Golf Ball Selection Guide: Perfect Your Game with Expert Advice

Golf Ball Selection Guide

The golf ball that you choose to play with is the difference between you shooting 82 and 78. There is some serious technology packed in the golf ball, and it’s all about learning to use it to our advantage.

With so many options out there how do we find the right one for us?

The process can be overwhelming when it comes to buying golf balls. There are a plethora of brands and features to choose from so it’s difficult to know what ball is right for you. Here are the most important features to look for when buying balls.

 

Let’s begin with understanding the anatomy of the golf ball:

DIMPLES:

 

Ever wondered why golf balls have dimples?

Dimples help the golf ball fly. If you were to hit an absolutely smooth ball without any dimples, it would only travel half the distance. Modern golf balls have between 350 and 500 dimples for optimal aerodynamics.

Varying shapes, sizes and patterns affect the distance, stability and spin rate of the shot. For instance, the more dimples there are, the further the ball travels but then the spin would reduce.

 

CORE:


The core is the power centre which drives the ball. It is made of different grades of rubber. The force used to strike the ball is transferred directly into the core, where it is stored and released to propel the ball forward. 

The core has a huge influence on the spin rate, initial velocity and compression.

The compression rating indicates how much the ball will compress against a clubface at impact. Generally, a harder ball will compress lesser than a softer one and thus is suitable for faster swings.

COVER:

 

The cover is the outermost layer of the golf ball which influences the spin and aerodynamics of the shot.

It is made up of two main types of materials: Surlyn and urethane. Surlyn is an ionomer resin that contributes to distance but inhibits the spin. Hence making surlyn covered golf balls a great choice for beginners as it’s hard and more durable.

Urethane is softer and offers more spin and control. It is found in higher-end balls and is ideal for more skilled players.

 

CONSTRUCTION OF GOLF BALL:


2 PIECE BALLS:

 

 

 

    • 2 piece,  Feels firm/hard

    • Core/mantle gives more control, feel and shot shaping

    • Ideal for beginners and high handicap golfers with slower swing speeds.

    • The large core maximizes distances and minimizes spin

    • A thick cover provides more forgiveness.

    • Generally have lower compression

    • Tend to be lower priced

Two categories: premium ones used by pros and low handicappers and the ones designed for amateurs

 

MULTI-LAYER CONSTRUCTION:

 

    • 3 piece,  4 piece and 5 piece balls

    • Ideal for mid to low handicappers with a faster swing speed

    • Core/mantle gives more control, feel and shot shaping

    • The thin cover enhances spin and gives a soft, crisp feel.

    • Most of them are x models aimed at reducing spin.

    • Generally have higher compression

 

CONCLUSION:

If you are a beginner or a high handicap player a 2 piece golf ball with low compression will be best suitable for you as it will make the ball go longer and straighter. On the other hand, a multi layered high compression ball would benefit the mid to low handicap players with faster swing speed giving them better control, feel and accuracy. The examples of the same are mentioned above.