Should You Play A Yellow Golf Ball?

We discuss if switching to a yellow golf ball could help your game

Should You Play A Yellow Golf Ball
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)

Should You Play A Yellow Golf Ball?

Historically, yellow alternatives were only available in lower price point, distance-orientated options but now, many of the top ball brands offer yellow, as well as other matte color options, in their premium, tour performance category. 

Golf Monthly editor Mike Harris went to West Hill Golf Club armed with four yellow ball models - the Titleist Pro V1, Callaway Chrome Soft, TaylorMade Project (a) and the Srixon Z-Star, to test them out on the course and see if he could notice any difference in feel, flight and overall performance versus the white versions.

yellow and white golf ball teed up

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)

Performance

Off the tee it was noticeable that the best yellow golf balls were easier to track through the air than the white. It stayed visible for longer through the sky and this was even more the case in overcast conditions. We think you'll be surprised at how much you like looking down at a yellow ball at address and for some players, it might even stand out a little more - giving the impression that it's larger and easier to hit. Golf is a difficult enough game as it is so anything that makes it seem easier is certainly worth trying at least once.

It wasn't too shiny, nor did we find it off-putting. Older golfers whose sight has deteriorated somewhat down the years may see a bigger benefit in switching to yellow and into the sun, they almost turn black which again, makes it easier to track. There's still a stigma around yellow balls and that they're not for the serious golfer or lower handicappers but with top brands introducing yellow and more color options, perhaps perceptions will start to change. Some are even played out on tour - in fact, Freddie Couples recently shot one of his best ever rounds using a yellow golf ball.

Joel Tadman
Technical Editor

Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 12 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all product content here at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader find exactly what they are looking for. So whether it's the latest driver, irons, putter or laser rangefinder, Joel has his finger on the pulse keeping up to date with the latest releases in golf. He is also responsible for all content on irons and golf tech, including distance measuring devices and launch monitors.


One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 3.2.


Joel's current What's In The Bag? 

Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9° 

Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15° 

Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18° 

Irons: Ping i230 4-UW

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 54°. Titleist Vokey SM9 60° lob wedge, K Grind

Putter: Evnroll ER2V 

Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x