We’ve kicked off the planning phase for our 2025 robot ball test, and this time, we’re focusing on adding more affordable options to the mix. By “cheap,” I mean the two- and sometimes three-piece balls with ionomer covers. While these balls don’t see action on the pro tours, a portion of golfers love them for their wallet-friendly prices, often soft (perhaps ridiculously soft) feel, and the range of colors and designs in which they’re available.
Obviously, it’s not feasible to test every ball out there, but we want to ensure we’re covering the most popular models. So, we conducted some research to see which balls are making waves.
Now, here’s the fine print: Not all retailers that stock golf balls report sales data. With this in mind, the numbers for direct-to-consumer brands can be spotty at best. Still, the information gives us a reasonable snapshot of the top-selling models by market share in 2024.
Let’s dive into the top five picks.
#1. Callaway Supersoft ($24.99)
It’s no shocker that Supersoft gives Chrome Soft a run in terms of popularity within Callaway’s offerings. It’s affordable, and while it doesn’t match Chrome Tour X in speed or spin, golfers appreciate its velvet-like softness. According to our gauge, Supersoft remains unmatched as the softest ball available.
#2. Srixon Soft Feel ($24.99)
While Soft Feel doesn’t offer the performance level of Srixon’s Z-Star range, it’s a fantastic choice for those who want a softer, less expensive ball. This ball nails it in the soft feel and budget-friendly category.
#3. Titleist TrueFeel ($24.99)
Noticing a pattern yet? TrueFeel stands out as Titleist’s softest and most affordable ball. Its defining feature seems perfectly aligned with the $24.99 price point.
#4. Titleist Velocity ($29.99)
As we look further down the list, the market focus shifts. Titleist Velocity’s main goal is straightforward: distance, and that’s precisely what it delivers.
#5. Pinnacle Rush ($19.99)
Manufactured alongside Velocity and TruFeel, Rush offers a more budget-friendly option, although it doesn’t aim for a particularly soft feel.
Other Notables:
While the top five reveal quite a bit about the market, #6 on our list is intriguing in its unexpected success in today’s market.
Dear God, why?
#6 TaylorMade Noodle ($27.99 for 2 dozen) – Yes, believe it or not, Noodle is a TaylorMade creation – the brand’s best-selling inexpensive option. Some attribute its enduring popularity to Gary McCord, but that’s all I’ll say on the matter.
Premium Ionomer
In my opinion, choosing either of the next two balls is akin to going for a risky shot aiming at a pin right next to the water hazard. They’ll lure you in, but beware.
Despite being some of the top-performing balls with ionomer covers, these options mostly serve to take money from golfers hesitant to invest $50+ in premium balls, but also cautious of DTC urethane balls. Take a stand and make a smarter choice.
#9 Titleist Tour Soft ($39.99) – Titleist calls this their premium ionomer ball, which sounds impressive until you realize it’s like being the best gourmet ramen. Sure, some folks enjoy it, but there are healthier alternatives out there.
#11 ERC Soft ($39.99) – Another high-end ionomer option, ERC equals Tour Soft’s pricing and boasts top performance. Personally, it’s comforting to know Callaway’s more affordable Warbird outsells ERC Soft.
Something from Everyone
Rounding off our list, here’s a glimpse of top-selling models with a notable market presence from brands we’ve not yet highlighted.
#7 TaylorMade Speed Soft – While Noodle falls under TaylorMade, Speed Soft proudly wears the TaylorMade logo as the top dog.
#13 Bridgestone e6 ($23.99) – Marginally outsells the e12 Contact.
#16 Wilson DUO Soft ($22.99) – Not quite as soft as Supersoft, yet it’s close enough for those seeking that soft ball feel.
#18 Volvik VIVID ($29.99, currently on sale for $19.99) – The ball that, for better or worse, brought matte finishes into the spotlight.
Surprises?
Did anything here catch you off guard? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Originally posted on MyGolfSpy, this article unveils the top-selling budget-friendly golf balls of 2024.
