5 Best Golf Balls for Beginners in 2023 (by a Golf Professional)

As a beginner in golf, selecting the right equipment is crucial for enhancing your performance and enjoying the game. Among the essential equipment, golf balls play a significant role in your overall experience on the course. This article will explore the five best golf balls for beginners or high handicappers. By choosing the right ball, you can accelerate your game, improve distance, enhance your control and accuracy, and ultimately elevate your enjoyment of the sport. Let’s dive in and find the perfect golf ball to take your skills to the next level.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

My Top 5 Picks

1. Best Overall – Titleist Pro V1x
2. Best Budget – TaylorMade-Distance+
3. Most Forgiving – Callaway Supersoft
4. Best All Around – Srixon Soft Feel
5. Best Off the Tee – Bridgestone e6

Best Overall Golf Ball for Beginners

Overall, the ProV1x is one of the best golf balls for beginners. I recommend the ProV1x over the ProV1 for beginners because of its higher trajectory and spin rate. Most, if not all, beginner golfers will have slower swing speeds and will need help getting the ball in the air and will benefit from more spin on approach shots and around the green, making the ProV1x the better option. The ProV1 promotes a lower trajectory and lower spin on the long game and around the green.

Best Budget Golf Ball for Beginners

The TaylorMade Distance+ offers a balance of distance, feel, and control, making it a great all-around option for beginners who want to improve their overall performance.

Most Forgiving Golf Ball for Beginners

The Callaway Supersoft is renowned for its ultra-low compression core, which promotes faster ball speeds and increased distance. This ball also offers excellent forgiveness, reducing the impact of mishits and providing straighter shots, making the Callaway Supersoft one of the best golf balls for beginners.

Best All Around Golf Ball for Beginners

The Srixon Soft Feel golf ball is designed to deliver both distance and a soft feel, making it one of the best golf balls for high handicappers or beginners. Its low-compression core provides exceptional energy transfer, increasing distance off the tee. The soft cover offers excellent control around the greens, allowing beginners to fine-tune their short-game skills.

Best Golf Ball off the Tee for Beginners

The Bridgestone e6 is an excellent choice for beginners seeking forgiveness and control. The e6 design focuses on reducing sidespin, which helps beginners keep their shots in the fairway, resulting in more consistent and accurate drives.

Important Factors to Consider

Choosing the right golf ball is crucial for beginners looking to accelerate their game. The five golf balls mentioned – Titleist Pro V1x, Callaway Supersoft, TaylorMade Distance+, Srixon Soft Feel, and Bridgestone e6 – offer a range of performance characteristics tailored to the needs of beginner golfers. Whether you prioritize distance, forgiveness, control, or a soft feel, there is a perfect golf ball out there for you. Experiment with different options, consider your playing style and enjoy the journey of discovering the golf ball that elevates your game. It’s worth noting that while these golf balls are well-suited for beginners, they can also be enjoyed by golfers of all skill levels.

When selecting the best golf ball for your game, it’s essential to consider a few additional factors:

Swing Speed

Beginners tend to have slower swing speeds compared to more experienced golfers. If you have a slower swing speed, look for golf balls with low compression ratings. These balls compress more readily upon impact, generating more distance and control for slower swing speeds.

Budget

Golf balls come in a wide range of prices. As a beginner, you may want to start with more affordable options until you gain more experience and confidence in your game. The good news is that quality golf balls are available at various price points, so you can find one that fits your budget.

Personal Preference

Every golfer has unique preferences regarding the feel and performance of a golf ball. Some prefer a softer feel off the clubface, while others prefer a firmer response. Consider experimenting with different golf balls to find the one that aligns with your preferences and enhances your playing experience.

Remember, while the right golf ball can make a difference in your game, it’s also essential to focus on developing your skills through practice and proper technique. Golf is a game that requires patience and dedication, and as you progress, you may find that your preferences and needs change. Be open to trying different golf balls and adjusting your equipment as your game evolves.

Ball Fitting

Consider undergoing a ball fitting session with a professional. Ball fitting can help identify the right ball for your swing speed, launch conditions, and playing style. It considers factors such as ball compression, spin rates, and trajectory, providing valuable insights to guide your decision.

Advice From Golf Professionals

Consult with golf professionals or experienced golfers for recommendations and insights. They can offer valuable guidance based on their knowledge and experience, helping you narrow your choices and find the best golf ball for your needs. A good golf professional can also help you get on the right track regarding a solid practice schedule for your game so you can make the most of your new golf ball on the course.

Experiment With Different Golf Balls

Feel free to try different golf balls to find the one that suits you best. Purchase a variety of balls in small quantities and test them during practice sessions at home or on the course. Note how each ball performs regarding distance, control, feel, and overall performance. This hands-on approach can provide valuable feedback and help you make an informed decision.

The best golf balls for beginners offer a combination of distance, forgiveness, control, and feel. The Titleist Pro V1, Callaway Supersoft, TaylorMade Distance+, Srixon Soft Feel, and Bridgestone e6 Soft are all excellent options. Remember to consider factors such as swing speed, budget, and personal preference when making your selection. Choosing the right golf ball for your game can enhance your performance, boost your confidence, and take your skills to new heights. So, grab a sleeve of your chosen golf balls, head to the course, and enjoy the journey of improvement and enjoyment that comes with playing golf as a beginner.

Understanding Compression Ratings

One important factor to consider when selecting golf balls is the compression rating. Compression refers to the amount the ball compresses upon impact. For beginners, choosing golf balls with a low compression rating is generally recommended. Low compression balls are softer and allow for better energy transfer, making it easier for beginners to achieve distance even with slower swing speeds. These balls help generate more ball speed and launch higher, resulting in longer shots. Look for golf balls with compression ratings below 80 for optimal performance as a beginner.

Multi-Layer vs. Two-Piece Golf Ball

In addition to considering compression, it’s essential to understand the difference between multi-layer and two-piece golf balls. Two-piece golf balls are made up of a solid core and a cover. They are known for their durability, distance, and low spin. These balls are great for beginners because they offer forgiveness on mishits and allow for longer straighter shots. They also tend to be more affordable, making them a practical choice for beginners still developing their skills.

On the other hand, multi-layer golf balls are constructed with a soft core, an outer mantle layer, and a cover. These balls provide more control and feel around the greens, allowing for better spin and precision. While they may not offer the same distance as two-piece balls, they can be advantageous for beginners who prioritize control and want to emphasize their short game. However, multi-layer balls are generally more expensive than two-piece balls.

The Role of Dimples

The dimples on a golf ball play a significant role in its performance. Dimples create turbulence in the air, reducing drag and allowing the ball to travel farther. The design and pattern of the dimples impact the ball’s aerodynamics and flight. Choosing golf balls with a dimple pattern optimized for maximum distance and forgiveness is essential for beginners. The best golf balls for beginners feature a dimple pattern that enhances lift and minimizes the effects of errant shots.

Environmental Considerations

When selecting golf balls, you must consider the environmental conditions you’ll be playing in. Different golf balls perform differently in various weather conditions. For example, if you typically play in cold temperatures, it’s advisable to choose golf balls that offer better performance in cooler conditions. Similarly, if you frequently play in wet conditions, look for golf balls with good water resistance and durability. Understanding the environmental factors can help you narrow your options and select golf balls that will perform optimally in your specific playing conditions.

Customization Options

Many golf ball manufacturers offer customization options, allowing you to personalize your golf balls. Customization can include adding your name, initials, or favorite logo to the ball. While this doesn’t directly impact the ball’s performance, it adds a touch of personalization and uniqueness to your golfing experience. Customized golf balls can also be a great gift for beginner golfers who want to add a personal touch to their equipment.

Consider Your Budget

Golf balls range in price, so it’s essential to determine your budget before purchasing. Plenty of excellent options are available at various price points, so you can find high-quality golf balls that fit your budget.

Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations

Before buying golf balls, take the time to read reviews from other golfers and seek recommendations from professionals or experienced players. Their insights can provide valuable information about different golf balls’ performance, durability, and overall quality. Additionally, they can share their experiences with specific golf ball models and help you make a more informed decision.

Try Before You Buy

Try out different golf ball models whenever possible before committing to a particular brand or type. Some golf retailers offer sample packs or individual balls for testing. Taking the time to hit a few shots with different balls can give you a better sense of how they feel and perform, helping you choose the best option for your game.

Take Advantage of Promotions and Discounts

Golf balls are often sold in packages or bulk quantities. Consider purchasing larger quantities to take advantage of cost savings. This can be especially beneficial if you find a golf ball you enjoy and want to use consistently.

Golf balls frequently go on sale or have promotional offers. Look for discounts, seasonal sales, or special deals from retailers or manufacturers. These promotions can help you save money on the game while still getting quality golf balls.

Beyond Beginner: Transitioning to Intermediate Golf Balls

As you progress in your golfing journey and improve your skills, you may reach a point where you feel ready to transition from what is deemed the best golf balls for beginners to intermediate-level options. Intermediate golf balls balance distance, control, and feel, making them suitable for golfers with more consistent swings and better overall game control.

It’s worth considering upgrading to intermediate golf balls when you feel comfortable with your swing and consistently make solid contact with the ball. These balls may offer enhanced spin control, a better feel around the greens, and increased shot-shaping capabilities. Consult with golf professionals or experienced players to get recommendations on intermediate-level golf balls that suit your game and playing style.

Putting It All Together

Selecting the best golf balls for beginners is an important decision that can significantly impact your game. Considering factors such as compression, construction type, dimple design, and environmental considerations, you can narrow your options and find the perfect golf balls to enhance your performance and enjoyment.

Remember, every golfer is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Experimentation, trial, and error are part of the process. Take the time to test different golf ball models, seek recommendations, and consider your personal preferences to find the ideal golf balls for your game.

Investing in suitable golf balls can provide you with the distance, forgiveness, control, and feel necessary to boost your confidence and accelerate your progress as a beginner golfer. So, take this comprehensive guide, explore the recommended options, and make an informed decision that sets you up for success on the course. With the best golf balls for beginners in your bag, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy your golfing journey and improve your game with each swing.