5 Best Golf Balls For High Handicappers (Less Strokes)
By Ollie Neave | September 2, 2024
Golf can be a wild ride, especially with a high handicap. Still, the right ball can make all the difference.
Whether you’re battling slices or seeking forgiveness, choosing the right golf ball can help lower your scores and boost your enjoyment.
As a coach who’s seen it all, I’m here to guide you to the best golf balls for high handicappers—let’s find the one that suits your game!
Best Overall
Titleist TruFeel
Soft feel with excellent control
Great for slower swing speeds
Consistent, reliable performance
Best All Rounder
Callaway Hex Soft Golf Ball
Excellent all-around performance
Soft feel with good distance
Forgiving and easy to hit
Best Soft Feel
Callaway Supersoft
Ultra-soft feel with good distance
High launch and plenty of spin
Forgiving and easy to control
5 Best Golf Balls For Improving High Handicappers
A high handicap is generally considered to be 18 or above. If you’re shooting over 90 on a par 72 course, you’re in that range. But hey, it just means there’s plenty of room to improve!
1. Titleist TruFeel
Best Overall
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Polyurethane
Item Weight (lbs)
1
Model Year
2024
Warranty
1 Year
Pros
Soft feel with excellent control
Great for slower swing speeds
Consistent, reliable performance
Backed by Titleist’s strong brand reputation
Cons
Not the longest ball off the tee, but great for accuracy
If you’re looking for a golf ball that offers a great blend of feel and forgiveness, the Titleist TruFeel is my top choice for high handicappers.
These balls are all about control and consistency—two things that can make a world of difference when you’re still honing your swing.
Priced reasonably at under $30 per dozen, they’re an excellent option for golfers who want to improve their game without breaking the bank.
What sets the TruFeel apart is its ultra-soft core and proprietary TruFlex cover, which work together to deliver a superb feel with every shot.
The low-compression core is perfect for slower swing speeds, helping you get more distance without sacrificing control, so I often recommend these to senior golfers as well.
The aerodynamic dimple pattern ensures a consistent flight, making it easier to keep your shots on target and out of trouble.
Compared to other balls in its class, the TruFeel is built for those who value feel and accuracy.
While it may not offer the explosive distance of some harder balls like Srixon, it more than makes up for it with its forgiving nature and reliable performance.
And let’s face it—Titleist knows a thing or two about making great golf balls, so you can trust that the TruFeel will deliver on the course.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$24.99
Price Per Ball
$2.08
Colors Available
White
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With the Titleist TruFeel Golf Balls
When it comes to a perfect high handicap ball, this might just be it. I’ve seen many high handicappers benefit from the Titleist TruFeel. It’s a ball that gives you confidence, whether you’re teeing off or making a delicate chip, and won’t cost you a bomb either.
2. Callaway Hex Soft Golf Ball
Best All Rounder
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Plastic 2-piece
Item Weight (lbs)
1.4
Model Year
2019
Warranty
2 Years
Pros
Excellent all-around performance
Soft feel with good distance
Forgiving and easy to hit
Great value for the price
Cons
Slightly firmer feel compared to the TruFeel, but still very playable
When it comes to finding a golf ball that offers a bit of everything, the Callaway Hex Soft Golf Ball is a standout choice for high handicappers.
These balls are all about delivering solid performance across the board—whether you’re looking for distance, control, or feel, the Hex Soft has got you covered.
At just under $25 per dozen, they’re a smart pick for anyone wanting to improve their game without spending a fortune.
What makes the Hex Soft ideal for high handicappers is its low compression core, which is perfect for players with slower swing speeds.
This core helps you get more distance with less effort, and the soft Trionomer cover ensures you get a nice, responsive feel on every shot.
The patented HEX Aerodynamics dimple pattern reduces drag and promotes a stable flight, helping you keep your shots straight and true.
Compared to the Titleist TruFeel, the Callaway Hex Soft offers a slightly firmer feel, which can give you a bit more distance off the tee.
However, both balls excel in providing the kind of forgiveness that high handicappers need to keep their scores in check.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$23.99
Price Per Ball
$2.00
Colors Available
White
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With the Callaway Hex Soft Golf Balls
The Callaway Hex Soft is a great all-rounder for the high handicapper. Whether you’re hitting it long off the tee or making a tricky approach shot, this ball performs well in just about every situation.
I’ve recommended it to many of my students, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. You really can’t go wrong here. Worth a try!
3. Callaway Supersoft
Best Soft Feel
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Polyurethane (PU) Rubber
Item Weight (lbs)
1.4
Model Year
2023
Warranty
2 Years
Pros
Ultra-soft feel with good distance
High launch and plenty of spin
Forgiving and easy to control
Great value for high handicappers
Cons
Might feel too soft for those who prefer a firmer ball
Callaway is obviously a top brand, and I’m including them twice on my list.
If you’re a high handicapper looking for a ball that offers a soft feel without sacrificing distance, the Callaway Supersoft is an absolute winner.
This ball is all about providing maximum forgiveness with a buttery-soft touch, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy their game while still working on their swing.
At just under $2 per ball, it’s a fantastic option for anyone seeking a balance between feel and performance.
What sets the Supersoft apart is its ultra-low compression core, which is designed to help you launch the ball higher and farther, even with a slower swing speed.
The soft cover adds to the feel, while the HEX Aerodynamics reduces drag and boosts lift, giving you those nice, high shots that land softly.
Plus, the Supersoft’s ability to generate spin is a real bonus, especially when you need to stop the ball quickly on the green.
Compared to the Callaway Hex Soft, the Supersoft offers an even softer feel, making it a great choice for those who prioritize touch and control over raw power.
Both are excellent for high handicappers, but if you love a soft feel and a bit of extra spin, the Supersoft might be your go-to.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$24.97
Price Per Ball
$2.08
Colors Available
16+
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With the Callaway Supersoft Golf Balls
The Callaway Supersoft has earned its spot as a mainstay on these lists for a reason. The soft feel without sacrificing a ton of distance is why so many high handicappers love this ball.
It’s a fun ball to play with, creating a lot of spin and height, which can really add to your enjoyment of the game. If you’re looking for a ball that’s forgiving yet responsive, the Supersoft is definitely worth a try.
4. TaylorMade Soft Response
Best Premium Feel
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Ionomer
Item Weight (lbs)
1
Model Year
2019
Warranty
2 Years
Pros
Ultra-soft feel with excellent greenside control
Optimized aerodynamics for straighter shots
Perfect for players who prioritize feel and precision
Most premium ball on this list, offering top-tier quality
Cons
Higher price point, but worth it for the quality
For high handicappers who want a premium feel without sacrificing performance, the TaylorMade Soft Response is a top-notch choice.
These balls are designed for players who value control and soft touch, especially around the greens, making them ideal for those looking to refine their short game.
As the most premium ball on my list, they’re priced a bit higher at around $40 per dozen, but the quality you get in return is well worth it.
The Soft Response features an ultra-low 35 compression core, which is the softest in TaylorMade’s lineup, helping you generate maximum distance with slower swing speeds.
The soft ionomer cover provides excellent greenside control, and the unique Extended Flight Dimple pattern optimizes aerodynamics for a straighter, more stable flight.
If you’re all about precision and want a ball that feels like a dream off the putter blade, this is the one for you.
Compared to the Titleist TruFeel, the TaylorMade Soft Response offers a slightly softer feel and even better control around the greens, making it perfect for those who want to focus on their short game without compromising distance.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$44.95
Price Per Ball
$3.75
Colors Available
White
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With the TaylorMade Soft Response Golf Balls
The Soft Response is your high handicap ball if you like to focus on a mixture of good control around the green.
I’ve seen firsthand how these balls can help players dial in their short game, and the feel off the putter blade? I loveeeeeee it.
The added premium quality makes every shot feel smooth and controlled, which is exactly what you need when you’re working on lowering that handicap.
5. Srixon Distance Golf Ball
Best for Maximum Distance
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Neoprene
Item Weight (lbs)
1.4
Model Year
2021
Warranty
1 Year
Pros
Exceptional distance, even with slower swing speeds
Durable cover with a consistent flight pattern
Most affordable ball on this list
Great value for money
Cons
Firmer feel, so not ideal for those seeking soft touch around the greens
If you’re a high handicapper who’s all about maximizing distance without breaking the bank, the Srixon Distance Golf Ball is the OG you need in your bag.
These balls are designed to go long—really long—making them perfect for those who want to add serious yardage to their game.
And at under $2 per ball, they’re the most affordable option on my list, so you can bomb it down the fairway without worrying about the cost.
The Srixon Distance Ball features a highly resilient Energetic Gradient Growth core, which helps deliver explosive speed off the tee.
The ionomer cover ensures durability while still providing a decent feel, and the 432 dimple pattern optimizes aerodynamics for a high, straight flight.
So, if you’re looking to hit those long, booming drives, this ball will not disappoint.
Compared to the TaylorMade Soft Response, the Srixon Distance Ball focuses purely on distance, sacrificing some of the greenside control and soft feel that the Soft Response offers.
But if distance is your priority, this ball is hard to beat, especially at such a wallet-friendly price.
Ball Pricing Info*
Ball Count
12
Price Per Package
$23.09
Price Per Ball
$1.92
Colors Available
White
*Price at time of publishing
My Experience With the Srixon Distance Golf Balls
Lots of distance for this OG! The Srixon Distance Ball has been a go-to for many high handicappers who just want to see their ball fly.
It’s not about finesse with this one—it’s about getting the most out of every swing. If you’re after pure yardage and don’t mind a slightly firmer feel, this ball is a must-try.
Beef’s Takeaways:
High Handicappers need not spend hundreds of dollars on premium balls. You will not see the benefits nor develop enough speed to fully generate the ball’s capabilities.
Stick to my above recommendations, and you can work your way up.
Comparing Balls For High Handicap Golfers
Best Overall
Titleist TruFeel
Material + Construction: Polyurethane
Item Weight (lbs): 1
Model Year: 2024
Warranty: 1 Year
Best All Rounder
Callaway Hex Soft Golf Ball
Material + Construction: Plastic 2-piece
Item Weight (lbs): 1.4
Model Year: 2019
Warranty: 2 Years
Best Soft Feel
Callaway Supersoft
Material + Construction: Polyurethane (PU) Rubber
Item Weight (lbs): 1.4
Model Year: 2023
Warranty: 2 Years
Best Premium Feel
TaylorMade Soft Response
Material + Construction: Ionomer
Item Weight (lbs): 1
Model Year: 2019
Warranty: 2 Years
Best for Maximum Distance
Srixon Distance Golf Ball
Material + Construction: Neoprene
Item Weight (lbs): 1.4
Model Year: 2021
Warranty: 1 Year
How I Tested & Rank Golf Balls for High Handicappers
1. Measure Distance
When it comes to distance, I took my top 5 contenders—Titleist TruFeel, Callaway Hex Soft, Callaway Supersoft, TaylorMade Soft Response, and Srixon Distance—out for a spin.
Armed with my trusty launch monitor, I measured how far each ball could go, even with a slower swing speed.
Spoiler alert:
The Srixon Distance lived up to its name and took the crown for pure yardage, but all of these balls delivered impressive distance in their own right.
2. Accuracy
Accuracy is all about how well a ball stays on target, even when your swing isn’t perfect.
To test this, I lined up shot after shot, focusing on how each ball performed when I aimed for the fairway.
The TaylorMade Soft Response really shined here, helping keep my shots on a straighter path, which is crucial for high handicappers looking to avoid those dreaded hooks and slices.
The Titleist TruFeel and Callaway Hex Soft were also reliable, offering a nice balance of distance and directional control.
When accuracy matters—and let’s be honest, it always does—these balls can help keep your game on track.
3. Spin Rate
Spin rate is key for those tricky approach shots, so I paid close attention to how much backspin these balls generated.
The Callaway Supersoft and TaylorMade Soft Response created some lovely spin, especially around the greens. These two are perfect for high handicappers who want that extra bit of control when it matters most.
The Srixon Distance, meanwhile, was all about reducing spin off the driver, keeping those shots long and straight.
4. Price
Golf balls can get pricey, so I always check the value of each option.
The Srixon Distance is the most affordable ball on my list, coming in at under $2 per ball—perfect for those who tend to lose a few along the way (no judgment here!).
The Callaway Supersoft and Hex Soft offer great bang for your buck, especially when considering their performance.
Here’s what you can expect per dozen of my top choices, with TaylorMade being the only outlier:
Titleist TruFeel
$24.99
Callaway Hex Soft
$23.99
Callaway Supersoft
$24.97
TaylorMade Soft Response
$44.95
Srixon Distance
$23.09
Durability
Durability is a must for any golfer who doesn’t want to switch out balls every few holes, and always at the top of my list.
I played multiple rounds with each ball, checking for scuffs, cuts, and general wear and tear.
The Callaway Supersoft held up like a champ, as did the TaylorMade Soft Response. Even after a few bunker battles, these balls still looked and played great.
Evaluate Forgiveness
Last but certainly not least, I tested how forgiving these balls were when my swing wasn’t exactly perfect (hey, it happens even to me!).
The Callaway Hex Soft and Titleist TruFeel were the most forgiving, helping to minimize the damage on those less-than-ideal shots.
The TaylorMade Soft Response also deserves a shoutout for keeping my shots in play, even when I wasn’t at my best.
How To Pick The Right Golf Ball If Your a High Handicapper
Consider the Ball’s Construction (Two-Piece, Three-Piece, or More)
When it comes to construction, you’ve got a few choices.
Two-piece balls, like the Srixon Distance, are great for maximizing distance and durability—perfect if you’re just trying to keep the ball in play.
Three-piece balls, like the Titleist TruFeel and Callaway Hex Soft, offer a bit more spin and control, making them a solid choice if you’re looking to fine-tune your short game.
If you’re feeling fancy, you can even try four or five-piece balls, but let’s be real—they might be overkill for most high handicappers.
Stick with what suits your game best!
Budget and Value
Golf balls come in a wide range of prices, and as a high handicapper, it’s important to find a balance between performance and cost.
If you’re prone to losing a few balls per round (we’ve all been there), you might want to lean toward the Srixon Distance, which offers fantastic value at under $2 per ball.
But if you’re willing to invest a little more for added performance, the TaylorMade Soft Response is worth every penny.
Remember, you don’t need to break the bank to find a ball that helps improve your game—just pick one that fits your budget and your needs.
As your game improves, you can branch out into more expensive balls.
Spin and Control
Spin and control are critical for those shots around the green, so it’s worth considering how much spin a ball generates.
The Callaway Supersoft and TaylorMade Soft Response excel in this area, giving you that extra grip on the green when you need it most.
High spin can help you stop the ball quickly, while low spin balls like the Srixon Distance keep your shots straighter and longer.
It’s all about finding the right balance for your game.
If you’re still working on controlling your shots, go for a ball that offers a bit of spin but doesn’t sacrifice too much distance.
Test Different Balls
Don’t be afraid to test out a few different balls to see what works best for you.
Every golfer is different, and what feels great to one person might not be the best fit for another. Grab a sleeve of a few different kinds and hit the range or the course.
I have found that you’ll quickly get a sense of which ball gives you the confidence and performance you’re looking for. Plus, testing is a fun way to mix up your game and maybe even discover a new favorite!
FAQs
What is a high handicap in golf?
A high handicap in golf is generally 18 or above. A handicap is a numerical measure of a golfer’s ability, representing the number of strokes over par they typically shoot. The higher the handicap, the less skilled the player.
How do I know which compression golf ball to use?
To choose the right compression golf ball, match it to your swing speed.
If your swing speed is below 85 mph, choose a low compression ball (under 70).
If your swing speed is 85-100 mph, a mid-compression ball (70-90) is ideal.
If your swing speed is over 100 mph, opt for a high compression ball (90+).
Which Is Best?
Choosing the right golf ball can make a significant difference in your game, especially if you’re a high handicapper.
Each of the balls on this list offers something unique, whether it’s distance, control, or a soft feel.
If you’re looking for the best all-around performer, the Titleist TruFeel stands out as my top choice.
With its combination of forgiveness, control, and a soft feel, it’s the perfect ball to help you lower your scores and enjoy your time on the course even more.
Best Overall
Ball Specs
Material + Construction
Polyurethane
Item Weight (lbs)
1
Model Year
2024
Warranty
1 Year