Having tried a variety of golf balls over the years, I’m always on the lookout for one that delivers both a great feel and reliable performance. From the very first swing, the Duo Soft+ impressed me with its remarkably soft touch, especially around the greens. Let’s discuss the features, performance and pros and cons of this Wilson Staff Duo Soft+ Golf Balls.
Who Is It For?
The Wilson Staff Duo Soft+ is ideally suited for:
- Senior golfers with very slow swing speeds (typically under 85 mph with the driver).
- Players who prioritize feel, especially in the short game.
- Golfers looking for maximum distance help off the tee.
- Budget-conscious players seeking good performance at a lower price point.
- Those who prefer a softer feel in all aspects of their game.
Pros:
- Excellent distance for very slow swing speeds.
- Incredibly soft feel, especially appreciated in the short game.
- High launch characteristics help get the ball airborne.
- Affordable price point.
- Good durability for a soft ball.
Cons:
- May feel too soft for some players, especially those with higher swing speeds.
- Limited spin and control on approach shots compared to higher-compression balls.
- Not ideal for players seeking maximum greenside spin.
Performance Characteristics
Off the Tee:
The Wilson Staff Duo Soft+ truly shines when it comes to distance off the tee, especially for seniors with slower swing speeds. The ultra-low compression core allows for easy compression, even with reduced swing speeds, helping to maximize distance. The ball tends to launch high and carry well, which can be a significant advantage for golfers who struggle to get the ball airborne.
Approach Shots:
On approach shots, the Duo Soft+ performs admirably for its price point. The soft feel provides good feedback, allowing golfers to gauge their shots effectively. However, it’s worth noting that due to its low compression, it may not offer as much spin control on approach shots as some higher-compression alternatives.
Around the Green:
The ultra-soft feel of the Duo Soft+ is particularly noticeable in the short game. For chips and pitches, the ball offers a pleasant, soft feel off the clubface. While it may not provide the same level of spin as tour-level balls, it still offers adequate control for most senior golfers.
Putting:
On the greens, the Duo Soft+ really comes into its own. The soft feel is a significant advantage when putting, offering excellent feedback and helping with distance control. Many seniors will appreciate the soft touch, especially on longer putts where feel is crucial.
Durability:
Despite its soft nature, the Duo Soft+ holds up reasonably well in terms of durability. While it may scuff more easily than harder balls, it generally maintains its performance characteristics for a full round or more. This durability, combined with its affordable price point, makes it an excellent value proposition for senior golfers.
Comparison to Other Golf Balls for Seniors:
When compared to other golf balls marketed towards seniors, the Wilson Staff Duo Soft+ stands out for its ultra-low compression. While many “soft” balls have compression ratings in the 50-70 range, the Duo Soft+’s 35 compression is exceptionally low.
This makes it an excellent option for seniors with very slow swing speeds who struggle to compress harder balls. However, seniors with moderate swing speeds might find other options provide a better balance of distance and control.
Key Features
Ultra-Low Compression Core:
The standout feature of the Wilson Staff Duo Soft+ is its incredibly low compression core. With a compression rating of just 35, it’s one of the softest balls on the market. This ultra-low compression is designed to help golfers with slower swing speeds, particularly seniors, achieve maximum distance and a soft feel.
302 Seamless Dimple Pattern:
The Duo Soft+ features a 302 seamless dimple pattern. This design helps promote a stable and consistent ball flight, which can be particularly beneficial for senior golfers who may struggle with maintaining a steady trajectory.
Velociticor Technology:
Wilson has incorporated their proprietary Velociticor technology into the core of the Duo Soft+. This technology is aimed at maintaining ball speeds, even with the ultra-soft compression, to help ensure that distance isn’t sacrificed for feel.
For the High-Handicapper:
For high-handicap seniors, the Duo Soft+ offers several advantages. The easy compression helps maximize distance, even with slower swing speeds. The soft feel can boost confidence, especially in the short game. The affordable price point also means less stress about losing balls, which can help newer players relax and enjoy their rounds more.
For the Feel Player:
Golfers who prioritize feel will likely appreciate the Duo Soft+. Its ultra-low compression provides a very soft feel on all shots, from drives to putts. This can be particularly beneficial for seniors who may have developed hand or joint issues and find firmer balls uncomfortable.
Conclusion:
The Wilson Staff Duo Soft+ is a well-designed golf ball that caters specifically to the needs of many golfers. Its ultra-low compression core provides excellent distance for slower swing speeds, while its soft feel offers benefits in the short game and on the greens.
