Stryde Golf

Distance, Spin, and Price Compared

If you’re a high-handicap golfer, you’re probably tired of being told your gear doesn’t matter yet. That your swing is the problem, not your equipment. While there’s some truth to that, the right golf ball can absolutely help you play better right now—without changing your grip, swing, or pre-shot routine.

I’ve played hundreds of rounds with double-digit handicaps, from weekend warriors to late-night range junkies. I also know firsthand that using the wrong golf ball can make things harder than they need to be. Too much spin, not enough carry, and no feel around the green? That’s a rough combo when you’re already fighting a slice and just trying to keep the ball in play.

So I went deep on testing, reviews, and real-world feedback. Below are the best golf balls for high handicappers in 2025—whether you want more distance, better control, or just something affordable that doesn’t feel like a rock.

What Makes a Golf Ball Good for High Handicappers?

Before we jump into recommendations, here’s what actually matters if you’re still learning or breaking 100:

• Low Driver Spin: This helps keep your tee shots straighter. Less sidespin = fewer wild slices.
• High Launch: A softer core and lower compression help get the ball in the air faster.
• Feel and Forgiveness: You want decent feedback without punishing mishits too hard.
• Price: You’re probably going to lose a few. You shouldn’t feel bad about it.

Top Picks for High Handicappers in 2025

1. Callaway Supersoft

This one is still the king for high handicappers. The Callaway Supersoft has low compression, a very soft feel, and great distance off the tee. It’s not going to check up like a Pro V1, but it’s incredibly easy to launch and surprisingly straight.

If you’re hitting drives into neighboring fairways, this ball is your friend. It also costs around $25 a dozen, which helps take the sting out of your next water ball.

Best for: Players who want straighter drives and soft feel
Compression: 38
Price: $24–28/dozen

2. Srixon Soft Feel

This is the underdog pick that punches above its weight. The Srixon Soft Feel is durable, easy to control, and sneaky good on approach shots. It has a slightly firmer feel than the Supersoft, which some players prefer when putting.

The best part? It often goes on sale, and you can usually pick it up for under $22 a dozen. If you’re looking for value without sacrificing performance, this is your move.

Best for: Players looking for distance and budget value
Compression: 60
Price: $20–25/dozen

3. Titleist Tour Soft

This one is for the high-handicapper who wants a Titleist without paying Pro V1 prices. The Tour Soft has great feel and better short game control than most balls in this category. It spins more on wedges than the Supersoft or Soft Feel, which can help your greenside game if you’re working on your touch.

It is a little more expensive, but if you’re trending toward mid-handicap and want something more premium, it’s a solid step-up ball.

Best for: Players working on short game control
Compression: Mid (around 65)
Price: $35–40/dozen

4. Bridgestone e6

The Bridgestone e6 is designed to reduce sidespin and help golfers hit straighter. It has a low-compression core and offers a super soft feel. If you struggle with slices or hooks off the tee, this ball is engineered specifically to help straighten things out.

It’s also one of the most affordable name-brand balls you’ll find, often available in bulk packs.

Best for: Slice-prone drivers
Compression: 44
Price: $22–26/dozen

5. Vice Drive

Vice is gaining traction as a direct-to-consumer brand, and the Vice Drive is their entry-level model. It’s firm, long off the tee, and affordable. You won’t get a ton of spin, but you will get durability and excellent distance.

It’s not as soft-feeling as others on this list, but if your priority is getting the ball down the fairway without breaking the bank, this is a great option.

Best for: Distance and durability
Compression: 50
Price: $18–22/dozen

Final Thoughts: Don’t Overthink It

At the end of the day, the best golf ball for your game is one that feels good, flies straight, and doesn’t make you wince every time you dunk one in a pond. You don’t need a $50 box of tour-level balls to play better. For most high handicappers, a low-compression, two-piece ball with a soft cover will be more than enough to make the game a little easier.

Try a few of the balls above, see what feels right, and commit to using the same one for a few rounds. Consistency matters more than perfection.