Choosing the right golf ball may lower your score!

The feed back so far on my “Which golf ball is best for you” series has been inconclusive. Many players have selected their golf ball in the same way as me – feel, availability, and cost. The previous two posts, Part 1 and Part 2, have covered topics of construction and the number of pieces of a golf ball. To this point, this information provided a valuable insight into selecting a golf ball, but nothing conclusive.

This installment will include cover type, compression, and dimples. These three topics are important because they offer a greater selection for players who are looking for the right golf ball!

Golf Balls have two basic cover types: surlyn or urethane. Surlyn is a harder surface that is considered more durable and enhances distance. Urethane, which has replaced the balata cover, is softer and offers better feel and control; however urethane marks easier and is not as resilient.

“Golf compression rates determine what balls are used by different levels of golfers. Compression creates density in the golf ball, which may affect distance and loft. The golf ball is compressed and flattened by the force of the impact. The lower compression of the ball results in the ball ;travelling farther as the club’s energy creates energy, transferring it to the ball. The ball’s compression handles the high-speed and impact of the club, and allows flexibility so that the ball can recoil and not break apart.” (Golfsmith.com)

“Dimples on a golf ball create a thin turbulent boundary layer of air that clings to the ball’s surface. This allows the smoothly flowing air to follow the ball’s surface a little farther around the back side of the ball, thereby decreasing the size of the wake.” (Scientific America)

The type of cover, compression and dimples all effect a golf ball’s performance. There are many thoughts and reasons to select a golf ball based on its construction. Yet, the increasing information about golf balls seems to confound my decision on which ball to choose.

As I learn more about golf balls, the more my choice becomes clearer and yet, more confusing. How about you?

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!