Yes, Topgolf uses limited flight golf balls, but not in the traditional sense. While they don't employ standard restricted-flight balls like the Top-Flite Super Range, Topgolf's proprietary balls are designed to limit flight distance. These balls are equipped with embedded RFID chips that enable real-time tracking of each shot's distance, speed, and accuracy .
The primary reason for using these limited flight balls is to ensure safety and control within the confines of Topgolf's driving range. By restricting the distance the ball travels, Topgolf can maintain a controlled environment, preventing balls from flying into unintended areas and ensuring a consistent experience for all players. This design choice also allows for the integration of advanced technology, such as Toptracer, which enhances the gaming experience by providing instant feedback and interactive features .
Players have reported that Topgolf balls fly shorter and higher compared to regular golf balls. For instance, one golfer noted that their 5-wood, which typically carries 205 yards, only carried 170 yards at Topgolf . Additionally, data from a Trackman analysis indicated that Topgolf balls have approximately 8% less carry distance than standard golf balls .
While these limited flight balls differ from traditional restricted-flight balls, they serve a similar purpose by reducing the distance the ball travels. This design choice aligns with Topgolf's goal of providing a safe, controlled, and technologically enhanced golfing experience for players of all skill levels.
Details at: https://ricksgolfshop.com/does-topgolf-use-limited-flight-balls/