Low Compression Golf Balls

With much talk in golf circles about low-compression golf balls for seniors, many stores have started stocking their shelves with them. Some sporting goods stores have sections dedicated to these soft golf balls because they have multiple benefits.

How Does a Low-Compression Golf Ball Work?

For starters, a low-compression golf ball absorbs better as it provides for increased deformation on impact. The energy on impact is deflected toward squeezing the ball’s core, significantly reducing the ball's spin. With a reduced spin, the ball travels straight and covers a longer distance.

With a high-compression golf ball, precisely the opposite occurs, and the spin is increased, which may be suitable for shorter shots. However, as seniors need to spend less energy to send balls for longer distances, a low-compression golf ball is more appropriate.

Slow Swing Speeds

Seniors tend to use less energy, and their swing speeds are much slower. In such a scenario, a low-compression ball travels further, as the ball enhances the spring-like effect that propels it for greater distances. On the other hand, younger, seasoned golfers have faster swing speeds and have to necessarily use a high-compression golf ball lest they overshoot the target many times.

Why Low Compression Balls for Seniors?

Playing a low-compression ball suits seniors better as it gives a much better feel. These balls are designed to deform more on impact, thus creating a favorable spin. That's why a low-compression ball is good with short irons. The golf ball tends to hang on to the clubface a wee bit longer (fractional), giving a better feel than a high-compression ball would.

Moreover, seniors playing with slow swing speeds stand to benefit more from low-compression golf balls. To compress a high-compression ball, you need to use a faster clubhead. Hence, low-compression golf balls for seniors are a better option as they can travel longer distances and offer a better feel.

Go for a Golf Ball with a Compression Rating of 29

Seniors should go for a low-compression golf ball with a 29 rating. According to the Golf Info Guide, you should select a low-compression golf ball if your swing is lower than 85 mph. The ball with a 29 rating is officially the lowest compression golf ball and suits people with prolonged swings the best.

Such low-compression golf balls are made super soft to enhance the spring effect the moment the ball is struck. Seniors who choose a low-compression golf ball will realize that it has less spin, extra yardage, and generally a great feel.

Such low-compression balls are available in vivid colors, including blue and pink, and some have a shiny matte finish, adding to their luster. 
  • What seniors should look for in a low-compression golf ball:
  • A durable ball that comes on a tight budget
  • A golf ball with the lowest compression in the market
  • Golf balls that suit slow swing speeds, especially for beginners
  • A golf ball that travels a great distance off the tee

Summing it Up

With many seniors taking to golf, companies are developing low-compression, soft golf balls with low spin for shorter distances. Choosing from the range of colors and the lowest compression is best left to individual preferences.