Who Makes Kirkland Golf Balls?(Manufacturer, Types & Review)

For budget-conscious golfers looking for quality and soft golf balls, check out the ultimate guide to everything you need to know about Kirkland Golf Balls.

Golfers often prioritize budget-friendly equipment due to the high cost of the sport. While well-known brands like Titleist, Srixon, and Callaway dominate the market, lesser-known options like Kirkland golf balls provide comparable performance.

Ever since its inception, the Kirkland balls have become a popular choice for budget-conscious golfers. However, there is much more to the story you should know.

I. Who makes Kirkland golf balls?

In 2016, Costco, one of the most reputable wholesale brands, entered the golf ball market by releasing its first golf ball, Kirkland. Although some may doubt the quality of Costco’s golf balls, their superior customer service and affordable pricing cannot be disputed.

II. Where are Kirkland golf balls manufactured?

Kirkland golf balls are predominantly manufactured by Qingdao SM Parker, a specialized golf equipment manufacturer in China. Though there are reports of Nassau Golf producing them in Korea, the truth is that Qingdao is the primary manufacturer.

iII. Types of Kirkland golf balls

Kirkland offers two types of golf balls, each designed to cater to different skill levels and playing styles.

1. Kirkland signature 3-piece golf ball

After their legal battle with Acushnet, the parent company of Titleist, Kirkland came up with their newer 3-piece golf ball. The ball features a soft urethane cover and is designed to provide medium spin for the average golfer, both off the tee and on the greens, at a very competitive price point.

The three-piece design incorporates a speed-boosting mantle that manages spin on long irons while generating high spin on short irons, allowing for exceptional control spin around the greens.

2. Kirkland 4-piece golf ball

The Kirkland 4-piece Golf Ball is a high-performance Tour-caliber ball that delivers high spin, designed for low handicap players and those seeking a premium quality ball at an affordable price.

Similar to the Titleist Pro V1 in terms of distance, feel, and control, it is a great option for those who want a top-quality golf ball without a high price tag.

IV. Features of Kirkland golf ball

The Kirkland golf balls offer a variety of features. Let us take a look at them.

1. Soft cover

The Kirkland Signature 3-Piece golf ball stands out due to its urethane cover. The cover provides a remarkable soft feel, which provides a distinct advantage over other balls designed for average golfers.

While most distance balls have harder covers to maximize distance, the Kirkland Signature golf ball offers a softer feel that enhances control and precision. The soft cover allows golfers to get more spin, making it easier to hit accurate shots from challenging lies around the green.

2. Distance

Given their target market of high handicap and average golfers, the Kirkland golf balls are designed to provide excellent distance. Many reviews of the balls attest to this fact, highlighting their ability to travel further than other options.

It’s no secret that distance is a crucial aspect of a golf game. Thus, the Kirkland 3-Piece golf ball combines distance and feel and delivers a complete package that can enhance any golfer’s game.

3. Value for money

Many golfers prioritize the cost of golf balls when making a purchase. Kirkland’s 2.0 golf balls cater to players who prefer to buy in bulk, offering two dozen balls for a set price instead of the traditional one dozen.

The affordability of the Kirkland golf balls allows players to confidently take risks on the course, such as going for the green in two over-water hazards, without the fear of losing an expensive ball.

V. Pros and cons of Kirkland 3-piece golf balls

Kirkland 3-Piece Golf Balls have their own advantages and disadvantages that can influence a player’s purchasing decision.

Pros of Kirkland golf balls

• A unique alternative to mainstream golf ball brands
• Designed for average and high handicap golfers seeking distance
• Affordable price for two dozen balls
• Great feel off the club face with the urethane cover

Cons of Kirkland golf balls

• Not a name-brand option
• Limited softness around the green for some golfers
• Limited backspin potential

VI. Are Kirkland Golf Balls Soft?

Kirkland’s Urethane golf balls are notably soft compared to other golf balls in the same price range, which are typically designed for maximum distance at the expense of feel. 

Kirkland has created a ball that caters to golfers who seek length and precision around the greens. The soft urethane cover generates the spin and enhances control on delicate shots.

VII. Are Kirkland golf balls good for high handicappers?

Kirkland golf balls are a great choice for high-handicappers, offering versatile performance from tee to green. This soft urethane ball performs better than other balls in the same category, while the moderate price point reduces the pressure of losing them during play.

VIII. What happened to Kirkland golf balls? 

Kirkland golf balls gained popularity in 2016 with their 3-piece ball. However, Titleist Pro-V1, a golf ball manufacturer, filed a lawsuit against Kirkland for allegedly violating up to 10 patents. The case was settled out of court in 2018.

In 2019, Kirkland launched a newer 3-piece and 4-piece ball at the same low price point as the original 3-piece ball. However, the 4-piece ball quickly received negative reviews from customers who reported cracks after only a few holes.

This resulted in Costco recalling the 4-piece balls and offering refunds without requiring the balls to be returned.

1. Are Kirkland golf balls being discontinued?

Following the lawsuit by Titleist, Kirkland Golf Balls ceased production of their original 3-piece ball. However, they re-entered the market in 2019 with a new line of 3-piece and 4-piece balls. Unfortunately, due to negative customer feedback, Kirkland discontinued producing and selling their 4-piece balls and now only offers 3-piece golf balls.

2. Are Kirkland golf balls the same as Titleist Pro V1?

Kirkland’s Signature 3-piece golf ball is highly rated and often compared to the Titleist Pro V1 golf ball. While the two balls are not identical, they are believed to offer similar performance due to their similar compression rating.

IX. Alternatives to Kirkland golf balls

If you’re looking for alternatives to Kirkland golf balls, there are several options available on the market. Here are a few popular choices:

1. Srixon soft feel golf balls

Srixon Soft Feel golf balls have a good reputation among golf enthusiasts. It is an excellent alternative to the Kirkland 3-piece ball, especially for those seeking a softer ball. Overall, it is a great choice for players who want a low-compression ball that offers both distance and a soft feel at an affordable price.

2. Titleist Pro V1 golf balls

Titleist Pro V1 golf balls are a popular, high-performance alternative to Kirkland golf balls. With a penetrating ball trajectory, they offer exceptional distance, spin, and control, making them a favorite among golfers who prioritize precision and accuracy.

However, they are more expensive than Kirkland golf balls and may not be the best choice for golfers on a budget or with low spin or slow swing speeds. Overall, the Titleist Pro V1 is a premium ball with excellent performance and control for those who want the best golfing experience.

3. Bridgestone E6 golf balls

The Bridgestone E6 golf ball is a durable and reliable alternative to Kirkland golf balls, with a soft feel and compression suitable for moderate swing speeds. Its forgiving factor makes it ideal for beginners or those looking to improve their game.

The surlyn cover provides scratch and cut protection and good spin control, while the larger and softer core makes it bouncy and lively and launches the ball further.

Conclusion

While Costco may be relatively new to the golf equipment industry, it has faced some challenges along the way. The withdrawal and subsequent disappointing return of the Kirkland 4-piece golf ball had a negative impact on the brand’s reputation.

Nevertheless, Kirkland made a strong comeback with its three-piece golf balls, and the recent release of Kirkland golf clubs indicates that Costco is looking to expand its presence in the golf market further.

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