How far do foam golf balls go is always a big question when you’re new in the world of golf. These balls are usually an ideal indoor practice tool especially when you don’t have a net. With these practice balls, you can play almost anywhere in any weather condition.
But, how far do the practice golf balls go? On average, foam golf balls can go between 50 to 100 yards while hitting with a driver. But this distance may decrease when you hit the ball with an iron or wedge.
However, the distance of a foam practice ball will vary depending on multiple factors. So, let’s clarify how far do foam golf balls go in detail. Stay with us till the end of this article.
How Far Do Foam Golf Balls Go?
Designed for practice, foam golf balls are usually more lightweight and softer than traditional golf balls. They can hardly fly a longer distance due to their extra softness.
But if you hit a foam ball properly, it can still fly a reasonable distance. The distance will also depend on your swing speed and the club you’re using.
However, the following chart illustrates the maximum distance of a foam ball depending on clubs:
| Type of Club | Distance of a Foam Ball |
| Driver | 50-100 yards |
| Irons (7-iron) | 30-70 yards |
| Wedges | 20-50 yards |
Now, the table below shows the distance of foam golf balls depending on swing speeds:
| Type of swing | Speed | Distance of a Foam Ball |
| Fast Swing Speed | 80+ mph | 120+ yards |
| Medium Swing Speed | 60-80 mph | 80-120 yards |
| Slow Swing Speed | Less than 60 mph | 50-80 yards |
What Makes Foam Golf Balls Different from Traditional Golf Balls?
There are numerous things that make foam golf balls different from traditional or regular golf balls. They will include distance, durability, spin rate, and ball flight. Let’s discuss these factors in detail:
Shorter Distance
The first thing that comes to our mind while comparing two different golf balls is their distance. So, if we talk about distance, regular golf balls have a longer distance than foam golf balls. It is because regular golf balls are usually built to carry more beatings than foam balls.
Higher Durability
When it comes to durability, foam golf balls are more durable than traditional golf balls. It is because these balls have cores made with foam or rubber and are designed with a thicker outer shell. So, even your premium golf ball won’t have similar durability as a foam golf ball.
Less Spin Rate
No need to say that regular golf balls have more consistent spin rate than foam golf balls. These balls are designed with a harder outer shell and dimples throughout their surface. This special construction influences the airflow around the ball and helps produce more spin rate than foam golf balls.
Shorter Ball Flight
As we mentioned earlier, foam golf balls offer lower spin rate than usual. Due to lower spin rate, they also have slower and shorter ball flight than regular golf balls.
On the contrary, foam golf balls have minimal spin rate and lack of dimples. So, these balls typically offer a lower and flatter flight path.
How Far Do Foam Golf Balls Go While Comparing with Plastic Golf Balls?
In short, foam golf balls are intended to go farther than plastic balls. They can fly around 100 yards while hitted with a driver off the tee. On the contrary, a plastic golf ball usually has a maximum distance of 40 yards while hitting with the same driver and tee.
Similarly, when it comes to an iron, foam golf balls will travel 40 to 50 yards. Hence, a plastic one can, on average, only go 20 yards. So, it’s clear that foam golf balls typically have more distance than plastic golf balls.
Read More: Best golf balls for senior ladies in 2024
FAQs
Is practicing with foam golf balls good?
Yes, it is good to practice golf with foam golf balls. Using these balls is a great way to improve your technique despite flying shorter distances.
What things will affect the distance of a foam golf ball?
There are multiple factors that can affect the distance of foam golf balls. Most importantly swing speed, weather condition, and angle of attack will affect the distance.
The End
To sum up, how far do foam golf balls go won’t be a hassle if you use a quality product from a reputable brand. Moreover, you can gain the maximum distance with enough power and spin in the shots.
But you shouldn’t expect the spin and flight characteristics in a foam golf ball. They are only the cheapest way to practice golf in a small place without damaging anything. Therefore, they will help enrich your swing technique.
Happy practicing golf!