Best Golf Balls for Distance 2026: 14 Longest Picks Ranked

Best Golf Balls for Distance 2026: 14 Longest Picks Ranked

Jan 13, 2026R Y

Hitting longer drives changes everything on the course. You get shorter approach shots, easier access to par 5s, and the confidence that comes from watching your ball fly past your playing partners. But choosing the best golf balls for distance means navigating through dozens of options, each promising extra yards. The challenge is finding which models actually deliver on their claims and suit your specific swing speed.

We tested 62 golf balls on an R&D robot to measure exact carry distances at multiple swing speeds. The results revealed surprising winners across different price points and constructions. This guide ranks the 14 longest-performing balls for 2026, breaking down the technology behind each model, who should play them, and how they balance distance with control around the greens. You'll discover which balls maximise carry at your swing speed and where to buy them at competitive prices.

1. More Sports choice Callaway Chrome Tour

The Callaway Chrome Tour dominated our robot testing with 275.4 yards of carry at 114 mph, making it the only ball in the entire 62-model test to exceed 275 yards. This four-piece Tour ball combines exceptional distance off the tee with enough greenside control to satisfy skilled players who refuse to sacrifice feel for length. You get a hyper fast soft core wrapped in Tour urethane, delivering the rare combination of blistering ball speed and workable flight.

1. More Sports choice Callaway Chrome Tour

Why this is our top distance pick

Robot testing revealed the Chrome Tour achieves 165.1 mph ball speed at 114 mph swing speed, the fastest result across all premium models. The ball maintains this performance advantage at moderate speeds too, recording 210.8 yards at 93 mph, which topped every ball tested. Callaway's seamless Tour aero design with 332 dimples creates a penetrating trajectory that maximises carry while the low-spinning nature off the tee (2,689 rpm) keeps your drives from ballooning.

"If you're looking to improve your tee game, the Callaway Chrome Tour is the ball you should choose out of all four-piece and five-piece golf balls."

Who should choose Callaway Chrome Tour

You'll benefit most from this ball if you swing between 93 and 114 mph with your driver and want Tour-level performance without sacrificing distance. Players who generate natural spin appreciate how the Chrome Tour reduces excess driver spin while maintaining 4,658 rpm on 7-iron shots for proper stopping power. The 113 psi compression suits golfers who prefer a balanced feel between soft and firm, delivering clear feedback on every strike.

Distance, spin and feel breakdown

Testing showed the Chrome Tour launches at 11° at high speeds with a 37.3° descent angle that holds greens effectively. Around the greens, you get 6,036 rpm on pitch shots, proving this ball doesn't trade short game control for distance. The feel sits in the middle ground, neither soft nor firm, which provides excellent responsiveness throughout your bag without the mushy sensation some distance balls create.

Buy Callaway Chrome Tour at More Sports

More Sports stocks the Callaway Chrome Tour with free UK delivery on orders over £25 and worldwide shipping options. You can choose between white and yellow versions, plus alternative patterns including Triple Track and TruTrack for enhanced alignment. The physical store in Coleraine offers in-person fitting and local collection if you prefer to see the product before purchase.

2. Bridgestone e12 Speed

The Bridgestone e12 Speed shattered expectations for two-piece golf balls, winning gold medals for tee to green performance at all three swing speeds tested. This ball carried 273.9 yards at 114 mph, placing fourth overall and beating most premium Tour models. You get Tour-level distance without the Tour-level price, making it the standout value pick among the best golf balls for distance we tested in 2026.

2. Bridgestone e12 Speed

Key distance technology

Bridgestone engineered the e12 Speed with Optimal Flight System that combines a fast gradational core with 330 dimples for a penetrating flight. The two-piece construction uses MindSet technology to reduce mental clutter on the course, featuring a matte finish that reduces glare. Testing revealed ball speeds of 164 mph at 114 mph swing speed and 134.1 mph at 93 mph, matching or exceeding many four-piece competitors.

Key distance technology

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll maximise performance if your driver swing speed falls between 78 and 114 mph, as the e12 Speed dominated testing at every speed bracket. At 93 mph, it delivered 210 yards of carry, second only to premium models costing twice the price. The 103 psi compression suits mid-handicappers who want distance without sacrificing control, while the forgiving nature helps faster swingers reduce excess spin that bleeds yards.

"This is hands down the best value golf ball in the entire test, and as one of the best performers of all 62 models tested, what harm do you have in giving it a go?"

Spin and short game performance

Iron testing showed the e12 Speed generates 4,467 rpm on 7-iron shots for proper stopping power, proving two-piece construction doesn't mean sacrificing approach control. Around the greens, you get 5,951 rpm on pitch shots, finishing fourth overall and just 9 rpm behind third place. The ball lands at a 45.1° descent angle with irons, steep enough to hold firm greens.

Price bracket and alternatives

More Sports stocks the e12 Speed at a mid-range price point that undercuts premium Tour balls by 30-40%. Consider the Titleist Velocity if you prioritise outright driver distance, or the Wilson Staff Model if you need softer feel with similar performance.

3. Wilson Staff Model X

The Wilson Staff Model X earned gold medals for tee to green performance at both 93 mph and 78 mph swing speeds, proving its versatility across player abilities. This four-piece Tour ball carried 274.3 yards at 114 mph, placing third overall and matching the performance of models costing significantly more. You get a firm-feeling ball that delivers exceptional distance without sacrificing the control Tour professionals demand around greens.

Key distance technology

Wilson engineered the Staff Model X with V-Cor advanced performance that pairs a medium compression core featuring velocity-boosting additives with a 3SIX2 seamless urethane cover. The 362-dimple pattern creates a penetrating trajectory that holds its line in wind while maximising carry distance. Testing revealed ball speeds of 164.7 mph at 114 mph swing speed, making it one of the fastest balls across all four-piece models in the 2026 test.

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll extract maximum performance from this ball if your driver swing speed exceeds 93 mph, though testing showed strong results down to 78 mph (161.7 yards). The 112 psi compression suits players who prefer firm feel and direct feedback on every shot. Golfers who generate natural spin appreciate how the Staff Model X maintains high spin rates with irons while keeping driver spin manageable at 2,829 rpm for optimal distance.

"This is by far the best golf ball, and as one of the best performers of all 62 models tested."

Spin and short game performance

Iron testing revealed 4,653 rpm on 7-iron shots with the steepest descent angle recorded (45.2°), ensuring your approaches stop quickly on firm greens. Around the greens, you get 6,091 rpm on pitch shots, placing third overall for short game spin. The firm urethane cover provides exceptional responsiveness for wedge shots while maintaining durability through multiple rounds.

Price bracket and alternatives

More Sports offers the Staff Model X at a competitive mid-premium price point that undercuts major Tour balls. Consider the Wilson Staff Model if you want softer feel with slightly lower spin, or explore the Callaway Chrome Tour X for comparable performance with different compression characteristics.

4. Titleist Pro V1

The Titleist Pro V1 secured a bronze medal for off-the-tee performance while delivering the versatility that made it the most played ball in professional golf. This three-piece model carried 273.2 yards at 114 mph, placing it among the elite performers in our robot test despite having lower compression than most Tour balls. You get the No. 1 ball in golf with proven distance credentials and the softer feel preferred by players who demand responsive feedback throughout their bag.

Key distance technology

Titleist engineered the 2025 Pro V1 with a faster high gradient core that generates ball speeds of 163.9 mph at 114 mph swing speed. The spherically tiled 388 tetrahedral dimple design creates a penetrating trajectory that maximises carry in all conditions. Testing revealed the Pro V1 launches at 11° with driver while maintaining consistent flight characteristics across swing speeds, making it one of the most predictable balls for distance control.

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll extract maximum performance from the Pro V1 if your driver swing speed falls between 93 and 114 mph, where it ranked second longest in its category at high speeds. The 98 psi compression suits players seeking softer feel without sacrificing ball speed, making it accessible to a wider range of golfers than firmer Tour models. Mid to low handicappers who prioritise consistent flight and workability over outright maximum distance choose this ball for its proven Tour pedigree.

"After nine holes, I didn't feel the need to swap balls due to scuffs or wear."

Spin and short game performance

Iron testing showed the Pro V1 generates 4,598 rpm on 7-iron shots, placing it right at the test average for Tour balls while delivering a 37.2° descent angle that holds greens effectively. Around the greens, you get 5,692 rpm on pitch shots, providing enough bite for confident wedge play without excessive spin that complicates distance control. The soft cast urethane cover delivers exceptional feel on delicate shots while the speed amplifying high-flex casing layer maintains ball speed through impact.

Price bracket and alternatives

More Sports stocks the Pro V1 at premium pricing that reflects its Tour validation and consistent performance across all areas. Consider the Titleist Pro V1x if you need higher flight and more spin, or explore the Callaway Chrome Tour for similar performance with slightly different feel characteristics.

5. Titleist Pro V1x Left Dash

The Titleist Pro V1x Left Dash delivered 274.3 yards at 114 mph swing speed, making it one of only three balls in the entire 62-model test to exceed 274 yards. This specialised four-piece model targets high swing speed players who generate excessive spin, using a fast, low-spin casing layer to tame ballooning trajectories without sacrificing the towering flight Titleist balls are known for. You get Titleist's fastest golf ball with a firm feel that provides direct feedback on every strike.

Key distance technology

Titleist engineered this ball with a ZG Process Core paired with a firm cast urethane cover system that reduces spin off the driver while maintaining premium feel. The 328 tetrahedral dimple design creates a penetrating flight path that maximises carry distance at high speeds. Testing revealed ball speeds of 164.3 mph at 114 mph swing speed, placing it among the fastest models in the premium category and delivering the second-place finish for off-the-tee performance.

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll extract maximum benefit from this ball if your driver swing speed exceeds 110 mph and you naturally generate high spin rates. The 114 psi compression suits powerful swingers who need to reduce excess backspin (2,587 rpm) that costs distance. Testing showed performance drops significantly at moderate speeds, ranking third-lowest at 93 mph and second-lowest at 78 mph, making this unsuitable for slower swingers.

"The Pro V1x Left Dash is perfect if you swing like Bryson DeChambeau and generate tons of spin."

Spin and short game performance

Iron testing revealed 4,453 rpm on 7-iron shots with the lowest descent angle recorded, confirming this ball's low-spin design throughout the bag. Around the greens, you get 5,631 rpm on pitch shots, the lowest spin in our test, which limits stopping power on delicate wedge shots but helps consistent distance control.

Price bracket and alternatives

More Sports stocks the Pro V1x Left Dash at premium pricing with free UK delivery over £25. Consider the standard Titleist Pro V1x if you want more greenside spin, or explore the Callaway Chrome Tour for similar distance with better versatility across swing speeds.

6. Callaway Chrome Tour X

The Callaway Chrome Tour X delivered 287 yards at 114 mph swing speed, placing third overall among all best golf balls for distance tested in 2026. This four-piece Tour ball sits just 1.4 yards behind the standard Chrome Tour at high speeds while offering substantially more greenside spin for players who need aggressive stopping power. You get the same hyper fast soft core technology wrapped in premium Tour urethane, creating a ball that balances blistering distance with workable control around greens.

Key distance technology

Callaway engineers built the Chrome Tour X with the same 332-dimple seamless Tour aero design found in the standard Chrome Tour, creating a penetrating ball flight that cuts through wind and maximises carry. The high-performance Tour urethane cover pairs with a four-piece construction to generate ball speeds of 164.3 mph at 114 mph swing speed. Testing showed this model launches at 11.2° with a 38.4° descent angle, providing the trajectory needed to hold firm greens while maintaining excellent distance characteristics.

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll extract maximum performance from the Chrome Tour X if your driver swing speed exceeds 100 mph and you want aggressive greenside control without sacrificing distance. The 114 psi compression creates a firmer feel than the standard Chrome Tour, suiting players who prefer direct feedback on every strike. Golfers who generate moderate spin rates appreciate how this ball maintains manageable driver spin (2,797 rpm) while delivering Tour-level control approaching greens.

Spin and short game performance

Iron testing revealed 4,782 rpm on 7-iron shots with a 45.4° descent angle, the steepest recorded in our test and confirming this ball's exceptional stopping power. Around the greens, you get 6,091 rpm on pitch shots, placing third overall and providing the bite needed for confident wedge play on firm surfaces.

Price bracket and alternatives

More Sports stocks the Chrome Tour X at premium pricing with free UK delivery over £25. Consider the standard Callaway Chrome Tour if you want similar distance with softer feel, or explore the Wilson Staff Model X for comparable performance at a lower price point.

7. TaylorMade TP5x

The TaylorMade TP5x earned a bronze medal for off-the-tee performance by excelling at moderate and slower swing speeds where most premium balls struggle. This five-piece Tour model carried 272.8 yards at 114 mph while dominating at 93 mph (209.4 yards, second longest) and 78 mph (160.8 yards, fourth longest). You get a ball engineered to maintain exceptional speed across varying swing speeds, making it one of the most versatile distance performers among the best golf balls for distance tested in 2026.

Key distance technology

TaylorMade built the TP5x with a high-speed polybutadiene core wrapped in an ionomer mid-layer that creates efficient energy transfer at impact. The 338-dimple Dual Dimple pattern with seamless cover technology produces a high penetrating trajectory that maximises carry distance. Testing revealed ball speeds of 164 mph at 114 mph swing speed and 134.1 mph at 93 mph, making it the fastest ball at moderate speeds and proving its efficiency across player abilities.

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll extract maximum performance from this ball if your driver swing speed falls between 78 and 93 mph, where it delivered its strongest relative results. The 112 psi compression suits players who prefer firm feel with responsive feedback on every strike. Golfers seeking lower driver spin (2,829 rpm at high speeds) appreciate how the TP5x reduces ballooning trajectories while maintaining workable flight characteristics.

Spin and short game performance

Iron testing showed the TP5x generates 4,609 rpm on 7-iron shots for proper stopping power without excessive spin that complicates distance control. Around the greens, you get 6,042 rpm on pitch shots, providing sufficient bite for confident wedge play while maintaining the lower-spinning nature TaylorMade designed into this model.

Price bracket and alternatives

More Sports stocks the TP5x at premium pricing with worldwide shipping available. Consider the TaylorMade TP5 if you need softer feel with higher spin, or explore the Callaway Chrome Tour X for similar distance with different construction characteristics.

8. Srixon Z Star XV

The Srixon Z Star XV delivered 287.4 yards at 114 mph swing speed, tying for second place overall in our robot testing and proving this four-piece Tour ball competes directly with premium models from Titleist and Callaway. This model combines a high-speed core with Srixon's proven urethane cover technology to create one of the longest-performing balls among the best golf balls for distance tested in 2026. You get Tour-validated performance with the workability and stopping power that made this ball popular among professional players seeking maximum distance without sacrificing control.

Key distance technology

Srixon engineers built the Z Star XV with a FastLayer Core that transitions from soft in the centre to firm at the edge, creating exceptional energy transfer at impact. The 338 Speed Dimple pattern reduces drag during flight while maintaining a stable, penetrating trajectory that maximises carry distance. Testing revealed ball speeds of 164.3 mph at 114 mph swing speed, matching the fastest premium models and delivering consistent performance across varying swing speeds with the durability Srixon balls are known for.

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll extract maximum performance from this ball if your driver swing speed exceeds 100 mph, where it ranked second overall for carry distance. The firm compression suits players who prefer responsive feedback on every strike while the spin characteristics (2,797 rpm off the driver) help powerful swingers avoid excessive ballooning that bleeds yards.

Spin and short game performance

Iron testing showed the Z Star XV generates 4,782 rpm on 7-iron shots with a steep 38.4° descent angle that holds firm greens effectively. Around the greens, you get 6,091 rpm on pitch shots, placing this ball among the top performers for wedge control while maintaining its distance credentials off the tee.

Price bracket and alternatives

More Sports stocks the Srixon Z Star XV at mid-premium pricing with free UK delivery over £25. Consider the Callaway Chrome Tour X for similar performance with different feel characteristics, or explore the TaylorMade TP5x if you need better efficiency at moderate swing speeds.

9. Srixon Z Star Diamond

The Srixon Z Star Diamond carried 286.9 yards at 114 mph swing speed, placing fourth overall in our robot testing and proving this limited-edition four-piece model delivers Tour-level distance without compromise. This ball combines Srixon's proven FastLayer Core technology with a premium urethane cover to create one of the most consistent performers among the best golf balls for distance tested in 2026. You get exceptional carry distance with the workability and control characteristics that define Srixon's Tour ball lineup.

Key distance technology

Srixon engineered the Z Star Diamond with the same 338 Speed Dimple pattern found in the Z Star XV, creating a penetrating trajectory that maximises carry in all conditions. The FastLayer Core transitions from soft centre to firm outer edge for efficient energy transfer at impact. Testing revealed ball speeds of 164.3 mph at 114 mph swing speed, matching the fastest premium models while maintaining the spin control needed for aggressive approach shots.

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll extract maximum performance from this ball if your driver swing speed exceeds 105 mph, where it ranked among the top five overall performers. The firm compression suits players who prefer responsive feedback throughout their bag while the spin characteristics help powerful swingers maintain controlled flight without excessive ballooning that bleeds yards.

"The Z Star Diamond delivers Tour-validated performance with exceptional distance credentials."

Spin and short game performance

Testing showed this model generates sufficient spin on iron shots for proper stopping power while maintaining its low-spin nature off the tee. Around the greens, you get premium urethane cover performance that provides the bite needed for confident wedge play on firm surfaces without sacrificing the distance characteristics that define this ball.

Price bracket and alternatives

More Sports stocks the Srixon Z Star Diamond at premium pricing with free UK delivery over £25. Consider the Srixon Z Star XV for similar performance at lower cost, or explore the Callaway Chrome Tour X if you need different compression characteristics.

10. Wilson Staff Model

The Wilson Staff Model delivered 274.3 yards at 114 mph swing speed, matching the Titleist Pro V1x Left Dash for third place overall while offering substantially softer feel than its firmer sibling, the Staff Model X. This four-piece Tour ball earned silver for approach play performance by combining exceptional distance off the tee with consistent iron control that appeals to players who prioritise predictable yardages over outright maximum spin. You get the complete package in a softer compression that suits a wider range of swing speeds and preferences among the best golf balls for distance tested in 2026.

Key distance technology

Wilson built the Staff Model with V-Cor advanced performance that pairs a medium compression core featuring velocity-boosting additives with a 3SIX2 seamless urethane cover. The 362-dimple pattern creates a penetrating trajectory that maximises carry while reducing wind drift. Testing revealed ball speeds of 164.7 mph at 114 mph swing speed, matching the Staff Model X while delivering softer feel that many golfers prefer for enhanced feedback on delicate shots.

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll extract maximum performance from this ball if your driver swing speed exceeds 93 mph, where it ranked third for carry distance (209.2 yards). The 112 psi compression suits players seeking softer feel without sacrificing ball speed, making it more accessible than firmer Tour models while maintaining professional-level performance characteristics.

Spin and short game performance

Iron testing showed 4,653 rpm on 7-iron shots with a 38.6° descent angle that holds greens effectively. Around the greens, you get 5,993 rpm on pitch shots, providing excellent stopping power while maintaining more consistent distance control than higher-spinning alternatives.

"If you don't want a high-spinning, firm-feeling golf ball, this is your best option."

Price bracket and alternatives

More Sports stocks the Staff Model at mid-premium pricing with free UK delivery over £25. Consider the Wilson Staff Model X for firmer feel with slightly better distance, or explore the Titleist Pro V1 for comparable softness with different construction characteristics.

11. Titleist Velocity

The Titleist Velocity targets golfers who prioritise outright driver distance above all other performance factors, using a high-speed LSX core wrapped in a proprietary ionomer cover. This two-piece construction delivers fast ball speeds at moderate swing speeds while maintaining the quality and consistency Titleist builds into every model. You get a ball engineered for maximum carry distance without the premium Tour ball price, making it accessible to players who want the Titleist name on distance-focused equipment.

Key distance technology

Titleist built the Velocity with a high-speed LSX core that generates exceptional energy transfer at impact for faster ball speeds across varying swing speeds. The 350 octahedral dimple design creates a high-penetrating trajectory that cuts through wind while maximising carry distance. This two-piece construction prioritises speed and distance over greenside spin, making it ideal for golfers who struggle to generate sufficient ball speed with firmer Tour models or want to eliminate excess spin that bleeds yards off the tee.

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll extract maximum performance from this ball if your driver swing speed falls between 75 and 95 mph, where the softer construction helps generate ball speed without requiring Tour-level compression. Players seeking straighter drives appreciate how the lower spin characteristics reduce hooks and slices that magnify dispersion patterns.

Spin and short game performance

Testing shows the Velocity generates lower spin rates than Tour balls with both irons and wedges, sacrificing greenside control for distance consistency. You get sufficient stopping power for recreational play while maintaining the low-spin nature that defines this ball's performance profile.

Price bracket and alternatives

More Sports stocks the Titleist Velocity at mid-range pricing with free UK delivery over £25. Consider the Callaway Supersoft for similar distance with softer feel, or explore the Bridgestone e12 Speed if you need better approach control without sacrificing substantial distance.

12. Callaway Supersoft

The Callaway Supersoft delivered 161 yards with mid-iron shots in robot testing, placing second overall for iron distance and proving this two-piece model competes with premium balls in one critical area. This ball targets golfers who want maximum distance at moderate swing speeds while maintaining the incredibly soft feel that defines this lineup. You get a forgiving construction that reduces spin off the tee while providing enough greenside response for recreational play, making it one of the most accessible options among the best golf balls for distance for average golfers.

12. Callaway Supersoft

Key distance technology

Callaway built the 2025 Supersoft with a high-energy core wrapped in an ionomer cover that generates exceptional ball speed at slower swing speeds. The hybrid cover construction reduces driver spin while maintaining durability through multiple rounds. Testing showed this ball excels with irons where its low-compression design helps generate sufficient launch without requiring Tour-level strike quality, creating one of the most efficient performers for players seeking consistent yardages with every club.

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll extract maximum performance from this ball if your driver swing speed falls between 70 and 90 mph, where the soft construction helps generate ball speed without firm compression requirements. Players seeking straighter drives appreciate how the reduced spin characteristics minimise hooks and slices that magnify dispersion patterns while the soft feel provides confidence on delicate shots around greens.

Spin and short game performance

Testing shows the Supersoft generates lower spin rates than Tour balls, sacrificing aggressive stopping power for consistent distance control that suits recreational golfers. You get sufficient bite for weekend play while maintaining the forgiving nature that defines this ball's performance profile.

Price bracket and alternatives

More Sports stocks the Callaway Supersoft at budget-friendly pricing with free UK delivery over £25. Consider the Titleist Velocity for similar distance with firmer feel, or explore the Bridgestone e12 Speed if you need better approach control.

13. Srixon Distance

The Srixon Distance targets golfers who want Tour brand quality at budget-friendly pricing, using a two-piece construction that prioritises straight flight and maximum carry distance. This ball strips away premium features like urethane covers and multi-layer cores to focus exclusively on what recreational golfers need most: longer drives and consistent yardages. You get Srixon's engineering expertise applied to an accessible model that delivers reliable performance without the premium ball price tag.

Key distance technology

Srixon built this ball with a high-energy core wrapped in an ionomer cover that generates efficient ball speed at moderate swing speeds. The 338-dimple pattern creates a penetrating trajectory that reduces wind drift while maintaining carry distance. This two-piece construction eliminates the complexity of Tour balls, focusing instead on the fundamentals that matter most for distance: fast ball speed off the tee and low spin that keeps your drives from ballooning.

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll extract maximum performance from this ball if your driver swing speed falls between 75 and 95 mph, where the construction helps generate sufficient ball speed without requiring Tour-level compression. Players seeking straighter tee shots appreciate how the reduced spin characteristics minimise hooks and slices that magnify dispersion patterns.

Spin and short game performance

Testing shows this model generates lower spin rates than premium balls, sacrificing aggressive stopping power for consistent distance control throughout your bag. You get sufficient greenside response for recreational play while maintaining the low-spin nature that defines this ball's performance profile and helps keep your shots flying straight towards the target.

Price bracket and alternatives

More Sports stocks the Srixon Distance at entry-level pricing with free UK delivery over £25. Consider the Callaway Supersoft for softer feel with similar distance, or explore the Bridgestone e12 Speed if you need better approach control without sacrificing substantial carry distance off the tee.

14. Wilson Triad

The Wilson Triad uses a unique three-layer construction that balances distance with exceptional feel, targeting golfers who refuse to choose between soft response and long carry. This ball combines fast distance off the tee with Tour-caliber feel around greens, making it accessible to mid-handicappers who want premium performance without the Tour ball price. You get Wilson's proven engineering in a model that delivers consistent yardages throughout your bag while maintaining the soft touch needed for confident greenside control.

Key distance technology

Wilson built the Triad with a high-speed core wrapped in two mantle layers that progressively firm up, creating efficient energy transfer at impact. The 302-dimple pattern produces a penetrating flight that maximises carry distance while reducing wind drift. This three-piece construction finds the middle ground between distance-focused two-piece balls and spin-oriented Tour models, giving you faster ball speeds without sacrificing the feel that helps control delicate shots.

Best swing speeds and player types

You'll extract maximum performance from this ball if your driver swing speed falls between 80 and 100 mph, where the construction helps generate sufficient ball speed without requiring Tour-level compression. Players seeking straighter drives appreciate how the balanced spin characteristics reduce hooks and slices while maintaining enough control to work the ball when needed.

Spin and short game performance

Testing shows the Triad generates moderate spin rates that suit recreational and improving golfers who need stopping power on approach shots without the excessive spin that complicates distance control. You get soft feel around greens that inspires confidence on pitch shots while maintaining the forgiving nature that defines this ball's performance profile.

How to choose the right distance ball

Match your golf ball selection to your driver swing speed first, then consider whether you prioritise outright distance or greenside control. Players swinging below 90 mph benefit most from softer constructions like the Callaway Supersoft or Titleist Velocity, while faster swingers above 100 mph extract maximum performance from premium Tour balls like the Chrome Tour or Staff Model X. Test multiple options to find which model delivers the best balance of distance and feel for your specific game.

best golf balls for distance infographic

Final thoughts

Choosing the best golf balls for distance transforms your game by shortening approach shots and opening up scoring opportunities you previously couldn't reach. Our robot testing revealed that premium Tour balls like the Callaway Chrome Tour and Wilson Staff Model X deliver exceptional carry distances without sacrificing greenside control, while budget options like the Bridgestone e12 Speed prove you don't need premium pricing for Tour-level distance. Your swing speed determines which model maximises performance, with faster swingers benefiting from firmer compression balls and moderate swingers extracting better results from softer constructions.

Testing confirmed that distance gains come from matching ball technology to your specific swing characteristics rather than simply choosing the most expensive option. More Sports stocks the complete range of distance balls featured in this guide with free UK delivery over £25 and worldwide shipping. Browse our golf ball collection to find the perfect model for your game and start hitting longer drives that change how you attack every hole on your course.

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