Expert Review: TaylorMade Distance Plus Golf Balls


All photos courtesy of Jorge Arteta
About this Review: This review is my honest opinion of the golf ball, which I purchased with my own money in August of 2022.
My take
The TaylorMade Distance Plus Golf Ball is a budget-friendly ball made to go a long way with its soft REACT speed core engineering to produce longer ball flights. At a 77 compression, it is not an exceptionally soft ball, but it’s not a rock, either. As a result, this ball will be good for new or higher handicappers that want distance without paying too much.
About the golf ball I own
- Model: 2022 TaylorMade Distance +
- Color: White
About me
- Average score: 78
- Handicap: 6
- Experience: 19
- Right/Left-handed: Right-handed
- Typical shot shape: Straight to fade
- Typical trajectory: Mid-flight
- Club swing speed: 102 with a driver
Test conditions
- When I bought this: August 2022
- Days tested: One week
- Where I’ve used it: Orlando, FL, golf courses
- Weather and wind conditions: Sunny, humid, and wet conditions
- Turf conditions: Damp and arid
- Green speeds: About medium to fast speeds
How it performs
What I was looking for
I was looking for an inexpensive ball that would be easy on the wallet, provide high handicappers extra distance, and a lower compression ball for a soft feel and easy to hit. Additionally, I wanted a ball that would last more than 2-3 rounds.
Why I chose this golf ball
I chose this ball over the Callaway Warbird based on the price and the feel of the ball. While the ball was a bit firmer, it had a softer feel. In addition, the two-piece ionomer cover has been improved to prevent scuffing and had a pretty good sound around the greens which was excellent feedback on chip shots. This ball provides distance and fast ball speed.
What I love about it
- Distance: TaylorMade has two technology enhancements. The REACT speed core and 342 dimple pattern help minimize spin and high ball speeds. It all results in a ball that goes pretty far.
- Durability: The two-piece ionomer cover helps the ball to keep from scuffing in the bunker or cart paths. It seems pretty durable for about 2-3 rounds.
- Color: I’m not a big fan of the matte finish. However, I truly like the glossy white look of this ball. It just looks and feels like a traditional golf ball, and it’s easier to see compared to the matte finish, in my opinion. The design was minimal and not too busy.
- Other: The alignment aid on the ball is simple and easy to use. Although I don’t use alignment aids for putting, these are useful.
Issues I’ve encountered
- Feel: The ball at 77 compression is soft but feels like a two-piece hardball. However, I do like the “clicky” sound it makes on wedge shots and putting. It is just enough feedback to know if I hit the ball correctly and cleanly.
- Green Spin: This is a two-piece ball. It’s not made to spin on the green. However, the ball proves better with a bump-and-run 8-iron technique rather than a 56-degree wedge shot around the greens. It is easy to control with an 8-iron. When I use the 56-degree wedge, it rolls more than I’m used to on chip shots.
Best shot with this golf ball
There was one memorable shot with this golf ball. I was on a par 4 with bunkers protecting the green. My approach shot was about 155 yards, and I didn’t have much room as the flag was just past the bunker’s edge. I was in the rough, and it looked like the ball was up on the grass. I questioned the ball getting up in the air. When I saw that it could be a flyer, I had to adjust my contact to keep the ball lower if I could. Wouldn’t you know, I swung and just watched the ball go high in the air, get to the green, land past the hole, and hit the cart path, only to see it bounce off a tree and land 8 feet from the flag. I know it was lucky; yes, I do. I still laughed when I finished my one putt for par, though. (smile)
Value for the money vs. other options
I think this is a good return on investment for a high handicapper's game or anyone who likes a two-piece ball and feel. I like the Srixon Distance golf ball, and the Bridgestone E12 is my favorite. While the TaylorMade is a cheaper option than the Srixon and Bridgestone, it will hold its own against the others in this category.
Final verdict
The TaylorMade Distance + Golf Ball is designed to offer the high handicapper speed, distance, and speed. It’s a friendly alignment aid and budget-friendly option that provides length. It’s worth taking a look. Enjoy the round.