Best Winter Golf Ball 2024 - top models for the cold weather

There are a number of factors to ponder when choosing the best golf ball for cold weather. We explain what to consider and suggest some of the best options

Best Winter Golf Ball
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)

What is the best winter golf ball? This is an interesting, and not entirely straightforward, question. All balls, including the very best golf balls on the market, behave and perform differently at a variety of temperatures. You’ll often hear tour pros say the ball wasn’t flying so far this week in the cold or was going further in warmer temperatures.

Golf balls do lose a little distance in the cold because the air is denser, which increases lift and drag each shot. That means the ball will fly higher but drop a little shorter. If the golf ball itself gets very cold, this can affect the characteristics of its materials resulting in lower initial velocity off the clubface too. There are differing views as to the best winter golf ball, though. One school of thought is that balls with a softer compression might help you hit it a little further in the cold; the other is that a harder ball might carry further through the air and provide more distance overall when the fairways are soft - as they often are in the colder months.

In this guide, we’ve pooled together several balls from testing and some of our other guides that we believe will be beneficial for playing in colder months of the year. Some of these balls are also listed on our guides to the best value balls, the best distance balls and the best soft-feel balls. We take into account a variety of factors, one of which being visibility. For example, some balls will be easier to track and find in gloomier weather or when there’s frost on the ground than others. Our guide to the best yellow golf balls will come in handy here, and don’t forget there’s also now a much wider choice when it comes to golf ball color than there used to be.

Then there’s the small matter of greenside performance. If you go for a firmer ball for more carry distance, you might be concerned about its effect on your short game. But don’t forget – conditions are often softer and wetter in the colder months, and it may actually help you get the ball to the hole more easily on chips and long-range putts. Only you can ultimately decide which way to go!  

The Quick List

Best Winter Golf Ball

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Best low-compression golf balls

callaway supersoft golf ball and putter

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Very low compression and a very soft feel

Specifications

Construction: Two-piece
Colors: 6 (White, Yellow, Orange, Green, Pink Red)

Reasons to buy

+
Ideal all-around ball for those with average swing speeds
+
New hybrid cover boosts distance and durability without sacrificing feel
+
Ball’s construction and cover are engineered for straighter shots

Reasons to avoid

-
The low-compression core won’t suit those with faster swing speeds

The Supersoft ball from Callaway is a low compression ball, more likely to be used by a player with a more average swing speed who prefers a soft feel at impact. One of the main differences from this ball's predecessor is the cover, as it now has a new hybrid design, using Callaways Paraloid Impact Modifier. The main promised improvements are the increased distances and the overall durability of the ball. This is done without any comprises to the feel and short game control around the greens. The Supersoft has a soft compression core, this is to boost ball speed and also create a higher launch all done while keeping the spin relatively low. 

Upon testing this ball we very much felt what was promised was delivered. There was good receptiveness with our approach shots, including the longer irons and hybrids. When you get to the green you benefit from a great feature which is a black 'Supersoft' stamping, which provides a great alignment aid. With the Supersoft you have four additional colors to choose from other than the traditional white, you can go with yellow, matte orange, green, pink, and red. We feel this is one of the softest balls Callaway provides in the range and performs well in colder climates.

Titleist Tour Speed 2022 Golf Ball

Titleist Tour Speed 2022 Golf Ball Review

(Image credit: Future)
Excellent for year-round golf

Specifications

Construction: Three-piece
Colors: 2 (White, Yellow)

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent all-round performer 
+
Sub-premium price point
+
Similar feel to tour-quality balls
+
Excellent distance from drivers and irons

Reasons to avoid

-
Doesn't provide as much spin as Tour quality models

The second iteration of the Tour Speed has some impressive updates which is amazing considering how high-performing it already was. This ball is great across the board but for those looking to find some extra performance in their long game then, this ball can help you to gain more distance. In comparison to the premium Pro V1, the Tour Speed is around $10 to $15 less per dozen, and still delivers similar performance levels and feel to the more premium balls.

This ball has a high flex case layer and Titleist has reformulated the core to help give more speed and lower spin to those longer shots. When we tested this ball we saw an additional 2mph ball speed in comparison to the previous model, and we saw the ball launching much higher too. When you strike the ball well you are rewarded for it with a nice strong ball flight, that seemed to hang in the air, but the ball doesn't feel too soft at impact when compared to other similarly priced urethane balls. 

Overall we found this to be a high-performing golf ball, that would be suitable for use all year round. If you are someone looking to improve their performance without having to go as far as purchasing the top premium balls then this ball is a great option. That is why we think the Titleist Tour Speed is one of the best value golf balls you can get. 

Srixon UltiSoft 2022 Golf Ball

Srixon UltiSoft 2022 Golf Ball

(Image credit: Future)
Particularly good choice for slow to average swing speeds

Specifications

Construction: Two-piece
Colors: 1 (White)

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent soft feel, most noticeable on and around the greens
+
Consistently strong ball flights
+
Good durability

Reasons to avoid

-
Faster swingers may struggle for distance

The UltiSoft delivers a softer feel and has great ball flights no matter the club you are hitting, it is also great value for money. With upgrades from last year's model, it now has improved performance from tee to green, with the headline feature of this ball being the FastLayer core. The core creates a softer ball in the center which delivers a lower compression at just 42, which is the lowest of all the Srixon balls. So if you have a slower swing speed then this is a great choice for you. 

We wanted to see for ourselves how good (and how soft) this ball really was, so we tested it out on the course and on the range with the launch monitor. We were really impressed with its overall performance, it gave us decent launch angles and good distance with the long irons. However, we found that anyone with a swing speed on the fast end would struggle with this ball. We found in testing that this ball didn't offer much in the way of spin compared to premium golf balls, which reacted a lot quicker on the greens. Apart from this, it offers a lovely soft feel at impact through the bag which was something we loved.

Bridgestone e12 Contact Golf Ball

Bridgestone e12 Contact golf ball

(Image credit: Matthew Moore)
A fantastic option for those wanting less side-spin

Specifications

Construction: Three-piece
Colors: 4 (White, Yellow, Green, Red)

Reasons to buy

+
Dimple design encourages straighter flight and less sidespin
+
Contact Force dimples transfer more energy at impact
+
Gradational soft core promotes better spin around the greens

Reasons to avoid

-
Straighter ball flight doesn’t help golfers shape shots
-
Less workability than similarly priced balls

The latest iteration of the Bridgestone e12 Contact ball uses a very distinctive Contact Force dimple, which has a raised area within the middle of each dimple. The raised area within these dimples allows for 38% more contact at impact between the clubface and ball, this is in comparison to the more traditional dimple. 

The overall result from these changes is improved ball speed and distance, especially nice things to have when playing out in the colder weather. Another aspect of the new dimples is a slight improvement in grip and spin around the greens, which is never a bad thing to improve on. This ball is available in white, matte green, matte red, and matte yellow. 

While it may not offer any major top level performance compared to the Bridgestone Tour B balls, it isn't too far behind giving a great cost ball with decent overall performance. 

TaylorMade Soft Response 2022 Golf Ball

TaylorMade Soft Response 2022 Golf Ball Review

(Image credit: Future)
A particularly strong performer in the wind

Specifications

Construction: Three-piece
Colors: 3 (white, yellow, red)

Reasons to buy

+
Performs particularly well in the wind with a stable ball flight
+
Carries a long way thanks to shallower U-shaped dimples

Reasons to avoid

-
Not quite as much spin control as the Tour Response

The Soft Response is a lower end model to TaylorMade's premium TP5 ball in their golf ball range. Sitting alongside the more expensive ball, the Tour Response, which is a softer ball, is a great offering at a great budget price. Usually this ball can be picked up for under its RRP, and thanks to its overall performance being pretty solid, it's a great choice for the winter months. 

The Soft Response benefits from a durable Ionomer Cover which helps to keep it from cutting up as easily as some other balls. Although this is a more durable cover, we didn't see any downside to the soft feel of the ball, with the feel off the putter face being lovely and soft. This carried over to the wedges too where the performance was really good, even in the wind and rain. 

If you find you have a faster swing speed above 90mph you may find you start to lose distance with this ball, but if you swing around that 90mph mark you should find that the long game performance with this ball is solid. 

Wilson Staff Duo Optix ball

Wilson Duo Optix Golf Ball

(Image credit: Future)
For those who like a matte finish

Specifications

Construction: Two-piece
Color: 4 (matte yellow, red, green. orange)

Reasons to buy

+
Low compression makes it ideal for more moderate swing speeds
+
Decent feel around the greens for an inexpensive ball

Reasons to avoid

-
Matte finish and color in the yellow model make it hard to see the dimples in certain lights

The latest adaptation of the Wilson Staff DUO Optix promises to deliver more distance and accuracy, along with an increased feel around the greens. This is in part due to the smaller Polybutadiene core that the ball has. 

Upon testing this ball we thought it more than held its own in most of the departments we test in. In addition, we felt it had a softer feel than most balls at this price, especially when getting up and down around the greens. 

With the matte finish on this ball Wilson has said it eliminates the sun glare, which we did notice in testing. However, we did find that the yellow model we tested seemed to get lost among the leaves when we missed the fairway, so it may be worth using a brighter ball in the winter. 

Mizuno RB566 golf ball

Mizuno RB566 Golf Ball

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Engineered to maximise hang time for more distance

Specifications

Construction: Two-piece
Colors: 3 (White, Yellow, Orange)

Reasons to buy

+
Extra hang time keeps the ball in the air longer for added carry
+
A very good option at mid to low swing speeds

Reasons to avoid

-
Although the cover is highly durable it’s not one of the softest

The final low compression pick is the Mizuno RB566, this ball excels when it comes to distance with its prolonged ball flights. This ball has a big high-energy core that couples well with the 566-dimple cover, add in the soft compression design and this becomes a high preforming golf ball. Thanks to its core it helps to create a straighter ball flight that is more stable, while the dimple pattern manages to delay the rate the ball descends at to help carry it that few extra yards. 

When testing this ball with driver we saw a significant change in the ball flight, it came out high and straight with less curvature too. When our tester was striking this ball he felt it straightened out his ball flight and gave him more confidence to swing with more freedom. It also felt nice and soft around the greens and we liked the nice 'click' noise it made. We also found that it grabbed quickly on both the mid range pitch shots and fuller wedge shots. 

Overall this ball is a great option at a solid price, we also felt this ball had fantastic durability, meaning you are not going to have to replace it as often. 

Firmer cover balls

TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Ball

(Image credit: Future)
One of the best on the market for out-and-out distance

Specifications

Construction: Two-piece
Colors: 2 (White, Yellow)

Reasons to buy

+
Highly durable scuff- and shear-resistant cover
+
New ‘plus’ alignment markings help you aim better on the greens and off the tee

Reasons to avoid

-
This is primarily a distance ball so feel and control are not its strongest suits

For TaylorMades Distance+ ball, speed and distance is the main selling point making it a must for this list. These goals are achieved through its REACT Speed Core and the aerodynamics of the 342-dimple pattern. This pattern delivers low drag but with high velocity when travelling through the air. 

If you are looking for distance gains then this is one of the best golf low spin golf balls. The Ionomer core is soft and allows for a reasonable feel around the greens, but it is also very durable. This means longer lasting balls and less money needing to be spent replacing them due to damage. The cross shaped alignment distance+ on the ball is great for those looking to get aid with their putting. 

Pinnacle Rush Golf Ball

Pinnacle Rush golf ball and packet pictured

(Image credit: Future)
Best for all abilities

Specifications

Construction: Two-piece
Colors: 1 (white)

Reasons to buy

+
Great distance
+
Nice feel off the face
+
15-ball packs add to the value

Reasons to avoid

-
Greenside spin is almost non-existent
-
May be better options for cheaper

When it comes to good-value long distance golf balls Pinnacle has always been on the list, with this edition, the Rush, being no exception. It has a high-energy core that is the main driving force behind its performance, allowing it to generate faster ball speeds throughout the bag. 

When testing this ball we found it to deliver plenty of great distance straight off the mark with both driver and iron shots. This ball also offers a lovely high ball flight and the sound doesn't seem to 'clicky' or loud on impact, which sometimes can be the case with a long distance ball.

The Pinnacle Rush uses an Icosahedral dimple pattern which is comprised of 332 dimples. This is all on a durable Ionomer cover which creates a more consistent ball flight that feels powerful but also has a bit of feel to it around the greens. It is not the softest ball at impact and, although it has some feel, it definitely won't impress as much on and around the greens. Admittedly, seeing as how it is created for all out distance this is to be expected. If you want a distance ball only, then this delivers on that promise.

Titleist Velocity 2022 Golf Ball

Titleist Velocity 2022 Golf Ball

(Image credit: MHopley)
Added stopping power via a high-flying trajectory

Specifications

Construction: Two-piece
Colors: 4 (White, Green, Orange and Pink)

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent for distance
+
Nice firm feel
+
Good value for money

Reasons to avoid

-
Low spin design reduces control around green

The Velocity ball from Titleist has always impressed with its distance off the tee, and the latest model is no different. The core of this ball has been made a bit firmer in a bid to generate greater speeds on shots. The NaZ+ Ionomer cover has also had some work done; it has a new formula of enhanced feel, and the pattern is a new Octahedral design with 350 dimples, this aids a higher ball flight and increases consistency. 

As a result of these changes, you get a golf ball that can increase your distance no matter the weather. Comparing this to the older model we found the ball did come out higher with driver and even carried 5 yards further, the performance with a 7 iron was similar to this outcome also. The spin for the Velocity came out very low which aided distance but it did compromise the feel of the ball around the greens. Available in four vibrant colors, all of which are fairly easy to see, it is a great winter ball choice. 

Srixon Distance Golf Ball

srixon distance ball and packaging

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Our top pick

Specifications

Construction: Two-piece
Colors: 1 (White)

Reasons to buy

+
Ideal for 80+mph swing speeds
+
High penetrating ball flight

Reasons to avoid

-
Durable cover is very hard

With Srixon the Distance is probably one of the more popular balls from the brands range of premium quality golf balls. Even now, with this newer iteration, Srixon are making little tweaks and updates to the ball to maximize what you are getting. 

This latest model has a softer compression when compared to previous models, which helps to deliver the best distance and a higher launch angle, thus creating a more penetrating ball flight. Srixon has reduced the dimple count quite a lot, bringing it down by 108 dimples. Srixon advises this will decrease drag and increase lift, overall making this a better ball to play in the wind. 

Our tester said they saw a good increase to their overall distance and the penetration of the ball in the air when it got windy. The higher handicap players, that do not want to change their ball as much due to cuts and scrapes, will be happy to know this ball is very durable so the value of the ball is also improved. 

Wilson Velocity Distance Golf Ball

This Wilson Velocity Distance Ball really does gain you yardage

(Image credit: Future)
More balls for your money with this 15-ball pack

Specifications

Construction: Two-piece
Colors: 1 (White)

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent value for those starting out
+
Dimple pattern enhances power
+
Great distance all-round
+
Very durable

Reasons to avoid

-
Cover may feel too hard on putts

We are almost at the end of the list and our penultimate pick for this guide is the Velocity Distance from Wilson. 

This is a low compression ball and Wilson has made promises that it will have extreme distance gains. This is done by using a hard Ionomer cover that optimises the trajectory thus increasing maximum yardage and roll out. From our testing we can confirm that this ball does deliver on these promises; the aerodynamics have been enhanced through the dimple design and really has added to the power potential off the tee. It is a very durable golf ball and does not scuff up easily, even when coming off the odd cart path or tree. With the mid compression core in this design, the overall low compression is negated slightly, as this ball does have some sort of playability in and around the greens. 

This ball is also right up there as one of the best value golf balls you can get, especially because you can often get 15 balls not 12 in a pack. Overall we found this to be the perfect ball to help the less experienced golfers reach a higher distance off the tee.

Snell Get Sum Golf Ball

Snell Get Sum Golf Ball in front of Snell packaging and boxes

(Image credit: Future)
One of the best value golf balls around

Specifications

Construction: 2-piece
Colors : 1 (Yellow)

Reasons to buy

+
A fantastic golf ball for distance
+
Excellent value
+
Very easy to flight

Reasons to avoid

-
Doesn't offer the best control around the greens 

If you struggle with distance and consistency off the tee then this ball could help, the Snell Get Sum golf ball is a high performing ball that does not cost a fortune. 

This great value ball has a soft Surlyn cover material and is designed in a way to help you get the ball up in the air with more ease. The Get Sum also boasts some low spin numbers especially when pitted against some of the other offerings in the market. This helps you strike the ball further and straighter making it a no nonsense ball that optimises distance but throws a lot of control out the window. If you are searching for that distance in your long game then this ball will certainly help, check out the other balls we think are the best distance golf balls to help you off the tee. 

How we test golf balls

Here at Golf Monthly, our highly experienced team of testers play a lot of golf in different conditions throughout the year. While our gear writers Sam De'Ath and Joe Ferguson head up golf ball reviews on our site, most of the Golf Monthly team have been working in the golf industry for more years than they care to remember, so have a wealth of experience to offer. Through our rigorous testing procedures, our collective goal is to test every golf ball model on the market as soon as it becomes available to us, putting in the hours in all weathers out on the golf course, the practice ground, the short-game area, the practice bunker and the putting green. 

We always want to make sure you have an idea of how each ball will perform in all areas of the game, from off the tee to chipping and putting. We will advise on the strengths and weaknesses of each thing we test so you can make a proper informed choice when it comes to you purchasing your next golf ball. We will where possible look to get as much data from our testing as possible using launch monitors to give a  more detailed analysis of how the balls perform. This goes for yellow balls too, we always look to see how the ball plays in comparison to it's pearly white counterpart so you know exactly what you are in for out on the course. Colored balls are great but do not always perform well in all conditions, such as a leafy course, this is the information we look to get to you the consumer and make sure your life is made easier. 

How to choose golf balls

For golf the most technical piece of equipment you will use is the ball. Brands are always tinkering and looking to innovate there golf balls year upon year. Whether it be looking to gain distance, or increase or reduce spin they are always on the look out to help the modern day golfer improve and shoot their best rounds. Because of this there is a lot that goes into making a ball like dimple patterns, cover material and core development. So when you are looking for a new ball there is a lot ot take in and consider to make sure the ball fits your game. This can be over whelming for some especially if you are newer to the game, so we try to make this process a lot easier by breaking down how we test and what we look for, so you can make the best informed decision when spending your hard earned cash. Check out a few points below on what to look out for.

1. Soft or firm?

The best premium golf balls come in alternative versions that spin slightly less for players who prefer a firmer feel or more control off the tee. We recommend you try both kinds from various distances to find your preferred feel. Particularly when it comes to wet weather golf, you may want to consider how the feel of the golf ball might change in colder conditions. 

2. Cover material

Urethane-covered balls offer the best spin control and feel but do cost more. Experiment with each to see if you notice enough of a difference to justify the extra cost, or whether the best mid-price golf balls might be an option. Again, as the temperature can have an impact on the ball, it's best to test each type of ball that you want to use to see how that golf ball responds when you play it. 

3. Long game or short game? 

Which aspect of the game is most important to you? Are you looking for maximum distance or something that allows your short game to shine around the greens?

If you value the former then check out our guide to the best distance golf balls; if you put a real premium on feel, perhaps our best soft feel golf balls guide might be a good next step.

4. Color/visuals

Are you very much a classic white ball player, or someone open to playing something a little different as the golf ball world evolves? There's more choice than ever in this regard and if you are reading this guide, chances are you want a slightly different color or look to your golf ball.

5. Budget

No buying guide would be complete without at least mentioning budget. Thankfully most brands make models at different price points and you can rest assured there is decent performance on offer across the price spectrum. It is also worth considering that personalized balls cost a little more money. 

Getting the right golf ball for your needs can sometimes be a tricky task, but don't fret. Here at Golf Monthly, we've done the leg work. Whether you're looking for the best soft feel golf balls, the best golf balls for slow swing speeds or even the best glow in the dark golf balls, we've got you covered with our extensive product guides. 

FAQs

How does cold weather affects golf ball distance?

There has been a lot of research by many people and brands around this question. The main way cold weather affects distance is in the golf ball not traveling as far because the air is denser, and there is additional drag on the ball. According to Titleist research, a golfer will experience an approximately 1.5 percent drop in distance for every 20-degree drop in temperature. If you carry your driver 250 yards, that 1.5 percent drop equates to 3.75 yards.

According to Trackman, the difference is approximately one yard of carry for every 10-degree change in temperature. Additionally, it should be noted that the cold weather can also impact how far the ball goes because of how your body has reacted to the cold, and how wearing more layers can limit movement throughout the swing. This can also impact distance. 

Should you use a different golf ball in winter?

That depends on personal preference. If you feel like you need a little more distance in the cold weather due to the softer ground, then perhaps look for a slightly firmer, lower spinning ball to help you carry the ball further. 

How do I know what golf ball is best for me?

That is about trial and error. Testing a range of golf balls out on the course that are attributable to your skills as a golfer is the only way you will figure out which ball is best for you. Perhaps if you're a high-handicapper or a beginner then a game improvement ball may be best. But if you're looking to break into single figures then a performance golf ball may be the right option for you.

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Sam Tremlett
E-commerce Editor

A golfer for most of his life, Sam is a Senior Staff Writer for Golf Monthly. 

Working with golf gear and equipment over the last six years, Sam has quickly built outstanding knowledge and expertise on golf products ranging from drivers, to balls, to shoes. 

He combines this knowledge with a passion for helping golfers get the best gear for them, and as such Sam manages a team of writers that look to deliver the most accurate and informative reviews and buying advice. This is so the reader can find exactly what they are looking for.


Sam now spends most of his time testing and looking after golf gear content for the website, whilst he is also responsible for all content related to golf apparel. 

He also oversees all Tour player content as well so if you need to know what clubs Tiger or Rory has in play, Sam is the person to ask. 

Unfortunately, Sam is not a member of any club at the moment but regularly gets out on the golf course to keep up the facade of having a handicap of five. 


Sam's What's In The Bag: 

Driver: Titleist TS3 (9 degrees) 

Fairway Wood: Callaway Paradym (15 degrees), Nike Covert Tour 2.0 (19 degrees) 

Irons (4-PW): Titleist AP2 

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM7 54˚, 58˚ 

Putter: Scotty Cameron Phantom X 5.5 

Ball: Srixon Z-Star Diamond

Shoes: G/FORE Gallivanter/Nike Air Zoom Infinity NEXT%/Cuater The Ringer