Nitro Golf Balls

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing Your Next Set of Nitros

Golf balls come in all shapes, sizes and compression ratings nowadays. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky deciding which type of ball is right for your game. If you’re looking for maximum distance off the tee or greater feel around the greens, Nitro golf balls deserve strong consideration. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know before buying Nitro golf balls for your next round!

What Are Nitro Golf Balls?

Nitro golf balls are a popular brand of 3, 4 and 5-piece golf balls designed for greater distance. They feature a soft compression core formulated to launch high off the clubface. The latest generation of Nitro balls also incorporate a thin ionomer cover to increase greenside spin and control. Most Nitro balls utilize a 338 dimple pattern for a stable, consistent ball flight. They are available in a range of compression ratings to match different swing speeds.

Nitro balls first arrived on the scene in 2001 and have continued to evolve with the latest technologies. They are engineered to minimize drag and maximize speed. Distance is the name of the game! While Nitros excel off the tee, they also offer enough feel for skilled golfers to shape shots into greens. Let’s take a closer look at how these multi-layer balls are constructed.

How Are Nitro Golf Balls Made?

Constructing a multilayer golf ball like the Nitro takes intricate precision. Each layer works together to produce optimal flight performance. Here is an overview of how they are made:

• Soft Compression Core: At the center of every Nitro golf ball is a low compression core, usually made from polybutadiene rubber. This provides low driver spin and high launch for maximum carry distance. The core compression rating ranges from soft (50) to firm (90).
• Outer Mantle Layer(s): Surrounding the core are additional mantle layers made from ionomers or urethane. They help transfer energy efficiently and increase ball speed. 3-piece Nitros have a single mantle layer while 4/5-piece balls have two or more.
• Thin Ionomer Cover: The latest Nitro balls have a thin ionomer blend cover that is very durable. It also gives them good greenside spin and buttery feel around the greens.
• Dimple Pattern: Small dimples in the cover reduce drag for a consistent ball trajectory. Most Nitros use a 338 seamless dimple pattern optimized for stable flight.
• Compression Molding: All the layers are compression molded together under heat and pressure. This eliminates bonding issues and creates optimal energy transfer.
• Quality Testing: Every Nitro undergoes inspection and testing to ensure it meets specs for weight, size, COR, and velocity. Only balls passing quality control are packaged and sold.

The multi-layer construction allows Nitro balls to launch high but reduce spin for unmatched Drives. The softer feel also improves control on short game shots.

Where Can I Buy Nitro Golf Balls?

The good news is Nitro golf balls are widely available both online and in brick and mortar golf stores. Here are some of the best places to buy Nitro balls:

• Golf Galaxy: Nitro balls can be found in every Golf Galaxy retail store. They stock the latest models and compression options. Stores also regularly run promotions on Nitros.
• Dick’s Sporting Goods: Dick’s carries Nitro golf balls in many locations and online. Again, you’ll find all compression ratings and models in stock. Dick’s also price matches other retailers.
• Worldwide Golf Shops: Popular online retailers like Worldwide Golf Shops offer all Nitro balls. You can find price breaks on bulk orders and deep discounts on prior year models.
• Amazon: Search for Nitro golf balls on Amazon and you’ll find dozens of listings, often at cheap prices. Watch for combo packs that include Nitro balls alongside other accessories.
• eBay: If you don’t mind used golf balls, check eBay listings for Nitro balls in mint condition. Sort by new listings and compression rating. Big savings can be found!

The bottom line is Nitro golf balls are readily available at many stores, both virtual and physical. Shop around for the best deals. Also consider buying in bulk for additional savings.

What Are the Benefits of Using Nitro Golf Balls?

Nitro golf balls offer measurable performance benefits compared to ordinary recreational balls:

• Enhanced Distance: Thanks to their construction, Nitro balls deliver extremely low spin and high launch for maximum carry distance. The mantle layers and energetic cores generate tremendous ball speed for added yards.
• Consistency: With their aerodynamic dimple patterns, Nitro balls fly true and straight. Their trajectory doesn’t balloon or nose dive. You get reliable results from the tee box to the green.
• Soft Feel: Despite their firm compression, Nitro balls feel noticeably softer than other distance balls, especially on short shots, pitches and chips.
• Improved Greenside Control: The latest generation of urethane blend Nitro covers provide higher spin around the green for better stopping power and precision.
• Durability: Nitro’s thin ionomer covers resist scuffs and cuts extremely well. They last and last under regular play.
• Value: Pound for pound, Nitro golf balls give you excellent performance for the price. Discount bulk packs make them even more affordable.

While they excel off the tee, Nitro balls are no slouch around the greens either. Their blend of power and playability makes them a wise choice for many players.

Are Nitro Golf Balls Good for Beginners?

Nitro golf balls can absolutely benefit beginners, thanks to their distance, forgiveness and affordability. Here’s a closer look at why they make sense for newer players:

• Distance Off the Tee: Beginners need all the yards they can get. Nitro’s low-compression core sends tee shots soaring down the fairway. Added carry distance helps beginners stay out of trouble.
• Soft Feel: Brand new golfers need balls that feel good off the putter face and around the greens. Nitro balls offer nice responsiveness on chips, pitches and putts to build confidence.
• Penalty Forgiveness: Wayward shots are common for beginners. Nitro balls limit how severely hooks, slices and tops are punished. Their high launch and low spin reduce dispersion.
• Good Control: While not as spinny as tour-level balls, Nitros provide decent greenside control for beginners working on their short game. They check up acceptably well around the hole.
• Affordability: Buckets of discount Nitro range balls cost a fraction of what premium balls charge. Beginners on a budget can afford to lose this value-priced ammunition.

While some instructors suggest softer balls at first, the benefits of Nitro golf balls usually outweigh any downsides for beginners. Give them a try during your next lesson or playing session.

How Do Nitro Golf Balls Compare to Other Brands?

Nitro golf balls compete with popular distance ball brands like Titleist, Callaway, Srixon and Bridgestone. Here’s how they stack up against the heavyweights:

• Titleist DT Distance: The DT Distance is very long off the tee but lacks greenside spin. Nitros offer a softer feel and better control than the one-piece Titleist.
• Callaway Supersoft: Callaway’s Supersoft feels ultra plush but doesn’t match Nitro’s raw distance. The Supersoft also lacks durability compared to the thin Nitro cover.
• Srixon Soft Feel: Srixon’s Soft Feel delivers good feel and distance but can’t sustain the speed of Nitro’s multi-layer construction. Nitros launch higher and spin less.
• Bridgestone E6: The E6 is renowned for its buttery feel yet lacks the firepower of Nitro off the tee. Nitros go several yards longer thanks to advanced core technology.

While Nitro can’t match the greenside control of urethane tour balls, it competes nicely against other distance balls in terms of power, feel and value. Pound for pound, Nitros hold their own.

What Materials Are Used in Nitro Golf Balls?

Nitro golf balls utilize a variety of advanced materials in their multilayer construction:

• Polybutadiene Rubber Cores: Polybutadiene is a rubber compound that offers tremendous resiliency. It delivers the low compression and high launch that powers Nitros off the tee.
• Ionomer Mantle: Ionomers like Surlyn are durable resins that provide the perfect blend of flex and protection in the mantle layer(s).
• Urethane Covers: Nitro’s latest balls utilize urethane cover blends for increased short-game spin and buttery feel around the greens.
• Titanium Dioxide: TiO2 titanium dioxide provides the bright white color that makes Nitros stand out against green grass.
• Zinc Oxide: Zinc oxide facilitates processing of the rubber core compounds and allows for optimal compression molding.
• Zinc Stearate: This additive helps ensure a perfectly spherical ball and smooth surface finish.

Advanced polymers and optimized rubber compounds give Nitro golf balls their speed, distance, and soft feel through the bag. The materials work together for superior performance.

Are Nitro Golf Balls Suitable for High Handicappers?

Nitro golf balls are absolutely suitable for high handicap golfers. Here’s why they make a smart choice for bogey players:

• Forgiveness: Nitro’s low compression core and thin cover minimize sidespin and dispersion. They fly straight and true for higher handicappers.
• Distance: Nothing helps high handicaps like pure, raw distance. Nitro balls launch high and roll forever to boost carry and total yardage.
• Affordability: High handicappers tend to lose a lot of balls. Buying cheap, discounted Nitros in bulk makes economic sense.
• Consistency: Nitro balls perform uniformly shot after shot, minimizing big misses. Their aerodynamic dimple design promotes steady flight.
• Visibility: The bright white color of Nitros makes them easy to spot in mid flight or the rough. This helps high handicappers track errant shots.

While some argue for softer balls for bogey players, Nitros offer impeccable distance and forgiveness. Their performance pedigree makes them a top ball choice for mid to high handicappers.

How Much Do Nitro Golf Balls Cost?

As a value brand, Nitro golf balls retail between $15-$30 per dozen in most stores. Here’s an overview of pricing:

• Nitro Ultimate Distance: The flagship 3-piece Nitro costs $22-$30 per dozen balls.
• Nitro Blaster: The Blaster 4-piece distance model retails for $18-$25 per dozen.
• Nitro Long Drive: The affordable Long Drive lists for $15-$22 per dozen balls.
• Prior Generation: Older generation Nitro balls can be snagged for under $15 per dozen when on sale or clearance.
• Pre-Owned: Expect to spend $8-$12 per dozen for used, refinished Nitro balls in very good condition.
• Range Balls: As a popular range ball brand, discounted Nitros can be bought in bulk (100 balls+) for under $100 total.

Online in bulk usually provides the cheapest per ball pricing. Nitro dozen ball packs represent a solid value versus premium balls costing $45 or more. Their discount brand status makes Nitros economical for regular play.

Do Nitro Golf Balls Improve Distance?

There is no doubt about it – Nitro golf balls maximize distance off the tee. Here are the key factors giving them their incredible length:

• Low-Compression Core: The soft, highly energetic core achieves low driver spin for optimum carry distance. It launches shots on a penetrating trajectory.
• Thin Cover: Nitro’s thin ionomer cover minimizes drag and allows maximum ball speed for added yards.
• Aerodynamics: Seamless dimple patterns make for a more aerodynamic profile and less drag at high speeds.
• Multi-Layer Construction: Nitro’s 3-5 layer technology transfers energy efficiently from core to cover.
• High Ball Speed: Fast clubhead speeds translate into even faster ball speeds with Nitro’s mantle layers store and release energy.

When combined with the optimal high launch angle, lower spin rates mean longer carries. Expect to pick up 7-10 yards compared to ordinary recreational balls. Distance-obsessed golfers love Nitros.

What is the Compression Rating of Nitro Golf Balls?

Nitro golf balls are engineered with a range of compression ratings from 50-90 to match different swing speeds:

• 50 Compression: Best for slow swing speeds under 90 mph. Maximum energy transfer for distance.
• 60 Compression: Ideal for moderate swing speeds around 95-105 mph. Reduces driver spin.
• 70 Compression: Fits average swing speeds of 100-110 mph. Delivers low spin and soft feel.
• 80 Compression: Optimized for faster swings of 110-120 mph. Provides control and greenside workability.
• 90 Compression: Made for aggressive swing speeds over 115+ mph. Firmer feel with lower launch.

Match the Nitro compression to your typical driver swing speed for optimal performance. Pay attention to this important spec when purchasing your next set.

How Durable Are Nitro Golf Balls?

The thin ionomer covers used on Nitro golf balls make them extremely durable compared to softer competitions balls. Here are the reasons Nitros hold up so well:

• Scuff-Resistant Cover: The ionomer cover withstands clubface impacts and abrasions from cart paths and rocks. Nitros don’t scuff easily.
• Shear-Resistant: Nitro covers resist shearing and cuts extremely well. You can play them round after round without chunking.
• UV Protection: Nitro balls retain their brightness. The covers resist fading and yellowing from extended UV light exposure.
• High Quality Molding: With no bonding lines, precisely compression molded Nitros don’t split apart like cheaper balls.
• Copolymer Formulation: Proprietary mixes of ionomers and urethanes make covers more resilient to damage.

Between the thermoplastic coatings and optimized construction, Nitro balls take a beating and last. Expect 2-3x the play life compared to softer, non-urethane balls.

Are There Any Reviews for Nitro Golf Balls?

Nitro golf balls consistently earn strong reviews across the web. Here are highlights of what critics and buyers are saying:

• “Long off the tee and straight in flight.” – Golf Digest
• “Impressively low spin rates for exceptional distance.” – MyGolfSpy
• “Buttery soft feel around the greens.” – Today’s Golfer
• “Excellent value and durability.” – Golfalot
• “By far my longest ball off the tee.” – Recreational golfer
• “Shots launch high and carry forever.” – High handicapper
• “Great feel and performance for the price.” – Value shopper

The consensus is Nitro golf balls deliver on their promise of distance off the tee while maintaining playability around the green. Golfers of all skill levels praise the performance and value.

Can Nitro Golf Balls Be Used in Tournaments?

Provided they are on the USGA’s list of conforming golf balls, Nitro balls can legally be used in all tournaments including USGA championships. Key facts:

• USGA Legal: Nitro balls conform to all USGA Rules of Golf regarding weight, size, ball speed and overall construction.
• SANCTIONED Events: Nitros are permitted in local club competitions, state opens, USGA qualifiers, college events and professional tours provided they are on the current conforming list.
• Amateur Events: From club championships to the U.S. Amateur, Nitros can be used so long as they are a conforming model.
• Allowable Models: The USGA limits certain Nitro balls like the Long Drive and Blaster that are engineered to exceed normal velocity limits. But most Nitros make the conforming list.
• Condition: Tournament balls cannot be altered or refinished in any way. They must be in new, unaltered condition.

Check the sanctioning body’s conforming ball list prior to tournaments to ensure your Nitros are permitted. But rest assured conforming Nitro models pass muster for tournament play.

What Colors Do Nitro Golf Balls Come In?

While white remains the norm, Nitro golf balls are available in a variety of colors and finishes:

• White – The standard color offering maximum visibility.
• Yellow – Easier to spot in shade and low light. Good for dawn patrol.
• Orange – Vibrant color stands out against grass and blue skies.
• Pink – A fashionable favorite of lady golfers.
• Green – Blends into fairways and greens. Ideal for camouflage play.
• Glow – Cores infused with luminescent chemicals to glow in the dark. Great for night golf.
• Matte – Subdued matte finish reduces glare.
• Metallic – Bold metallic finish on select limited editions.

While white remains best for tournament play, recreational golfers can show their personality with colored Nitros that look as fun as they perform.

How do Nitro Golf Balls Perform in Cold Weather?

Cold weather can sap distance and feel from golf balls. As a thermoplastic material, ionomer covers tend to harden in cooler temperatures, causing Nitro balls to feel firmer and spin more. However, they resist freezing far better than urethane-covered balls. Tips for combating cold conditions:

• Start with a softer compression Nitro to offset temperature firming.
• Allow balls to warm near body heat before play.
• When possible, store balls indoors before the round.
• Utilize orange or yellow balls which stand out against brown dormant grass.
• Focus on grooving a smooth, compression-free swing.
• Play shorter, high-launching tee shots that limit sidespin.

While no ball thrives in cold conditions, Nitro’s durable ionomer material and firmer compression tolerates temperature drops nicely compared to the competition.

Are Nitro Golf Balls Available in Different Models?

Nitro offers golf balls engineered for every level of play:

• Distance Models: The Long Drive and Ultimate Distance maximize ball speed and low spin for raw yardage.
• Control Models: The Ultimate Control and Tour Performance reduce driver spin for trajectory control while increasing short game spin.
• Ladies Models: Designed for slower swing speeds, the Passion and Bliss promote high launch and soft feel.
• Experience Models: X1 and X2 provide low compression for 75+ MPH swing speeds.
• Advanced Models: The 4-piece Blaster and 3-piece Tour Edge suit faster, more dynamic swings over 100 MPH.
• Specialty Models: These include Glow balls for nighttime and high-visibility Strata balls.

No matter your age, gender or skill level, Nitro makes specialized balls to enhance your performance.

What is the Spin Rate of Nitro Golf Balls?

As a distance ball, Nitro golf balls are engineered to reduce driver spin for maximum carry. Typical spin rates include:

• Driver: ~2500 RPM
• 5-iron: ~5000 RPM
• 8-iron: ~7500 RPM
• Pitching Wedge: ~9000+ RPM
• Putter: ~3000 RPM

Compare this to urethane tour balls with 3500+ RPM of driver spin. Nitro’s blend of ionomer covers limit spin off longer clubs yet allow wedge spin to rise into the 10,000+ range. Their spin profile promotes distance with adequate greenside control.

Are There Any Alternatives to Nitro Golf Balls?

While Nitro delivers unmatched value in the distance ball category, several alternatives also warrant consideration:

• Callaway Supersoft – Extremely low compression and very high launch. The softest distance ball.
• Titleist DT TruSoft – Their softest feeling distance ball yet with accurate flight.
• Srixon Soft Feel – Combines soft feel and increased greenside spin in a lower price point.
• Wilson Duo Soft+ – A 3-piece ionomer blend ball with soft feel and high launching trajectory.
• Snell MTB Black – A popular 3-piece distance ball with low driver spin characteristics.

For golfers desiring more greenside spin and softer feel, these alternatives offer viable options in the same price range as Nitro balls. Test some out to experience the differences.

Is There a Warranty on Nitro Golf Balls?

Nitro golf balls backs their products with this standard coverage:

• Materials & Workmanship: Covers defects in materials and manufacturing only.
• Playability Period: Warrants new balls will retain playability and flight characteristics for at least 12 months.
• No Wear/Tear: Does not cover normal wear-and-tear, scuffs, cuts or cosmetic defects from use.
• Contact Retailer: Instruct buyers to return defective balls to the original place of purchase for evaluation.
• Manufacturing Flaws: Only validates true construction flaws, not user damage.
• Proof of Purchase: Requires dated receipt or invoice to accompany warranty claims.

While their durable construction rarely necessitates it, Nitro golf balls come with a 1-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects. Make sure to keep receipts.

So there you have it – everything you need to know about Nitro golf balls! Their cutting edge materials and construction power impressive distance gains off the tee. Skilled golfers can also take advantage of enhanced greenside control. With competitive pricing and bulk discounts, Nitros deliver excellent performance per dollar. Before your next ball purchase, be sure to give Nitro strong consideration. Their distance, feel and value will impress golfers of every skill level. Play your best with Nitro!