Now, you've probably heard all about soft golf balls and hard golf balls. But you've probably wondered - why does it matter and what does it all mean? Today, we're going to go through all you need to know about golf ball compression and why it's important to consider before you launch into your next game.
What is golf ball compression?
Put simply, golf ball compression is the interaction between the clubface with the golf ball's core. It all starts within the core of your golf ball! When your club face hits a golf ball, the force of the club impacts the shape of the ball. This is the process of compression.
The golf ball will then compress and change shape against the face of the club, before springing off into the distance. As you'll come to learn in the next section, the way in which the golf ball compresses can impact your shot.
Why does golf ball compression matter?
Depending on your swing speed, you will be putting varying amounts of energy into your shot. The compression rating of your chosen golf ball will impact the way in which the ball reacts to this energy. When choosing a golf ball with the right compression rating for you, always ask yourself what you want your energy to convert into. If you choose a hard golf ball with a higher compression rating and you can't match the swing speed, you risk wasting the energy on deformation, resulting in a wonky shot.
The easiest thing to remember is: if you're looking for control and accuracy, then opt for a hard golf ball. If you're looking to maximise your distance, go for the softer golf ball.
Golf ball compression ratings
Different golf balls have different levels - or ratings - of compression. These compression ratings can range between 30 and 120. A golf ball with a compression rating of 30 is considered to be soft as it is more likely to change shape and feels softer off the club face, whereas a golf ball with a compression rating of 120 is considered to be hard as it will take more force to compress its core.
So, to avoid any confusion...
Lower compression = SOFT golf ball (such as the Volvik Power Soft)
Higher compression = HARD golf ball (such as the Srixon Z-Star XV!)
But, how do you know which one to use to benefit your golf game? Here's how to find the perfect golf ball compression rating for you...
Which golf ball compression should you use?
To choose a golf ball with the right compression rating, it's important to know your swing speed.
If you have a fast swing speed, a high compression golf ball will give you increased accuracy and control over your ball's trajectory.
- If you have a medium swing speed, you can choose from the best of both worlds.
If you'd like to prioritise your ball's distance, then you should go for a low compression golf ball.
If you'd like to have more control over your golf ball, you'll want to choose a high compression golf ball.
Why? With a slow swing speed, distance and length are the priority. A low compression golf ball will allow you to exert the energy of your swing into optimal distance.
How to work out your swing speed
Don't worry if you're not sure of your swing speed - here's what to do! To find your swing speed, take 10 swings with your driver, and 10 swings with your 7-iron. Add the speeds of all of 20 swings and divide the total by 20 to work out your average swing speed.
Once you know your swing speed, you can match it to a low or high compression rating using the guide above.
Why does golf ball compression matter?
Depending on your swing speed, you will be putting varying amounts of energy into your shot. The compression rating of your chosen golf ball will impact the way in which the ball reacts to this energy. When choosing a golf ball with the right compression rating for you, always ask yourself what you want your energy to convert into. If you choose a hard golf ball with a higher compression rating and you can't match the swing speed, you risk wasting the energy on deformation, resulting in a wonky shot.
The easiest thing to remember is: if you're looking for control and accuracy, then opt for a hard golf ball. If you're looking to maximise your distance, go for the softer golf ball.
Find Your Go-To Golf Ball at gimmeballs
At gimmeballs, we're proud to stock a wide range of golf balls with varying compression ratings to help you play your very best.
Click the button below to browse our range, and take a look at the specifications on each product page for more specific compression rating information.
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