Would I notice any difference if I played with less expensive balls?
Former USGA technical director Frank Thomas is one of the leading experts on golf technology. He is passionate about educating golfers on golf technology and empowering them to make better decisions about equipment. PGA.info has teamed up with Thomas to provide a regular column in which he answers golfers' questions on a range of technology issues.
A six handicapper asks:
With the cost of premium golf balls on the rise, would I notice anything if I played with less expensive balls? I am worried I might lose something - distance, full iron spin, feel and spin around the greens. I have played Pro V1s (not Xs) balls regularly over the last three seasons and I carry my driver 235-240 and my 8-iron flies 150 yards.
Frank says:
You want a ball which will complement your ability.
With your handicap of six and the carry distance of 235 -240 yards on your drives, you should have a driver head speed of approximately 98mph. Also, if you shoot between 75 and 80 you are in the top 10% skill level of all male golfers, which is very good.
Obviously you enjoy the game and the ball you are using now, and for good reason; it is a premium ball and has good all-round performance properties which you are able to recognize and appreciate.
There is no harm in testing a sleeve of NXT Tour balls or some of the others you have mentioned just to assure yourself that you can tell the difference. You may not be a tour-quality golfer (yet) but will frequently hit a shot, which a tour player would enjoy. For this reason, you want a ball which will complement your ability and not one which will compromise a well-executed shot.
Some of the balls you mention are multi-layered and very good substitutes for most golfers, and in fact may be better for the slower swing speeds and less skill around the green. In your case, you have made the transition and can take advantage of the subtleties that a premium ball offers.
To cope with the dent in your wallet keep the ball in the fairway more often and postpone buying a new driver especially if the one you have feels good; is behaving itself; and is not more than three years old.
If your driver is starting to age then think about getting a new one but last year's model will be as technically advanced - or very close - to this year's version but at half the price and hit the ball as far and straight as you want.
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25 March, 2009 | By Frank Thomas