BALL SELECTION FACTORS

In a simplified way, and without this been intended as a comprehensive ball fitting, @ GolfBallsHUB we believe the three most important factors in choosing the right ball are:


1.- Swing speed & Ball compression: Faster swings need harder balls.
2.- Desired general ball feel: Soft vs Firm vs Hard - Up to you!
3.- Spin profile: High vs Medium vs Low - Up to you!

 

1.- Ball compression & Swing speed: Faster swings need harder balls.

Ball compression is the degree to which the ball´s shape changes when hit by the club (usually ranging from 30 to 110 - where lower numbers point to softer balls that deform more, and higher numbers to firmer balls that deform less).

To make it easier, take compression as a measure of how hard a ball is:
        •    High compression ---> Hard ball
        •    Low compression ---> Soft ball

In this sense, every ball is designed to work to its best at a specific swing speed (the speed at which the club head is traveling when impacting the ball - at miles per hour). Should not be too much, nor too little - so that the ball gets the correct compression at impact.

Here is a recommendation on compression ranges for various driver swing speeds and related 7-iron distances (counting on an average 1.5 X-Factor and golfers typically hitting their 7-iron about 60-70% of their driver carry distance).

The problem with this is different manufacturers will measure compression rates differently, meaning that a 80 compression rate from Titleist may not be exactly the same than a 80 compression rate from Callaway... 

2.- Desired general ball feel: Soft vs Firm vs Hard - Up to you! 

The factor most notably affecting the ball's general feel is the material the cover is built with, and there are three: Urethane, Ionomer and Surlyn.

Cover material chart

 

3.- Spin profile: High vs Medium vs Low - Up to you!

A low-spin ball may be best if you prioritize distance and straighter shots. If you prefer control and stopping power, a high-spin ball is ideal. Mid-spin options provide a well-rounded choice for most golfers.

Spin profile chart

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Now that you understand the basics of ball fitting, filter the table below by your 7-iron distance or swing speed range, the desired ball feel and spin profile to see what ball (or balls) match your game.
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For example, if you normally reach 150y with your 7-iron and you want a ball that feels soft, then filter by "7-iron distance" at "145 - 160" and "Ball feel" at "Soft" and see the results.

For a better experience with the table, turn your phone sideways or, even better, use a laptop.

Enjoy the results!

If after all this info, selecting a golf ball makes you feel overwhelmed and loaded in responsibility, please have a look one of our favorite TED Talks: "The paradox of choice". Mr. Barry talks about the relation between having too many options and the happiness from your decision, and he even mentions something about golf in minute 12:10. Hope you like it!