Numerous golf experts often use various golfing jargon, making things appear more complex than they truly are. Our aim is to assist you in navigating through these terms, providing you with the optimal opportunity for success in your golf endeavours and helping you choose the most suitable golf equipment.
This piece will concentrate on golf ball compression and its influence on your performance during a round of golf.
What is golf ball compression
By now, you’ve probably either read many different articles trying to decide the best golf ball for you, or you’ve been into a golfing shop having a browse. In either case I’m sure you would have heard the term golf ball compression, whether its high or low and how that will perform with your current swing speed.
At the heart of it, the compression of a golf ball is simply how much the ball will deform when it is hit by your club face. It’s this deformation that will help the golf club propel the golf ball forwards.
The two main factors of how much a golf ball will ‘squish’, are your swing speed and the core of the golf ball.
If you have a lower swing speed your perfect golf ball will probably have a softer core, this means it will compress more and fire off your club face more aggressively.
For those players with higher swing speeds, you will be need to be looking for a golf ball with a harder core to maximise your distance.
Golf ball compression and spin
So, how does a golf balls compression effect the spin you can impart into your shots.
Put simply, the harder the golf balls core, the easier it is to spin the ball, therefore, the softer the golf balls core, the harder it is.
Players with a higher swing speed will be able to generate a lot more spin, this is all due to the ‘harder’ golf balls they use allowing for less compression and more spin.
Low swing speed players will tend to generate less spin due to the same reason; their ‘soft’ golf balls will compress more and therefore spin less.
The best golf ball for slow swing speeds
Our pick with the best golf ball for all you players with a slower swing speed is the Mizuno RB566.
A large, high-energy core, the unique 566-dimple cover and a soft-compression design hold the keys to the Mizuno RB566’s excellent distance credentials and prolonged ball flight. This ball comes with an interesting design with each dimple looking like it is surrounded by tiny micro dimples like they've been pin pricked. This is an innovative micro-dimple design that helps to delay the rate of descent past the apex of flight adding more distance on the shot. The core generates a straighter, more stable ball flight while the 566 micro-dimple design delays the rate of descent to eke out more yards.
Buy yours now: Mizuno RB566 Golf Ball (Amazon)
The best golf ball for high swing speeds
Our pick with the best golf ball for players with a higher swing speed is the Taylormade TP5x.
Crafted with a focus on speed and distance, the latest iteration of the TaylorMade TP5x incorporates the innovative Tour Flight Dimple Pattern, designed to minimize drag and enhance aerodynamics, mirroring the features of the TP5. This five-layered ball utilizes HFM (High-Flex Material) as part of the 'Speed-Layer System,' optimizing energy conversion for accelerated ball speeds.
Distinguishing itself from the TP5, the TP5x provides a noticeably firmer feel, catering to those who prefer a robust sensation upon impact. It stands out as the higher-launching, longer, and faster option, especially in the hands of high swing speed players. The inclusion of a cast urethane cover aids in better grip with wedges, promoting a lower launch—a trait admired by many top-tier players. With the TP5x, TaylorMade has excelled in creating a ball that combines exceptional speed and distance with a tour-validated feel and performance.
Buy yours now: Taylormade TP5x Golf Ball (Amazon)
Conclusion
To wrap this very succinct article up, all you really need to know about golf ball compression is all golf balls compress.
If you have a high swing speed, you will need a hard golf ball.
If you have a low swing speed, you will need a soft golf ball.
That’s really all there is to it!
Best golf ball based on your handicap
There are numerous golf balls you can choose from, sometimes this can be overwhelming, take a look at our article to help you choose the best golf ball based on your handicap.
FAQ
Q1: What is golf ball compression?
A: Golf ball compression refers to how much a golf ball deforms upon being struck by the club face. It's a crucial factor influencing how the ball performs during a round of golf.
Q2: How does swing speed affect golf ball compression?
A: Your swing speed plays a key role in determining the ideal compression for your golf ball. For lower swing speeds, a softer core is recommended, allowing for easier compression and a more aggressive launch off the club face. Conversely, higher swing speeds benefit from a harder core to maximize distance.
Q3: How does golf ball compression affect spin?
A: The compression of a golf ball influences the spin you can impart into your shots. A harder core makes it easier to spin the ball, while a softer core makes it more challenging. Players with higher swing speeds can generate more spin, thanks to the use of harder golf balls that allow for less compression and increased spin.
Q4: What's the connection between swing speed and golf ball compression?
A: High swing speed players should opt for a golf ball with a hard core, while low swing speed players benefit from a softer core. The choice is based on the desired level of compression and its impact on performance.
Q5: Is compression the only factor to consider when choosing a golf ball?
A: While compression is a crucial factor, other aspects such as your playing style, preferences, and course conditions also influence the choice of a golf ball. Consider these factors to find the most suitable ball for your game.
Q6: Can you summarize the key takeaway about golf ball compression?
A: Certainly! All golf balls compress. For high swing speeds, choose a hard golf ball; for low swing speeds, opt for a soft golf ball. It's that simple!
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