Golf ball compression is a key factor in how a ball performs, yet it's often misunderstood. This guide explains what compression ratings mean and how they affect your game.
What Is Golf Ball Compression?
Compression refers to how much a golf ball deforms upon impact. A compression rating typically ranges from 30 to 100+, with lower numbers indicating softer balls that deform more easily.
Compression Rating Categories
- Low Compression (50-70): Ideal for swing speeds under 85 mph
- Mid Compression (70-90): Best for swing speeds 85-95 mph
- High Compression (90+): Optimal for swing speeds above 95 mph
Low Compression Golf Balls (50-70)
These balls are designed for maximum energy transfer at slower swing speeds, offering better distance for players with moderate swing speeds.
Recommended Low Compression Balls:
- Callaway Supersoft (Compression: 50)
- Wilson Staff Fifty Elite (Compression: 50)
- Srixon Soft Feel (Compression: 60)
| Price per Ball | Total Price | Count | Color | Condition | Product |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1.83 | $21.98 | 12 | White | New | Callaway Supersoft (50 Compression) |
| $1.43 | $17.10 | 12 | White | New | Wilson Staff Fifty Elite (50 Compression) |
| $1.66 | $19.99 | 12 | White | New | Srixon Soft Feel (60 Compression) |
Mid Compression Golf Balls (70-90)
Mid compression balls offer a balance of distance and feel, making them versatile for a wide range of players.
Popular Mid Compression Options:
- Titleist Tour Soft (Compression: 75)
- TaylorMade Tour Response (Compression: 85)
- Bridgestone e6 (Compression: 80)
| Price per Ball | Total Price | Count | Color | Condition | Product |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3.33 | $39.99 | 12 | White | New | Titleist Tour Soft (75 Compression) |
| $3.75 | $44.99 | 12 | White | New | TaylorMade Tour Response (85 Compression) |
| $2.50 | $29.99 | 12 | White | New | Bridgestone e6 (80 Compression) |
High Compression Golf Balls (90+)
High compression balls are designed for players with faster swing speeds who can generate enough force to properly compress the ball.
Premium High Compression Choices:
- Titleist Pro V1x (Compression: 100)
- TaylorMade TP5x (Compression: 97)
- Bridgestone Tour B RX (Compression: 95)
| Price per Ball | Total Price | Count | Color | Condition | Product |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4.99 | $59.99 | 12 | White | New | Titleist Pro V1x (100 Compression) |
| $4.99 | $59.99 | 12 | White | New | TaylorMade TP5x (97 Compression) |
| $4.58 | $54.99 | 12 | White | New | Bridgestone Tour B RX (95 Compression) |
How Compression Affects Performance
Distance
- Lower compression balls travel further with slower swing speeds
- Higher compression balls maximize distance with faster swing speeds
- Using the wrong compression can cost you 10-15 yards off the tee
Feel
- Lower compression balls feel softer at impact
- Higher compression balls provide more feedback
- Mid compression offers a balance of feel and performance
Control
- Lower compression balls often spin more on short shots
- Higher compression balls typically offer better control in wind
- Mid compression balls provide good all-around control
How to Test Compression
While professional compression testing requires specialized equipment, you can estimate a ball's compression through these methods:
- Thumb Test: Press your thumb into the ball. Lower compression balls will have more give.
- Sound Test: Higher compression balls typically make a sharper "click" at impact.
- Drop Test: Drop balls from the same height; lower compression balls typically bounce lower.
Testing Tip
Consider buying a variety pack or individual sleeves of different compression balls to test what works best for your game. Pay attention to:
- Total distance off the tee
- Feel on impact
- Control on approach shots
- Performance around the greens
Temperature Effects on Compression
Golf ball compression changes with temperature:
- Cold weather effectively increases compression (balls feel harder)
- Warm weather decreases compression (balls feel softer)
- Consider using a lower compression ball in cold weather
Pro Tip: For cold weather rounds (below 50°F), consider dropping down one compression category from your normal ball choice.