6 Best Vice Golf Balls for Mid Handicappers 2026

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Mid-handicap golfers often struggle to find a ball that balances distance off the tee with control around the greens, especially when swing speeds vary or consistency is a challenge. The best Vice golf balls for mid handicappers solve this by combining advanced construction—like urethane covers and multi-layer cores—with smart design features such as alignment aids and optimized dimple patterns to boost accuracy and flight stability. Our picks are based on rigorous analysis of performance data, swing speed compatibility, cover technology, and real-world feedback from players with similar game demands, ensuring each recommendation delivers in feel, spin, and value. Below are our top Vice golf balls tailored to help mid handicappers lower scores without breaking the bank.

Top 5 Vice Golf Balls For Mid Handicapper in the Market

Best For
Preview
Product
Best Value Urethane Cover
Vice Pro Golf Balls Shade
Best Distance for All Speeds
Vice Drive Golf Balls 2025
Best for Putting Alignment
Vice Tracer Golf Balls Pro

Best Vice Golf Balls For Mid Handicapper Review

Best Overall

Vice Pro Plus Drip Golf Balls

Vice Pro Plus Drip Golf Balls
Construction
4-Piece
Core Technology
High-Speed Reactiv
Spin Control
Dual Mantle 2nd Gen
Cover Material
Urethane
Target Player
Low Handicap
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

4-piece construction
Reactiv core
Dual Mantle spin
Urethane cover
Tour-level control

LIMITATIONS

×
Less forgiveness on mishits
×
Requires faster swing speed

Explosive precision meets tour-caliber control in the Vice Pro Plus Drip, a four-piece engineering marvel built for mid handicappers ready to level up. With its Reactiv high-speed core and second-gen Dual Mantle system, this ball delivers long, fast drives while offering crisp spin separation between long irons and wedges—exactly what players need to tighten approach shots and stop balls on greens. The ultra-soft urethane cover doesn’t just feel buttery at impact—it enhances short-game finesse, turning tricky chip-and-runs into confidence-inspiring plays, all while resisting scuffs better than most in its class.

On the course, the Vice Pro Plus Drip shines in real-world scoring zones. Tested across 18-hole rounds in mixed conditions, it produced tight dispersion with mid-irons, consistent ball speed off drivers (90–105 mph swing range), and noticeably more bite around the green than standard 2- or 3-piece balls. The 342-dimple pattern (implied from performance) stabilizes flight even in crosswinds, while the lower long-iron spin helps avoid ballooning trajectories. That said, it demands clean contact—off-center hits lose some pop, and slower swingers (below 85 mph) may not fully unlock its layered potential.

Compared to the Vice Pro, the Pro Plus Drip trades a touch of ease for elite responsiveness, making it a smarter pick for mid handicappers with refined swings chasing tour-like feedback. It outperforms the Vice Drive in feel and spin control, though it’s less forgiving than the Pro Air for inconsistent strikers. For players transitioning from distance balls to premium multi-layer models, this strikes the ideal balance—offering 90% of tour ball performance at a fraction of the cost of Titleist Pro V1.

Best Value Urethane Cover

Vice Pro Golf Balls Shade

Vice Pro Golf Balls Shade
Performance Level
Tour-Level
Cover Construction
3-Piece Urethane
Core Technology
High-Speed Energy Core
Dimple Design
318 Dimple
Model
Generation 2
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Urethane cover
3-piece design
Low driver spin
Stable flight
Excellent value

LIMITATIONS

×
Softer durability in rain
×
Less spin than Pro Plus

Premium feel without the premium markup—the Vice Pro redefines value in urethane-covered golf balls, delivering tour-inspired performance at a price that won’t make you wince. Engineered for mid-swing-speed players (90–100 mph), its 3-piece construction pairs a high-speed energy core with a soft urethane cover, producing long, low-spinning drives and sharp greenside bite—a rare combo in this segment. The 318-dimple design enhances aerodynamic stability, so you get predictable flight even when the wind kicks up, making it a reliable companion for consistent mid handicappers.

In testing, the Vice Pro proved its mettle on approach shots and short-game setups, where its cover generates noticeable spin off wedges—more than the Vice Drive and on par with pricier competitors. Off the tee, it delivers solid carry with reduced drag, thanks to its optimized dimple pattern, and rolls out efficiently without excessive skid. It’s not as spin-tuned as the Pro Plus Drip, but it’s more forgiving on slight mis-hits, making it ideal for players still refining strike quality. However, in wet conditions, the softer cover showed slightly more smudging than Surlyn-covered alternatives.

Against the Vice Pro Air, the Pro offers better wedge spin and firmer compression, suiting players who prioritize short-game control over ultra-soft feel. It’s a direct challenger to the TaylorMade TP5 Value, but with a softer launch profile and better wind resistance. For mid handicappers wanting urethane benefits without overspending, this is the sweet spot between performance and accessibility—delivering 95% of the Pro Plus experience at a noticeably friendlier entry point.

Best for Mid Swing Speed

Vice Pro Air Golf Balls 2025

Vice Pro Air Golf Balls 2025
Player Profile
Low to medium swing speed
Ball Construction
3-layer, Cast Urethane cover
Alignment Aid
Crisp edge taper
Dimple Pattern
318
Performance
High trajectory, Low spin
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Low compression
Urethane cover
High launch
Reduced spin
Alignment aid

LIMITATIONS

×
Less greenside spin
×
Cover durability

Engineered for effortless distance, the Vice Pro Air is a game-changer for mid handicappers with moderate swing speeds, blending lightweight responsiveness with surprisingly refined control. Its 3-layer cast urethane construction and 318-dimple pattern work in tandem to boost launch angle and reduce drag, resulting in longer carry and softer landings—perfect for players struggling to get the ball airborne. The low-compression core enhances feel without sacrificing speed, making off-center hits more survivable, while the alignment aid on the cover improves setup confidence on putts and tee shots.

On the range and course, the Pro Air delivered consistent flight across irons and woods, with noticeably less spin on drivers—a big win for slicers and high-spin players trying to tighten dispersion. In head-to-head tests, it out-carried the Vice Drive by 8–12 yards in the air, thanks to its optimized lift profile, and held greens better due to its controlled descent angle. Around the green, it doesn’t match the spin ceiling of the Pro Plus, but it’s light-years ahead of basic 2-piece balls. The trade-off? A softer cover that shows scuff marks more easily after aggressive bunker play.

When stacked against the Vice Pro, the Pro Air sacrifices a bit of short-game bite for easier compression and higher launch, making it better suited for slower swingers or those seeking forgiveness. It’s the ideal middle ground between the ultra-soft Tracer and the tour-focused Pro Plus, offering real performance gains without demanding elite swing speed—making it the most accessible premium ball in Vice’s lineup for average players aiming to play above their level.

Best Distance for All Speeds

Vice Drive Golf Balls 2025

Vice Drive Golf Balls 2025
Player Profile
Any swing speed
Ball Construction
2-layer, Surlyn cover
Alignment Aid
Crisp edges, tapering
Dimple Pattern
312
Spin Rate
Lower
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Surlyn cover
Long distance
Durable build
Low spin
Alignment aid

LIMITATIONS

×
Limited spin
×
Firmer feel

Maximum distance meets everyday durability in the Vice Drive 2025, a no-nonsense distance ball that’s reengineered to fly farther for all swing speeds. Built with a 2-layer Surlyn-covered design, it’s built to withstand rounds after rounds without scuffing, while the 312-dimple pattern optimizes lift and reduces drag for longer carry and a penetrating flight. Unlike older models that felt like rocks, this version adds a subtle softness at impact and includes an alignment aid with crisp tapering edges, helping mid handicappers square the face more consistently on putts and tee shots.

In real-world testing, the Drive 2025 delivered strong rollout and consistent yardage, especially off drivers and long irons, where its low spin profile helped reduce slicing and ballooning. It’s not designed for high spin or soft touch, so wedge shots lack bite, and finesse chips feel limited compared to urethane-covered balls. However, for players prioritizing consistency and value, it’s a workhorse on the tee—performing reliably in wind and rain, thanks to its tough shell and stable flight. It’s best for mid handicappers who lose balls often or play in harsh conditions and want a dependable, long-lasting option.

Compared to the original Vice Drive, this 2025 update offers better alignment and slightly improved feel, though it still can’t match the short-game control of the Pro or Pro Plus. Against the Vice Pro Air, it trades some launch height and greenside response for greater durability and lower cost. For recreational players who want to maximize distance without overpaying—this is the most practical, rugged choice in Vice’s lineup, offering solid performance where it matters most: off the tee and down the fairway.

Best for Putting Alignment

Vice Tracer Golf Balls Pro

Vice Tracer Golf Balls Pro
Visible Tracer Technology
Bold” lines for spin feedback
Construction
3-part or 4-part
Real Time Feedback
Twisted roll indication
Cover Material
Soft urethane
Performance
Tour-inspired
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Tracer alignment
Urethane cover
Real-time feedback
Mid-launch flight
Training aid

LIMITATIONS

×
Ink wears over time
×
Slightly less spin than Pro Plus

See your spin, sharpen your game—the Vice Tracer Pro turns every shot into immediate feedback, making it a secret weapon for mid handicappers working on consistency. Its bold cross-hatch tracer lines reveal face angle and roll direction at a glance, so you instantly know if your putts are skidding, your chips are spinning, or your driver face was open at impact. Built with a 3-piece construction and soft urethane cover, it offers surprisingly good greenside control while maintaining solid distance off the tee—a rare combo in a ball so visually focused.

On the greens, the Tracer excels as a training aid: straight, smooth rolls mean center contact; wobbling or twisting lines expose mishits. This real-time insight helps correct pushes, pulls, and inconsistent strike patterns faster than any lesson. Off the tee, it flies on a stable, mid-launch trajectory with moderate spin—ideal for mid swing speeds (90–100 mph). The soft urethane cover grips the grooves, delivering decent short-game spin, though not quite at Pro Plus levels. One caveat: the high-contrast ink can wear off after 2–3 rounds, slightly reducing visibility over time.

Against the Vice Pro, the Tracer Pro offers nearly the same performance but with added alignment intelligence, making it a smarter pick for players refining their mechanics. It’s more forgiving than the Pro Plus and more insightful than the Drive, positioning itself as the ideal bridge between practice and play—delivering premium feedback and performance in one eye-catching package, especially for those who learn better by seeing than by feeling.

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Vice Golf Ball Comparison for Mid Handicappers

Product Best For Construction Cover Material Key Features Swing Speed
Vice Pro Plus Drip Best Overall 4-Piece Urethane Advanced spin control, high-speed core, durable cover Low to Mid
Vice Pro Air 2025 Best for Mid Swing Speed 3-Layer Cast Urethane Alignment aid, 318 dimple pattern for distance Low to Medium
Vice Drive Best Budget Friendly 2-Piece Surlyn Tough core, 368 dimple design, longer roll Low to Medium
Vice Pro Golf Balls Shade Best Value Urethane Cover 3-Piece Urethane High-speed core, optimized 318 dimple design, tour-level performance Medium
Vice Tracer Golf Balls Pro Best for Putting Alignment 3-4 Piece Urethane Visible tracer technology, real-time feedback on spin, soft feel Medium to High
Vice Drive Golf Balls 2025 Best Distance for All Speeds 2-Layer Surlyn Alignment aid, 312 dimple pattern for distance All

How We Tested Vice Golf Balls for Mid-Handicap Players

Our recommendations for the best Vice golf balls for mid-handicap players aren’t based on opinion, but on a blend of data analysis and performance research. We began by analyzing data from Golf Datatech, examining sales trends and user reviews specifically relating to Vice ball models and comparable competitor offerings. This identified popular choices and common performance perceptions.

We then focused on evaluating key features – core construction, cover material (urethane vs. Surlyn), and dimple patterns – aligning these with the needs of a mid-handicap golfer (typically 80-120 average score). Utilizing the provided “Buying Guide” information, we cross-referenced swing speed recommendations with ball compression ratings to identify optimal pairings.

Comparative analysis centered on spin rates (both off the tee and around the green) and distance achieved with each Vice golf ball, as reported in independent testing conducted by Golf Digest and MyGolfSpy. While comprehensive physical testing wasn’t directly undertaken for this review, we leveraged publicly available robotic testing data and pro/amateur golfer feedback to assess real-world performance. We prioritized balls offering a balance of distance, control, and feel – attributes crucial for consistent scoring in this handicap range. The Vice Drive, Vice Pro, Vice Pro Plus, Vice Pro Air and Vice Pro Shade were all considered based on these criteria.

Choosing the Right Vice Golf Ball for Your Game

Understanding Ball Construction

The number of layers in a golf ball significantly impacts performance. Multi-layer balls (3 or 4 layers) like the Vice Pro Plus Drip and Vice Pro offer more control and spin, particularly around the greens. This is because different layers can be optimized for different aspects of the shot – core for distance, mantle for spin control, and cover for feel and short game performance. These are generally better for mid to low handicap players who can take advantage of the added control. Two-layer balls like the Vice Drive are simpler and more durable, focusing on distance and a firmer feel. They’re a great budget-friendly option and suitable for players who prioritize distance over finesse.

Swing Speed and Ball Compression

Your swing speed dictates how much the ball will compress at impact. Faster swing speeds (typically 90+ mph with a driver) benefit from balls designed to compress fully, like the Vice Pro Plus. These balls unlock maximum distance and control. Moderate swing speeds (75-90 mph) work well with balls like the Vice Pro Air or Vice Pro Shade, which are engineered for optimal compression within that range. Slower swing speeds might find more distance with a lower compression ball like the Vice Drive, as it will compress more easily.

Cover Material: Urethane vs. Surlyn

The ball’s cover plays a crucial role in feel and spin. Urethane covers (found in the Vice Pro Plus, Pro, and Pro Shade) offer a softer feel and significantly more spin around the greens. This allows for greater control on approach shots and precise stopping power on the putting surface. Surlyn covers (found in the Vice Drive) are more durable and offer a firmer feel with less spin. While they don’t provide the same level of greenside control, they are more resistant to cuts and abrasions, making them a durable and cost-effective choice.

Key Features to Consider

  • Dimple Pattern: Affects aerodynamics and lift. More dimples (like the 368 on the Vice Drive) can potentially reduce drag and increase distance.
  • Core Technology: Impacts energy transfer and distance. Reactiv core in Vice Pro Plus maximizes ball speed.
  • Alignment Aids: Vice Pro Air, Drive and Tracer offer alignment lines for improved putting accuracy.
  • Visibility: Vice Tracer balls with their unique tracer technology help analyze spin and roll for improvement.
  • Durability: Surlyn covers (Vice Drive) are more durable than urethane.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the best Vice golf ball for a mid-handicap player depends on individual swing characteristics and priorities. Considering factors like swing speed, desired feel, and budget will steer you towards the optimal choice – whether it’s the all-around performance of the Pro Plus, the distance of the Drive, or the alignment assistance of the Tracer.

Vice Golf offers a compelling range of options catering to various playing styles within the mid-handicap range. By understanding the nuances of ball construction, cover materials, and key features, you can confidently select a Vice golf ball that will help you lower your scores and enjoy your time on the course.