What makes a golf ball “soft”?
A soft golf ball usually has a lower compression rating. Compression describes how much the ball deforms when struck. A lower compression (for example, 50–70) means the ball is easier to compress, especially at slower swing speeds. For beginners, who rarely generate the power of advanced players, this can make a noticeable difference.
Soft balls also have cover materials, often urethane or softer ionomer blends, designed to provide a gentler feel around the greens. This “soft feel” is one of the first things new players notice when putting or chipping.
The benefits for beginners
The main advantage of a soft golf ball is forgiveness. With slower swings, it compresses more easily, helping generate extra distance that a firmer ball might not provide. Beginners often struggle with consistent ball striking, and a softer design can reduce the harsh feedback of mishits.
Another benefit is confidence. Many new players report that soft balls feel more comfortable on contact, whether with irons or putter. That added comfort can reduce tension and make practice more enjoyable, which is crucial at the learning stage.
The trade-offs to consider
Soft golf balls are not a magic solution. They sometimes sacrifice durability, especially if struck thin or against hard surfaces. They can also produce slightly more spin, which may exaggerate slices or hooks for some beginners. Firmer balls, by contrast, often travel farther with high swing speeds, so players who quickly develop power might outgrow the need for soft models.
This is why golf instructors often recommend that beginners experiment. Playing a few rounds with different types of balls reveals what feels best and produces the most consistent results.
Are they “better”?
For most beginners, the answer leans yes. A soft golf ball provides easier compression, better feel, and added comfort during learning. These qualities outweigh the minor drawbacks at early stages of the game. As skills improve, players can reassess and decide whether to transition to firmer, tour-style balls.
Smarter decisions with BetRocket
Just like choosing the right golf ball can accelerate learning, choosing the right betting tools can transform your results. BetRocket offers a suite of smart, data-driven instruments designed to give bettors a professional edge:
- AI Insights — advanced artificial intelligence that scans bookmaker odds, identifies patterns, and predicts likely winners. Instead of relying on guesswork, you get clear AI-driven recommendations.
- Surebets — automatic detection of arbitrage opportunities across bookmakers. These allow you to lock in risk-free profit whenever odds are misaligned.
- EV+ Scanner — a tool that highlights bets with positive expected value, showing you where the odds are in your favor long term.
- EV+ Lab — a testing ground where you can backtest different strategies, analyze historical data, and refine your betting approach with precision.
Together, these tools help you minimize risk and maximize return. In the same way a beginner golfer benefits from softer balls for consistency, a bettor benefits from BetRocket’s suite to gain clarity, discipline, and long-term edge.
Conclusion
So, are soft golf balls better for beginners? In most cases, yes. They provide forgiveness, extra distance at lower swing speeds, and a more comfortable feel, making the game more enjoyable for those just starting out.
And just like in golf, the right tools matter in betting. With BetRocket’s AI Insights, Surebets, EV+ Scanner, and EV+ Lab, you’re equipped not just with predictions, but with a complete ecosystem for smarter, more profitable betting decisions