The Golf Ball in Fitting: Compression, Spin, and the Right Model for You
Ball choice matters. Match compression to swing speed (~95+ mph unlocks Pro V1/V1x/AVX; slower swings may gain with lower-compression balls). Pick spin profile—V1x higher, V1 mid, AVX lower—and target driver spin ~2,000–2,800 RPM.
Key Points
Most Overlooked Yet Most Used Equipment:
The golf ball is used on every single shot, yet often overlooked in a fitting.Compression Point Matters:
Premium balls like Pro V1, Pro V1x, AVX require 95+ mph driver swing speed to fully activate their compression and gain max distance.
Below 95 mph, non-premium balls (e.g., Titleist TruFeel) may perform better for distance.Distance vs. Greenside Control Trade-off:
-
Premium balls have softer covers that increase greenside spin by creating more friction with wedge grooves.
-
Non-premium balls are firmer, spin less, but may travel farther if swing speed is lower.
-
Ball Construction and Spin:
-
3-piece balls (e.g. Pro V1 line) offer different launch/spin profiles:
-
Pro V1x: Higher launch & spin
-
Pro V1: Mid launch & spin
-
AVX: Lower launch & spin
-
Custom fit should match the ball model to your ideal spin window.
-
-
Driver Spin Rate Example:
-
Fitter aims to hit your ideal RPM range (e.g., 2,300 RPM for optimal flight and control).
-
Pro V1x might increase spin too much (e.g., 2,700 RPM = loss of 10–15 yards).
-
AVX might lower it too far (<2,000 RPM = ball drops out of air too soon).
-
Bottom Line:
Golf ball choice affects launch, spin, distance, control, and consistency.
Fitters must test multiple balls to match the player’s swing speed and desired performance profile.
