Discovering the best golf balls at the handicap level could significantly impact your game, rapidly lowering your scores. We’re all hunting for that extra distance and precise spin control.
Let’s equip you to consistently break 90 and 80 on the course with the best golf balls for mid handicappers.
I relish the opportunity to test golf balls. Whenever I’m out on the green, I make it a mission to switch up the models – different colors, materials, and layers; I’m game for it all.
Drawing from extensive on-course trials, I’ll delve into the perks and performance of mid-handicapper golf balls, pinpointing the ones best suited to your needs. My insights stem from countless shots with the best golf balls for mid handicappers, ensuring you get the lowdown on the top options.
Best Golf Balls for Mid Handicappers
Srixon Soft Feel golf balls
Srixon Soft Feel golf balls
Built for mid-handicappers, they offer durability lasting up to three rounds.
With a compression of 60 and a two-piece design, they deliver high-ball flights and straighter shots off the tee.
The Fusablend cover ensures a satisfying feel of impact. Upgrade your game today!
Pros
Exceptional durability; lasts up to three rounds
High ball flight for green-stopping precision
Soft Fusablend cover for a pleasing feel
Low spin of the driver for straighter, longer shots
Cons
None
My top pick for mid-handicappers seeking their first new ball encounter is the Srixon Soft Feel. I began using these at a 10 handicap, sticking them down to a 3.
In its 13th iteration, the Soft Feel features a two-piece construction with a compression reduced to 60, a departure from the current ultra-low compression trend. Wrapped in a firm Surlyn cover, it boasts a softer inner layer and a firmer outer layer, enhancing distance.
Srixon’s thinner cover contributes to its reputation as one of the best mid-handicap balls for greenside control, providing a soft feel on impact. Expect your ball to halt mere yards from its pitch mark.
My advice? Give them a try – you won’t be disappointed.
After switching to new golf balls, I found the Soft Feel particularly special for its nostalgic new ball experience. Plus, at $1.50 each, they offer peace of mind on the course.
Kirkland Signature golf balls
Kirkland Signature golf balls
Offering tour-level performance at a budget-friendly price, these balls feature a high-quality urethane cover for impressive distance and precise control.
Durable and reliable, they’re perfect for mid-handicappers looking to improve without breaking the bank. Upgrade your game today!
Pros
Longer, straighter shots with wood and irons
Priced so affordably, you’ll have no qualms about reloading if you lose one.
The epitome of urethane quality for weekend golf without the frills
Cons
There’s absolutely nothing to dislike about this golf ball
Meet Kirkland Signature: the ultimate budget golf ball, unrivaled anywhere on the planet. These balls offer unbeatable value, performing like tour-grade balls with their high-quality urethane cover.
I speak from experience, having put 24 of these gems to the test at renowned courses like Pebble Beach and Spanish Bay. Kirkland Signatures boast impressive distance and exceptional green-holding capabilities thanks to their soft, high-spin urethane cover. The spin is just right, providing control without excessive rip-back.
Transitioning from Surlyn to Kirkland’s urethane cover, I noticed a significant gain in yardage, with balls settling near their pitch marks. Even with wedges sporting rough faces, Kirkland Signature balls hold up admirably against pricier urethane counterparts, lasting 18 holes and beyond.
Perfect for mid-handicappers, these balls offer premium quality at a price that won’t break the bank. The feeling of freedom they afford – the freedom from worrying about losing balls – is priceless. And ironically, that fearlessness translates to fewer lost balls on the course. That’s the magic of Kirkland Signatures.
With these balls, I’ve achieved stellar scores at Pebble Beach, and you can, too. Experience your freedom, and check out my channel for more insights.
Callaway SuperSoft golf balls
Callaway SuperSoft golf balls
Featuring an ultra-low 35 compression core, they deliver minimal spin on drives and a soft feel on short shots.
With a two-piece design and soft Trionomer cover, expect impressive distance and spin around the green.
Durable and affordable, they’re a top choice for mid-handicappers. Improve your game today with Callaway SuperSoft.
Pros
The luxuriously soft feel from the Trionomer cover
Ultra-low compression for longer drives and enhanced spin
Exceptional value for money
Cons
May feel excessively soft on older putters with inserts
Enter the Callaway SuperSoft, boasting an ultra-low 35 compression core for minimal spin on drives and a luxuriously soft feel on shorter shots. This improved version features a two-piece design with a soft Trionomer cover, enhancing both feel and spin around the green. Expect impressive distance off the tee and extended rollout for various swing speeds.
Having played a few rounds with this ball, courtesy of a competition win, I can attest to its incredibly soft feel, particularly of the wedge and putter face. While it may feel marshmallowy soft on insert putters, switching to a steel putter offers a firmer, more solid sensation. Its durability is commendable, save for a scuff from a cart path incident. A top choice among mid-handicappers, the Callaway SuperSoft offers unbeatable performance at an affordable price.
Wilson Staff DUO Soft golf balls
Wilson Staff DUO Soft golf balls
Low 38 compression and vibrant matte finishes provide a premium feel with durability.
Trusted by players like JMac for straighter shots and improved height, these balls are perfect for all skill levels.
With bright colors for easy tracking and an affordable price, upgrade your game today!
Pros
Matte finish minimizes the visibility of scratches compared to white balls
“PROFESSIONAL” inscription aids alignment
38 compression maximizes drive distance while offering a soft feel on finesse shots
Cons
Higher swing speeds may benefit from a higher compression ball
Introducing the Wilson Staff DUO Soft golf balls, renowned for their low compression at 38 and vibrant matte finishes. This unique combination offers the feel of a grippy, spin-friendly urethane ball with the durability of a gloomy cover.
I had the pleasure of testing these balls with JMac from the channel, who wholeheartedly recommends them. Witnessing his journey from a 19 to an 8 handicap, we noticed significant improvements. Shots were straighter with his driver swing speed, and he achieved impressive height with his hybrid and fairway wood for the first time. The bright colors also make tracking and finding the ball a breeze.
Affordably priced, these balls enhanced JMac’s wedge game and chipping skills, prompting a switch from Srixon Soft Feels.
Srixon Q-Star Tour golf balls
Srixon Q-Star Tour golf balls
Trusted by mid handicappers for premium performance at an unbeatable value, they feature a urethane cover for Tour-like spin, a soft compression core for lower driver spin, and an innovative alignment decal.
Experience consistent flight and a responsive feel on every shot.
Pros
Urethane cover for Tour-like feel and spin
Exceptional value pricing
Long decal with arrow for alignment
Soft compression core for lower driver spin
Cons
Slight run on chips but is ideal for bump-and-run shots
Introducing the Srixon Q-Star Tour: a must-have for mid-handicappers seeking premium performance without the hefty price tag.
Trusted by enthusiasts like Joe, who transitioned from Srixon Soft Feel, these balls offer exceptional value. With a moderate swing speed of 90 mph, Joe experienced consistent flight off the driver and a responsive feel with his steel-faced putter.
Plus, the Q-Star Tour proves remarkably durable in the UK’s cold, wet conditions. Featuring a urethane cover for Tour-level spin and a low 65-70 compression core, this ball is a game-changer for mid-handsappers aiming to break 80. Don’t break the bank – upgrade to the Q-Star Tour today!
Taylormade Tour Response golf balls
Taylormade Tour Response golf balls
Crafted for mid-handicappers seeking game-changing performance.
With enhanced spin and control, it’s perfect for breaking 80. Elevate your game today!
Pros
Urethane cover for Tour-like feel
Excellent spin on approaches and chipshots
Ideal for 7-15 handicappers swinging under 105 mph with the driver
Unparalleled price-to-performance ratio
Cons
Prone to scuffing
Not ideal for speedy swings
Introducing the Taylormade Tour Response: a game-changer for competitive mid-handicappers aiming to dominate the course. Designed for players with handicaps ranging from 7 to 15, this ball offers enhanced spin and control, perfect for breaking the 80 barrier.
Featuring a urethane cover and low-compression core, the Tour Response delivers unmatched control, stopping power on the green, and a next-level feel with wedges and putters. With its superior performance and unbeatable price-to-performance ratio, the Tour Response is a must-have for serious golfers. Elevate your game today!
Callaway ERC Soft Triple Track golf balls
Callaway ERC Soft Triple Track golf balls
Endorsed for exceptional performance by enthusiasts like Steve. With a durable 3-piece blend cover, they offer both toughness and spin.
Ideal for maximizing distance and ensuring precise greenside control, they’re a game-changer for all players. Elevate your game today!
Pros
Durable blended cover, 3-piece construction
Long drives with moderate spin
Standout alignment aid for precision putting
Cons
Not as spinny for aggressive greenside play
Enter the Callaway ERC Soft Triple Track, a favorite of Steve’s on my channel. These balls perfectly complement the new Triple Track putters, aligning with precision for your putts.
Crafted as a 3-piece blend, the ERC Soft features a rugged cover that’s both durable and slightly spinnier than pure ionomer/surly blends. Notably, it excels in distance and alignment. Steve, transitioning from urethane balls to cut costs, found that the ERC Soft outperformed in distance and greenside stopping power. His slowing swing helps maintain his distance while the alignment aid ensures accurate putting.
This ball is a game-changer, performing comparably to Srixon Soft Feel or Kirkland Signature but surpassing them with its unparalleled alignment aid for putting.
Vice Pro Soft golf balls
Vice Pro Soft golf balls
Tailored for mid-handicappers with slow swings. Featuring a urethane cover and a High Energy Speed Core, they offer enhanced spin and higher ball speed for increased carry off the tee.
With vibrant colors for high visibility and a matte cover for excellent grip, these balls excel in all conditions. Elevate your game today!
Pros
High visibility for better tracking
Urethane cover for impressive spin
Ideal for slower-swinging, lower mid-handicap players
Consistent performance in windy conditions
Cons
Some users find the sound or feel “underwhelming.”
Enter the Vice Pro Soft: a top choice for solid mid-handicappers with slow swings. This three-piece ball boasts a urethane cover for enhanced spin and performance. Featuring a High Energy Speed Core, it generates higher ball speed and increased carry off the tee, which is ideal for slower swing speeds.
While tailored for slightly more advanced players approaching single-digit handicaps, its vibrant colors ensure high visibility on the course. I favor the matte cover for its tackiness, providing excellent grip on wedge shots, even from the rough. Like the Volvik Vivid ST, these balls offer a familiar flight and feel across all clubs. Plus, they excel in windy conditions, as proven during my trip to Scotland.
With Vice Pro Soft golf balls, tracking your shots becomes effortless, thanks to their high visibility. Their urethane cover delivers impressive spin, while their suitability for slower swinging mid handicappers aiming to break into single digits makes them a standout choice.
How We Test
Each golf ball we receive, whether from brands or purchased independently, undergoes rigorous testing to gauge its performance accurately. To provide comprehensive insights, we conduct thorough assessments, including feel, performance, durability, sound, distance, and spin, tailored to each ball’s unique characteristics.
Our commitment to meticulous testing extends over time, encompassing on-course and off-course evaluations. For further details on our testing protocols for golf equipment, refer here.
How To Choose The Best Golf Balls for Mid Handicappers?
Choosing the right golf ball is a challenge, with many options available. Whether you prioritize distance or spin, brands like Titleist and Maxfli offer choices like the Pro V1x and Tour X to suit your needs.
Each golfer’s preferences vary, making it challenging to find a universal solution. While premium balls can enhance performance, they only suit some.
1. Skill Level
Premium balls offer advanced technology that benefits players of all levels. However, beginners may opt for budget-friendly options, while experienced players often invest in premium balls.
2. Budget
Budget plays a significant role, with occasional players often choosing budget options and frequent players opting for premium balls.
3. Feel
Though feel is subjective, most golfers prefer soft-feeling balls like the Wilson Staff Model X.
4. Performance
Golf balls are engineered for specific performance characteristics, such as distance off the tee and spin-on approach shots.
5. Spin
Spin is crucial for shot control, with premium balls offering superior spin due to their construction and cover material.
6. Distance
While distance matters, it’s not the sole consideration. Testing around the green and assessing performance with longer clubs is essential.
7. Color
Vibrant colors like yellow or green enhance visibility, while alignment aids simplify shot alignment.
8. Alignment
Many balls feature enhanced alignment aids from brands like Maxfli, Callaway, and TaylorMade, aiding in putting and shooting alignment.
Frequently Ask Question
What are the best golf balls for mid handicappers?
Choosing the best golf ball is subjective, with preferences varying widely among golfers. While the Titleist Pro V1 is famous for its performance, it may only suit some.
Ultimately, the right ball for you is a personal choice, best determined through a golf ball fitting.
What’s necessary for a single-figure handicap?
From my extensive experience playing alongside mid-handicappers, enhanced spin on approaches is crucial for holding the green.
A precise chipping and pitching game, where you can rely on how the ball behaves on the greens, is essential. Choosing the right ball instantly enhances performance in these areas.
We need a ball that stops quicker and provides better distance control.
What is the best golf ball for a 10 handicap?
Mid handicappers around the 10 handicap mark are ideally positioned in the golf ball market. With an average score of about 85 and close to breaking into the 80s, they have specific requirements.
For those favoring urethane balls on a budget, Kirkland Signatures offers reliability. Alternatively, the Taylormade Tour Response tops the list for its balance of performance and cost.
Surlyn options like Srixon Soft Feel or Callaway Super Soft are excellent for durability and improved rollout.
What is the best golf ball for a 15 to 20 handicap?
For mid handicappers in the 15 to 20 range, shooting between 90 and 100, surely-covered golf balls are the go-to.
With an emphasis on distance and keeping the ball in play, low-spin options are crucial to avoiding unwanted slices.
The Srixon Soft Feel stands out as the top choice. For those with a handicap of 20 or higher, second-hand balls may be more suitable.
What if I have a high swing speed and mid-handicap?
The balls listed here are still suitable if you have a higher driver swing speed despite being a mid-handicap golfer. However, prioritize gaining control over your swing before considering a ball upgrade. In the meantime, playing with second-hand balls is advisable, as the intensity of your swing often correlates with the number of lost balls.
Ensuring your driver is optimized for mid-handicap status before matching the ball to your new setup is critical.
What’s Tiger Woods’ golf ball of choice?
Tiger Woods opts for Bridgestone Tour B X golf balls. While he was involved in developing Bridgestone Tour B XS (even having a special edition with his name on it), Tiger shifted to another top Bridgestone ball. This alternate choice is slightly firmer, proving beneficial for his game.
Which golf ball does Rory McIlroy prefer?
As a TaylorMade ambassador, Rory McIlroy opts for one of the finest offerings from the brand. His go-to ball is the TaylorMade TP5x, specifically for golfers with high swing speeds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best golf balls for mid handicappers involves a nuanced consideration of feelings, performance, and budget.
Whether opting for the reliable Srixon Soft Feel for its affordability and durability or the spin and control offered by the Tour Response or Kirkland Signature, mid-handicappers have various options tailored to their specific needs and playing styles.
Ultimately, finding the perfect golf ball involves trial, error, and personal preference, but with the right choice, mid-handicappers can elevate their game to new heights.
