Types of golf balls
It’s not just about the player or the type of golf club; a good strike or swing also depends on the golf ball. The characteristics of the ball can affect its trajectory, spin, path, or speed. These are factors that professional golfers know well, and as a golf enthusiast, you should also be aware of them.
Types of golf balls based on layers
- Two-piece golf ball: It’s a type of ball used for longer distances, although its spin is more challenging to control. It’s often the preferred ball type for professionals with a low handicap. It has a soft core, in contrast to a tougher cover.
- Three-piece golf ball: It’s a ball better suited for a medium handicap, allowing much greater control on mid-range shots. They consist of a soft core but are covered with a layer of urethane.
- Low compression two-piece golf ball: It comprises a low compression core, a casing with a hard mantle, and a soft cover. These balls are designed for shorter distances but offer greater control at close range. They are perfect for high handicaps and amateur golfers who are just starting to play golf since they prioritize control over distance, making them ideal for learning.
- Multilayer golf balls: In addition to the previously mentioned types of golf balls, there are many more in terms of the number of layers that can be implemented in the construction. The more layers a ball has, the higher the drive and the better the control over them will be.
The cover of the golf ball is the area that determines the ball’s spin. If you wonder why all golf ball covers have dimples, it’s because they aerodynamically favor the flight, allowing the ball to go further by generating less air resistance.
Characteristics of golf balls
The feel of the golf ball
The feel of a golf ball is what it conveys to the player at the moment of impact, and it can be defined as whether you perceive a hard or soft sensation. This is typically a factor for professional players and is influenced by comfort and which ball they feel more at ease with.
This sensation is usually more noticeable on short shots, as this is where precision matters most. A soft feel is generally preferred around and on the green, although it all depends on each golfer’s preferences.
The compression of the golf ball
Compression is a concept related to feel, as the lower the compression, the more a golfer will perceive the ball as being softer. Conversely, when the compression is higher, the opposite occurs.
It’s essential to pay special attention to the compression ratings of each golf ball manufacturer because they are not the same, and it’s usually an approximate figure.
The spin of the golf ball
Spin is a topic with a lot of differing opinions, and not everyone is ever entirely satisfied with their spin rate. What is clear is that it’s best to have low spin with the driver and higher spin with the wedges.
In the end, choosing the right golf ball is a process of analyzing all the characteristics that surround our playing style, along with numerous other factors such as our skill level, the price we’re willing to pay for golf balls, the feel and comfort, or the compression that best suits our game. If you’re clear on which golf ball suits you best, what are you waiting for to play?