If you’ve ever shopped at Costco, you’ve probably seen the Kirkland Signature golf balls and wondered: Who actually makes these?
The short answer: Kirkland golf balls are made by third-party manufacturers, most notably SM Parker (Qingdao SM Parker factory), under Costco’s private-label brand. They’re not made by Titleist, despite rumors and lawsuits in the past.
In this guide, we’ll explain the real manufacturer, clear up the Titleist confusion, review different Kirkland golf ball models, and help you decide if they’re right for your game.
Who Makes the Kirkland Golf Ball? (Short Answer)
Kirkland golf balls are designed for Costco under its Kirkland Signature brand and produced by SM Parker, a major golf equipment manufacturer with factories in China and Vietnam.
This means Costco doesn’t own the factories—it outsources production, just like many big retail brands do.
Important: Kirkland golf balls are not made by Titleist. That’s a common myth (we’ll explain why below).
The Story Behind Costco, Kirkland, and SM Parker
Private Label Golf Balls Explained
Costco doesn’t build golf factories. Instead, it contracts original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like SM Parker to design and produce the balls, then sells them under the Kirkland Signature brand. This is similar to how many store-brand products are made.
Who Is SM Parker?
SM Parker (also known as Qingdao SM Parker) is an established golf ball manufacturer that has supplied multiple brands. Industry reports and lab tests confirm that Kirkland balls come from SM Parker’s facilities in Asia.
Where Are Kirkland Balls Made Today?
The latest Kirkland Performance+ V3.0 balls are reportedly manufactured in Vietnam. Older models came from China.
This explains why Kirkland golf balls can deliver strong performance at a much lower cost—OEM production reduces expenses while Costco passes savings to buyers.
Are Kirkland Golf Balls Made by Titleist?
The quick answer: No.
Here’s why the rumor exists:
- In 2017, Titleist’s parent company (Acushnet) sued Costco, claiming the original Kirkland balls infringed on its patents and were falsely marketed as comparable to the Pro V1.
- The case was eventually settled out of court, and Costco continued selling Kirkland balls, but the designs were adjusted.
So while Kirkland balls may perform similarly in some areas, they’re not Titleist-made.
Which Kirkland Golf Balls Are the Best?
Costco has released several versions over the years. Here are the main ones:
- Kirkland Performance+ V3 (latest)
- 3-piece urethane cover
- Good balance of distance and spin
- Best option for most golfers today
- Kirkland Signature V2 (earlier version)
- Softer feel but had durability issues
- Now harder to find
- Original Kirkland Signature 4-piece (discontinued)
- Gained cult status for being very close to Titleist Pro V1
- No longer available after the lawsuit
Quick Comparison Table
| Model | Layers | Cover | Feel | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| V3.0 | 3 | Urethane | Medium | All-round play | Low ($30–$35/2 dozen) |
| V2 | 3 | Urethane | Soft | Casual play | Rare / older stock |
| 4-piece (OG) | 4 | Urethane | Tour-level | Advanced players | Discontinued |
Are Kirkland Golf Balls Good for High Handicappers?
Do you know are Kirkland Golf Balls good for high-handicappers? are Yes — and here’s why:
- Affordable: You won’t stress about losing them.
- Performance: Provides plenty of distance and decent greenside control.
- Confidence: Beginners can swing freely without worrying about cost.
One thing to note: Some Kirkland models spin more, which is great for short shots but might be less forgiving for slower swing speeds. High handicappers should try a sleeve first to see how they feel.
Kirkland vs. Titleist Pro V1: Head-to-Head
- Distance: Kirkland balls perform well, sometimes nearly matching Pro V1.
- Spin & Control: Pro V1 usually wins in wedge spin and consistency.
- Price: Kirkland is much cheaper—about a third of the cost.
Verdict: If you want premium consistency, stick with Titleist. If you want 80% of the performance for 30% of the price, Kirkland is a smart buy.
Buying Tips: How to Get Authentic Kirkland Balls
- Buy from Costco directly — in-store or online.
- Avoid “too good to be true” online deals — counterfeit golf balls exist.
- Check packaging carefully — real Kirkland boxes have consistent branding and clear Costco labeling.
Common Myths & Misunderstandings
- ❌ “Kirkland golf balls are made by Titleist.” → False.
- ❌ “Kirkland balls are identical to Pro V1.” → Not true, though they’re similar in some ways.
- ✅ “Kirkland balls are a great value option.” → Absolutely.
Last Word
So, who makes the Kirkland golf ball?
They’re produced by SM Parker, a third-party manufacturer for Costco’s Kirkland Signature line—not Titleist.
Kirkland golf balls offer excellent performance at a budget-friendly price, making them especially attractive for beginners, high handicappers, or anyone who doesn’t want to pay premium prices for golf balls they might lose on the course.
FAQs
Who makes the Kirkland golf ball?
Kirkland balls are made by SM Parker, a golf equipment manufacturer working with Costco.
Are Kirkland golf balls made by Titleist?
No. They are private-label Costco products, not Titleist-made.
Which Kirkland golf balls are the best?
The latest Kirkland Performance+ V3 is the best all-around option today.
Are Kirkland golf balls good for high handicappers?
Yes — they’re affordable, forgiving, and provide solid performance.
Where are Kirkland golf balls manufactured?
Most are currently made in Vietnam, with older versions from China.