Are you debating between soft and hard golf balls when it comes to your golf game? Knowing what type of golf balls to select for your swing can make a huge difference in your performance.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the differences between soft and hard golf balls, when to use each type and the best options for golfers of all skill levels.
So, if you’re ready to master the art of golf ball selection, read on!
What Are the Differences Between Soft and Hard Golf Balls?
Hard golf balls
Hard golf balls are made from harder materials such as urethane, polyurethane, and metal core. They are designed to provide players with increased performance and longevity. Hard golf balls are typically made with lower compression cores that generate less spin off the clubface, resulting in a straight but slightly shorter ball flight.
Soft golf balls
Soft golf balls are made from softer materials such as rubber and polybutadiene. They are designed to provide players with an enhanced feel and softness around the green. Soft golf balls are typically made with higher compression cores that generate more spin off the clubface, resulting in a higher launch, greater ball control, and more overall distance.
Differences between soft and hard golf balls
The main difference between hard and soft golf balls is the feel. Hard golf balls tend to feel older and less responsive while soft golf balls provide a more comfortable feel and response.
Additionally, the type of golf ball you choose will affect your ball flight, with hard golf balls usually producing a straight but shorter flight, and soft golf balls typically launching higher and going longer.
Read also: How to Hold a Golf Club Correctly: Learn the Proper Golf Grip and Improve your Hits!
Choosing which golf ball to use is highly personal and depends on a variety of factors such as player skill level, club head speed, and preferences.
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However, for most players, a combination of both hard and soft golf balls will produce the best results, as the hard golf ball will provide a longer flight while the softer golf ball will provide a softer feel and control around the green.
Now, how to choose? Below, we’ll guide you through the reasoning to decide which type of ball is the best for your game style.
How to Choose Between Hard and Soft Golf Balls?
The choice between hard and soft golf balls is an important one, as each type of ball affects the game style of the golfer in a different manner. Depending on the player’s skill level, club head speed, and preferences, different golf ball types may produce better performance.
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When selecting which golf ball to use, players should take several factors into account.
For example, the golfer’s swing speed helps determine the compression rating and type of golf ball needed. Players should also consider their personal preferences; some golfers prefer a softer feel around the green (soft balls are better for this) while others prefer a longer, yielding ball flight (hard balls are the go-to type for this).
Read also: How to Swing a Golf Club
Additionally, different golf courses may call for different golf ball choices; players will need to consider the type of terrain, wind conditions, and overall length of the hole before choosing their ball.
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Best choice of golf balls for beginners
For beginner golfers, soft golf balls are typically a better choice. Soft golf balls are designed for slower swing speeds, so they typically produce a more forgiving, higher launch ball flight. This allows beginner golfers to get more distance with each swing.
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Best choice of golf balls for slow-swig golfers
For players with slow swing speed, soft golf balls are typically the best choice. These golf balls are designed to generate maximum distance regardless of their swing speed. You’re a slow-swing golfer if your swings are consistently under 100 MPH.
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Best choice of golf balls for fast-swing golfers
For players with faster swing speeds, hard golf balls are usually the best option. These golf balls are designed to fly further and straighter, providing maximum control and accuracy even with higher swing speeds.
If you always swing over 100MPH, you’re a fast-swing golf player.
Read also: How to Put Backspin in a Golf Ball
Soft VS Hard Golf Balls Breakdown
Now, to summarize everything, take a look at this comparative table on soft vs hard golf balls:
Soft Golf Balls |
Hard Golf Balls |
Best for slow-swinger players (<100MPH) and beginners |
Best for fast-swing players (>100MPH) |
Less straight fly |
Straighter fly |
Go further in the air |
Shorter fly |
Rolls less in the ground |
Rolls further into the ground |
A higher degree of spin (due to the higher compression core) |
A lower degree of spin (duet o the lower compression core) |
Comes to a stop quicker |
Keep traveling longer |
Less durable |
Added longevity |
Enhanced feel and softness |
Doesn’t offer the same feel |
Final Thoughts
Your golf ball choice can have a huge impact on your performance. While there is no “one size fits all” approach when it comes to ball selection, understanding the differences between soft and hard golf balls can help you find the right ball for your swing.
If you’re looking for the best golf deals online in Canada, be sure to browse our virtual golf store for a great selection of quality golf balls. Thank you for reading this blog post; we hope it gave you the insight you need to make the right golf ball selection!