7 Best Golf Balls for Long Drives 2026

Blistering speed meets sky-high flight in the TaylorMade Distance+ — a ball that doesn’t just promise yardage, it delivers it with authority. At the heart of its performance lies the REACT Speed Core, engineered to explode off the clubface with high-velocity energy transfer, while the Extended Flight Dimple Pattern reshapes aerodynamics to fight wind and extend carry. This is a ball built for golfers who crave longer drives without sacrificing feel, especially those with moderate swing speeds seeking consistency and confidence from tee to green.

On the course, the Distance+ shines brightest when launched with a driver or long iron, where its mid-launch trajectory and low-to-mid spin profile keep shots soaring. In real-world testing, we saw measurable gains in ball speed and hang time compared to standard distance balls, thanks to the ionomer cover and two-layer design that balances durability with responsive feedback. While it doesn’t offer the short-game spin of premium tour balls, it holds its own on chips and putts — particularly with the Plus Alignment Aid, which adds a touch of precision often missing in budget-friendly models. However, players with very high swing speeds may notice a slight dip in control under windy conditions.

Positioned between entry-level and elite performance, the TaylorMade Distance+ outshines basic distance balls like the Vice Drive in aerodynamic efficiency and feel, while offering a more accessible experience than the Bridgestone e9. It’s ideal for recreational golfers and beginners who want tournament-grade engineering without the premium price tag. Compared to the Bridgestone e9, it trades a bit of raw power for a softer sensation and easier alignment — making it a smarter pick for players prioritizing playability and consistency over extreme launch metrics.

The Bridgestone e9 Long Drive isn’t just designed for distance — it’s forged by it, co-created with World Long Drive athletes to dominate the sky with every swing. At its core is the Extreme Gradational Core, a dual-zone powerhouse that combines a soft inner layer for energy retention and a fast outer shell for explosive ball speed. Paired with a seamless 330-dimple pattern, this ball slices through air with surgical precision, reducing drag and driver spin to maximize carry — making it a true contender for the title of best overall long-drive ball.

In testing, the e9 proved its mettle across multiple launch conditions, delivering consistent, low-spin trajectories that stayed stable even in crosswinds. The soft inner core helped maintain ball speed on off-center hits, a boon for golfers with inconsistent swings, while the reduced spin off the driver encouraged longer roll and tighter dispersion. Around the greens, it behaves predictably — not as spin-friendly as multi-layer tour balls, but sufficient for casual play. Where it stumbles slightly is in feel; the ionomer cover, while durable, delivers a firmer sensation than softer competitors like the Callaway Supersoft.

When stacked against the TaylorMade Distance+, the e9 pulls ahead in raw distance and aerodynamic refinement, though it lacks the alignment aid that aids shot setup. Compared to the Pss Mssile, it offers similar low-spin performance but with more credible branding and tour validation. It’s best suited for serious distance seekers — from weekend warriors to long-drive aspirants — who want proven engineering and elite-level performance without stepping into tour-ball complexity. It outperforms the NJF XLD in consistency and the Vice Drive in flight stability, making it a top-tier pick where power and precision intersect.

Don’t let the wallet-friendly tag fool you — the Vice Drive (2025) packs a serious punch for golfers chasing every extra yard. With a 312-dimple pattern engineered to lower spin and boost lift, this ball soars with a clean, penetrating trajectory that stays true even in mild wind. The 2-layer Surlyn cover construction delivers surprising durability while maintaining a lightweight feel, making it a stealthy favorite among players who want maximum distance without breaking the bank.

On the range, the Vice Drive consistently delivered high-launch, low-spin drives that translated into measurable yardage gains, especially for swing speeds under 100 mph. The ball’s simplicity works in its favor — no frills, no over-engineering — just a straightforward flight path that rewards clean contact. It holds up well on fairway woods and long irons, though short-game finesse is limited by the firm cover and minimal spin response. Still, for beginners and mid-handicappers, the crisp alignment aid adds a layer of precision that elevates tee shots and even improves putting confidence.

Against the TaylorMade Distance+, the Vice Drive matches it in flight performance but falls short in feel and brand trust. It doesn’t have the REACT Speed Core’s pop or the Bridgestone e9’s pro pedigree, but it offers 90% of the distance at a fraction of the cost. It’s the go-to for budget-conscious players who refuse to compromise on flight efficiency. While the NJF XLD offers a softer compression, the Vice Drive wins in overall balance of distance, durability, and value — making it a standout where affordability meets performance.

The Pss Mssile Distance Golf Balls aren’t just loud in color — they’re explosive in performance, built for golfers who want raw power and ultra-low spin in a no-nonsense package. With a 4-piece construction and high-compression core, these balls are engineered for maximum energy transfer, launching with higher velocity and a flatter trajectory that cuts through wind like a missile. The 352-dimple pattern and hard Surlyn cover enhance aerodynamic stability, reducing drag and boosting lift — making this one of the straightest-flying distance balls on the market.

In real-world use, the Pss Mssile excels off the tee, where its low-spin design minimizes slice and hook, delivering long, laser-straight drives even on mis-hits. The 4-layer build gives it an edge in feel over most 2-piece balls, offering surprising feedback on approach shots. However, the high compression means it’s less forgiving for slower swing speeds, and the firm cover limits spin around the green — a trade-off for those prioritizing distance and accuracy over finesse. It’s also worth noting: the bold yellow hue is a double-edged sword — highly visible, but not for everyone.

Compared to the Bridgestone e9, it matches or exceeds in raw distance and spin reduction, though it lacks the same tour-level validation. Against the TaylorMade Distance+, it offers more layers and a flatter flight, but at a higher cost. It’s ideal for strong hitters and power-focused players who want tour-like construction without the tour price. While pricier than the Vice Drive, it delivers superior flight characteristics and construction depth, making it a top pick for low-spin dominance and long-drive dominance.

The Callaway Supersoft (2025) redefines what a distance ball can feel like — soft, springy, and surprisingly fast, all in one sleek package. At its core is the HyperElastic SoftFast Core, a game-changer that generates high ball speed without hardness, delivering a plush sensation on every strike. The hybrid cover enhances durability while allowing for exceptional short-game control, bridging the gap between distance and feel like few others in this category.

On the course, the Supersoft shines for players who want long drives and soft landings — its low-compression design promotes a high launch with minimal spin off the driver, resulting in extended carry and gentle drop angles. It’s particularly effective for slower swing speeds, where the soft core maximizes energy transfer. Around the greens, it outperforms most distance balls with noticeable spin and feedback, making it versatile for chipping and putting. However, in strong winds, the high launch can lead to ballooning — a minor drawback for players in exposed courses.

When compared to the NJF XLD, the Supersoft offers a softer feel and better short-game response, though it doesn’t quite match in raw distance. Against the TaylorMade Distance+, it trades a bit of aerodynamic edge for superior touch and control. It’s the best choice for golfers who refuse to sacrifice feel for yardage — especially seniors, juniors, or players with slower swings. While it doesn’t have the low-spin pedigree of the Pss Mssile, it delivers the best balance of softness, distance, and playability, making it a top-tier pick for well-rounded performance.

The NJF Golf XLD is a sleeper hit — an under-the-radar ball that delivers explosive distance and a surprisingly soft touch for its class. Built around a 90-compression Ultra-Power Core, it’s tuned for high launch and low spin, helping golfers get the ball airborne quickly and keep it there. The armor-grade Surlyn cover not only resists cuts but also enhances aerodynamics, contributing to a stable, wind-resistant flight that rewards clean contact with serious yardage.

In testing, the XLD consistently produced long, straight drives with a satisfying pop off the clubface. The 2-piece design keeps things simple, but the engineering isn’t basic — the dimple pattern and core synergy deliver measurable gains in carry and roll, especially for mid-to-slow swing speeds. The soft compression makes it forgiving on mishits, and the feel around the green is surprisingly decent for a distance ball. That said, advanced players may find it lacks the spin finesse of multi-layer models, and the lack of a strong brand presence might deter some buyers.

Stacked against the Vice Drive, the XLD offers a softer compression and higher launch, making it better suited for players seeking comfort and skyward trajectory. Compared to the Eagle Ace, it delivers more distance and a plusher feel, though with less spin control on wedges. It’s ideal for beginners, seniors, and casual players who want maximum forgiveness and consistent performance without overspending. While it doesn’t have the flash of the Pss Mssile or the pedigree of Bridgestone, it outperforms many in its price range with balanced power and softness.

The Eagle Ace Drive (2024) is a dark horse in the distance game — a value-packed performer that blends 2-layer simplicity with surprising spin control. What sets it apart is the Dupont Lithium Surlyn cover, which not only resists cuts like armor but also generates more backspin around the greens than most distance balls. Paired with an aerodynamic dimple design, it delivers long, lift-optimized flights while maintaining enough bite for short-game precision — a rare combo in this segment.

On the course, the Eagle Ace impresses with its balanced performance: it launches high off the tee with low spin, yet responds well to wedge shots thanks to its enhanced cover. The revamped alignment guide is sharp and intuitive, aiding setup on both drives and putts. It’s particularly effective for moderate swing speed players who want distance without losing touch around the greens. However, the ball doesn’t quite match the raw speed of the Bridgestone e9 or the softness of the Callaway Supersoft — it’s a middle ground, not a specialist.

Compared to the Vice Drive, the Eagle Ace offers better spin control and durability, though at a slightly higher price. Against the NJF XLD, it trades a bit of softness for more greenside bite. It’s the best pick for skilled beginners and mid-handicappers who want a little of everything — distance, durability, and short-game responsiveness. While it doesn’t dominate in any single category, it delivers exceptional value where spin and resilience meet, outshining many budget balls in overall versatility.