Today, I’m excited to share my in-depth review of the Srixon Soft Feel golf balls. These balls are popular among high-handicappers and players with moderate swing speeds, and for good reason. Let’s dive into what makes the Srixon Soft Feel a popular choice and whether it might be the right ball for your game.
Who Is It For?
The Srixon Soft Feel is ideally suited for:
- High-handicap golfers.
- Players with moderate swing speeds.
- Seniors or golfers with arthritis who benefit from a softer feel.
- Budget-conscious golfers looking for good performance at a reasonable price.
- Golfers who prioritize feel and feedback over maximum distance and spin.
Features
The Core:
At the heart of the Srixon Soft Feel is its low-compression core. This is really where these balls shine for players with moderate swing speeds. The science behind it is pretty straightforward: a lower compression core is easier to compress at impact, even if you’re not swinging the club like Bryson DeChambeau.
The Cover: Soft, Yet Durable
Srixon has employed what they call a “Soft, Thin Cover” made from an ionomer blend. This cover works in tandem with the core to deliver that signature soft feel without sacrificing too much durability. I was pleasantly surprised by how well these balls held up over multiple rounds. While they may not last as long as some premium tour balls, they certainly outperform their price point in terms of longevity.
Dimple Design:
Srixon soft ball has 338 dimple pattern. Srixon claims this design helps reduce drag and increase lift, and I have to say, I noticed the difference. My shots seemed to hang in the air a bit longer, which not only looks impressive but can add those precious extra yards we’re all after.
Performance on the Course
Tee Box:
Off the tee, the Srixon Soft Feel performs admirably for its target audience. If you’re a high-handicapper or have a moderate swing speed, you’ll likely see good distance and a fairly straight ball flight. The ball doesn’t offer the same level of workability as a tour-level ball, but for most recreational golfers, this isn’t a significant drawback.
Fairway and Rough:
From the fairway, I found the Soft Feel to be consistent and predictable. It doesn’t balloon up on long iron shots, which is a common issue with some other soft balls. When hitting out of the rough, the ball’s softness actually seemed to help a bit, as it felt like it was easier to get clean contact.
Around the Green:
This is where the Srixon Soft Feel really shines. The soft cover provides excellent feedback on chips and pitch shots. While it doesn’t offer the same level of spin as a urethane-covered tour ball, it gives plenty of control for the average golfer. I felt confident hitting a variety of short game shots, from bump-and-runs to higher, softer pitches.
On the Green:
Putting with the Soft Feel is a pleasure. The ball feels great off the putter face and rolls true. The softness of the ball seems to help with distance control, especially on longer putts.
Performance in Different Weather Conditions
I made sure to test the Srixon Soft Feel in various weather conditions to give you a comprehensive review.
In windy conditions, the ball held its line reasonably well. Its dimple pattern seems to help it cut through the wind, though extremely high winds can affect it more than some firmer balls.
On wet days, the ball performed admirably. The cover provides decent grip, even when the grass is damp. However, as with most balls, you’ll see a reduction in spin on very wet days.
In colder weather, the Soft Feel maintains its softness better than some competitors. This is a big plus if you play year-round in variable climates.
Pros:
- Excellent soft feel promotes confidence in all areas of the game.
- Good distance for moderate swing speeds thanks to the low-compression core.
- Performs well in the short game, especially for its price point.
- Available in bright colors for improved visibility.
- Decent durability for a soft ball.
- Affordable price point.
Cons:
- May not provide enough distance for high-swing-speed players.
- Limited spin control compared to premium tour balls.
- Not the best choice for low-handicap players who need more workability.
How It Compares to Other Options
When comparing the Srixon Soft Feel to other golf balls for high handicappers, a few things stand out. It’s softer than many competitors, which can be a big plus for players who struggle with confidence or have slower swing speeds. However, it doesn’t sacrifice too much in terms of distance or durability to achieve this softness.
Compared to premium tour balls, the Soft Feel obviously lacks some of the advanced features and performance characteristics. But for its intended audience, it provides an excellent balance of performance and value.
Against other balls in its category, like the Callaway Supersoft or the Titleist TruFeel, the Srixon Soft Feel holds its own. It offers comparable distance and feel, with the added benefit of bright color options and what I found to be slightly better durability.
Final Thoughts:
The Srixon Soft Feel lives up to its name, offering a plush feel that can really boost your confidence on the course. It’s a ball that seems to say, “Don’t worry, I’ve got your back,” every time you address it.
Is it the longest ball out there? No. Will it spin like a tour ball around the greens? Also no. But for its intended audience – high-handicappers, seniors, and players with moderate swing speeds – it offers an excellent blend of performance, feel, and value.
