Best Golf Balls for High Handicappers 2024 Guide

One of the biggest put-offs for people new to the game of golf is how many different aspects of the game you supposedly should understand before you stand on that first tee. The truth is, you don’t really need to know much other than the aim of the game and a few tips on etiquette.  As newcomers however, it’s good to be well-versed on things like the best golf balls for high handicappers and beginners.The likelihood is you’re going to need a few, so you may as well save yourself a few quid as you play. Continue reading this guide to learn what to look out for and our definitive list of the best golf balls for high handicappers

Why Trust a Seventee2 Review?

Seventee2 is made up of a group of mid-to-high handicappers with a passion for the game of golf. With years of experience attempting to master this game coupled with extensive research, we are able to form some of the best-quality guides, reviews and how-to’s to help you improve your game. We were all, or still are, beginners at one point, so we know exact questions folks new to the game might be asking, so trust us when we say you’re in good hands with our advice.

We have all played a wide variety of golf ball brands in our lives so know pretty well which ones are suited to golfers on the higher end of the handicap system. Without further ado, we hope you enjoy our definitive guide on the best golf balls for high handicappers.

How to Choose the Right Golf Ball for a High Handicapper

When putting together this guide, we looked to get into the mindset of someone who has just taken up the game. What aspects of a golf ball would a high handicapper be looking to get the most out of?

Value for Money

Money was the most important factor we could come up with. As a high handicapper, there’s a good chance you’ll be losing a fair few balls every round. Despite golf balls being one of the most affordable pieces of equipment in golf, if you decide to play a premium ball and drop a few in the water, the price soon adds up!

Suited to Swing Speed

In the beginning, working out what swing tempo suits you can be a feeling-out process. Most beginners settle on a slower swing speed, which is absolutely fine, but it makes it even more important that you match your ball to your swing speed. It is easy to become dejected when you see others hitting the ball a long way whilst you’re struggling, but it is better to have control over your ball, especially by keeping it in play.

Ball Flight

Let’s be honest. As a high handicapper, you’re likely to miss-hit the occasional shot. So in order to reduce the dramatic effects of these shots, you should look for a ball that reduces side spin and backspin. This ball is less likely to slice or hook to the same degree that a ball engineered for spin would. 

Best Golf Balls for High Handicappers – FAQs

When choosing the best golf ball for your game, there are likely to many questions running through your mind. Do you want a soft golf ball or a hard golf ball? Is this ball going to improve my game around and on the greens? Or even something as basic as, is this ball going to last? These are all perfectly valid questions, and ones we will try our best to answer. 

How do I Choose a Golf Ball for Beginners?

Choosing the right golf ball as a beginner comes down to two things, what your game currently lacks and what it is currently strongest at. As a beginner, you’re likely to be lacking distance and greater launch angles, which is why you’re probably most suited to playing a harder ball. Soft golf balls are great for players who can exert a level of control over the ball, but as someone new to the game, you’re unlikely to be able to do that. Play the hard ball, play the cheap ball. 

What is the Best Golf Ball for a 12 Handicap?

The biggest factor to consider when you’re a mid-to-low handicapper looking to cut even further is consistency. With both your swing as well as golf ball. Switching between different brands of golf balls as a 12 handicap will be doing you no favours. Pick one ball and stick to it. In a stereotypical world, tee-to-green you’re going to be better than most and around the greens is where you’re going to make up the most shots. With this in mind, you might prefer a softer ball that offers greater levels of spin than your standard golf ball. Many people at this stage will see benefit from playing a Titliest Pro V1 or even the Pro V1x for even greater spin. 

What is the Best Golf Ball for Seniors to Play?

When choosing the golf ball you want to play as a senior, there are a few things to consider. Is your swing as fast as it used to be (if you say yes, you’re lying), and what do I want from my golf ball? As you get older, your game changes, and with these changes comes enforced equipment changes. A slower swing makes it difficult to activate the ball’s core if you play a typically soft ball. A ball with lower compression means it is more likely to spring off the clubface at lower speeds, making it more accessible to senior golfers.  

How do I Know Which Golf Ball is Best for Me?

There aren’t really many rules to abide by when choosing your golf ball. Essentially, all you need to do is consider your swing speed and your preferences on designs including putting aid. 

For golfers with a swing speed lower than 85 mph, we recommend using a low compression ball, with a mid compression ball is for swing speeds between 85-100 mph. Finally, those who look to swing out their shoes, i.e. swing speeds above 100 mph, use a high compression ball. To find out your swing speed, visit your local pro shop with a testing facility, including tech such as Trackman’s.

Should a High Handicapper Play a Titliest Pro V1?

Generally speaking, no. With a high compression score and a substantial price tag that comes with it, the Pro V1 is not the best option for a high handicapper or someone new to golf.