As a high-handicap golfer, investing in an expensive “tour” ball engineered for scratch golfers is likely not the best use of your money. Instead, you need a ball designed to help you maximize distance and control, without breaking the bank.
The good news is that there are plenty of models made with these needs in mind, with softer cores helping improve the performance of slow swingers.
In the following article, we will explore some of the top golf ball options for high handicappers and provide key considerations for choosing a ball that matches your current abilities.
With the right knowledge, finding an affordable golf ball optimized for slower swing speeds doesn’t have to be difficult.
Read on to learn more about the best golf balls available for high handicappers.
No time to read the whole article? No worries. We’ve done the work for you and compiled a list of the top performers.
| Product | Features | Our Rating |
|---|
The Top Golf Balls for High Handicappers of 2024
Based on our experience and testing, the following are the best golf balls to use as a high handicapper.
Titleist TruFeel Golf Ball – Best Overall Pick
Designed for high-handicap players seeking maximum soft feel without sacrificing critical distance, the Titleist TruFeel golf ball delivers an ideal blend of soft compression, improved yardage, and short-game control. The TruFeel’s larger 1.6-inch core generates faster ball speeds through its high-speed rubber compound. Comparative testing showed this model has approximately 1 extra mph and 300 additional rpm versus the prior TruFeel. You’ll notice the ball feels extremely soft at impact with muted sound, especially important for slower swing speeds below 100mph.
The TruFeel’s advanced 2-piece construction gives high handicappers low driver spin for optimized distance. Its thin TruFlex cover also promotes good greenside control relative to firmer distance balls. While premium 3-piece models have higher spin, the TruFeel provides ample stopping power on pitches and chips. The helpful sidestamp alignment aid will assist you in hitting straighter, more accurate shots. Overall, this ball reduces vibration while supplying ideal soft feel, speed and short game performance.
Pros
- Extremely soft feel, sound for comfort
- Faster ball speed generates more distance
- Improved control around the greens
- Reduced slice/hook compared to hard balls
- Good value 2-piece price point
Cons
- Lower spin than 3-piece balls
- Some loss of driver distance if over 105mph
For high-handicap golfers wanting a soft feel distance ball with good short-game control, the Titleist TruFeel is a leading choice. It delivers noticeable improvements in soft feel, ball speed, and shot-making control compared to previous models.
Callaway Supersoft Plus 2023 Version – Best for Max Distance & Forgiveness
Callaway’s Supersoft golf ball is designed to provide high handicappers with maximum distance off the tee and superior control around the greens. As one of Callaway’s most popular balls, the Supersoft utilizes a soft compression core to promote low spin and high launch angles for longer carry. The hybrid cover construction generates high ball speeds on full shots while providing great feel and spin control on short game shots.
During testing, the Supersoft delivered on its promise of distance thanks to the energetic core that maximizes speed across your entire bag. Longer clubs like drivers and fairway woods showed increased yardage compared to other balls. The soft feel is ideal for high handicappers who tend to mis-hit shots, reducing that harsh, jarring sensation. The Supersoft lived up to its name with a pleasingly soft feel off the clubface.
Pros
- Generates fast ball speeds for longer drives
- Soft feel lowers impact harshness on mis-hits
- Great control and spin on chip shots and pitches
- Alignment aid improves accuracy
- Excellent value compared to premium balls
Cons
- Dimple pattern looks odd at address
- Durability is moderate, can scuff easily
The Callaway Supersoft excels at boosting distance without sacrificing feel and control around the green. With its blend of technologies engineered for high handicappers, it’s easy to see why the Supersoft remains a top choice year after year. If you struggle to generate distance or want a softer feel, the Supersoft delivers excellent performance and value.
Wilson Staff Duo Soft+ – Best Combination of Feel and Distance
Engineered as the world’s softest golf ball, the Wilson Staff Duo Soft+ is extremely soft with an ultra-low compression rating of 35. The soft feel comes from the enhanced 29% larger rubber-rich VelocitiCOR core that transfers maximum energy to the ball for faster speeds. For high handicappers and slower swingers seeking added distance, the Duo Soft+ will help achieve better distances.
Drives fly noticeably farther thanks to the lively core of the Duo Soft+ that maximizes velocity. The mid to high launch angle creates a steep, stopping descent into greens. While the soft feel reduces harshness on mishits, the Duo Soft+ isn’t dead or mushy feeling thanks to the reformulated firmer core. Greenside control is admirable for a two-piece distance ball.
Pros
- Very soft feel lessens impact harshness
- Generates fast ball speed for distance
- Good control on short game shots
- High launch, ideal for slower swing speeds
- Excellent value for the price
Cons
- Very muted sound and feel on putts
- Not enough feedback for some golfers
The Duo Soft+ gives you the best of both worlds – extreme softness to cushion off-center hits combined with superb velocity for maximizing distance. The high flight trajectory makes it easy to control under windy conditions. If you want effortless yards without sacrificing feel around the green, the Duo Soft+ is an excellent choice in an affordable distance ball.
Callaway ERC Soft Triple Track – Best With Alignment Aid
The 2023 Callaway ERC Soft golf ball delivers on its promise of long distance with soft feel. As This ball is capable of increasing your carry distance thanks to the high-energy core and high-speed mantle designed to optimize ball speed. The hybrid cover also contributes, producing efficient energy transfer for those all-important extra yards.
When you strike the ERC Soft pure, it launches high with low spin for maximum distance. My mid-swing speed saw noticeable gains in carry distance when I connected in the center of the club face. The soft feel cover grabs wedge and iron shots cleanly as well. I experienced ample greenside spin on most well-struck short-game shots, although it doesn’t quite check up like Callaway’s premium Chrome Soft.
The triple track alignment aid takes some getting used to but ultimately helps dial in concentration on proper setup. The three lines assist in lining up putts and establishing consistent start lines on the green. If the lines prove distracting, they only cover half the ball and can be hidden during long shots.
Pros
- Increased distance off the tee
- Soft feel on all shots
- Ample greenside spin
- The triple track improves alignment
- Good value
Cons
- Lines may prove distracting for some
For high-handicap players seeking more distance without sacrificing feel, the Callaway ERC Soft is a great option at a competitive price point. The ball optimizes launch and reduces spin for longer shots while providing soft feel and ample spin on shorter ones. If you struggle with alignment, the triple track visual aid can also help with your putting. Overall, this ball delivers on distance and feel, making it one of the best choices for high handicappers.
Srixon Q-Star Tour Divide – Best Visibility & Design
This two-tone technicolor golf ball is Srixon’s attempt to provide visual feedback for practice and alignment assistance on the course. The Q-Star Tour Divide features a bright, fluorescent palette of colors like pink, yellow, and orange in place of the standard white cover. The entire thermoplastic urethane surface is infused with vivid pigments to prevent scratching or wearing off.
At address, the contrasting hemispheres are designed to help you visualize proper alignment and aim. While putting, you can better analyze factors like face angle, path direction, and spin. For chipping practice, it enhances feedback on strike and spin. On the course, the Divide’s colors make it easy to spot and track in flight.
Pros
- Aligns putts and chips for more consistency
- Provides immediate visual feedback
- Easy to follow and see in flight
- Soft feel and greenside spin
Cons
- Loud colors may be off-putting
- Can distract from swing on full shots
During our tests, the Divide performed identically to the standard Q-Star Tour with its soft 3-piece construction. Distance, launch, and spin were unaffected. The audacious palette is disarming at first but becomes normalized within a few holes. If you can get past the initial shock and focus on its benefits, the Divide is a useful practice and training aid. For high handicappers seeking feedback to improve their short game, the Divide is a worthwhile training companion.
Bridgestone e12 Contact – Best for Straighter Flight and Less Sidespin
Bridgestone’s new e12 Contact ball utilizes a game-changing dimple pattern to increase ball-face contact time for maximum energy transfer and distance. The hexagonal dimples with circular indents ramp up surface contact by 38% compared to traditional dimple designs. This results in straighter, longer shots with a piercing trajectory.
The e12 Contact delivers impressive yardages off the tee, keeping pace with premium tour balls. The mid-level ball flight promotes a nice blend of carry and roll distance. While not as soft feeling as a urethane-cover tour ball, the ionomer cover provides a responsive feel on full shots.
Around the greens, I was able to shape finesse shots thanks to the soft reactive core. Pitch shots checked up well and the ball came off the putter’s face with a crisp click. While not as soft as the e6, the e12 Contact provides a tour-level experience for a very fair price.
Pros
- Promotes straight, long shots
- Increased ball-face contact time
- Solid feel on full shots
- Good spin and control around greens
- Available in colorful matte options
Cons
- Reduces workability and shot shape
- Not as soft feeling as some other balls
If you’re looking to hit the ball farther and eliminate slices or hooks, the Bridgestone e12 Contact is an excellent option. The aerodynamic dimple design works as advertised to fly straight while maintaining distance. This high-performance ball can help you find more fairways at an affordable price.
Mizuno 2024 RB 566 – Best Spin Control
Mizuno’s RB566 golf ball utilizes an innovative 566 micro-dimple design to generate maximum lift and distance for slower swing speeds. The aerodynamic dimple pattern maintains velocity for longer carry and more hang time across your bag.
Drives with the RB566 will launch higher with a piercing ball flight that resists ballooning. Approach shots fly a noticeably steeper trajectory as well. The higher apex promotes more carry distance in comparison to similar competitive balls.
The soft ionomer cover provided nice feel and control on chips, pitches, and putts around the greens. While not quite a tour-level spin profile, the RB566 offered ample playability and feel. The durable cover also held its sheen well during play.
Pros
- Generates higher launch and peak heights
- Longer carry distance from efficient flight
- Straighter ball flight with less curvature
- Soft feel around greens with good spin
- Bright color options are easy to spot
Cons
- Won’t create enough spin for faster swing speeds
- Best for colder weather play
With its penetrating flight and soft feel, the Mizuno RB566 is an ideal option for slower swingers seeking more carry distance and height. If you tend to lose yards or balloon shots, this technologically advanced two-piece can help launch it higher and longer. The RB566 does provide increased hang time and efficiency.
Titleist Velocity – Best For Distance
The latest iteration of the Titleist Velocity golf ball aims to deliver maximum distance for golfers seeking pure length off the tee. Now featuring a high-speed LSX core, the 2022 Velocity promotes long carry and reduced drag for added yards. A new Faster NaZ+ cover also works to boost ball speed.
In testing the Velocity 22 against other Titleist models, this distance focus proved true. The ball delivered a higher launch and lower spin off driver for noticeably longer carry versus the Tour Soft and Pro V1x. Iron shots followed the same pattern, flying slightly farther than premium alternatives. The matte white finish and side stamp alignment aid offer an appealing look, if not a classic high-gloss Titleist appearance.
Pros
- Produces fast ball speeds for maximum distance.
- The energetic feel promotes a penetrating, high-launch flight.
- The alignment aid on the side helps with proper positioning.
- Distance-seekers will surely find the yardage they crave.
Cons
- The firm feel reduces spin and feel on chips, pitches, and putts.
- The clicky sound lacks satisfying feedback on strikes.
Overall, the Velocity 22 accomplishes its mission of delivering low-spin speed for maximum distance off the tee and through the long game. The energetic construction launches missiles on full shots. However, finesse players will want to look elsewhere for short-game control. The Velocity is best suited for slower swing speeds benefiting most from the distance gains.
For seniors, high handicappers, and juniors, its length merits consideration. But touch and feel players should steer clear of the Velocity line.
Diawings Max Distance – Best Value for Money
The Diawings Max Distance golf ball aims to deliver increased yards for mid-to-slow swing speeds. Utilizing a low-compression Power Core, this two-piece construction promotes high launch and low spin for maximum carry. The lively feel and Surlyn cover add distance along with respectable short-game control.
Testing showed the Max Distance excels when slower swing speeds can activate its potential. Driven at 90mph, it reached near-identical carry to the Pro V1 but with a higher flight. However, the lower 78mph 7-iron speed saw a measurable four yards of extra distance over the premium ball. The Power Core compresses optimally at moderate speeds to boost launch without excess spin.
Pros
- Produces low-spin for maximum carry distance off driver and irons
- High-energy feel promotes long distance on full shots
- Impressive distance from core paired with responsive feel from Surlyn cover
- Ideal balance of added yards in long game and playability on short game shots
- Provides playable feel and feedback even on chips, pitches, and putts
Cons
- Distance gains decrease with swing speeds over 90 MPH
- Lower control and stopping power compared to premium balls
Overall, the Diawings Max Distance is a super option for slower swingers seeking extra yards. With distance-enhancing construction and lively feel, it achieves longer shots and playable short-game control. However, faster swingers won’t realize the full benefits. Mid-handicappers gain the most from the Max Distance formula.
Vice Drive Golf Balls – Best Durability
The Vice Drive golf ball delivers solid performance and durability at a budget-friendly price point. Using a 2-piece construction, this ball provides ample distance and decent feel for slower-swinging recreational players. Though not as advanced as premium balls, the Vice Drive offers quality, long-lasting playability for a decent price.
The Vice Drive competes well within its price range. Launch and carry measured up against Titleist’s Velocity and other distance balls for amateur swing speeds. While some budget balls veer into stone-like hardness, the responsive Vice Drive feels lively off the clubface. Short game feel proves suitable as well, though lacking the buttery softness of urethane balls.
The Vice Drive truly shines for bargain-minded golfers prioritizing value and longevity over maximizing every yard. Where many cheap balls cut corners, Vice’s sturdy Surlyn build stands up to abuse.
Pros
- Great value
- Impressive durability and longevity
- Optimized performance for slower swing speeds
- Lively feel off the clubface
- Suitable feel on short game shots
Cons
- Not as long or soft as premium balls
- Lacks workability for shaping shots
For players on a budget seeking quality at a minimal cost, the Vice Drive impresses for its resilience and well-balanced performance. While premium balls eke out every advantage, the Vice Drive provides an excellent value golf ball. Combine it with range sessions to work on your swing, and extra yards will come.
Buying Guide – Things to Consider While Searching for the Best Golf Balls for high handicap golfer
This buying guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting golf balls. With the proper information and understanding of your needs as a high handicapper, you’ll be able to find the ideal golf balls to improve your game.
Price
When just starting out, you’ll likely be losing a lot of golf balls, so buying the most expensive tour-level models isn’t practical.
Look for more affordable options in the $20-$30 per dozen range so you don’t break the bank as you work on consistency.
Brands like Titleist, Callaway, Bridgestone, and Srixon make high-quality balls for beginners at reasonable prices.
Construction and Materials
Most beginner golf balls have a 2-piece construction with a durable ionomer cover. This provides a good distance off the tee.
Softer covers don’t provide any benefit for beginners. Prioritize distance over feel by choosing balls with firmer ionomer covers. The Callaway ERC Soft is a great option that combines distance with a softer feel.
Your Handicap
Realistically assess your abilities as a beginner. As a newer player with a higher handicap, you’ll benefit most from balls offering maximum distance and straight flight.
Don’t worry about spin control or stopping power on greens yet. Distance and accuracy are vital. As you lower your handicap, work your way up to the more expensive ball types that suit your skill level.
Distance
For beginners, look for golf balls promoting low compression or “high velocity” for the fastest ball speeds off the clubface.
The Titleist DT TruSoft compresses more on impact, resulting in greater distance. Backspin is also minimized, keeping shots straighter.
Spin
Higher handicappers tend to slice and hook the ball, so choose golf balls that reduce sidespin and curvature.
One great option – The Bridgestone E12 Contact is engineered to decrease sidespin for straighter shots. The shallower dimples also contribute to straighter flights.
Feel
Some beginners prefer soft-feeling golf balls, while others like a firmer, more responsive sensation.
Try different models like the soft Callaway Supersoft vs. the firm Srixon Distance to see which feel you like best based on your swing speed.
There’s no right or wrong option, only personal preference.
Color
White is the traditional color, but many brands offer golf balls in bright colors like orange, yellow, and green. This can make the ball easier to track in flight and find in the rough.
Try a colored ball if you have trouble seeing a white ball. Make sure the color contrasts well with the green turf and the sky to ensure maximum visibility. Yellow and orange are excellent choices for this purpose.
Durability
As a beginner, your ball will see plenty of hazards, so durability is key. Ionomer covers resist cuts and scuffs much better than urethane. Prioritize durability over soft feel at this stage in your development. Focus on improving contact before moving to softer balls.
With the information in this guide, you’ll be able to shop for golf balls with confidence. Keep your skill level and priorities in mind, and choose balls that maximize distance and accuracy as you work on your swing technique. Soon you’ll be ready to graduate to more advanced balls.
What’s A High Handicap Golfer?
Anyone with a handicap above 18 is considered to be having a high handicap. Between 10 and 18, a player can be called a skilled player with a decent handicap. If a player has a handicap of 15, then it means that they consistently shoot 15 strokes more than the difficulty rating of a particular golf course.
A handicap tells you about the skill level of a golfer. Here, a high score does not mean excellence. It is the other way around. The lower the handicap, the better it is. For example, a golfer with a three handicap is much better than a golfer with a 16 handicap.
You can check more about handicap in golf in this detailed guide.
Final Thoughts
Golf may seem intimidating at first, but finding the right ball for your game makes all the difference. As we’ve explored, high-handicap golfers have many excellent options to boost their skills. Whether prioritizing distance, control, forgiveness, or style, there exists a ball designed for your needs. While the search may feel daunting, our guide has illuminated key factors to match your abilities.
Now you’re equipped with knowledge to upgrade your gear and watch your handicap dwindle. Don’t settle for less when you can play your best.
Let us know your thoughts and experience finding your perfect match in the comments section below. You may also contact us via email in case you have any questions.
Thanks for reading!
