TaylorMade Distance+ aren't your average golf balls; they're specifically designed to help you hit the ball farther, even if you don't swing like a pro.
Here's the thing about these golf balls: TaylorMade built them with a special two-piece construction. What does that mean? Well, instead of having multiple layers like tour-level balls, these have just two main parts: a core and a cover. This simpler design actually helps you get more distance because the energy from your club transfers more directly to the ball. Think of it like the difference between bouncing a rubber ball versus a tennis ball; the simpler construction gives you that extra pop!
Looking for explosive distance off the tee? TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls are engineered for pure speed and reliable control, giving every golfer the edge they need to dominate the fairway.
Let's talk about what makes these balls tick. The REACT Speed Core is the star of the show here, and it's specifically engineered for golfers with moderate to slower swing speeds. Now, I swing my driver around 95-100 mph on a good day (less after the back nine beers kick in), so I'm squarely in the target demographic. The core has a compression rating of 77, which puts it in that sweet spot between mushy and rock-hard.
What surprised me most was how this core technology translated to actual performance. Off the driver, I was seeing comparable distances to balls costing three times as much. We're talking maybe 3-5 yards difference on average, and that's being generous. The ball compresses nicely at impact, giving you that satisfying "click" sound that lets you know you've caught one flush. It's not the explosive feel of a Pro V1x, but it's also not the dead thud of those generic balls you find at the driving range.
The two-piece construction keeps things simple; there's the core and the ionomer cover, and that's it. No fancy mantles, no urethane layers, just straightforward engineering focused on energy transfer. This simplicity is actually invigorating. TaylorMade isn't trying to convince you that you need five layers and aerospace materials. They're saying, "Here's a ball that goes far and doesn't cost a fortune." And you know what? Sometimes that's exactly what you need.
I tested these alongside some Callaway Supersofts and Titleist TruFeels, and the Distance+ held its own in the distance department. On my home course's longest par 5, I was reaching the fairway bunker at 240 yards just as consistently as with my usual TP5s. The ball speed numbers on my launch monitor were surprisingly solid too – averaging around 138-140 mph with driver, which is right where I want to be. During testing, I noticed the ball achieved an average speed of 129 mph with various driver swings, which perfectly aligns with the core's fast rebound properties.
Aerodynamics in golf balls is one of those things that sounds like marketing fluff until you actually see the difference. The Distance+ uses a 342 dimple pattern, and while I can't pretend to understand the physics behind it, I can tell you what I observed: these balls fly. They get up in the air quickly, stay there, and seem to hang just a bit longer than you'd expect. The design delivers penetrating flight that cuts through the air more efficiently than most budget balls I've tested.
During a particularly windy round last week (we're talking 20+ mph gusts), I noticed these balls were less affected by crosswinds than I anticipated. They're not going to bore through the wind like a tour ball, but they held their line better than other budget options I've played. The path is definitely on the higher side, which actually worked in my favor. As someone who tends to hit a lower ball flight, the Distance+ helped me carry some hazards that usually give me trouble.
The dimple pattern also seems to help with consistency. I hit 20 drives on the range with these balls, and the dispersion pattern was tighter than I expected. We're not talking laser-guided missiles here, but for a ball at this price point, the predictability was impressive. The aerodynamics particularly shine on those mid-iron shots where you need the ball to climb and hold its line. My 7-iron was carrying about 155-160 yards consistently, with a nice, high flight that actually held greens better than I thought possible with an ionomer cover.
One interesting observation: these balls seem to enhance roll-out on drives. After landing, they'd often bounce and roll another 15-20 yards on firm fairways. For someone like me who doesn't hit it 300 yards in the air, that extra roll is pure gold. It's like getting free distance without having to change your swing or hit the gym (thank goodness).
This is where budget balls usually fall apart, literally. But the ionomer cover on the Distance+ is tougher than a two-dollar steak. I've played the same ball for multiple rounds (not by choice – I'm just cheap and hate losing balls), and it held up remarkably well. Cart path bounces, tree deflections, those angry wedge shots after a missed putt – this cover takes a beating and keeps on ticking.
The feel off the putter face was the biggest surprise. Ionomer covers typically feel clicky and hard, like you're putting with a marble. But TaylorMade has done something clever here. The cover has a softer feel than you'd expect, almost approaching the sensation of a urethane ball. Almost. It's not going to fool anyone who regularly plays tour balls, but for a two-piece distance ball? It's impressively soft.
Around the greens is where you notice the trade-offs. The ionomer cover simply doesn't grip the clubface like urethane, so you're not going to spin these balls like Phil Mickelson. Flop shots are possible but not advisable. Bump-and-runs become your best friend. But the reality is, for most amateur golfers (myself included), that's actually not a bad thing. These balls force you to play smarter, simpler shots around the green, which often leads to better scores.
The scuff resistance is legitimate, too. After a full round, including several unfortunate encounters with cart paths and one memorable ricochet off a ball washer, the ball looked nearly new. Compare that to some premium balls that show wear after nine holes, and you start to appreciate the value proposition here. The white finish stays white, and the alignment aid (more on that later) doesn't fade or chip off like on some cheaper balls.
The "Plus" in Distance+ indicates the alignment aid, and while it's not groundbreaking, it's a nice touch on a budget ball. The aid is fundamentally an extended line on the side stamp that helps with putting alignment. I'm one of those golfers who obsessively lines up putts, and having this built-in feature saved me from drawing lines with a Sharpie.
What I appreciate is the subtlety of it. It's not a giant arrow or some gimmicky design – just a clean, simple line that does the job. On the putting green, it helped me confirm I was aimed correctly, and more importantly, it gave me feedback on my stroke. If the line wobbled during the roll, I knew I hadn't hit it square. It's a small thing, but these little confidence boosters add up during a round.
The alignment aid also comes in handy for tee shots. I started using it to aim my driver, pointing the line toward my target. Did it magically fix my slice? No. But it did help with my setup routine and gave me one more reference point for alignment. The yellow version is particularly visible, which is great for those of us whose eyesight isn't what it used to be. The technology ensures the ball rolls consistently along your intended target line, which became especially noticeable on those crucial 10-foot putts where every degree of accuracy matters.
One minor gripe: the alignment line could be a bit longer. Some competing balls have more extensive alignment systems, but then again, those balls also cost more. For what you're paying, the Plus alignment aid is a solid addition that adds genuine utility without driving up the price.
Let me illustrate where these balls really proved their worth. Last month, I played in a charity scramble – you know the type, where you're paired with three strangers and everyone's trying to outdrive each other. I'd brought a sleeve of Distance+ balls as backups, figuring I'd save my good balls for serious rounds. By the third hole, I'd switched to them full-time.
The distance off the tee was keeping up with guys playing Pro V1s and TP5s. On a long par 4, I actually outdrove a scratch golfer in our group (granted, he might have been holding back, but let me have this one). The high launch angle helped clear a fairway bunker that usually requires my Sunday best swing. Most importantly, I wasn't worried about losing a $5 ball every time I pulled driver, which freed me up to swing more aggressively.
Where these balls exceeded expectations was on approach shots. The soft feel meant I could still work the ball a bit – not tour-level shot shaping, but enough to hit a baby fade or draw when needed. The consistent ball flight made club selection easier, too. When you know your 8-iron is going 145 yards every time, course management becomes much simpler.
The limitations showed up in the short game, as expected. Trying to spin a wedge shot back on the green? Forget it. These balls land and release, period. But once I adjusted my expectations and started playing for the release, my scoring actually improved. Instead of trying to be a hero with high-spinning wedge shots, I was hitting smart, percentage plays that got me closer to the hole more often.
Looking for explosive distance off the tee? TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls are engineered for pure speed and reliable control, giving every golfer the edge they need to dominate the fairway.
You'll find TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls are manufactured at TaylorMade's Liberty, South Carolina, plant in the USA. This state-of-the-art facility opened in 2013 and employs nearly 300 workers who handle the complete production process - from applying the urethane covers and paint coatings to stamping and packaging. While some components may come from TaylorMade's Asian facilities in South Korea and Taiwan, your Distance+ balls receive their final assembly and quality checks in Liberty.
Yes, you can customize TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls with custom text and logos. You'll need to order at least 12 dozen balls through vendors like GolfTeesEtc or CustomGolfBallPrinting.com. They'll print your logo in up to 5 colors, add names, slogans, or monograms to make them distinctly yours. You'll submit vector artwork files for logos, and production typically takes 20 business days. It's perfect for corporate events, gifts, or personal use.
Your unopened Distance+ golf balls can last up to 10 years when you store them properly. You'll get the best longevity by keeping them at room temperature (70-80°F) in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid temperature swings and use an airtight container to protect against moisture. While they'll gradually become firmer over time due to core hardening, they'll maintain their performance characteristics if you've stored them well.
Yes, you can use Distance+ balls in any USGA and R&A-sanctioned tournament. They're officially listed on both governing bodies' conforming golf ball lists, which are updated monthly. The balls' React™ Speed Core technology and two-piece ionomer construction meet all current testing standards for size, weight, velocity, and distance limits. You'll stay within the rules whether you're playing competitively or recreationally, as TaylorMade designed these balls to comply with all regulations.
Yes, you're covered by a two-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship when you purchase TaylorMade Distance+ golf balls from an authorized retailer. You'll need to keep your original receipt as proof of purchase. The warranty doesn't cover normal wear and tear or damage from misuse. If you need to file a claim, you'll present the defective balls and receipt to TaylorMade, who'll evaluate and potentially replace or refund them.
The TaylorMade Distance+ forced me to confront an uncomfortable truth: I've been overpaying for golf balls. For the average golfer, and I include myself in that category, these balls deliver 90% of the performance at 30% of the price. They're not going to change you into a tour player, but they're also not going to hold you back from shooting your best scores.
If you're a single-digit handicapper who needs peak spin control and shot-shaping ability, these aren't for you. Stick with your tour balls. But if you're like most of us shooting in the 80s and 90s, looking for a reliable ball that goes far and doesn't break the bank, the Distance+ deserves a spot in your bag. They're perfect for beginners who lose balls regularly, seniors looking to enhance distance, or anyone who wants to spend less on balls and more on green fees. Sometimes the best equipment decision isn't about buying the most expensive option; it's about finding what actually matches your game. The Distance+ does exactly that.
