What Golf Balls Are PGA & LIV Tour Pros Using in 2024?
Ever wondered why pro golfers seem to effortlessly smash drives and stick approach shots close to the pin?
While raw talent and countless hours of practice play a huge role, their equipment choices are also a major performance factor.
One often-overlooked factor by most golfers?
The golf ball.
Believe it or not, the type of golf ball you use can significantly impact your performance on the course.
That’s why knowing what golf balls the pros use can be a game-changer for your own game.
It gives you valuable insights into the technology and performance characteristics that top players prioritize.
In this guide, we’ll unveil the most popular golf balls used by professional golfers on tour in 2024.
We’ll delve into the key features and benefits of each ball, highlight which pros prefer them, and explain why they’ve become top choices in the competitive world of pro golf.
Whether you’re a golf lifer looking to shave strokes off your handicap or a newbie looking to improve your skills, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to choose the right golf ball for your game.
So, let’s launch this post off the tee and get into it!
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The Most Popular Golf Balls On Tour (2024)
Here are the most popular golf balls used by professional golfers this year.
#1 – Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x
Titleist Pro V1 2024 Golf Balls
The Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x are the undisputed kings of the golf course, reigning as the most popular golf balls on professional tours worldwide. Their reputation is built upon a winning combination of distance, spin, control, and feel – the holy grail of golf ball performance.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Distance: The Pro V1 and Pro V1x utilize advanced core technology and aerodynamic designs to deliver exceptional distance off the tee and with long irons.
- Spin: These balls offer optimal spin rates for both long and short game shots. The Pro V1x provides slightly more spin for players with higher swing speeds, while the Pro V1 is preferred by those who prioritize a softer feel.
- Control: The precision-engineered construction of both models provides unparalleled control around the greens and on approach shots.
- Feel: Titleist’s proprietary cast urethane elastomer cover delivers a soft yet responsive feel, giving players the confidence to execute every shot.
Pro Golfers That Play Titleist Golf Balls:
- Jordan Spieth
- Justin Thomas
- Patrick Cantlay
- Tony Finau
- Cameron Smith
- Brooks Koepka
- Patrick Reed
- Adam Scott
- Max Homa
- Wyndham Clark
- Matt Fitzpatrick
Why It’s The Top Choice on Tour:
The Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x have earned their reputation as the most trusted golf balls on tour due to their consistent performance in all aspects of the game. Their ability to deliver exceptional distance, optimal spin, precise control, and a soft feel makes them the preferred choice for players who demand the best. The confidence these balls instill in players is evident in their widespread use across professional tours, from the PGA Tour to the LPGA Tour and beyond.
#2 – Callaway Chrome Soft and Chrome Soft X
Callaway Chrome Soft 2024 Golf Balls
Callaway Chrome Soft and Chrome Soft X have rapidly become favorites on professional tours, captivating players with their exceptionally soft feel, impressive distance, and remarkable forgiveness.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Soft Feel: Both the Chrome Soft and Chrome Soft X boast an ultra-soft feel thanks to Callaway’s innovative SoftFast Core technology. This allows players to experience unparalleled comfort and responsiveness on every shot.
- Distance: The Graphene-infused Dual SoftFast Core maximizes energy transfer, resulting in impressive ball speeds and distance off the tee.
- Forgiveness: The high-launch, low-spin characteristics of these balls make them incredibly forgiving, especially on mishits. This translates to straighter shots and more fairways hit, a crucial advantage for players at all levels.
Pro Golfers That Play Callaway Golf Balls:
- Jon Rahm
- Xander Schauffele
- Sam Burns
- Phil Mickelson
- Dustin Johnson
Why It’s a Growing Favorite on Tour:
The Callaway Chrome Soft and Chrome Soft X have steadily gained popularity on tour due to their unique blend of soft feel, distance, and forgiveness. Many players are drawn to the luxurious feel these balls offer, while still enjoying the performance benefits that are essential for competitive golf. As more professionals experience the advantages of these balls, their presence on tour is only expected to grow. The Chrome Soft X, in particular, has become a popular choice for players with higher swing speeds who seek a slightly firmer feel and more workability. Callaway’s commitment to innovation and technology continues to push the boundaries of golf ball performance, making the Chrome Soft and Chrome Soft X a force to be reckoned with on the professional stage.
#3 – TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x
TaylorMade TP5x 2024 Golf Balls
TaylorMade’s TP5 and TP5x golf balls have earned their place among the elite choices for professional golfers, thanks to their innovative 5-layer construction, exceptional speed, and optimized spin characteristics.
Key Features and Benefits:
- 5-Layer Construction: The unique 5-layer design of the TP5 and TP5x is engineered to maximize performance across all aspects of the game. Each layer plays a specific role in optimizing distance, spin, and feel.
- Speed: The Speed-Layer System features a high-flex material (HFM) that generates explosive ball speeds off the tee, resulting in impressive distance gains.
- Spin: The TP5 and TP5x deliver optimized spin rates for different shot types. The TP5x produces a slightly higher launch and lower spin for maximum distance, while the TP5 offers a softer feel and increased spin for enhanced control on approach shots and around the greens.
Pro Golfers That Play Taylormade Golf Balls:
- Rory McIlroy
- Scottie Scheffler
- Collin Morikawa
- Rickie Fowler
- Tommy Fleetwood
- Justin Rose
- Sergio Garcia
Why It’s a Top Contender for Pros:
The TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x have quickly become favorites among professional golfers due to their ability to deliver a complete performance package. The 5-layer construction provides a unique balance of distance, spin, and feel that caters to a wide range of playing styles. The exceptional speed off the tee allows players to maximize distance, while the optimized spin rates provide the control and precision needed to attack pins and navigate challenging courses.
Also, TaylorMade’s commitment to innovation and continuous improvement ensures that the TP5 and TP5x remain at the forefront of golf ball technology. This dedication to excellence, combined with the balls’ proven performance on tour, solidifies their position as a top contender for professionals seeking the ultimate in golf ball performance.
#4 – Bridgestone Tour B X and XS
Bridgestone Tour B XS 2024 Golf Balls
Bridgestone Tour B X and XS golf balls are making a significant impact on professional tours, offering a compelling combination of distance, accuracy, and greenside control.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Distance: The Tour B X and XS feature Bridgestone’s proprietary REACTIV iQ cover technology, which optimizes energy transfer and reduces spin on long-distance shots. This results in impressive ball speeds and remarkable distance gains off the tee.
- Accuracy: The aerodynamic dimple pattern enhances ball flight stability, resulting in straighter and more accurate shots. This precision is particularly valuable in windy conditions, where control is paramount.
- Greenside Control: The REACTIV iQ cover also provides exceptional spin and control around the greens. This allows players to confidently execute delicate chips, pitches, and bunker shots with the precision required to save strokes.
Pro Golfers That Play Bridgestone Golf Balls:
- Tiger Woods
- Bryson DeChambeau
- Jason Day
- Fred Couples
- Matt Kuchar
Why It’s Gaining Traction on Tour:
Bridgestone Tour B X and XS golf balls are gaining traction on tour due to their proven performance in crucial areas of the game. Their ability to deliver impressive distance, unwavering accuracy, and exceptional greenside control makes them a compelling choice for players who demand the best. The endorsement of iconic figures like Tiger Woods further solidifies their credibility and appeal.
Additionally, Bridgestone’s commitment to innovation and collaboration with professional golfers ensures that the Tour B X and XS continue to evolve and meet the ever-changing demands of the game. As more players experience the benefits of these cutting-edge golf balls, their popularity on tour is only expected to rise.
#5 – Srixon Z-Star Diamond
Srixon Z-Star Diamond 2024 Golf Balls
While not as popular as some other tour balls, the Srixon Z-Star Diamond has garnered a loyal following among professional golfers who crave exceptional spin and greenside control.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Soft Feel: The Z-Star Diamond features a soft urethane cover that provides a luxurious feel on all shots, particularly around the greens. This allows players to better gauge their distance and control their spin with finesse.
- High Spin: The Spin Skin with SeRM coating technology enhances friction between the clubface and the ball, resulting in increased spin rates. This is especially noticeable on approach shots, where players can generate stopping power and hold greens more effectively.
- Greenside Control: The combination of soft feel and high spin makes the Z-Star Diamond a masterclass in greenside control. Players can manipulate the ball’s trajectory and spin to execute delicate chips, pitches, and bunker shots with precision.
Pro Golfers That Play Srixon Golf Balls:
- Hideki Matsuyama
- Shane Lowry
- Keegan Bradley
Why It’s a Niche Favorite for Certain Pros:
The Srixon Z-Star Diamond appeals to a specific type of player – those who prioritize feel, spin, and control over sheer distance. It’s a ball that rewards players with technical skill and creativity, allowing them to shape shots and manipulate spin to their advantage.
While it may not be the longest ball on the market, its exceptional greenside performance and ability to hold greens make it a valuable asset for players who rely on precision and finesse to navigate challenging courses. The Z-Star Diamond’s cult following among certain pros is a testament to its unique appeal and ability to elevate a player’s game in specific areas.
Other Notable Golf Balls Used by Pros
While the most popular golf ball on tour tends to dominate the spotlight, several other notable options are gaining traction among professional golfers.
These balls offer unique features and benefits that cater to specific playing styles and preferences.
Wilson Staff Model
Wilson Staff Model 2024 Golf Balls
A balanced performance profile with a focus on distance, feel, and control. The ball’s low-compression core and responsive cover provide a soft feel while maintaining excellent ball speeds.
OnCore Vero X1
OnCore Vero X1 2024 Golf Balls
OnCore’s Vero X1 is a relative newcomer to the professional golf scene, but it has quickly garnered attention for its innovative design and performance characteristics. The ball features a unique perimeter weighting system that promotes stability and reduces side spin, resulting in straighter shots and improved accuracy.
Other Emerging Brands Gaining Traction:
While Titleist, Callaway, TaylorMade, and Bridgestone remain dominant in the golf ball market, several other brands are making waves on tour. Some notable examples include:
Vice Golf
Known for its direct-to-consumer model and high-performance balls at affordable prices.
Vice Tour 2024 Golf Balls
Vice Tour golf balls are a compelling option for budget-conscious golfers seeking maximum distance and durability. Their innovative design prioritizes long, stable drives and value for money, without compromising on performance or durability.
PXG
A luxury brand offering premium golf equipment, including high-tech golf balls.
PXG Xtreme 2024 Golf Balls
PXG Xtreme golf balls offer a high-performance package for golfers seeking distance, control, and feel. Featuring a unique 338-dimple design, soft urethane cover, and high C.O.R. core, these balls are engineered for maximum distance, spin, and control on all shots while providing a comfortable feel.
Volvik
A South Korean brand known for its colorful golf balls and innovative technology.
Volvik 2024 Golf Balls
Volvik golf balls are known for their vibrant colors and unique matte finish, providing golfers with a fun and stylish alternative on the course. While they may not be as popular on professional tours as some other brands, Volvik offers a variety of models with distinct performance characteristics, catering to different playing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
The golf balls used by professional golfers are as diverse as their playing styles. From the iconic Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x to the innovative Callaway Chrome Soft and Chrome Soft X, and from the five-layer powerhouses of the TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x to the precision-engineered Bridgestone Tour B X and XS, each ball offers a unique combination of performance characteristics to suit different players’ needs.
While the pros often have endorsement deals that influence their choices, it’s important to remember that the best golf ball for you is the one that complements your individual swing, skill level, and preferences.
And don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and models to discover what works best for your game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, many professional golfers have endorsement deals with golf ball manufacturers. These deals often involve financial compensation, equipment, and other benefits in exchange for the player using and promoting the brand’s products. However, some players choose to remain “free agents” and are not obligated to use a specific brand.
While some pros stick with the same golf ball for years, others may switch based on performance, feel, course conditions, or changes in their swing. Some players even experiment with different balls during practice rounds to find the best fit for a particular tournament.
Yes, in most cases, the golf balls used by professionals are the same models available to the public. However, some manufacturers may offer special “tour-only” versions of their balls with slight variations in construction or performance characteristics.
The golf ball a pro uses can make a significant difference in their performance. Factors like spin rate, launch angle, and feel can affect a player’s ability to control their shots and score well. While the average golfer may not notice as drastic a difference, choosing the right ball for your swing and skill level can still lead to noticeable improvements in your game.
While most tour-level golf balls are relatively similar in price (around $45-$55 per dozen), some limited edition or custom-designed balls can be more expensive. For example, the Titleist Pro V1 Left Dash, a lower spinning version of the Pro V1, is only available to tour players and can be quite pricey on the secondary market. However, the most expensive golf balls in the world are often novelty items or limited editions, such as Dixon Fire or Saintnine Extreme Soft Gold, which can cost up to $75 per dozen.
Generally, pros stick to one type of ball throughout a round for consistency. However, some players may carry multiple models to adjust to specific conditions or shot types. For example, a player might switch to a higher-spinning ball for approach shots on a windy day or a lower-spinning ball for longer tee shots.
The best way to find the right golf ball is through experimentation. Consider your swing speed, skill level, and preferences for feel and spin. Many golf shops and driving ranges offer demo days where you can test different balls. You can also consult with a club fitter or teaching professional for personalized recommendations.
While white is the most common color for golf balls, some pros may use colored balls for visibility purposes, particularly in specific conditions like snow or low-light. However, most professional tournaments require players to use white balls.
Used golf balls from professional tournaments are often collected and resold by companies specializing in recycled golf balls. These balls are usually cleaned and inspected for quality before being sold at a discounted price. Some tournaments also donate used balls to charity or local golf courses.
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