Golfers often dream of their golf balls flying straight, stopping precisely on the green, and evading the rough. Yet, unanimously, the ultimate desire is for more distance. Fortunately, whether it’s premium options or budget-friendly packs, nearly every product on the market today prioritizes this crucial aspect, including the best distance golf balls. While tour-caliber balls focus on spin, control, and feel, our discussion here centers solely on the relentless pursuit of extra yards.
This emphasis on distance may entail fewer compromises elsewhere than in the past. Manufacturers are increasingly incorporating elements of feel and control into distance-focused balls. Additionally, brands are enhancing alignment features and offering a variety of colors in their latest distance offerings, broadening the range of appealing choices.
While these balls may feel firmer on and around the greens, it’s noteworthy that the best distance options are often the most economical. Hence, these options prove ideal for beginners or those prone to losing balls. Alternatively, we provide a guide to the best value golf balls, ensuring affordability without compromising quality.
Unlike the multi-layer constructions in top-tier golf balls, most distance balls adopt a two-piece design comprising a cover and a core. This straightforward production method strikes a perfect balance between maximum distance and affordability. So, if Price and distance precede all-around performance, the following models merit your attention. Also, explore our other golf ball guides, including recommendations for high handicappers or mid-priced options.
Best Distance Golf Balls
Srixon Distance Golf Ball (Top pick)
Srixon Distance Golf Ball
With its high penetrating ball flight and durable design, the Srixon Distance ball is an excellent choice for high handicappers. Ideal for players with a swing speed of 80+mph.
Pros
Ideal for 80+mph swing speeds
High-penetrating ball flight
Cons
Durable cover is very hard.
Our top choice for golfers seeking distance.
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Construction: Two-piece
- Colors: White
- Core: FastLayer Core
The Srixon Distance golf ball is a top contender in the distance category. With each new generation, Srixon makes subtle improvements, and the latest model features a softer compression for optimal distance and a higher launch angle, resulting in a penetrating ball flight. While it may lack the precise control of premium golf balls, it offers ample grip and ease of power around the greens, making it suitable for high-handicap players.
The reduced dimple count, down by 108, minimizes drag and increases lift, enhancing performance in various wind conditions. Our testing confirms improved distance and air penetration, particularly in windy conditions. High handicap players will appreciate the durable cover, engineered for exceptional cut-proof durability, making the Srixon Distance one of the best value golf balls available.
Titleist Velocity 2022 Golf Ball (Best color choice)
Titleist Velocity 2022 Golf Ball
Experience remarkable distance and a satisfyingly firm feel with the Titleist Velocity 2022 Golf Ball, all wrapped up in an excellent value package.
Its low spin feature enhances distance, making it a compelling choice for any golfer.
Pros
Latest cover design enhances feel
Wide range of color options
High launch
Cons
Feels firm off the putter
A versatile model with vibrant color options.
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Construction: Two-piece
- Colors: White, Green, Orange, Pink
- Core: High-Speed LSX Core
The Titleist Velocity maintains its reputation as the longest golf ball in the Titleist lineup. It is available in four attractive colors and features a two-piece High-Velocity LSX Core, providing a firmer feel and increased speed across the course.
Introducing a new octahedral pattern on the NaZ+ ionomer cover, with 350 dimples, ensures a high flight with added consistency. While it’s a low-spinning ball, the extra height on shots proves beneficial, aiding accuracy and driving towards the target.
Our testing demonstrated higher driver flight and a 5-yard increase in carry compared to the previous model. While the low spin boosts distance, it sacrifices some feel and control on approach shots and around the green.
Bridgestone e9 Golf Ball (Best for feel)
Bridgestone e9 Golf Ball
The Bridgestone e9 Golf Ball delivers solid performance across the board, providing impressive distance in the long game, a responsive feel, and excellent spin control in the short game.
Pros
Solid distance
Consistent flight
Responsive feel
Cons
We expected greater distance gains
It is a superb option for distance with added short-game benefits.
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Construction: Two-piece
- Colors: White
- Core: Extreme gradational core
Bridgestone’s offering stands out as one of the best for long-drive champions seeking maximum yardage. Crafted with the World Long Drive Association, this two-piece ball aims to deliver unparalleled power on every shot. The aerodynamics are impressive, boasting a 330-dimple cover for seamless flights through the air.
The ‘gradational core,’ harder on the outside and softer in the center, translates to faster ball speeds. Our testing confirmed impressive distance and consistency. While it may not match the soft feel of some premium balls, it offers an excellent feel on contact, softer than anticipated. This ball excels in spin and playability around the greens, making it a fantastic option for those seeking more yardage without sacrificing control.
Callaway Warbird Golf Ball (Best for slow swing speed)
Callaway Warbird Golf Ball
Experience enhanced yardages with the Callaway Warbird Ball, a powerful distance ball that will improve your game.
Perfect for those seeking extra distance, these balls offer impressive performance at an attractive price.
Pros
A highly compressible core unlocks greater distance potential at any swing speed.
HEX aerodynamics in the cover reduces drag for added hang time and distance
Cons
May launch too high for those who struggle to keep their flight down
Optimal for speed and distance.
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Construction: Two-piece
- Colors: White, Yellow
- Core: High-energy Core
Callaway’s Warbird range has long been associated with distance and speed, making it a go-to choice for high handicappers seeking more airtime and longer drives. The latest model boasts a two-piece construction with an extra-large, high-energy core, perfect for achieving distance with a high launch at various swing speeds.
We observed significant yardage gains during testing, particularly on iron shots to the greens. While the firm ionomer cover may provide less check and control around the greens, the impressive distance justifies the tradeoff. With the driver, the ball felt hot off the face, producing a solid ball flight with ample roll. Additionally, its durability stood out, withstanding rigorous sessions without significant blemishing.
TaylorMade Distance + Golf Ball (Best for alignment)
TaylorMade Distance + Golf Ball
Unlock remarkable value with the TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Ball, a two-piece gem that delivers benefits akin to multi-layered balls.
Pros
REACT Speed Core and aerodynamic cover design boost ball speeds
New ‘plus’ alignment tool enhances precision on the greens
Very durable
Cons
Feel and control are not its primary attributes.
Ideal for precision putting.
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Construction: Two-piece
- Colors: White, Yellow
- Core: REACT Speed Core
The TaylorMade Distance+ ball prioritizes speed and distance, featuring a REACT Speed Core and aerodynamic 342-dimple pattern for low-drag, high-velocity performance. Despite its competitive pricing, this ball offers excellent value compared to premium alternatives. The soft ionomer cover enhances the greenside feel and improves scuff resistance for enhanced durability, allowing you to unleash your swing confidently.
With a mid-launch trajectory, the Distance+ delivers impressive flight off the tee, offering versatility for different shot shapes. We found it to perform well around the greens during testing, although it may lack the spin of other balls. Nevertheless, its satisfying sound off the face and excellent feel with the putter make it a standout choice. The new cross-shaped ‘plus’ alignment stamp ensures accurate alignment, setting it apart from the competition.
Pinnacle Rush Golf Ball (Best Value)
Pinnacle Rush Golf Ball
Get exceptional value with the Pinnacle Rush Golf Ball, often available in a 15-pack—experience impressive distance in the long game, a satisfying feel off the clubface, and solid durability.
Pros
Great distance
Nice feel off the face
15-ball packs add to the value
Cons
Greenside spin is almost non-existent
May be better options for cheaper
Conveniently available in a 15-pack.
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Construction: Two-piece
- Colors: White
- Core: Low compression core
The Pinnacle Rush golf ball upholds the brand’s legacy of offering exceptional value. Available in a 15-ball pack at affordable prices, this latest edition impresses with its high-energy core, delivering faster ball speeds across all clubs. We experienced immediate, high-quality distance with drivers and iron shots to the greens during testing. The ball boasts a pleasingly high flight without the expected clicky or loud feel associated with distance balls.
Featuring an icosahedral dimple design and a durable ionomer cover with 332 dimples, the Rush ensures a consistent, powerful ball flight with a touch of feel. While it may feel firm on the clubface and lack dazzle on approach shots and around the greens, its focus lies elsewhere. If you’re seeking reliability and performance, the Pinnacle Rush delivers precisely that, making it a top choice for value-conscious golfers.
How We Test
At Golf Testers, our experienced team tests golf balls rigorously in various conditions throughout the year. Led by our Max Kuch, with years of industry experience, assess each ball’s performance across all aspects of the game.
We spend hours on the course, practice grounds, short-game area, bunker, and putting green to evaluate strengths and weaknesses, aiding informed purchasing decisions. When possible, we supplement our evaluations with launch monitor data for deeper insights into performance.
Specifically, when testing high-distance golf balls, we compare them with other models to ensure exceptional value and performance-enhancing features.
How To Choose The Best Distance Golf Balls?
Selecting the right golf ball can be a daunting task, given the constant innovation in the industry. To assist you in making an informed decision, here are some key considerations:
1. Soft or firm?
Premium golf balls offer options for varying levels of spin and control. Experiment with both to determine your preference.
2. Cover material
Urethane-covered balls provide superior spin control and feel but come at a higher cost. Assess whether the difference justifies the expense or if mid-price options suffice.
3. a long game or a short game?
Identify whether you prioritize maximum distance or enhanced performance around the greens. If the feel is paramount, explore soft-feel golf ball options.
4. Color/visuals
With an array of color choices available, consider your preference for traditional white or something more vibrant to enhance visibility on the course.
5, Price
Budget considerations are essential. Fortunately, brands offer models across different price points, ensuring performance at various budgets. Personalized balls may incur additional costs.
Explore our comprehensive guides to TaylorMade, Titleist, and Callaway golf balls on our website for more guidance.
Frequently Ask Question
What are the best distance golf balls?
The optimal golf ball for distance is purposefully engineered to maximize flight. Typically featuring a firm feel and a simple two- or three-piece construction, these balls prioritize aerodynamic dimple designs to prolong airtime and minimize spin.
How Far Do Tour Pros Hit The Ball?
Tour professionals typically drive the golf ball an average of 295 yards. However, standout players like Rory McIlroy and Cameron Champ have achieved remarkable distances, hitting drives as far as 321 yards each this season on the PGA Tour.
How do you increase distance with your driver?
Enhancing your distance in golf entails various methods, but few are as straightforward or cost-effective as transitioning to a distance golf ball. While alternatives like speed training or investing in new golf clubs may offer improvements, the simplicity and affordability of switching golf balls are the same.
Do distance golf balls go further?
Yes, distance golf balls excel in flight due to their specific design features. With two or three-piece constructions, a firm feel, low spin, and aerodynamic dimple designs, they prioritize maximizing distance.
While premium golf balls like the Titleist Pro V1 aim to balance feel, control, and distance, they may not achieve the same distance as specialized distance balls like the Srixon Distance, which are solely engineered for extended flight.
Should beginners use distance golf balls?
Yes, beginners can reap rewards from distance golf balls. These balls boast features that enhance distance and promote straighter flight paths, making them a valuable asset for novice golfers.
Do softer golf balls travel less distance?
Only sometimes. Though softer balls generally feature lower compression and are often favored by golfers with slower swing speeds, advancements in golf ball technology have enabled softer balls to attain impressive distances.
Are there notable variances between women’s and men’s distance golf balls?
Women’s golf balls are generally tailored for slower swing speeds, often featuring distinct compression ratings and dimple patterns. Nevertheless, selecting the right ball should hinge more on your personal playing attributes rather than solely on gender.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best distance golf ball is a crucial decision for golfers aiming to maximize their performance on the course. With advancements in technology and design, distance golf balls offer various features tailored to enhance distance, accuracy, and control.
From high-compression cores to aerodynamic dimple patterns, these balls are engineered to deliver exceptional results, particularly for players with slower swing speeds or those seeking more excellent yardage off the tee.
By understanding your needs and preferences and considering factors such as feel, spin, and durability, you can confidently choose the distance golf ball that best suits your game.
So whether you’re a beginner looking to boost your distance or an experienced golfer seeking to optimize your performance, investing in the proper distance golf ball can elevate your game to new heights and enhance your overall enjoyment of the sport.
