Are My Balls Too Expensive?

Frank,

I enjoy you column each week and the information it provides.

I am a 6 handicapper who has played Pro V1s (not Xs) regularly over the last three seasons.  I carry my driver 235-240 and 8 iron flies 150. When I'm playing well I shoot 75-80.

Here is my question:  With the cost of premium golf balls on the rise $42-46 a dozen plus NYS tax here, would I notice anything if I played a $25-30 a dozen ball?  I am tempted to try Titleist NXT Tour, Bridgestone E5+, Callaway HX Hot, or Taylor Made TP Burner, but am worried I might lose something - distance, full iron spin, feel and spin around the greens. Or should I stick to tour level ball like the Pro V1 based on my handicap, distances and scores?

Your thoughts would be appreciated.

Waiting for your answer in snowy Buffalo, NY

John

John,
Thanks for your kind comments, I am pleased to help.

With your handicap of 6 and the carry distance of 235 -240 yards on your drives, you should have a driver head speed of approximately 98 mph.  Also, if you shoot between 75 and 80 you are in the top 10% skill level of all male golfers, which is very good. Obviously you enjoy the game and the ball you are using now, and for good reason; it is a premium ball and has good all-round performance properties which you are able to recognize and appreciate.  There is no harm in testing a sleeve of NXT Tour balls or some of the others you have mentioned just to assure yourself that you can tell the difference.

You may not be a tour quality golfer (yet) but will frequently hit a shot, which a tour player would enjoy. For this reason, you want a ball which will compliment your ability and not one which will compromise a well executed shot.  Some of the balls you mention are multi-layered and very good substitutes for most golfers, and in fact may be better for the slower swing speeds and less skill around the green.

In your case, you have made the transition and can take advantage of the subtleties that a premium ball offers.

To cope with the dent in your wallet keep the ball in the fairway more often and postpone buying a new driver especially if the one you have feels good; is behaving itself; and is not more than three years old. If your driver is starting to age then think about getting a new one but last year's model will be as technically advanced – or very close – to this year’s version but at half the price and hit the ball as far and straight as you want. This will leave you with enough money to get those premium balls and you may even have enough left over for the occasional beer without flinching.

Stay warm and think GOLF - it will help melt the snow in Buffalo.
Frank