Searching for the absolute softest golf ball made leads you to one of the most popular discussions in golf equipment. While names change and technology evolves, the title often goes to the Callaway Supersoft, which consistently features one of the lowest compression ratings on the market, sometimes as low as 38. This article will break down what soft really means, who benefits from playing a soft ball, and highlight some of the top contenders so you can find the perfect one for your game.
As a coach, one of the first things I clarify for students is what "softness" in a golf ball refers to. It’s not about how squishy the cover feels in your hand, it's about compression. Think of a golf club hitting a ball - in that split second, the ball deforms or "compresses" against the club face before springing back into shape and launching into the air.
Every golf ball has a compression rating, a number that usually ranges from around 40 to over 100. Here’s the simple way to understand it:
Imagine squeezing two different stress balls. One is very soft and easy to squish - that’s your low-compression ball. The other is much firmer and requires a lot of effort to deform - that’s your high-compression ball. The goal in golf is to match the ball's compression to your personal "squeezing" power, which is your swing speed.
So, why does a proper match matter? When you successfully compress the ball at impact, two great things happen:
This is precisely why a softer ball can be a game-changer for so many players. It helps them unlock distance they didn't know they had and hit more fairways.
This is where equipment fitting moves from technical specs to practical advice. Based on my experience coaching countless golfers, certain player types almost always benefit from switching to a softer ball.
You are a perfect candidate for a soft ball if you fit into one or more of these categories:
On the other hand, soft balls are not for everyone. Players with high swing speeds (generally 105 mph and up with a driver) can over-compress a soft ball. This can lead to a mushy feel, a loss of distance, and a ball flight that might balloon up into the wind and go nowhere. If you generate a lot of clubhead speed, you need the resistance of a higher-compression ball (like a Titleist Pro V1x or TaylorMade TP5x) to translate that speed into optimal distance and control.
If you've decided a soft ball might be for you, where do you start? Here a few of the market leaders, all known for their incredibly soft feel and player-friendly performance.
Compression: ~38
Often hailed as the king of soft, the Callaway Supersoft has been a category leader for years. It’s built with a primary goal: to be incredibly easy to launch high with very low spin for long, straight shots. The combination of its ultra-low compression core and a new hybrid cover provides a remarkable softness from tee to green. It's the go-to recommendation for players looking for the pinnacle of soft feel and straight flight.
Compression: Low (Unspecified)
As Titleist's softest ball, the TruFeel delivers that premium brand quality with an exceptionally soft feel. While a two-piece ball focused on distance and feel, it’s engineered to provide a bit more control around the greens than some of its competitors. Players love it for the recognizable "Titleist" sound and reliability, just in a much softer package. It’s perfect for the golfer who is loyal to the brand but doesn't have the swing speed for a Pro V1.
Compression: ~60
The name says it all. Srixon's Soft Feel has been a staple in this category for over a decade. It’s a beautifully balanced ball that provides, as you’d expect, a fantastic soft feel with a lower spin profile for distance and accuracy. A standout feature is its 338 Speed Dimple Pattern, designed to reduce drag in the air, helping it hold its line even in windy conditions. It's a very consistent and reliable option.
Compression: ~35-40
Wilson has a long history in the low-compression game, and the Duo Soft is a legend in its own right. Often battling with the Supersoft for the title of "softest," this ball is all about feel and straight distance. Its core is engineered to produce the lowest compression possible, resulting in surprisingly long-and-straight results for players with easy tempos. If traditional, pillowy softness is what you’re after, the Wilson Duo Soft is a must-try.
Compression: ~50
TaylorMade offers a slightly different take with its Soft Response ball. While its compression is still very low, it’s designed with a unique dimple pattern and ionomer cover that aim to give a bit more wedge spin than some other ultra-low spin distance balls. This makes it an excellent choice for a player who wants a soft feel and easy distance but doesn't want to completely sacrifice greenside control.
Don't just take my word for it. Finding the right ball is a personal process. Here’s a simple way to test them out without breaking the bank.
The softest golf balls, like the Callaway Supersoft or Wilson Duo Soft, are engineered for a large and important segment of the golf population: players with moderate swing speeds who want more distance, a straighter ball flight, and a great feel. Choosing one of these options over the firm tour balls that your friends might rave about is a smart decision that can immediately make the game easier and more enjoyable.
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