When it comes to a player’s golf equipment, the golf ball is often the most overlooked piece in the bag. While golfers spend a lot of money on custom fittings for their clubs, they rarely invest the same resources in fitting or testing for the right golf ball. Many golfers simply use whatever balls they receive for free at tournaments or as gifts, without considering the impact of the ball on their game.
GOLF’s Fully Equipped co-host Wadeh Maroun stressed the importance of going through a golf ball fitting in addition to club fittings. He recommended trying the online Ballnamic tool created by Ping to help golfers identify suitable golf balls for their game. Co-host Kris McCormack suggested starting testing around the green before moving to the tee to determine which golf balls perform best in various areas of the game.
One recommended golf ball for 2024 is the Bridgestone Tour B RX MindSet, priced at $49.99. This ball delivers increased ball speed for maximum distance off the tee and HIT & SIT performance on approach shots. The visual cue on the ball, known as MindSet, offers a three-step process to improve focus and execution on the course. Professional golfers like Fred Couples and Jason Day have used and endorsed this golf ball.
According to McCormack, independent golf ball tests have shown minimal differences in distance off the tee between various balls, but significant variations in spin and control around the greens. He emphasized the importance of starting at the green and working back to identify the best golf balls for individual performance. Once golfers find balls they like around the green, they should test them for iron shots and driver performance.
To determine the best golf balls for your game, it is recommended to start testing around the green, then move to iron shots and finally to driver performance. This method allows players to narrow down their options based on performance in different areas of the game. For those looking to upgrade their golf ball choices for 2024, finding a fitting location at True Spec Golf can help in selecting the best options for improved performance.
Jack Hirsh, the associate equipment editor at GOLF, advises golfers to pay more attention to their choice of golf balls and consider fitting them as carefully as they do their clubs. By focusing on finding the right golf ball to match their playing style and course conditions, golfers can improve their performance and overall enjoyment of the game. With proper testing and fitting, golfers can optimize their equipment for better results on the course.
