36 of 89 Items
36 of 89 Items
The "feel" of a golf ball is influenced by several factors, including its construction, compression, and the materials used for the cover. Generally, a golf ball's feel can be described as either soft or firm, and these characteristics can affect how the ball responds to different shots, particularly when it comes to distance, control, and overall comfort during play.
Here’s a breakdown of what defines "soft" vs. "firm" golf ball feel:
Soft Feel Golf Balls:
Compression: Soft golf balls typically have a lower compression (around 70-80), meaning they compress (deform) more easily when struck. This results in a "softer" sensation at impact.
Cover Material: Often made of a urethane or soft ionomer cover, which enhances the feel and allows for more spin control around the greens.
Some tour performance golf balls need to be compressed with a high speed swing to maximise the distance. If the swing speed is too low ball you can lose distance with a tour quality golf ball.
Performance: Soft balls are favoured for short-game control, providing better feedback, spin, and accuracy. They're popular with golfers who want more touch around the greens and prefer a softer sensation on shots.
Distance: They may sacrifice some distance off the tee, as the lower compression doesn't store as much energy as firmer balls. However, this isn't always the case, and newer ball technologies can help soft balls achieve reasonable distance.
Firm Feel Golf Balls:
Compression: Firm golf balls typically have a higher compression (90+), meaning they don’t compress as much on impact and offer a firmer sensation when struck.
Cover Material: These balls often use harder surlyn or harder ionomer covers, which can help create a firmer feel and improve durability.
Performance: Firmer balls are typically better suited for golfers with higher swing speeds, as the higher compression allows for better energy transfer, potentially resulting in more distance.
Distance: Firmer balls tend to travel farther off the tee because they are less prone to deformation, allowing for a greater transfer of energy during impact. The latest tour performance golf balls can generate excellent distance and these feel fairly soft.
Spin: They generally produce less spin on short-game shots compared to softer balls, which can make them more difficult to control around the greens.
Summary of Differences:
Soft Feel: More spin, better control, and comfort around the greens, but potentially less distance, especially for slower swing speeds. Firm Feel: More distance off the tee, especially for faster swing speeds, but generally less spin and control around the greens.
Which One Should You Choose?
Low-handicap or advanced players with higher swing speeds might lean toward softer golf balls for greater distance and more precise control.
Beginner or high-handicap players may prefer harder distance balls which are often more durable.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, swing speed, and the type of game you're looking to play. Most manufacturers like Titleist, Callaway, Srixon and TaylorMade, offer various models with both soft and firm options that are tailored to different playing styles.