Joe Ferguson
A lot of golfers with very different skillsets can often be lumped together in the 'higher handicapper' category and thus it is unfair for all high handicap golfers can be grouped together, which makes coming up with a list of the best golf balls for this particular group of golfers trickier than you might think.
So this list can't just focus on which ball goes furthest, although we will feature some of the best distance golf balls as well as the best golf balls for slow swing speeds. We'll also focus on options that provide good value for money as well, especially considering higher handicappers tend to lose quite a few golf balls and this can make the game very expensive if you are using the best premium golf balls. Therefore consider value when making your decision, for example some models below come in bigger packs than the usual dozen.
The Quick List
Thanks to all-round performance, value for money and a well-thought out design, the Titleist TruFeel is our top golf ball pick for those higher handicap golfers.
The Wilson Triad golf ball delivered excellent distance numbers for us during testing whilst also providing lovely feel for short game shots around the green as well as with the putter.
The latest Kirkland Signature model not only has a very cheap price, but our testing revealed a nice responsive feel, decent levels of spin, and relatively consistent launch monitor data.
Designed to help golfers with slower swings to get the ball in the air more easily the High-Launch from Bridgestone does just that, so will help those higher handicappers from a launch perspective.
The Srixon Distance delivers what the name implies - distance off the tee, a penetrating ball flight and a very durable golf ball that can last over multiple rounds (as long as you don't lose it!)
The Callaway Hex Bite Soft ball may not be widely available, but the tee-to-green performance makes it a mightily appealing option for a broad spectrum of golfers, definitely including higher handicap players.
Load the next 2 models
If you want more color choice, or an easier golf ball to find out on the course, the Speedsoft Ink from TaylorMade is worth considering. It also provides an extremely soft feel and solid all-round performance.
Another option from Callaway, the Hex Soft is great for all round performance and is available at a really reasonable price. It wears well but still gives off that soft feel around the greens.
Best Golf Balls for High Handicappers 2025
Top pick
The Titleist TruFeel golf ball in rede packaging, lying on grass
My top pick is awarded to the Titleist TruFeel golf ball for a number of reasons. Titleist set the standards for golf ball manufacturing and produce the most popular golf ball used on the professional tours - the Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x. The TruFeel is catered specifically to the higher handicappers so they have a model that best performs for them as well.
TruFeel is a two-piece construction golf ball that features a new, softer 3.0 Truflex cover which improves green-side spin and control. There is also a new TruTouch core which promote longer distances, making it a versatile golf ball with no real weakness. But how did the ball test for me? Very well is the answer. It's long and springy off the face of the driver off the tee and the same springy-like feel is present during putts and chips too.
I also really appreciated the red alignment line on the side of each ball which will help players of all abilities line up and hopefully set up correctly over the ball before their putt. This should helps users hit their lines more often and, as a result, become more proficient on the greens.
- Read our full Titleist 2024 TruFeel Golf Ball Review
Best feel
The Wilson Triad golf ball in red packaging lying on the ground
Wilson released the original Triad golf ball at the beginning of 2022 and when I tested it I was a big fan. Thankfully, the latest iteration continues this theme largely because not much has changed from the previous model. In terms of distance, once again it will be up there with any of the best golf balls on the market. It provides ample control on approach shots and off the face of the putter it has a lovely, soft feel and an impeccable roll. In fact the feel was of note around the green as well as on it too. I also noticed that when comparing directly against the previous model, it did seem to fly slightly straighter off the tee which is always welcome.
The Triad boasts a new look - the alignment line on the side of the ball been given a facelift whilst the Wilson Staff initials have been from removed from the logo to provide a slicker, more simplistic look which I think looks more premium than previous iterations. As for the rest of the ball, not much has changed and t seems a case of 'if it isn't broken, don't fix it'.
When I consider this and then factor in the very affordable price point this ball is in retail at, it provides higher handicappers and excellent value for money option. Additionally I would argue that higher handicap players, down to single figure golfers could even play this golf ball, given the all-round performance.
- Read our full Wilson 2025 Triad Golf Ball review
Best value
Next up my top value pick is the latest version of the Kirkland Signature golf ball which you can find for $34.99 for two dozen, offering undeniable value. But Moving on to the performance, this 2025 model showed considerable improvements over the previous Signature ball.
First up it is a three-piece ball and my initial impression of the feel, which was a little "clicky" in older models, has much improved. At impact I thought it was noticeably softer, especially when hitting iron and wedge shots, short chips and pitches for example. However it should be noted that I felt the slight lack of control becomes more apparent as you approach the green, where the Kirkland ball certainly fell short of more premium golf balls in terms of spin and performance.
But even after the testing I have done, I can pretty confidently say that the Kirkland is a fairly reliable product, offering decent feel and feedback and a reasonable level of spin and control, albeit at a mildly reduced distance. Therefore I do dispute CostCo's claim that this is a ball that can be played by beginners and professionals alike, with elite players noticing the lack of greenside control immediately. But I cannot think of a ball that even gets close to representing the same extraordinary value for the beginner or higher handicap golfer.
- Read our full Kirkland Signature 2025 Golf Ball Review
Best for launch
The e12 Hi Launch is one of several balls in the e12 range, and as the name states is aimed at golfers looking for a higher ball flight. For many golfers, such as higher handicap players, a common problem is getting the ball into the air and further down the hole but this model has been designed to help.
Thankfully, the ball lives up to its name, and during my testing I saw a towering ball flight with plenty of carry, especially on the irons. This certainly makes it one of the best golf balls for seniors, who typically struggle getting enough height due to a drop off in their swing speed.
It may not generate a huge amount of spin, but I would argue the higher flight and elevation will help higher handicap golfers hold more greens, as opposed to coming in low and not being able to stop the ball on the putting surface. When you miss however, the lack of spin does mean that you get plenty of release which will help golfers get the ball to the hole. The same rings true with the putter, with a firmer, faster feel off the face.
Like many Bridgestone balls, the e12 features its Mindset logo, which is designed to help you to develop a consistent pre-shot routine; the pattern is created to trigger a three step process; identify the target, visualize the shot path and then clear your mind and focus on the green dot before executing your shot.
All told, the ball does its primary job impressively well and the drawbacks around the green are likely to be less of a concern for a player who’s really focused on getting more height and more distance with their full shots.
- Read our full Bridgestone Hi Launch Golf Ball Review
Best for distance
A dozen Srixon Distance golf balls in red packaging, lying on the ground
Our 'best distance' label can only really be given to one golf ball - frankly, if you literally name your ball 'distance' and it doesn't fly long off the tee, you're going to have serious problems. Thankfully there is no need to worry as the Srixon Distance does indeed fly long with driver in hand, thanks in part to a new softer compression compared to the previous iteration. This helps deliver added distance through more velocity and a higher launch.
We tested this golf ball in both calm and blustery wind conditions and were left very impressed, particularly in the latter. It penetrated through the wind and still produced strong distance numbers thanks to fewer dimples on the shell which creates less friction with the air as it flies through it. The shell is durable, but does feel hard. This might suits lower to mid handicappers as much, but the durability is great for higher handicaps.
The Distance is without doubt one of the best cheap golf balls, but the trade off with this ball is the lack of significant feel when compared to more premium models, especially around the greens.
- Read our full Srixon Distance ball review
Best wide appeal
Next up we have a golf ball that is pretty mysterious because it is actually pretty hard to get hold of, and at the time of writing isn't actually listed on the Callaway Golf website either. I am referring to the Hex Bite Soft golf ball which I recently tested and is a worthy inclusion on this list because it will suit higher handicap golfers and a wide range of players because of the performance.
From a looks perspective everything is normal here with a hexagonal dimple pattern, bright white finish, and it has a dual black arrow sidestamp which will go a long way to assisting with alignment on the greens.
In my testing I first hit some putts and I noticed a soft feel and 'click' sound through impact. Then on short game shots it rolled out more than other premium models on the market so if you value complete short game control, there are better models on the market. Anyway, this performance is to be expected at this price point.
However it was the long game where this ball impressed and surprised. When testing in direct comparison with last year’s Chrome Soft, one of the premium balls in the range, the Hex Bite Soft compared admirably. It was a little faster and provided lower spin as well, which is a theme which continued in the mid-irons. Despite the lower spin, the higher ball flight meant the stopping power was similar to what the Chrome Soft offered. As a result, I am confident the tee-to-green performance here will suit a wide range of players, from high-single figure players to higher-handicaps and beginners.
- Read our full Callaway Hex Bite Soft Golf Ball Review
Best colors
The SpeedSoft Ink has an interesting pattern that continues the theme of TaylorMade introducing different prints to the golf balls. To begin with, it features a really distinct visual design, with splashes of color splattered on the golf ball undoubtedly enhancing the visibility when searching for it in the rough. Given higher handicap golfers are often in the rough and in tricky places more often, this 'findability' could help limit how many golf balls they lose.
The performance is not just cosmetic either. The SpeedSoft Ink is labeled as a mid-launching ball but, in testing, I actually got it to spin and climb a little higher than I expected, which is good for those players who struggle to do so. Additionally, the SpeedSoft Ink golf balls have a compression delta below 50, hence why they felt extremely soft off the face at impact.
Obviously, the Ink design will divide many but, if you want a very good performing golf ball that won't break the bank, the SpeedSoft is a viable option. Also, it is available in white or yellow so, if the Ink isn't for you, then you can always opt for the traditional look.
- Read our full TaylorMade SpeedSoft Ink Golf Ball Review
Best for durability
Two Callaway Hex Soft golf balls next to a sleeve of white packaging on the ground
As you will have gathered from everything mentioned above, a good golf ball for a high handicapper has to do a lot of things well. Another good example of this is the Hex Soft from Callaway, which delivers a good all-round performance in both the long and short-game, whilst also being extremely durable, making it one of the best value golf balls on the market.
During testing I didn't lose my golf ball during my first 18 holes so decided to keep using it to see how far it could realistically last - it lasted over 40 holes before showing a major wear and tear other than some cosmetic scratches.
This ball isn't the longest off the tee but is at least competitive with more expensive models and has a nice soft feel to it around the greens. These are one of the cheapest golf balls on this list too, so if you lose a few balls during a round these could be an excellent value option so you're not breaking the bank week on week.
- Read our full Callaway Hex Soft Golf Ball Review
How we test golf balls
Our testing procedure for golf balls, as well as all other golf gear, revolves around several key commitments;
When we say we’ve reviewed a product, it means that we’ve used it out on the golf course and also on a launch monitor where applicable. So all clubs and balls are extensively tested on course as well as with a launch monitor to give us the most information possible for our reviews. In terms of specifics for golf balls, we use several members of the Golf Monthly team, who play at a variety of levels, to put golf balls to the test out on the golf course. This gives us as wide a scope as possible when it comes to assessing the performance of a golf ball at different swing speeds and different skill levels.
Deputy Editor Joel Tadman testing the Titleist Pro V1x
Our team is built up of passionate golfers, meaning through our experience of both testing and playing we know what to look for in a golf ball. We pride ourselves in our reviews because they are made for golfers, by golfers, with the aim of helping our readers make the best informed purchasing decision to help their own golf game.
Our review process has been honed over decades of experience testing all sorts of equipment. No brand can 'buy' a good review, nor does a brand get preferential treatment - we simply call it how we see.
How to choose golf balls
Distance or feel?
What is the area of your game that needs the most improvement? A lot of beginners and higher handicappers struggle with consistency and distance off the tee and could well be suited to playing a harder model of golf ball to help with such problems. Models like the Srixon Distance for instance.
It isn't all about just distance though. There are also golfers who struggle in terms of feel so we have also included some models above in this regard too, such as the Titleist TruFeel or Callaway ERC Soft. So regardless of which part of the game you most struggle with, there is a ball to help.
Spin
Linking with the above point many models above are going to spin less, which will help destructive tee shots become less so. These models helps reduce sidespin which means they won't curve as much after a sliced tee shot. That will undoubtedly mean fewer lost balls, plus you will also find yourself further up the fairway with a shorter shot in.
Durability
There's no point splashing cash on a golf ball that will scuff itself up after six holes and negatively impact your game as a result. It's wise to purchase durable golf balls that can last multiple rounds in case you don't lose them!
Color
White is traditional, but tradition can also be a bit boring sometimes. Some players like to spice things up by playing yellow, orange or even pink golf balls. Not all models offer such customization, so keep that in mind when looking for the ball that suits you the best.
Budget
Finally be aware of how much you can or want to spend on golf balls. If you want the cheapest dozen possible with a degree of performance then a couple of models will suit you above, whereas if you want to spend a little more we have got you covered there too.
FAQs
Which golf ball is best for high handicappers?
There are lots of models that can lay claim to this title as the best golf ball for high handicappers. It is worth noting though that many high handicap players want something different from their golf balls. For example, some want as much distance as possible, and some want more of a soft feel so the best golf balls for these players will differ. You need to ask yourself what is the most important thing you need in a golf ball and then base your decision on that. For us though, the best overall model in our testing would be the Titleist TruFeel golf ball although we would recommend trying out different models in this guide to see what is best for you.
What is a high handicap in golf?
Officially a high handicap is anything above 18 when using the handicap index as a reference.
What is a 3-piece golf ball?
A three-piece golf ball refers to the three layers of the ball - usually the core, mantle and the cover. Usually these balls offer a a softer feel and slightly more spin when compared to two-piece balls. As such they offer a touch more control whereas two-piece models can offer more distance.
What is a 2-piece golf ball?
A two-piece golf ball refers to the two layers of the golf ball, which are the core and then the cover. These balls are designed to spin less than multi-layer balls and as a result stay in the air longer for more distance. The compromise is they offer less spin and control on other shots, especially around the green.
If you want more golf ball buying advice, check out our guides on the best golf balls for slow swing speeds and best golf balls for seniors.
