
Choosing Golf Balls for Beginners: What's the Best Approach?
When you're just teeing off into the world of golf, there's no need to break the bank with the fanciest golf balls on the market. For beginners, here are three key things to look for in your golf balls:
1. Ultra-Soft Feel: As a novice, you won't be swinging like the pros just yet. Opt for golf balls with an ultra-soft feel to start. These will be more forgiving than their harder counterparts. It's all about building confidence in your swing, and soft golf balls can be your trusty companions on this journey.
2. Low Compression Rating: Pay attention to the compression rating, which ranges from 30 to 120. Lower compression ratings, around 30, indicate softer balls. While feel matters, compression ratings offer a useful starting point. Generally, stay away from balls with ratings much higher than 60 until you've got your golf game in gear.
3. Budget-Friendly: You'll likely be sending some balls into the rough and water hazards as you learn the ropes. So, look for golf balls that won't break the bank. Having an ample supply of affordable golf balls in your bag ensures you can stay focused on improving your game, not hunting for lost balls.
Golf is all about concentration and focus. To achieve peak performance, you'll want to minimize distractions and stay organized. Keep your golf bag well-stocked with the equipment you need, including plenty of golf balls. On an 18-hole round, you might go through nine to twelve of them, so be prepared!
Remember, the key to mastering golf lies in practice and persistence. So, equip yourself with the right balls, head out to the greens, and enjoy your journey towards becoming a seasoned golfer!
11 Best Golf Balls For Beginners (October 2023) | Rankings & Reviews
We present a comprehensive breakdown of the most suitable golf balls for beginners and help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next golf ball. So it begs the question: among the multitude of options, which are the best golf balls for beginners and why?
(#1) BEST OVERALL: Callaway SuperSoft Golf Balls
The Callaway SuperSoft Golf Balls were a huge hit for our beginner & advanced players because of how far they were crushing these bad boys. After two or three hits you could tell they provide maximum distance and a soft feel while still being very durable. The spin rate was definitely a lot lower than any other ball, and the reason for that is they are designed with a low-compression core, which helps to reduce spin and launch the ball higher and farther.
The SuperSoft cover is supposed to create a softer feel off the clubface and that is true, which seemed to help minimize the effect of mis-hits.
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Yes, your distance should improve with this Callaway golf ball, but we really loved how durable this ball was, making it a great choice for a beginner who may not yet have mastered their control of the golf club. It can withstand plenty of abuse, and we tested that thoroughly with a ton of errant shots. :) Overall, the Calloway SuperSoft Golf Ball is an excellent choice for a beginner because of its combination of distance, soft feel, and durability. I would recommend this ball to those new to the game for sure, and even more advanced players looking to add some distance to their game.
(#2) LOWEST SPIN RATE:
Titleist TruFeel Golf Balls
Titleist TruFeel Golf Balls are an excellent choice for beginners, due to their versatility and affordability. The TruFeel golf ball has a soft core construction, which provided an excellent feel off the clubface for all of our testers. We noticed a low spin rate off the driver with a consistent ball flight, making it easier for beginners to keep the ball in play. We also noticed the spin control around the greens, so the TruFeel is also good with your irons and other clubs We played quite a bit with TruFeel golf balls and found they are extremely durable, meaning you won't need to replace their golf balls as often. Again, with its affordability and quality performance, the Titleist TruFeel golf ball is perfect for beginners who are just starting out.
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(#3) BEST FOR THOSE W/ LOWER SWING SPEED: TaylorMade Tour Response Golf Balls
The TaylorMade Tour Response Golf Balls are a great option for beginners, especially those with a low to moderate swing speed.
Soft feel: We definitely notice the soft feel, which is ideal for beginners who are still developing their swing speed and technique. The soft feel helps golfers get a better sense of contact with the ball and can lead to more consistent shots.
Low compression: The testers with swing speeds on the slower side said the low-compression core on these balls did actually help generate more distance and a higher ball flight.
Good distance: Despite their soft feel and low compression, the Tour Response Golf Balls still offer some nice distance off the tee, and we saw this at every level. This can be especially helpful for beginners who are still working on developing their swing speed and power.
Spin control: The most impressive thing about the Tour Response Golf Balls was the spin control. This is super important for beginners who are still learning to control their shots.
Affordability: We put the Tour Response Golf Balls at #3 on the list because they are a bit more expensive than the other two. With that said, they still are relatively affordable, which is important for beginners who may not want to spend a lot of money on golf balls while they are still developing their skills.
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(#4) BEST FOR HITTING BOMBS OFF THE TEE: Callaway Warbird Golf Balls
The Callaway Warbird Golf Balls are highly regarded as one of the best options for beginners and also in my top 5 when it comes to my personal favorite golf balls to play with.
Designed for players who are more interested in HITTING BOMBS instead of worrying about being super accurate. Their large, high-energy core generates impressive ball speed, resulting in longer drives and increased distance off the tee. While they prioritize distance over pinpoint accuracy, their forgiving nature helps beginners maintain control and forgiveness on off-center hits. With their affordable price point and focus on power, the Callaway Warbird Golf Balls are an ideal choice for those looking to unleash a few moonshots on the course.
(#5) BEST ON A BUDGET:
Wilson Golf Tour Velocity 15 Golf Ball Pack
For beginners, the Wilson Golf Tour Velocity 15 Golf Ball Pack is a fantastic choice, offering a combination of quality, performance, and affordability that makes it the best value on the market. I enjoyed my time playing with these and would do so again, especially if it's a hard course... wouldn't mind losing a few :).
With its advanced technology, these balls provide impressive distance and a consistent trajectory, allowing me to achieve greater accuracy with my shots. The durable cover ensures long-lasting playability, and believe it or not... I was pleasantly surprised with the soft feel off the clubface during testing.
The Wilson Golf Tour Velocity 15 Golf Ball Pack not only delivers exceptional performance but also comes at a great price. With its affordable cost, beginners and budget-conscious golfers can enjoy the benefits of high-quality golf balls without breaking the bank.
(#6) LOOKING TO INCREASE BALL SPEED: Volvik Power Soft Golf Balls
Volvik Power Soft Golf Balls stand out as an excellent choice for beginners. These balls offer a winning combination of forgiveness, distance, and feel. Their low-compression core ensures a soft and responsive feel, providing beginners with enhanced control and accuracy.
What I was surprised about the most was Volvik's ability to increase ball speed, even if by just a little bit. Comparisons with other popular mid-to-low-end golf balls (not on this list) have demonstrated that these bad boys did actually provide an extra boost in ball speed during testing for several of our golfers, which can translate into longer drives and increased distance for beginners.
(#7) GREAT COMBO: SOFT FEEL + DISTANCE: Srixon Soft Feel Golf Balls
The Srixon Soft Feel Golf Balls are widely regarded as one of the best options for beginners due to their exceptional combination of soft feel and distance. The softcore and thin cover design provides a remarkably responsive feel, offering excellent feedback on each shot.
While testing, several of us were impressed with the increased distance for such a soft golf ball, allowing beginners to achieve greater length off the tee. With their affordable price and emphasis on both feel and distance, the Srixon Soft Feel Golf Balls are a fantastic choice for beginners looking to enhance their game without sacrificing performance.
(#8) BEST VALUE GOLF BALL FOR BEGINNERS: TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft
When it comes to finding the best value golf ball for beginners, my personal pick is the TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft Balls. These balls offer an exceptional combination of distance and soft feel, perfect for enhancing the game of any novice golfer. Not only do they provide impressive distance off the tee, but their soft cover also ensures a gentle touch around the greens. Moreover, the affordable price point makes them a fantastic value choice, allowing beginners to improve their game without breaking the bank.
(#9) GREAT LOW-SPIN GOLF BALL FOR BEGINNERS: Pinnacle Golf Soft 15-Ball
For beginners seeking a low-spin golf ball, my top recommendation is the Pinnacle Golf Soft 15-Ball. Designed with a focus on reducing spin off the tee, these balls help beginners achieve straighter, more controlled shots. The soft feel enhances touch and control around the greens, offering an excellent balance between distance and precision. With a durable construction and affordable price, the Pinnacle Golf Soft 15-Ball is an ideal choice for beginners looking to improve their accuracy and consistency without compromising on performance.
(#10) STRAIGHT FLIGHT BALL FOR BEGINNERS
Bridgestone E6 Golf Balls
When it comes to helping beginner golfers improve their accuracy and hit the ball straighter, the Bridgestone E6 Golf Balls are a prime choice. These balls are specifically engineered to minimize hooks and slices, providing forgiveness and promoting a straighter ball flight. With a soft core and low compression, they offer a great balance of distance and feel. The advanced dimple design ensures consistent and stable flight, making them an excellent option for beginners seeking to enhance their overall game by hitting it straighter off the tee.
Related Articles on Best Golf Gear & Golf Tips For Beginners
What to consider when choosing one of the best golf balls for beginners?
When choosing golf balls for beginners, there are several factors to consider:
Compression: Compression refers to the density of the ball and how much it compresses upon impact with the clubface. Beginners generally have slower swing speeds and may benefit from a lower compression ball, which will help them achieve more distance and a higher ball flight.
Spin: Spin refers to the amount of backspin or sidespin a ball produces when it is struck. Beginners may want to look for a ball that has a low spin rate, which will help them achieve a more straight and accurate shot.
Feel: The feel of a golf ball refers to how it feels when it is struck with the clubface. Beginners may want to look for a ball that has a softer feel, which will help them get a better sense of contact with the ball and can lead to more consistent shots.
Durability: Golf balls can be expensive, so beginners may want to look for a ball that is durable and can withstand the wear and tear of practice and play.
Price: Golf balls can vary widely in price, so beginners may want to look for a ball that is affordable and won't break the bank while they are still developing their skills.
Brand reputation: Certain golf ball brands are known for producing high-quality balls that are popular among both beginners and experienced players. It can be helpful to do some research on the reputation of different brands and read reviews from other golfers to help make a decision.
Overall, when choosing golf balls for beginners, it is important to consider factors such as compression, spin, feel, durability, price, and brand reputation. By taking these factors into account, beginners can choose a ball that is well-suited to their skill level and playing style.
5 Myths About Golf Balls | You Need To Know The Truth
The Ideal Ball Doesn't Exist For each player, yes it does! Do you switch your driver or irons every round? Certainly not. The same principle applies to your golf ball. Different brands and models offer varying performance and quality, especially on shots near and around the green. Achieving greater consistency in your game begins with discovering the ideal ball for you and using it consistently.
Match Them to Your Driver and Beyond When golfers discuss their swing speed, it's usually in the context of the driver. However, your round involves a range of swing speeds for different shots. The ball must perform well for all your swings, not just the 14 drives. Does it suit your approach shots, pitches, and chips as well?
Feel and Performance Go Hand in Hand A golf ball's compression rating only indicates its relative firmness or softness. It doesn't predict distance, flight, or spin. Compression is merely one aspect of ball design that influences its performance. While feel matters to some players, what truly matters is how the ball performs on every shot.
Minor Scuffs and Scrapes Make The Ball Unplayable No they don't! Those minor scuffs and scrapes likely just removed some paint. While they might not be visually appealing, they won't significantly impact the ball's performance. Extensive surface abrasion testing has shown that if the ball looks playable, it likely is.
Proper Storage Makes No Difference Extreme heat can substantially reduce a ball's lifespan and affect its performance. Avoid leaving your golf balls in your hot car or attic, as these areas can become quite warm in the summer. Instead, store them indoors under normal conditions, and they should remain in good shape for at least five years, if not longer.
Getting Off to the Right Start with Your Golf Gear
Now, let's talk golf equipment because, guess what, golf balls are just the tip of the tee! Here's what you'll need to kick off your golf journey on the right foot:
1. Clubs Are Key: Ideally, you'll have a set of clubs, which can total up to 14 in your golf bag. This typically includes:
Driver
Fairway wood(s)
Irons (ranging from 3 to pitching wedge)
Hybrid(s)
Sand wedge
Putter
In the beginning, you might not need the full spectrum of irons. As a newbie, a 5, 7, and 9 iron can serve you well. You can gradually expand your collection as you become more experienced and grasp the nuances of each club's purpose. No need to empty your wallet before you even hit the greens, so start with nine clubs as a solid foundation.
2. Bag It Up: Invest in a durable golf bag that keeps your clubs neatly organized. Successful golfing hinges on a blend of skill and focus. If you're fumbling around for clubs and balls at every hole, your game might end up in the rough.
3. Must-Have Accessories: Your golf bag should also house essential accessories, such as:
Tees
Ball markers
Gloves
Apparel
Towels
Sunscreen
Pencils
Rain gear
Don't go overboard, but these items typically come in handy, especially when you're out on the course, rather than just practicing at the driving range.
4. Indoor Equipment Counts: Consider indoor golf gear, including quality putting mats and putting gates. Putting is a crucial aspect of the game, and weather can sometimes foil outdoor practice. Having indoor golf aids lets you keep your game on par regardless of the elements.
Whether you're aiming to conquer the Masters, enjoy some friendly competition, or simply bask in the great outdoors, starting with the right equipment is key to improving your game. With dedication and practice, you might just become the golfer you've always dreamt of being!
Best Golf Balls For Beginners FAQ
Q: What should beginners look for when choosing golf balls? A: Beginners should look for golf balls that provide maximum distance, forgiveness on mishits, and a soft feel. They should also consider the price range of the golf balls.
Q: What are the best golf balls for beginners?
A: The best golf balls for beginners are those that provide a balance of distance, feel, and forgiveness. Some popular options include the Callaway SuperSoft Golf Balls, Titleist TruFeel Golf Balls, TaylorMade Tour Response Golf Balls, & Callaway Warbird Golf Balls. Q: Why are these golf balls recommended for beginners? A: These golf balls are recommended for beginners because they provide maximum distance, forgiveness on mishits, and a soft feel. They are also priced reasonably and are great for improving one's game. Q: What is the compression rating of golf balls recommended for beginners? A: Golf balls recommended for beginners typically have a lower compression rating, around 70-90, which makes them easier to compress and generate more distance and speed for slower swing speeds. Q: Can beginners use premium golf balls? A: While premium golf balls may offer additional performance benefits, they tend to be more expensive and may not be necessary for beginners who are still learning and developing their swing. Beginners can certainly use premium golf balls, but they may find more value in using more affordable options that still offer good performance. Q: How many golf balls should beginners have in their bag? A: Beginners should have at least a dozen golf balls in their bag to ensure that they have enough for a full round and for practice. It's always a good idea to have a few extra balls on hand just in case.
Q: How do I choose the right golf ball for my game?
A: It's important to consider your swing speed, skill level, and preferences when choosing a golf ball. If you have a slower swing speed, a softer ball may be better for you. If you're a beginner, a ball with more forgiveness can help you improve your game.
Q: Do expensive golf balls make a difference for beginners?
A: Expensive golf balls can offer better performance, but they may not make a significant difference for beginners who are still developing their skills. It's more important to choose a ball that suits your game and helps you feel confident on the course.
Q: Can I use any golf balls as a beginner?
A: Yes, you can use any golf ball as a beginner. However, it's important to choose a ball that matches your skill level and swing speed to help you achieve better results on the course.
Q: How many golf balls should I buy as a beginner?
A: It's a good idea to buy a dozen golf balls as a beginner so you have enough to practice with and play a full round of golf. You may want to buy more if you tend to lose a lot of balls or if you plan on practicing frequently.
Searching for the best beginner golf ball
Finding the best beginner golf ball is crucial for several reasons:
Distance and Forgiveness: Beginner golf balls are typically designed to provide maximum distance and forgiveness. These balls are engineered to reduce sidespin and minimize the effect of mishits, helping beginners achieve longer and straighter shots. Having a ball that maximizes distance and forgives off-center hits can boost confidence and enjoyment on the course.
Ball Control: Beginner golf balls often have a softer feel and a lower compression rating. This characteristic allows beginners to generate more spin and control around the greens. Improved control on approach shots and short game shots can lead to better scoring opportunities for beginners, enhancing their overall golfing experience.
Cost Efficiency: As a beginner, you may lose golf balls more frequently due to errant shots. Choosing a budget-friendly beginner golf ball allows you to replace lost balls without breaking the bank. It's important to strike a balance between performance and cost, as some premium balls may not be necessary or cost-effective for beginners.
Learning Experience: Using a dedicated beginner golf ball allows you to better understand the characteristics of the ball and how it responds to your swing. Learning how the ball performs in different situations can help you improve your game and make informed decisions when transitioning to more advanced golf balls in the future.
Skill Development: Beginner golf balls can aid in developing fundamental skills. By using a forgiving and distance-oriented ball, beginners can focus on improving their swing mechanics, consistency, and overall technique. As skills progress, you can then transition to more specialized golf balls that suit your game and preferences.
When selecting a beginner golf ball, consider factors such as compression, feel, spin, and budget. It's also worth experimenting with different brands and models to find the ball that aligns with your swing and provides the best combination of distance, forgiveness, and control. Ultimately, finding the right beginner golf ball can enhance your learning experience, enjoyment, and overall progression in the game of golf.
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