Is more expensive golf balls really worth it? What do you think?

Question

I've never really been that into buying a specific kind of golf ball, but was thinking about doing that this summer. Does anyone have an opinion on which golf balls are the best? I'd like to get more distance out of my drives. Any opinion on the new nike one black/platinum balls? Worth the expense?

Answer 1

ahhh, the debate of expensive vs. inexpensive balls.  If you want distance, get a low spin, high compression golf ball (needn't be expensive). The softer balls (ususally more expensive) spin at a higher rate than a distance ball.  If you're not a very accomplished golfer, or apt to slice, expensive balls only make the problem worse ... because the spin more.  So, it all depends on what kind of a golfer you are and what your needs are. In most cases a mid-priced ball would work quite well.  If your a slicer ... get a distance ball like a top flight and let 'em rip.

Answer 2

I think it's only noticeable if you have a low handicap to begin with.  Beginners and amateurs probably won't notice much difference other than the price.  Besides, beginners tend to lose alot of balls.

Answer 3

Holly, as with all golf equipment you should test out golf balls to find which ones perform the best for your game.  Their may be a cheaper alternative that performs as well or better than the premium ball for you.  To get something in a golf ball you have to give up something.  Example when you buy a distance ball you give up feel.  A premium ball costs more money. Golf Magazine has a great article about this in the Feb 2008 issue.

Answer 4

Depends on your skill level.  High handicap players are better off avoiding the high-end balls since they won't see the intended benefits.

If you're looking for more distance, most manufacturers make "distance" balls designed to help with this.  You will give up feel, workability, and spin, but it will help getting that ball out there.

Golf.com has a golf ball web tool you can use.

Answer 5

the pro v1x is the best ball out there, number one used by pros, i used it last summer and added 30 yards to my drive and iron shots, great balls.

Answer 6

It all depends on what type of player you are.  But in regards to Nike One Black/Platinum.  Of all premium golf balls, Nike One Platinum scored the lowest in regards to distance.  They were as much as 10 yards shorter than some of the Taylor Made balls.  I've never been a fan of Taylor Made balls, but recently tried them again and found them to be noticeably longer than any other ball.  Most premium balls will be roughly the same distance, but the Taylor Made TP Black were noticeably further (even than the Titleist ProV1x, in my opinion.)

Answer 7

no they are a waste of money for any person with a handicap over 7 . reason why . they are for high club head speeds . freat wedge play . as a woman please save your money on these . try a noodle from maxfli , or titalist solo . one third the cost . cut resistant , longer , straighter drives . thank you . have a great season

Answer 8

Personally I believe that the Titleist Pro V1x is the best ball but the Pro V1 has more spin. The Nike One Black's arent quite as good as those but it still is a pretty good ball

Answer 9

Yes, and no.  You might see a benefit of a few yards with a different ball.  The most expensive ball might not be the right one for you though.  A better player can benefit from a better ball more, while a beginning player will not.Really, you should play a round with 2 different balls one day.  make notice of how each performs on all shots, not just drives!  I think you will be surprised that you don't see that much of a difference, but then again, i am not trying to sell you any golf balls...

Answer 10

I played last week with a Nike One Platinum.  I didn't notice too much difference from cheaper balls except for around the green.  I often find myselft pitching or chipping from above the pin onto a sloped green and the Platinum definately stopped faster than the cheaper balls (due to the increased spin).  No mater what your skill level is, you can save a stroke or two with a better ball.  If you don't loose too many balls when you play and wanted to save a couple strokes then definately experiment with the ProV, Nike One, Callaway Tour ix, etc.

Answer 11

It depends on your skill level.  A low handicapper (cabable of shooting below 80) will appreciated the distance and spin of a ProV or Nike One.  But if you are an intermediate type player then  you probably won't see or feel much difference between a top of the line and cheapest ball.  There is no mistaking however that the more expensive ones perform better.

Answer 12

From what i have seen in reviews of multiple balls the amount of distance and accuracy in tests have been very very close.  So unless you are a PGA allstar - you will not really see the effects.

A lot of times feel and/or putting people will start to see some differences.  Since the short game is more finesse orientated.

Answer 13

I don't know if you're aware of this, but golf shops and/or driving ranges will occasionally have ball fitting days where they will have people that can work with you to pick out a good ball for your game. They are free and it's totally worth doing if you do not know what kind of ball to use.

In general, "tour quality" balls are not that great for anyone with a handicap above 10. If you have a lot of money and don't mind spending it because you think it's "cool" to play with the balls the guys on TV use then go right ahead, but don't expect your game to improve by using them.

For almost all players, I would suggest looking into mid-range priced, "spin" or "feel" balls. These balls will have plenty of spin and feel for the average player and won't break the bank. Plus their designed more for players with average swing speeds instead of people who can bomb it like the pros.

I also would not suggest distance balls for anyone who can hit their driver more than 175 yards. You might gain a bit of distance is you use them, but in my opinion you lose so much feel and spin that it's no fun to play with them at all around the greens.