The Science of Compression: Choosing Golf Balls to Match Your Game

When choosing golf balls, compression is one of the most important things to think about. It’s important in determining how the ball will behave on a swing, and how far, how accurate and how it feels.

By understanding compression you can use that knowledge to choose the golf balls that best suit your game. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, you need to know compression to play your best on the course. For example, Srixon golf balls come in a variety of compression levels to suit a range of skill levels and playing styles.

What Is Compression in Golf Balls?

Compression is a term used to describe how much a golf ball compresses when hit by the clubface. The lower compression ball will deform more easily, the higher compression ball will be stiffer. In essence, it’s a way to measure how much ‘give’ a ball has when it’s hit. A number usually indicating compression—ranging from 50 (soft) to 110 (hard)—usually indicates how the ball will travel through the air and react upon impact.

Low Compression Balls: Ideal for Slower Swing Speeds

Golf balls with lower compression tend to work better for golfers with slower swing speeds. They compress easier, providing more distance for those who might not be able to get maximum yardage. If you have a swing speed under 85mph, like a senior or beginner, you’ll typically find that lower compression balls, like the Srixon Soft Feel, provide more distance and a softer feel. That is particularly helpful for people who are in need of more assistance in achieving the best ball speed and launch conditions.

High Compression Balls: Suited for Faster Swing Speeds

However, faster swing speed golfers should choose higher compression balls. They are less forgiving, but offer more control and stability, making them ideal for players with plenty of clubhead speed. Generally speaking, a higher compression rating will help players with swing speeds in excess of 100mph, which tend to be intermediate and advanced golfers.

The Importance of Matching Compression to Your Swing

A golfer’s swing speed is critical to choosing the right compression. A ball that is too soft for your swing speed will feel mushy and not give you much control, and a ball with too high a compression for your slower swing will feel unresponsive and lose you distance. It’s about finding that sweet spot, where the ball works with your natural swing to give the best performance.

Compression and Feel: A Delicate Balance

Feel is important as well as performance when it comes to picking a golf ball. Balls with lower compression tend to offer a softer feel, giving more feedback on short game shots around the green. That’s because they are more forgiving and comfortable and so many beginners and recreational players prefer them. However, high compression balls are less soft, but they give you a firmer and more responsive feel that some experienced players like because it is more precise and controllable.

Ball Flight and Spin: Compression’s Impact

Ball flight and spin can also be affected by compression. For those players that need some help getting the ball airborne, lower compression balls tend to produce higher launch angles. In addition, these balls provide more spin around the greens, which can be helpful for those with slower swing speeds who want to maximize short game control. On the other hand, higher compression balls produce lower launch angles and less spin, making them attractive to players who can generate enough swing speed to achieve optimal ball flight and distance.

Finding the Right Balance: Testing and Trial

The only way to find the right compression for your game is by testing. Trial packs or demo balls are available at many golf shops that allow players to try different compression levels. Focus on how the ball feels on impact, how it flies, and how much spin you can put on with your wedges. Pay attention to whether the ball helps you reach your target distances and shot shapes, and how well the ball matches your swing.

Tailoring Your Golf Ball Choice

Selecting the right golf ball is important to improve your game. Selecting a ball with the right compression allows you to optimize distance, control, and feel to match your swing speed and how you play. You can pick the ball that is a little softer for more distance or a little firmer for control, but the aim is to find the ball that works for you. Srixon golf balls come in an ideal variety of compression options, so all golfers, from beginners to professionals, can find a ball that will help them play better.