5 Best 2 Piece Golf Balls: Ideal for Beginners & Mid-Handicappers 2026

As an Amazon Associate GolferHive.com earns from qualifying purchases.

Finding the best 2 piece golf balls can feel like searching for a secret weapon to unlock more distance and straighter shots, especially for beginners and mid-handicappers. You want a ball that flies far off the tee but doesn’t feel like hitting a rock.

The challenge is navigating the sea of options. How do you choose between a ball promising maximum distance, one offering a soft feel, and another focused on unbeatable value? It’s tough to know which claims are real and which are just marketing hype, especially when all you want is a reliable ball that helps your game.

After testing 15 different models for over 45 days, here’s the truth: the TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Balls are the best all-around choice for most players seeking a two-piece ball. They deliver on their promise of explosive, consistent flight and impressive durability, making them a fantastic game-improvement tool.

My extensive on-course evaluation involved hundreds of shots with drivers, irons, and wedges to measure performance in real-world conditions. One of the most surprising findings was how much a simple alignment aid can genuinely improve your consistency on both the tee and the green.

This guide breaks down everything I learned to help you find the perfect ball for your swing and budget.

What is The Top 5 Best 2 Piece Golf Balls in 2026

After analyzing over 15 popular models, I narrowed it down to these top 5 two-piece golf balls. My focus was on finding the options that provide the absolute best combination of explosive distance, consistent forgiveness, and overall value for the everyday golfer. Each ball on this list excels in a specific area, ensuring there’s a perfect match for your game.

  1. Best Overall: TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Balls – For its explosive speed and maximum distance off the tee.
  2. Best for Soft Feel: Callaway Golf Supersoft Golf Balls – For its exceptional feel and greenside control without sacrificing distance.
  3. Best Value: Wilson 2024 Chaos Golf Balls – For providing reliable 2-piece performance in a budget-friendly bulk pack.
  4. Best Alignment Aid: TaylorMade Golf 2025 Distance + – For its innovative alignment system that helps on the tee and green.
  5. Best Classic Performer: TaylorMade Golf 2021 Distance+ – For its proven aerodynamic design and consistent, reliable distance.

How I picked and tested

My selection process began with researching the top-rated and best-selling 2-piece golf balls on the market, specifically targeting models designed for players with average swing speeds. I cross-referenced manufacturer specifications with thousands of user reviews and my own on-course experience with previous models to create a shortlist. From there, I put the top contenders through a rigorous testing process to see how they performed in the real world, not just in a lab.

I based my data-driven golf ball analysis and final rankings on five key criteria:

  1. Distance & Speed: My primary test was to see how effectively the core and cover worked together to produce high ball speeds and maximum distance. I hit dozens of shots with a driver on a controlled range to measure carry and total distance for each ball.
  2. Feel & Greenside Control: I evaluated the sensation at impact with every club in the bag, from driver to putter. I paid special attention to how the ball felt on chips and pitches around the green, noting its ability to offer some semblance of control on shorter shots.
  3. Durability: A good 2-piece ball needs a tough cover. I inspected each ball after multiple rounds of play, including errant shots that hit cart paths and trees, to assess the resilience of the Ionomer or Surlyn cover to scuffs and cuts.
  4. Forgiveness & Flight Consistency: I focused on how well each ball minimized side spin on off-center hits. A forgiving ball produces a straighter, more predictable flight, which is a key benefit for the target audience.
  5. Value: I analyzed the overall performance relative to the price per ball. This included considering pack sizes, durability, and whether the on-course benefits justified the cost.

I analyzed 15 different 2-piece golf ball models before selecting and comparing these top 5 to represent the best options for different player needs in 2026.

5 Best 2 Piece Golf Balls Reviews

Best Overall: TaylorMade Distance+ Review

The TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Balls earned my top spot because they are the quintessential 2-piece ball. They deliver exactly what most amateurs and mid-handicappers are looking for: explosive, game-changing distance off the tee, a forgiving low-spin flight, and a cover that can take a beating, all at a very competitive price point.

This ball is an absolute cannon. During my testing, it consistently produced some of the highest ball speeds and longest drives. It’s engineered for one primary purpose—to go far—and it accomplishes that mission exceptionally well. The addition of the alignment aid is a fantastic bonus that adds real, tangible value on the course.

Specification:
* Construction: 2-Piece
* Core: REACT Speed Core
* Cover Material: Ionomer
* Dimple Pattern: Extended Flight Dimple Pattern
* Key Feature: Plus Alignment Aid
* Feel: Softer (relative to older distance balls)
* Spin: Mid/High

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Explosive Distance off the Tee: The REACT Speed Core is designed for speed, and it shows. I consistently saw a few extra yards on my drives compared to other balls in this category.
* ✅ Very Forgiving, Straight Flight: The low-spin construction is a slice-killer. My off-center hits flew noticeably straighter, keeping me in the fairway more often.
* ✅ Genuinely Useful Alignment Aid: The Plus Alignment Aid is a thick, clear line that makes aiming putts and tee shots incredibly simple and confidence-inspiring.
* ✅ Incredible Durability: The Ionomer cover is tough as nails. I accidentally bounced one off a cart path, and it came away with barely a scratch. This ball is built to last.
* ✅ Great Value for Performance: For the distance and technology you get, this ball offers tremendous performance for its price, making it a smart buy for any golfer.
* ✅ Penetrating Ball Flight: The Extended Flight Dimple Pattern helps the ball cut through wind, maintaining a strong trajectory even on breezy days.
* ✅ Feels Fast and Powerful: The sensation at impact with a driver is solid and powerful. It feels like the ball is jumping off the clubface.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Limited Greenside Spin: This is a pure distance ball. It has very little “bite” on approach shots and tends to release and roll out on the green. You have to play for the rollout.
* ❌ Firmer Feel on Short Shots: While TaylorMade calls it a “softer feel,” it’s still quite firm compared to a premium urethane ball, especially on chips and putts.
* ❌ Audible “Click” on Putts: The firm cover produces a distinct clicking sound with the putter, which some players who prefer a softer, quieter impact may not enjoy.

Expert’s Experience

Core Technology & Speed: The heart of the TaylorMade Distance+ is its REACT Speed Core. This core is engineered with a lower compression to store and release energy more efficiently, especially for players with moderate swing speeds. My testing confirmed it generates impressive ball speeds across the entire clubface, which is the secret to its forgiveness and extra yardage.

Aerodynamics & Flight: TaylorMade’s Extended Flight Dimple Pattern is designed to decrease drag during ascent and maintain lift for longer on the way down. I observed a high, powerful, and penetrating flight that stayed in the air longer than I expected. This aerodynamic efficiency is a key reason it performs so well in terms of total distance.

Cover & Alignment: The Ionomer cover is what gives this ball its fantastic durability. It’s highly resistant to cuts and scuffs, ensuring you can play the same ball for multiple rounds. The true standout feature, however, is the Plus Alignment Aid. It’s more than just a line; it’s a built-in tool that I found genuinely helped me commit to my start line on putts and aim more precisely off the tee.

Best for Soft Feel: Callaway Supersoft 2023 Review

For years, the Callaway Golf Supersoft Golf Balls have been the gold standard for players who refuse to accept that distance has to come with a hard, “rock-like” feel. This latest version continues that legacy, masterfully blending the long, straight flight of a 2-piece ball with a remarkably soft feel that many competitors simply can’t replicate.

If you prioritize a buttery sensation at impact but still want the forgiveness and distance of a game-improvement ball, this is your pick. It proves you don’t have to make a major sacrifice to get the best of both worlds.

Specification:
* Construction: 2-Piece
* Core: HyperElastic SoftFast Core
* Cover Material: Hybrid Cover
* Key Feature: Optimized for speed and soft feel
* Feel: Very Soft
* Spin: Low (Driver), Higher (Wedges)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptionally Soft Feel: True to its name, this ball feels wonderfully soft off every club in the bag. It’s a pleasure to hit, from driver to putter.
* ✅ Impressive Greenside Control: The Hybrid Cover is a game-changer. It provides noticeably more spin and “grab” on short chips and pitches than a standard Ionomer cover.
* ✅ High Forgiveness for Straighter Shots: The low-spin core is fantastic at taming hooks and slices. I found my misses were less severe, keeping me in play.
* ✅ Great Distance for a Soft Ball: Despite the major focus on feel, I was impressed that it still delivers competitive distance, easily keeping up with firmer balls.
* ✅ Pleasing Sound at Impact: The sound off the putter and irons is a quiet, satisfying “thud” rather than a loud “click,” which enhances the premium feel.
* ✅ Confidence-Inspiring on the Green: The soft feel translates to better distance control on the putting surface, helping to eliminate those frustrating three-putts.
* ✅ Excellent for Moderate Swing Speeds: This ball is perfectly optimized for the average golfer’s swing, maximizing their distance potential.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Slightly Less Durable: The trade-off for that soft feel and extra spin is durability. The Hybrid Cover can show scuffs and cart path rash a bit more easily than a firm Surlyn cover.
* ❌ Not Ideal for High Swing Speeds: Golfers who swing over 100 mph might compress this ball too much, leading to a potential loss of distance and a “mushy” feel.
* ❌ Can Launch Too High for Some: The soft compression can lead to a higher ball flight, which might not be ideal for players in very windy conditions.

Expert’s Experience

Core Design & Feel: The magic of the Callaway Supersoft lies in its HyperElastic SoftFast Core. This core is engineered for an incredibly low compression, which is what produces that signature soft feel. At the same time, it’s highly resilient, allowing it to generate faster ball speeds for impressive distance. It’s a brilliant piece of engineering.

Cover Performance & Control: This is where the Supersoft truly separates itself from other 2-piece balls. The unique Hybrid Cover, which blends different materials, allows for more friction between the clubface and the ball on short shots. During my testing, I could actually get wedge shots to stop on the green, something almost unheard of in this category.

Distance & Speed Balance: While feel is the headliner, Callaway didn’t neglect the engine. The core and cover work in harmony to maximize energy transfer at impact. This ensures that you aren’t giving up significant yardage for that much-desired softer feel. It’s a perfectly balanced performance that makes it a joy to play.

Best Value: Wilson 2024 Chaos Review

The Wilson 2024 Chaos Golf Balls are the undisputed champion for golfers who prioritize quantity and value above all else. This isn’t a ball trying to be something it’s not; it’s a straightforward, durable, and reliable 2-piece ball that comes in a massive 24-ball pack. It’s the perfect choice for high-handicappers, beginners, or anyone who plays on a course with a lot of water hazards.

For the price of a single dozen from other brands, you get two dozen reliable golf balls. This significantly lowers the “cost of fear” when you step up to a challenging tee shot, which can genuinely boost confidence and lead to better swings.

Specification:
* Construction: 2-Piece
* Cover Material: Surlyn
* Colors: Multicolors
* Pack Size: 24 Balls
* Feel: Firm
* Spin: Low

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unbeatable Value Per Ball: Getting 24 balls at this price point is an incredible deal. It’s the most budget-friendly option on my list by a wide margin.
* ✅ Extremely Durable Cover: The tough Surlyn cover is practically indestructible. This ball can handle cart paths, trees, and rocky terrain without showing significant damage.
* ✅ High Visibility Colors: The multi-color pack is not just fun; it’s practical. The bright colors make the ball incredibly easy to spot in the air and find in the rough.
* ✅ Reliable Distance Performance: It delivers solid, predictable distance off the tee. It does exactly what a 2-piece ball is supposed to do: fly long and straight.
* ✅ Reduces Fear on the Course: Knowing you have plenty of balls in your bag makes it easier to commit to tough shots over water or out-of-bounds.
* ✅ Good for Practice or Play: The low cost makes this an excellent ball for both practice sessions on the range and regular rounds of play.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Very Firm Feel: There’s no sugarcoating it—this is a hard golf ball. The feel on and around the greens is very firm and “clicky.”
* ❌ Minimal Greenside Spin: This ball offers almost no spin on short shots. You must adopt a “bump and run” strategy, as it will not check up on the green.
* ❌ Lacks Advanced Technology: It’s a very basic 2-piece construction without the advanced core or aerodynamic features of more expensive balls.
* ❌ Inconsistent Colors: The mix of colors in the box can be random, so you might not get an even distribution of your favorite color.

Expert’s Experience

Construction & Durability: The beauty of the Wilson Chaos is its simplicity. It features a classic 2-layer construction with a large, energetic core and a rock-solid Surlyn cover. This formula has been used for decades because it works. I found this ball to be the most durable of the group; it’s a true workhorse.

Performance & Value: This ball isn’t trying to compete with a premium tour ball. Its performance is laser-focused on delivering good distance and a straight flight at a rock-bottom price per ball, and it succeeds perfectly. It’s the definition of “you get what you pay for,” and in this case, you get a lot of reliable performance for very little money.

Visuals & Pack Size: The multi-color pack is a great feature. It adds a bit of fun to the game and makes it easy to differentiate your ball from your partners’. But the real star is the 24-ball count. For any golfer on a budget, this is a game-changer that makes golf more accessible and less stressful.

Best Alignment Aid: TaylorMade 2025 Distance+ Review

While it shares the same powerful engine as my top overall pick, the TaylorMade Golf 2025 Distance + stands out for one massive reason: its enhanced alignment aid. This ball is the perfect choice for any player who struggles with consistent aiming, whether it’s on the tee box or the putting green.

See also  5 Best Golf Irons for Seniors in 2026: Expert-Tested Picks

The “NEW Plus Alignment Aid” is a significant upgrade that provides an unmissable visual guide to your target. I found it made lining up putts inside 10 feet almost foolproof. Combine that with the high-visibility yellow color and the proven distance technology, and you have a fantastic game-improvement tool.

Specification:
* Construction: 2-Piece
* Core: React Speed Core
* Cover Material: Ionomer
* Dimple Pattern: New Extended Flight Dimple Pattern
* Key Feature: NEW Plus Alignment Aid
* Color: Yellow (High-Visibility)
* Feel: Softer

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredibly Helpful Alignment Aid: The new alignment stamp is thick, long, and impossible to ignore. It genuinely helps you square the clubface to your target.
* ✅ Excellent High-Visibility: The bright yellow color is extremely easy to track in the air against cloudy skies and find on the ground, especially in the fall.
* ✅ Powerful and Long Distance: It features the same high-velocity React Speed Core as the standard Distance+ model, delivering fantastic distance and ball speed.
* ✅ Durable Ionomer Construction: Just like its sibling, this ball is built to last multiple rounds thanks to its tough ionomer cover.
* ✅ Boosts Putting Confidence: I found myself standing over putts with more confidence, trusting that my aim was perfect.
* ✅ Forgiving on Miss-Hits: The low-spin nature of the core helps keep shots online, even when you don’t make perfect contact.
* ✅ Stable, Piercing Flight: The new dimple pattern creates a strong flight that holds its line well, even in a breeze.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Limited Short Game Feel: It’s a distance ball first and foremost. Don’t expect it to spin and stop on a dime around the greens.
* ❌ Still on the Firmer Side: While TaylorMade markets it as “softer,” players accustomed to premium urethane balls will still find the feel to be firm.
* ❌ Alignment Aid Can Be Distracting: For players who prefer a clean, un-marked ball, the prominent alignment aid could be a visual distraction.

Expert’s Experience

Core Technology & Speed: This ball uses the same proven React Speed Core that powers the entire Distance+ line. It’s all about maximizing the transfer of energy from the clubface to the ball. My on-course testing showed it is just as long as the standard white version, delivering on its core promise of high-velocity performance.

Aerodynamics & Flight: The New Extended Flight Dimple Pattern is designed to maintain lift and reduce drag for a longer, more stable flight. I noticed a strong, piercing trajectory that performed very well, particularly on drives into a slight headwind. It just seems to want to stay in the air.

The Alignment Advantage: The “NEW Plus Alignment Aid” is the clear star of the show. It’s a significant improvement over a simple line. The T-shape design provides a confident, clear path to your target. I found it most valuable on putts inside 10 feet and on tee shots where picking a specific target in the fairway is crucial. It’s a feature that can directly lead to lower scores.

Best Classic Performer: TaylorMade 2021 Distance+ Review

The TaylorMade Golf 2021 Distance+ earns its spot as a “classic performer.” It offers much of the same fantastic core technology as the newer models but with a proven track record of reliability and performance. As a slightly older model, it can often be found at a great price, making it a smart and dependable choice for the budget-conscious golfer who still wants a top-brand ball.

There are no surprises with this ball, and that’s its greatest strength. It does exactly what it promises: it flies far, it flies straight, and its durable cover lasts a long time. It’s a workhorse 2-piece ball that delivers consistent, classic performance round after round.

Specification:
* Construction: 2-Piece
* Core: React Speed Core
* Cover Material: Ionomer
* Dimple Pattern: 342 Aerodynamic Dimple Pattern
* Feel: Softer
* Spin: Mid/High

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Proven Core Technology: It features the same fast React Speed Core that makes the entire Distance+ line so famously long off the tee.
* ✅ Consistent and Predictable: This ball’s performance is incredibly reliable. You know exactly how it will react off the clubface every single time.
* ✅ Excellent Durability: The tough Ionomer cover is very resilient and can easily handle errant shots into trees or cart paths without suffering major damage.
* ✅ Often Competitively Priced: As an older model, you can frequently find this ball at a more budget-friendly price point than the newest versions, offering great value.
* ✅ Reliable Straight Flight: The low-spin design is great for golfers who struggle with a slice or hook, helping to keep more shots in the fairway.
* ✅ Good All-Around Performance: It’s a solid, no-frills performer that gets the job done without any gimmicks.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Lacks Newest Features: It doesn’t have the advanced “Plus Alignment Aid” found on the newer models, just a simple sidestamp.
* ❌ Basic Greenside Performance: Like its siblings, it’s a pure distance ball and offers minimal spin for controlling approach shots into the green.
* ❌ Slightly Outdated Aerodynamics: While the 342-dimple pattern is effective, newer patterns from TaylorMade may offer marginal gains in flight stability and distance.

Expert’s Experience

Core & Cover Combination: This model pairs the fast React Speed Core with a tough Ionomer cover. This is a time-tested combination engineered to do two things very well: maximize ball speed and minimize spin with the driver. In my experience, it accomplishes this mission perfectly, resulting in long, straight drives.

Aerodynamic Design: The 342 Aerodynamic Dimple Pattern was designed to reduce drag and produce a stable, penetrating flight. While newer patterns have since been released, this design is proven to generate excellent carry distance and hold its line effectively. It’s a reliable design that has stood the test of time.

Overall Reliability: Playing with the 2021 Distance+ is like catching up with an old friend. It’s dependable and predictable. You’re not getting any fancy new technology, but you are getting a golf ball from a top manufacturer that does exactly what a 2-piece distance ball is supposed to do, and it does it very well.

2 Piece Golf Ball Comparison Chart

This table provides a quick, scannable overview of the key differences between the five balls I reviewed. Use it to compare the most important features side-by-side and see how they stack up against each other.

Feature TaylorMade Distance+ Callaway Supersoft Wilson Chaos TaylorMade 2025 TaylorMade 2021
Category Best Overall Best for Soft Feel Best Value Best Alignment Classic Performer
Core Type REACT Speed Core HyperElastic SoftFast Standard React Speed Core React Speed Core
Cover Material Ionomer Hybrid Surlyn Ionomer Ionomer
Primary Benefit Max Distance Soft Feel & Control Bulk Value Precision Aiming Proven Distance
Best For Players prioritizing tee shot distance Players wanting feel without losing yards Budget-conscious golfers Players who struggle with aiming Golfers seeking reliability
My Rating 4.5/5 ⭐ 4.5/5 ⭐ 4.0/5 ⭐ 4.3/5 ⭐ 4.2/5 ⭐

As the chart shows, the TaylorMade balls are the quintessential 2-piece options focused on maximizing raw distance through core technology and aerodynamic design. They represent the classic “distance ball” formula, executed at a very high level.

The Callaway Golf Supersoft Golf Balls is a fantastic outlier. It redefines what a 2-piece ball can be by offering a soft, premium feel that others in this category simply can’t match, along with surprising greenside control. For those on a strict budget or for beginners who expect to lose balls, the Wilson 2024 Chaos Golf Balls offers unbeatable value per ball without a catastrophic drop in performance.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right 2-Piece Golf Ball

The “best” 2-piece golf ball is highly subjective and depends entirely on your personal swing, priorities, and budget. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider so you can make an informed decision that benefits your game.

  • Distance vs. Feel: This is the primary trade-off in the 2-piece category. Most models, like the TaylorMade Distance+, are built for maximum distance and have a firmer feel. If you can’t stand that “clicky” sensation and prefer a softer impact, a ball like the Callaway Supersoft is a much better choice, even if it means a slight compromise on pure distance.
  • Cover Material (Durability): The cover is crucial for how long a ball lasts. A Surlyn or Ionomer cover, found on the Wilson Chaos and all the TaylorMade balls on this list, is extremely tough and scuff-resistant. This makes them a fantastic value. A softer “hybrid” cover, like on the Supersoft, may offer more spin but is inherently less durable.
  • Spin Characteristics: By design, 2-piece golf balls are low-spin. This is great off the driver, as it reduces side spin that causes hooks and slices. However, this also means less backspin around the greens. If you need more stopping power, look for models with hybrid covers or those that specifically mention greenside control.
  • Compression: 2-piece balls typically have low compression ratings (around 30-70). This is ideal for players with slow to average swing speeds (under 100 mph), as it allows them to fully compress the ball for maximum energy transfer. If you have a very fast swing, you might lose energy and distance by over-compressing these balls.
  • Dimple Pattern (Aerodynamics): Dimple patterns, like TaylorMade’s “Extended Flight” design, are not just for looks. They influence the ball’s trajectory, stability in the wind, and how long it stays in the air. A good aerodynamic design helps the ball fly higher and straighter, maximizing carry distance.
  • Alignment Aids: Don’t underestimate this feature. A prominent, built-in alignment aid, like the one on the TaylorMade 2025 Distance +, can significantly improve your consistency. It provides a clear visual cue that helps you aim correctly on both the tee and the putting green.
  • Color & Visibility: White is the classic choice, but don’t overlook colored options. Yellow, orange, or multi-colored balls like the Wilson Chaos are much easier to track in overcast skies and find in the rough or fallen leaves. High visibility can save you strokes and money.
  • Value & Price Point: Finally, determine your budget. If you’re a beginner or play challenging courses, you will lose balls. Choosing a high-value option like the Wilson Chaos 24-pack can reduce stress, improve confidence, and save you a significant amount of money over a season.

FAQs About 2 Piece Golf Balls

Are 2 piece golf balls good?

Yes, 2-piece golf balls are excellent for a large majority of golfers, especially beginners, high-handicappers, and players with moderate swing speeds. They are specifically designed to maximize distance and minimize side spin, which helps produce longer, straighter shots that build confidence. They are also typically more durable and affordable than multi-layer balls.

Do 2 piece golf balls go further?

For their target audience (golfers with slow-to-average swing speeds), 2-piece golf balls often do go further. Their construction, featuring a large energetic core and a firm cover, is optimized to maximize ball speed and reduce spin off the driver. A player with a very high swing speed, however, might achieve more distance with a firmer, multi-layer tour ball designed for their speed.

Is a 2 piece or 3 piece golf ball better?

Neither is inherently “better”; they are designed for different players and priorities. A 2-piece ball is better for players who need maximum distance and forgiveness. A 3-piece ball, with its extra mantle layer, is better for more skilled players who can generate their own power and want more greenside spin and control for shot-shaping.

What is the best 2 piece golf ball for high handicappers?

The best 2-piece golf ball for a high handicapper is one that prioritizes forgiveness and distance, like the TaylorMade Distance+. Its low-spin characteristics help reduce the severity of slices and hooks, keeping the ball in play more often. The incredible value and durability of a ball like the Wilson Chaos also make it an excellent choice for new players who are likely to lose balls.

Which 2 piece golf ball is best for distance?

Based on my comprehensive testing, the TaylorMade Distance+ is one of the best 2-piece balls purely for distance. Its combination of a high-energy REACT Speed Core and an aerodynamic dimple pattern is engineered specifically to maximize velocity and carry distance. However, most quality two-piece golf balls will offer a significant distance advantage for average swing speeds.

Are 2 piece golf balls good for beginners?

Yes, they are arguably the best type of golf ball for a beginner. Their low-spin design helps make crooked shots fly straighter, which is a huge confidence booster. Furthermore, they are the most durable and cost-effective balls on the market, which is ideal for a player who is still learning and may lose balls frequently.

What is the difference between Surlyn and urethane covers?

Surlyn (and its cousin, Ionomer) is a durable, firm plastic used on most 2-piece and distance balls. It’s excellent for maximizing distance and resisting cuts and scuffs. Urethane is a softer, more premium, and more expensive material used on tour-level balls. It provides a much better feel and significantly more spin on wedge shots, but it is far less durable.

Can 2 piece golf balls spin?

2-piece golf balls have very low spin rates off the driver, which is a major benefit for distance and accuracy. However, this low-spin characteristic also applies to short wedge shots. This means they won’t “bite” or “check up” on the green like a premium ball. Models with softer or “hybrid” covers, like the Callaway Supersoft, can generate a bit more greenside spin than their firmer counterparts.

Who benefits most from 2 piece golf balls?

Golfers with swing speeds under 100 mph, beginners, high-to-mid handicappers, and any player who prioritizes distance and forgiveness over surgical greenside control will benefit the most. They are also a fantastic choice for any golfer on a budget who still wants a high-performing, durable golf ball from a reputable brand.

Are cheap 2 piece golf balls any good?

Yes, many affordable 2-piece golf balls offer fantastic performance for their price. A ball like the Wilson Chaos provides reliable distance and exceptional durability that will suit the vast majority of recreational golfers. While they may lack the refined feel of more expensive options, their core performance is solid and dependable.

My Final Verdict

Choosing the right 2-piece golf ball is about honestly assessing your game and matching a ball’s design to your greatest needs. After weeks of on-course testing, it’s clear that while all these balls are great options, they excel in very different areas. One, however, rises above as the best all-around performer for the average golfer.

For the Best Overall Performance: The TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Balls are my top recommendation. It perfectly delivers on the core promise of a 2-piece ball with explosive distance and a forgiving, straight flight, but it goes a step further with the addition of a genuinely useful alignment aid and fantastic durability.

For the Best Feel: If you can’t stand the firm click of typical distance balls and crave a softer sensation, the Callaway Golf Supersoft Golf Balls are the undeniable choice. You get a tour-level soft feel and added greenside control without a major sacrifice in the distance and forgiveness you need.

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong starting with my top pick. Choose the ball that best fits your priorities and enjoy the extra yards and straighter shots on your next round.

Last update on 2026-01-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Share your love
Mark Crossfield
Mark Crossfield

Mark Crossfield is a UK-based golf coach, author, and YouTuber. He simplifies complex concepts, emphasizes understanding fundamentals, and has authored several golf books. Mark has helped golfers worldwide improve their game through his coaching, online content, and contributions to magazines and TV programs.