Hey there, golf-savvy parents! Time to get the lowdown on those golf balls for your junior players. Don’t worry, we’ll break it down into simple steps to ensure your little golfers hit the green with the right gear!
- Size Matters: Let’s debunk a common myth – no more random clearance rack balls for your mini golfers! Just like clubs, they need a ball that suits their game. Before we dive in, here are some terms to know: swing speed (how fast the club head meets the ball), spin (how it moves in the air), compression (firmness of the ball), and trajectory (flight characteristics). Got it? Let’s roll!
- Beginner Level Balls: For young guns aged 5-12, we’re all about compression ratings. We want the ball to launch high and straight, not fretting about distance just yet. So, pick a compression rating between 45 and 70 based on their swing speed. Here’s a nifty golf chart with average junior play swing speeds. Of course some kids will be fast or slower as they develop but this gives you a decent starting place.
Age 5 Swing Speed: 51 mph
Age 6 Swing Speed: 58 mph
Age 7 Swing Speed: 62 mph
Age 8 Swing Speed: 68 mph
Age 9 Swing Speed: 73 mph
Age 10 Swing Speed: 76 mph
Age 11 Swing Speed: 82 mph
Age 12 Swing Speed: 86 mph
Broadly speaking, children with swing speeds under 70 mph should be playing a ball with a compression of 45, and children with swing speeds between 71 mph and 90 mph should be using a ball with a compression rating of 62. - Low Compression, High Fun: Now that we know their swing speed, it’s time to hunt for balls with the right compression. Remember, lower compression is for lower swing speeds. Keep an eye out for balls that fit the bill, and you’ll have a little golf whiz-kid in the making!
- Test and Swing: Don’t sweat it if you’re unsure. Grab a few sleeves of different brands and compression levels. Let your young golfer take a swing with each and find their favorite match. The right ball can work wonders, making their golfing journey an absolute joy!
- The Tiny Champs: For the tiniest golfers aged 5 and below, let them have a blast with anything round they can hit! Foam practice balls, Wiffle balls, bouncy balls, tennis balls – it’s all fair game. Let them play and experiment with those giggles and silly sounds!
- Serious Competition Level: If your junior pro is eyeing the big leagues, a tour-level ball might be on their radar. Don’t guess here! Get them professionally fitted to find the optimal ball based on real-world numbers. They deserve to hit the perfect match, just like the pros!
So there you have it, golf parent superheroes! Picking the right ball for your junior golfer doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Match their swing speed with the perfect compression, and they’ll be teeing off like champs! Happy golfing, and watch out for those future golf legends on the green!