So it’s winter. It’s chilly outside, but the golf course is open. Let’s play 18. But here’s an interesting question. In cold weather,does it matter which ball you play?
The pros say it does indeed matter. Here’s why.
Cold weather is thicker, denser than warm air, which creates more drag on the golf ball.
Therefore, the denser atmosphere requires more velocity to produce a shot of the same distance in warmer weather. In fact, a golf ball loses 2 yards of carry for every 10 degrees drop in temperature. The optimum temperature range is 70 to 90 degrees. At 40-degree temps the ball can slow down and be shorter by 5 to 10 yards.
But a softer ball compresses more easily in the cold.
Actually, ladies’ golf balls play very well in wintry conditions due to their lower compression.
So it doesn’t really make much difference in which name brand of golf ball you play. But it does make a difference in the compression of the ball you tee up in the winter.
Below are some good ones when the weatherman is uncooperative.
– Top Flite Gamer
This ball has a dimple with each dimple and is designed to maintain spin and reduce drag, staying in the air longer. Cold weather generally means less roll, so keeping the ball airborne means greater distance. The lower compression Gamer allows golfers with slower swing speeds to attain maximum distance. It’s a go-to ball in cold weather.
– Titleist NXT Tour S
The Titleist NXT Tour S has a larger dual core when compared to competitive golf balls and a softer proprietary compression, a more resilient core. It’s a great ball for winter play.
– TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft
The Noodle Long & Soft is one of the better soft, low compression golf balls available. This 2-piece construction golf ball’s patented dimple design allows for a straighter more controlled flight.
– Callaway HEX Solaire
This is a ladies’ ball but it provides better lift by reducing drag, ideal for cold weather conditions. The s-Tech core has a low compression and is highly resilient.
– Wilson Zip
Zip offers the best that multi-layer construction that no other ball can match. 302 PhD aerodynamics feature unique flat-bottomed, shallow dimples that rip through the air to create stable, penetrating ball flight.
– Bridgestone e6
The new larger Dual Dimple provides reduced drag for higher speeds and increased lift to cut through dense cold air. A softer Surlyn cover and low compression core make for the softer e6 with improved feel. An anti-side spin inner layer help minimize hooks and slices.