Is Your Golf Ball Right For You?

The majority of golfers today are probably playing golf with a golf ball that's not right for them. Meaning, the golf ball they're using is actually hurting their golf game. If they were playing with the correct golf ball they'd probably be hitting their drives 5 to 10 yards longer or more.

There are 2 major factors that play into what golf ball you should be using.

1. How much ball speed do you generate when hitting a golf ball?
2. What kind of launch angle do you create when hitting a golf ball?

The general rule is if you have a low golf ball speed then you'll want a higher launch angle, which equates to needing a golf ball that will generate a faster spin rate. You need more spin so the ball climbs higher and stays in the air longer.

If you have a high golf ball speed then you'll want a lower launch angle, which equates to needing a golf ball that will generate a slower spin rate. With a faster ball speed you want the ball to bore through the air and not spin as much. Too much spin on high golf ball speed will create a ballooning affect and loose distance.

Spin Rate is measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), spin rate determines how far and how straight you can hit a golf ball. Generally, players with higher ball speed will want to keep their spin down, while slower ball speeds will dictate that you increase spin to maximize trajectory and distance.

Here is a general guide:

If you have a 120 mph golf ball speed then you want a launch angle of 15 to 17 degrees, which would require an optimum spin rate 3750 and 3900.

If you have a 140 mph golf ball speed then you want a launch angle of 13 to 15 degrees, which would require an optimum spin rate 3300 and 2550.

If you have a 140 mph golf ball speed then you want a launch angle of 11 to 12 degrees, which would require an optimum spin rate 2500 and 2700.

Another determining factor is if you have the right shaft stiffness in your golf clubs. This too will affect how much ball speed you can generate. If the golf shaft you're using is too stiff then you're probably loosing distance because you're not generating the golf ball speed that you could be with a less stiff shaft.

Go to a golf club fitter equipped with a launch monitor to determine the right golf ball for you. You may find out that those $45 Pro V1's you've been playing with are hurting your golf game and the $20 Nike golf balls will get you 5 to 10 yards more on your drives.

Tags: golf, golf tips, golf equipment