How Does Ball Choice Influence a Golf Pros’ Game? 

The pursuit of excellence is an ongoing journey in the world of professional golf. Even the smallest advantage can make a significant difference. Among the numerous decisions that PGA Tour pros must make, one vital aspect often flies under the radar. This aspect is their choice of the golf ball. 

Swing Dynamics

Sponsorship

Each player has unique swing dynamics. Their swing speed, angle of attack, launch angle, etc. are different. That calls for a ball that complements their individual style. PGA Tour pros often go through fittings to match the ball with their swing characteristics, maximizing their potential on the course. Golfers even give their feedback to manufacturers to make the golf suitable for their game. 

Professional golfers often have sponsorship deals with golf ball manufacturers. While player preferences are paramount, sponsorship agreements can also influence their choices. Golf ball manufacturers collaborate with pros, using their feedback to develop specialized balls that meet their precise requirements. 

Ball compression technique

While the choice of compression can vary from player to player, PGA Tour pros typically opt-in for mid-to-high compression golf balls. This choice allows professionals to optimize their performance on the course and capitalize on their exceptional swing speeds. It is because mid-to-high compression golf balls are designed to be firmer and require faster swing speeds to fully compress.  

Mid-to-high compressed golf balls provide more distance for players with higher swing speeds. Moreover, these golf balls allow pros to control the ball’s trajectory and shape shots precisely. This eventually helps them to navigate challenging course layouts and gives a significant advantage to professionals during tournament play. 

Ball Multi-layer construction

Control with urethane-covered balls 

PGA Tour pros prefer golf balls with multi-layer construction. These balls typically have a 3-piece or 4-piece construction, and occasionally, a 5-piece construction. For example, Pro V1, the most used golf ball on PGA, has 3-piece construction. Pro V1x has 4 layers. At the same time, TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x balls, which have 5 layers, are also used by PGA pros. 

Tour pros use multi-layer golf balls because of the versatility. The layers in these balls provide increased spin control, especially on approach shots. This very ability helps in hitting more accurate shots. It also aids in stopping the balls easily around the green. That makes it the preferred choice for PGA Tour pros seeking to excel at the highest level of professional golf. 

PGA Tour pros prioritize control over their shots, especially when attempting short-game shots. Urethane-covered golf balls excel in this aspect by promoting higher spin rates, allowing golfers to impart greater backspin on the ball. This increased spin helps the ball stop quickly on the greens, enabling precise shot-making and better control over the ball’s trajectory. 

The soft feel of urethane-covered golf balls is also highly appreciated. When struck, these balls provide responsive feedback to the players. It allows them to gauge the quality of their shots accurately. This enhanced feel contributes to improved shot consistency and helps pros fine-tune their performance during practice and competition. 

Experiment

Feel

Pain

When playing the big course try out different types of golf balls and discover what feels good for you right of the club.  

Make sure you a consistent swing. If your swing is not consistent you will have difficulty noticing the difference.  

The average price for a Titleist Pro V1 is between 4 to 5 dollars per ball. If you lose 5 balls per 18 holes or more than your round turns into a costly one.