Let’s face it: losing a golf ball is never fun, especially when it’s an expensive one. But what if you could have a ball that offers decent distance, a soft feel, and doesn’t make you wince every time it disappears into the woods? The TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft golf ball offers precisely that—a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on performance. Join us as we explore the features, benefits, and drawbacks of the TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft, compare it to other popular golf balls in its category, and help you decide if it’s the right choice to improve your game and your wallet’s happiness.
Key Takeaways
- The Noodle Long & Soft delivers impressive distance and a soft feel, especially for slower swing speeds. This makes them a great choice for high handicappers and beginners looking for more comfortable contact.
- These golf balls are a budget-friendly option without sacrificing key performance features. They offer excellent value for players who prioritize distance and accuracy over short-game spin.
- The Noodle Long & Soft can help build confidence and improve your game. The combination of distance, comfortable feel, and affordability allows you to play more freely and focus on developing your skills.
What are TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft Golf Balls?
The TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft golf balls aim to give golfers the best of both worlds: impressive distance and a soft feel. They’re designed with slower swing speeds in mind, making them a solid option for high handicappers and recreational players who prioritize distance and comfort. Think of them as a helpful tool for those still developing their swing and looking for more forgiveness on the course.
Key Features and Specs
Low Compression Core (34 Compression Rating)
The secret sauce of the Noodle Long & Soft lies in its low compression core. With a 34 compression rating, the core compresses easily at impact. This translates to a noticeable difference in feel—the ball feels softer off the clubface—and helps generate more distance, especially for golfers with slower swing speeds. For a deeper dive into compression ratings and their impact on performance, check out this article on Golf Distillery.
Two-Piece Construction
Built with a simple yet effective two-piece construction, these golf balls prioritize durability and consistent performance. The combination of a Surlyn cover and a solid core makes for a reliable ball that can withstand regular play without sacrificing performance. MyGolfSpy’s Ball Lab offers a detailed breakdown of the Noodle Long & Soft’s construction and materials.
Soft Ionomer Cover
The soft ionomer cover further enhances the comfortable feel of the Noodle Long & Soft. This cover material contributes to the ball’s softness without compromising its ability to generate spin and control around the greens—a feature many golfers appreciate. This review from Golf Info Guide explores the benefits of ionomer covers in more detail.
342 Aerodynamic Dimple Design
The 342 dimples on the Noodle Long & Soft aren’t just for show. This aerodynamic dimple pattern is designed to promote a straighter ball flight. While it might not drastically increase distance, it does contribute to a more predictable and controlled trajectory. Learn more about the impact of dimple patterns on ball flight at Practical Golf.
Who Should Use Noodle Long & Soft?
If you’re wondering whether TaylorMade’s Noodle Long & Soft golf balls suit your game, this section will help you decide. These balls are designed with a specific golfer in mind, and understanding their strengths can inform your choice.
High-Handicap Golfers
Higher-handicap golfers often prioritize distance and affordability. The Noodle Long & Soft delivers on both. Its low-compression core helps generate impressive distance, even with slower swing speeds common among higher-handicap players. The affordable price also makes losing a ball less painful than with premium options. Swing Yard named it the best golf ball for high handicappers in 2024, highlighting these advantages.
Players with Slower Swing Speeds
Golfers with slower swing speeds often struggle to compress firmer golf balls, sacrificing distance and feel. The Noodle Long & Soft’s low-compression core (34 compression rating) is designed for easier compression, helping slower swingers maximize their distance. Golf Guy explains how this low compression makes them perfect for this group.
Budget-Conscious Golfers
Golf can be expensive. If you’re looking to save money without sacrificing performance, Noodle golf balls offer excellent value. Golflink discusses the Noodle’s cost-effectiveness, noting the trade-off in greenside feel for more distance. They’re a great option for golfers who want to play more rounds without overspending.
Beginners Seeking Soft Feel
Starting golf can be intimidating. A soft-feeling ball makes learning more enjoyable. The Noodle Long & Soft provides that comfortable impact feel, boosting beginners’ confidence. TaylorMade’s Amazon listing mentions that low-compression balls like these are ideal for players with slow to mid swing speeds, common among new golfers. This softer feel helps beginners develop a consistent swing and enjoy the game.
Performance: Distance, Feel, and Playability
This section covers the on-course performance of the TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft, focusing on distance, feel, and playability. Let’s explore how these golf balls perform from tee to green.
Distance Off the Tee
The Noodle Long & Soft delivers impressive distance, especially for golfers with slower swing speeds. Its low compression core (34 compression rating) is key. Golf Guy explains how low compression balls are easier to compress, resulting in more distance for those with moderate swing speeds. This makes them a solid option for high-handicap players and beginners looking to maximize their drives.
Soft Feel on Impact
A standout feature of the Noodle Long & Soft is its exceptionally soft feel. The combination of the low compression core and soft ionomer cover creates a noticeable difference at impact. The TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft product page on Amazon highlights the 342 aerodynamic dimples and the ultra-soft core, which contribute to a longer carry and a pleasant feel. This soft feel can boost confidence and make the game more enjoyable, especially for players who dislike harsh impacts.
Greenside Control and Accuracy
While distance is important, control around the green is essential for a lower score. The Noodle Long & Soft offers decent greenside control due to its low compression. Golf Span mentions how this low compression adds consistency to the long game, which can lead to better approach shots and more predictable ball flight. However, some golfers may find it lacks the spin for more aggressive short game shots.
Performance in Different Weather
The Noodle Long & Soft performs well in various weather conditions. An Out of Bounds Golf review noted the advantage of using it in wet conditions, highlighting the peace of mind that comes with not worrying about losing an expensive ball. While not designed for extreme weather, its affordability makes it a practical choice for everyday play, rain or shine.
Noodle Long & Soft vs. Other Budget Golf Balls
So, how does the Noodle Long & Soft stack up against other budget-friendly golf balls? Let’s break it down:
Distance Comparison
The Noodle Long & Soft lives up to its name, offering impressive distance, especially for golfers with slower swing speeds. Its low compression core (34 compression rating) makes it easy to compress, resulting in good ball speed and carry. While it might not outperform premium golf balls in terms of pure distance, it’s definitely competitive within its price range. This low compression makes it ideal for players who don’t generate a ton of clubhead speed.
Feel and Softness
One of the standout features of the Noodle Long & Soft is its soft feel. The two-piece construction and soft ionomer cover contribute to a pleasant sensation at impact. This softness can be particularly beneficial for higher-handicap players and beginners who often struggle with clean contact. The aerodynamic dimples also contribute to a longer carry.
Price Point Analysis
Price is a major factor for many golfers, and the Noodle Long & Soft excels in this area. You can typically find these balls for around $15-$20 per pack (15-24 balls), making them significantly more affordable than premium options. This makes them a great value for golfers who don’t want to break the bank.
Durability
While the Noodle Long & Soft might not be the most durable ball on the market, it holds up reasonably well for its price point. Its affordability is appreciated when playing in conditions where losing a ball is more likely. This makes it a good choice for casual rounds or practice sessions where durability isn’t the primary concern.
Pros and Cons of Noodle Long & Soft
Choosing the right golf ball can significantly impact your game. Let’s weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft to see if it’s a good fit.
Advantages
The Noodle Long & Soft lives up to its name with a low compression core (rated at 34). This design makes it incredibly soft and easy to compress, a benefit for golfers with slower swing speeds. This can mean more distance off the tee, a real confidence builder. The ball’s 342 aerodynamic dimples promote a straighter ball flight, helping you find the fairway more often. Plus, the Noodle Long & Soft’s affordable price makes losing a ball less painful, a common occurrence for high-handicap golfers. It’s often considered among the best golf balls for high handicappers.
Drawbacks
While the Noodle Long & Soft offers several advantages, it’s important to understand its limitations. The soft design, while great for compression, can sometimes reduce feel around the greens. This can make delicate short game shots more challenging. Also, while designed for distance, it may not outperform premium balls in that category. This is a common trade-off with budget-friendly balls, as manufacturers balance affordability and softness with maximum distance. This review offers more insights into budget versus premium golf balls.
What Golfers Say: Reviews
So, what are golfers saying about the TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft? A quick look at online reviews paints a pretty clear picture.
Positive Experiences
Many golfers praise the Noodle Long & Soft for its exceptional value. Recreational players especially appreciate the low price, making losing a ball in the woods (or the water) a little less painful. The soft feel is another frequently cited benefit, with reviewers noting a comfortable impact and less stress on their hands. One review documented a 12-round test, finding the Noodle surprisingly long and straight, boosting fairway hits to 60% with an average distance of 246 yards.
Common Criticisms
While the Noodle Long & Soft earns high marks for value and feel, some golfers point out its limitations. High-swing-speed players might find the ball’s distance doesn’t quite match premium options, though many find it adequate given the price. The soft design, while contributing to a pleasant feel, can also mean less feedback around the greens, making delicate short game shots a bit more challenging. This article discusses some of the trade-offs.
Overall Value
The consensus? The TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft golf balls offer exceptional value. They’re a budget-friendly option that receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, particularly from high-handicap golfers who prioritize distance and accuracy over spin and greenside feel. If you’re a budget-minded golfer, especially a high-handicapper, the Noodle Long and Soft could be a great choice for your game.
Where to Buy & Pricing
Finding TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft golf balls is easy, whether you prefer shopping online or at a brick-and-mortar store. Knowing your options helps you find the best deals.
Online Retailers
Major online retailers like Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods offer the convenience of buying Noodle Long & Softs from your couch. You can often find competitive pricing and bulk discounts, especially if you’re stocking up for the season. Reading customer reviews on these sites can also give you a better understanding of other golfers’ experiences with the ball.
Sporting Goods Stores
Big box stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Academy Sports + Outdoors, and even some larger Walmart locations usually carry TaylorMade Noodle golf balls. Visiting a physical store lets you see and feel the balls before you buy them, which is helpful for comparing the Noodle Long & Soft with other balls in a similar price range.
Golf Pro Shops
Your local golf course pro shop is another convenient place to purchase Noodle Long & Softs. This supports your local course and allows you to pick up a dozen before your round. You can also chat with the shop staff and get their expert opinion.
Pricing and Bulk Deals
Noodle Long & Soft golf balls are known for their affordability, typically priced around $15 for a 15-ball pack and $20 for a 24-ball pack. This makes them a practical choice for golfers who don’t want to overspend, especially high-handicap players who lose a few balls per round. Look for bulk deals and discounts, both online and in stores, to get the best bang for your buck. Buying in larger quantities often lowers the per-ball cost.
Noodle Long & Soft Alternatives
If the TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft doesn’t quite feel right, or you’re curious about other options, plenty of alternatives cater to similar player needs. Here are a few comparable golf balls worth checking out:
Wilson Duo Soft+
The Wilson Duo Soft+ earns its name with an incredibly soft feel, thanks to a 35 compression rating—one of the lowest on the market. This makes it a great choice for players with slower swing speeds looking for a combination of distance and a gentle touch on impact. Wilson’s Velocitor technology helps add extra yards, and the Duo Soft+ often gets praise for its affordability.
Callaway Supersoft
Another popular choice for those prioritizing feel is the Callaway Supersoft. Its low compression core delivers a comfortable impact, while the unique hexagonal dimple pattern promotes a longer, straighter flight. This makes it a solid option for players who want a soft feel without sacrificing distance. Golf Monthly offers a comprehensive review of the Callaway Supersoft.
Srixon Soft Feel
The Srixon Soft Feel offers a slightly different balance, combining a soft feel with a focus on distance for moderate swing speeds. Its soft cover helps with greenside control, while the core construction provides solid distance off the tee. If you’re looking for a blend of softness and performance, the Srixon Soft Feel might be a good fit. You can find more insights in MyGolfSpy’s Srixon Soft Feel review.
Titleist TruFeel
The Titleist TruFeel is known for its consistent performance and soft feel. With a new core technology designed for speed and a consistent flight path, the TruFeel offers a balance of distance, control, and a comfortable impact. It’s a good option for players who value a reliable ball with a soft touch. Golf Digest provides a detailed review of the Titleist TruFeel.
Is Noodle Long & Soft Right for You?
Choosing the right golf ball can significantly impact your game. Let’s explore whether the TaylorMade Noodle Long & Soft is the right fit.
Assess Your Skill Level
If you’re a high-handicap golfer, the Noodle Long & Soft could be a great choice. Its low compression core makes it easier to compress, resulting in better distance, especially for players still developing their swing. Swing Yard recommends the Noodle for high handicappers, highlighting its affordability. Losing a ball is part of the game, and with the Noodle, the cost is less of a concern.
Consider Your Budget
Golf can be expensive, so finding value is essential. Noodle golf balls are known for their affordability. Golflink discusses the value of Noodle golf balls, noting their continued popularity. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Noodle is worth considering.
Evaluate Your Swing Speed
Swing speed is crucial in determining the right golf ball compression. If you have a slow to mid swing speed, a low-compression ball like the Noodle Long & Soft is ideal. Amazon’s description emphasizes the benefits of low compression balls for slower swing speeds. With a 34 compression rating, the Noodle fits this category, offering a soft feel and easy compression. Golf Guy confirms this, highlighting its suitability for slower swing speeds.
Match Ball to Playing Style
Think about your priorities on the course. Do you value distance and accuracy? The Noodle Long & Soft, with its 342 aerodynamic dimples, promotes a straighter ball flight, as noted in Golf Span’s review. While it may not dramatically increase distance, it helps maintain accuracy. Out of Bounds Golf suggests the Noodle is a good fit for golfers who prioritize distance and accuracy over spin and feel around the green. If this sounds like your playing style, the Noodle might be a good match.
Noodle Long & Soft: Confidence and Game Improvement
How Distance Affects Confidence
For many golfers, especially beginners, seeing that ball fly further down the fairway is a huge confidence booster. It’s a visible sign of progress and can really make you feel like you’re getting the hang of things. The TaylorMade Noodle Long and Soft, despite being a budget-friendly option, delivers impressive distance, especially for players with slower swing speeds. This extra distance can translate into shorter approach shots and, hopefully, lower scores, further reinforcing positive feelings about your game. Swing Yard points out the Noodle’s surprising carry distance, which can be a game-changer for high-handicap players. Plus, knowing you’re using a ball designed for distance can give you the mental edge to swing with more confidence.
Soft Feel and Skill Development
The feel of a golf ball at impact significantly impacts your game, particularly when you’re still developing your skills. The Noodle Long and Soft’s low compression core (rated at 34) provides a noticeably soft feel, making it easier to compress the ball even with a slower swing. This soft feel not only makes the game more enjoyable but also contributes to better contact and control. Golf Guy explains that this low compression is ideal for players who haven’t yet developed a powerful swing. As your swing improves, the soft feel allows you to focus on refining your technique rather than battling a hard, unforgiving golf ball.
Overcoming Beginner Challenges
Starting out in golf comes with its own set of challenges, from slicing the ball to losing it in the woods (or the water!). The Noodle Long and Soft addresses some of these common beginner frustrations. Its 342 aerodynamic dimple design promotes a straighter ball flight, helping you keep your shots on target. Golf Span discusses this design feature, noting that while it might not dramatically increase distance, it does contribute to more predictable shots, which is crucial for building consistency. Another key advantage is the ball’s affordability. Losing balls is a part of the learning process, and the Noodle’s price point makes it less painful on the wallet when those inevitable lost-ball moments happen. Golflink highlights the value these golf balls offer, especially for beginners. This allows you to play more freely and focus on improving your game without the constant worry of the cost.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Noodle Long & Soft golf balls good for beginners? Absolutely! The soft feel and low compression make them easier to hit and more forgiving on mishits, which is perfect for new golfers. Plus, they’re budget-friendly, so losing a few won’t break the bank while you’re still learning. The focus on distance also helps beginners see more positive results, which can be really encouraging.
What’s the difference between Noodle Long & Soft and more expensive golf balls? The main differences come down to materials, construction, and overall performance. Premium balls often use more complex core and cover technologies for increased spin and control, especially around the greens. Noodle Long & Softs prioritize distance and a soft feel, making them a great value option, but they might not offer the same level of greenside spin or workability as pricier alternatives.
How long do Noodle Long & Soft golf balls last? Their durability is decent for the price point. While they might not be as tough as some premium balls, they’ll hold up well for several rounds. Ultimately, how long they last depends on how often you play and the course conditions. If you tend to lose balls frequently, their affordability makes them a practical choice.
Where’s the best place to buy Noodle Long & Soft golf balls? You can find them at most sporting goods stores, online retailers like Amazon, and often at your local golf pro shop. Checking online retailers can be a good way to compare prices and find bulk deals, which can save you some money.
What if I have a fast swing speed? Are these balls still a good option? If you have a faster swing speed, you might find that other golf balls offer more control and spin. The Noodle Long & Soft is optimized for slower swing speeds, so players with faster swings might not see the same benefits in terms of distance and might prefer a ball with a higher compression rating.