You'll find TaylorMade's Distance Plus golf balls offer impressive performance at a budget-friendly price point. The two-piece construction, featuring a REACT Speed Core and durable ionomer cover, delivers exceptional distance for moderate swing speeds while maintaining decent feel. With a 77 compression rating and 342-dimple aerodynamic pattern, these balls provide reliable mid-launch trajectory and consistent flight paths in different conditions. While they're not designed for tour-level short game control, their durability and Plus Alignment Aid make them an excellent choice for high-handicappers and beginners seeking maximum yards off the tee. Let's investigate how these balls could transform your game.
Table of Contents
Key Features
Two-piece design with REACT Speed Core and ionomer cover delivers impressive distance for moderate swing speeds.
342-dimple aerodynamic pattern enhances flight stability and reduces drag for maximum ball speed.
Offers excellent durability, lasting 2-3 rounds with strong scuff resistance, at a value price of $20-$35 per dozen.
Features Plus Alignment Aid for improved putting accuracy, with UV-resistant paint for clear visibility in all conditions.
Best suited for beginners and high-handicappers seeking distance over greenside control and spin performance.
Core Technology and Construction
Diving into the TaylorMade Distance Plus's construction reveals its revolutionary two-piece design built around the REACT Speed Core.
You'll find this cutting-edge core technology engineered specifically for high-velocity performance, working in perfect harmony with the soft ionomer cover to deliver an impressive balance of distance and feel. The ball's 77 compression rating, which you'll notice immediately upon impact, strikes that sweet spot between explosive distance and comfortable playability. The ball delivers SGD7 savings with its current promotional pricing, making it an excellent value proposition.
When you examine the ball's architecture closely, you'll see it's not just about the core. The revolutionary low-drag aerodynamics help maintain consistent ball flight in various weather conditions.
The sophisticated 342 aerodynamic dimple pattern, which you might mistake for a standard design at a glance, actually plays a vital role in reducing drag and maximizing ball speeds. It's like having a tiny wind tunnel wrapped around your golf ball!
The two-layer construction, featuring the REACT Speed Core wrapped in that durable ionomer cover, gives you a mid-launch trajectory that's ideal for most playing conditions.
Whether you're teeing off or approaching the green, you'll appreciate how the soft ionomer cover provides both scuff resistance and improved feel around the greens.
Distance Performance Off The Tee
The TaylorMade Distance Plus's performance off the tee delivers impressive results that rival premium balls, particularly for golfers with moderate swing speeds.
While you won't find it outdriving Pro V1s or TP5s if you're swinging like a tour pro, its creative design compensates with reduced drag and optimized launch conditions that help you enhance your distance potential.
The specially engineered 342 aerodynamic dimples contribute significantly to the ball's flight stability and overall distance capabilities.
You'll notice the ball's mid-launch characteristics give you versatility in shot-making, allowing you to work the ball high or low off the tee as needed.
The React Speed Core technology enhances ball velocity for maximum distance potential.
If you're dealing with slower swing speeds, you'll especially appreciate how this ball helps get your shots airborne more easily, which is a common struggle for many amateur golfers.
The ball's rolling distance is particularly significant, as it manages to keep pace with premium options despite its higher spin rates.
While it won't magically add 20 yards to your drives, you'll find it performs admirably compared to balls costing twice as much.
The real sweet spot is for players who want reliable distance without breaking the bank, and in that department, the Distance Plus definitely delivers.
Short Game Control
Short game performance presents a notable trade-off with the Distance Plus, as its lower spin characteristics become more apparent around the green.
You'll notice that while the ball offers decent control for basic chip shots, it won't bite and check like premium urethane-covered balls. When you're facing fast greens or need to stop the ball quickly, you'll need to adjust your landing spot and factor in more roll-out.
The ball's dimple pattern and construction prioritize distance over spin generation, which means you'll need to rely more on trajectory control than spin to get close to the pin. The shallow dimples increase spin on high-lofted clubs, but not enough to match tour-level performance.
While you can still execute basic pitch and chip shots effectively, you won't have the same level of confidence for those delicate flop shots or aggressive checking chips that you might attempt with a Pro V1.
The alignment aid helps with putting, and you'll get adequate feel around the greens, but don't expect tour-level spin control.
If you're a beginner or high-handicapper who prioritizes distance over greenside precision, these limitations won't greatly impact your game. The ball's soft ionomer cover provides good feedback on putts and chips despite its distance-focused design.
Feel and Compression Rating
Despite TaylorMade's claims of ultra-soft characteristics, the Distance Plus delivers a mid-compression feel with its 77 compression rating. You'll notice this immediately when you strike the ball, as it provides a firmer response than what you might expect from TaylorMade's marketing materials.
The 2-piece construction, featuring a REACT Speed Core and ionomer cover, creates a balanced feel that's suitable for golfers with moderate to high swing speeds. The ultra-soft feel helps maintain control and feedback throughout your round.
Around the greens, you'll experience decent feedback from the ionomer cover, though it won't match the buttery feel of premium urethane-covered balls. The 342-dimple pattern contributes to the ball's comprehensive feel during flight, and you'll likely appreciate how it performs on approach shots. Some players compare the impact sensation to hitting a bowling ball, especially on miss hits.
While it's not the marshmallow-soft sensation that some ultra-low compression balls offer, you're getting a sweet spot that's engineered for distance without sacrificing too much feel.
Think of it as the "just right" porridge in the Goldilocks story - not too firm, not too soft, but somewhere comfortably in the middle, making it a practical choice for everyday play.
Durability and Value
Moving from feel to functionality, durability stands out as a major selling point for TaylorMade's Distance Plus. You'll find that the two-piece ionomer cover, designed to resist scuffs and scratches, helps these balls last through 2-3 rounds of play before showing significant wear.
Even after encounters with trees and those not-so-perfect shots we've all had, they're remarkably resilient. Taking advantage of the 2 for $35 promotion makes these balls an even better value for regular players.
What's particularly impressive is the value proposition you're getting here. At roughly a third of the price of TaylorMade's premium offerings, you're not breaking the bank, but you're still getting performance that rivals more expensive options.
The ball maintains its distance and spin characteristics consistently, even after multiple rounds, which means you won't need to replace them as often as you might think. The 342 dimple pattern enhances aerodynamics and contributes to the ball's impressive flight stability.
For budget-conscious golfers, especially those who are new to the game or carrying higher handicaps, it's a smart choice that delivers reliable performance without the premium price tag.
Whether you're playing in varied weather conditions or different course types, you'll find these balls maintain their playability remarkably well, making them a practical investment for regular play.
Alignment Aid Features
Building upon its performance features, the TaylorMade Distance Plus incorporates a sophisticated Plus Alignment Aid that's integrated directly into the side stamp. You'll appreciate how this high-contrast alignment system, complete with its distinctive cross-design, helps you line up your putts with newfound precision and confidence.
The alignment aid's thick, easily visible line isn't just for show - it's your reliable putting companion that provides instant feedback on how your ball is rolling. The UV resistant paint ensures the alignment markings remain clear and visible in all lighting conditions. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting out, you'll find that this visual guide makes it notably easier to position your putter face correctly and maintain consistency throughout your game.
This innovative design helps you drain more putts by enabling you to spot alignment errors before they happen, saving you those frustrating missed putts that could've been avoided.
When you're standing over those vital putts, you'll notice how the high-visibility markings remain clear and distinct, even from a distance. The side stamp integration means you won't have to second-guess your alignment, and the practical design seamlessly blends functionality with visual appeal, making your putting routine more efficient and accurate.
Aerodynamics and Flight Pattern
The science behind the TaylorMade Distance Plus's flight characteristics lies in its sophisticated 342-dimple pattern and two-piece construction.
You'll notice right away how this design creates a mid-launch trajectory that's perfect for maximizing your distance off the tee, while the aerodynamic dimples work hard to reduce drag during flight.
When you're hitting with this ball, you'll experience consistent flight patterns thanks to its REACT Speed Core, which works in harmony with the soft ionomer cover.
While it mightn't spin quite as much as those pricey tour balls on shots over 100 yards, you'll still get decent mid to high spin rates with your wedges.
The ball's two-piece construction guarantees you're getting stable, predictable flight paths that won't suddenly veer off course like a wayward paper airplane.
What's particularly interesting is how the aerodynamic design creates a sweet spot between speed and control.
Clear alignment aids on the ball surface provide immediate post-putt feedback for better putting accuracy.
You'll find that the low-drag characteristics help maintain ball speed through the air, even if you don't quite catch it perfectly - something we've all been guilty of from time to time.
Target Player Profile
While these aerodynamic features shine on the course, understanding who benefits most from the Distance+ helps explain its design choices. This ball's sweet spot lies with amateur golfers, particularly those who'd love to add some yards to their game without breaking the bank.
If you're a beginner or high-handicapper with a moderate swing speed, you'll find the Distance+ particularly well-suited to your needs. You're the ideal candidate for these balls if you're looking to enhance distance while maintaining a comfortable, soft feel at impact. The REACT™ Speed Core technology makes it an excellent choice for maximizing distance potential.
The 77 compression rating and two-piece construction create a forgiving ball that'll work with your swing, not against it. While you won't find tour pros reaching for the Distance+, you'll appreciate its mid-launch characteristics and the helpful alignment aid for putting accuracy.
The ball's designed for club golfers who prioritize performance over premium features, and if you're working with a modest budget, you'll love that you don't have to sacrifice quality for affordability. Plus, with high-visibility options available, you can choose a finish that suits your playing style and preferences.
Price and Market Position
At around $20-$35 per dozen, TaylorMade Distance Plus balls strike an impressive balance between performance and affordability.
You'll find these balls positioned perfectly in the market as a high-value option that won't drain your wallet, especially when you grab them in cost-effective two dozen bundles for $35.00.
When you're comparing them to premium options like the Titleist Pro V1, you'll notice substantial savings without sacrificing the crucial performance features you need.
The Distance Plus has carved out its niche as the go-to choice for budget-conscious players who still want quality results on the course.
The ball's higher compression rating makes it particularly effective for faster swing speeds, maximizing energy transfer at impact.
Here's what makes these balls such a smart investment:
REACT Speed Core technology that delivers premium-level distance at a fraction of the cost
Plus alignment aid that improves your accuracy without the premium price tag
Durable construction that helps your golf balls last longer, maximizing your investment
Low-drag aerodynamics that rival more expensive alternatives
For mid to slow swing speed golfers particularly, you're getting exceptional value with features that directly improve your game.
It's no wonder these balls have earned their spot as 2024's best overall distance ball in their price category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Taylormade Distance Plus Golf Balls Be Used in Professional Tournaments?
You can use TaylorMade Distance Plus golf balls in professional tournaments, but only if they're on the List of Conforming Golf Balls maintained by The R&A and USGA.
You'll need to verify that these specific balls meet current equipment standards and haven't been altered.
How Do These Balls Perform in Wet Weather Conditions?
Ever wondered how your game holds up when the clouds roll in?
You'll be pleased with how these balls perform in wet conditions. They'll maintain consistent ball flight and distance thanks to their 342-dimple pattern, which helps cut through rain effectively.
The ionomer cover provides excellent scuff resistance when wet, while the REACT Speed Core guarantees you won't lose significant distance.
You'll also appreciate their reliable stopping power on wet greens.
Are These Golf Balls Available in Different Colors?
You'll find these golf balls available in two main color options: white and high-visibility yellow.
While the white version is widely available across most vendors, you'll notice the yellow variant features a high-gloss UV resistant paint for improved visibility.
If you're interested in customization, you can add logos in up to 5 PMS colors, though keep in mind that not all vendors carry both color options.
What Is the Shelf Life of Taylormade Distance Plus Balls?
Like a fine wine that needs proper storage, your TaylorMade Distance Plus balls can last up to 10 years when you store them correctly.
You'll want to keep them at room temperature, between 70-80°F, in a dry place away from direct sunlight.
If you're storing them in your garage, be mindful of temperature swings that could affect their performance.
For best results, use an airtight container and check them periodically for signs of wear.
How Do These Balls Compare to Previous Taylormade Distance Models?
You'll notice significant improvements in the Distance Plus compared to older TaylorMade distance models, particularly with its REACT Speed Core and 342 Aerodynamic Dimple Pattern.
While maintaining the durability you'd expect from TaylorMade's distance line, you're getting better mid-launch characteristics and improved spin control.
The Plus Alignment Aid is a notable upgrade, and you'll appreciate the softer feel from its 77 compression rating, which wasn't available in previous versions.
Conclusion
You'll find the TaylorMade Distance Plus balls deliver remarkable value for mid-to-high handicappers seeking both distance and decent feel. While they won't rival premium tour balls for spin control and finesse around the greens, they'll give you reliable performance off the tee, adequate durability, and helpful alignment features at a budget-friendly price point. For recreational golfers wanting to enhance distance without breaking the bank, these balls strike an impressive balance of performance and affordability.