A golf ball is a special ball designed to be used in the game of golf. Under the rules of golf, a golf ball has a mass no more than 1.620 oz (45.9 g), has a diameter not less than 1.680 inches (42.7 mm), and performs within specified velocity, distance, and symmetry limits.
Full Answer
What is a a golf ball?
A golf ball is a special ball designed to be used in the game of golf. Under the rules of golf, a golf ball has a mass no more than 1.620 oz (45.93 grams), has a diameter not less than 1.680 in (42.67 mm), and performs within specified velocity, distance, and symmetry limits.
What are non-urethane golf balls?
Non-urethane balls are all the rest, ranging from the softest two-piece balls designed for golfers with slower swing speeds to the pre-packaged 15-ball distance rocks to the latest experimental middle-ground offerings that feature a new, cheaper cover compound that is meant to grab and spin like urethane.
What do the numbers on a golf ball mean?
Alternatively, balls are usually sold pre-marked with the brand and model of golf ball, and also with a letter, number or symbol. This combination can usually (but not always) be used to distinguish a player's ball from other balls in play and from lost or abandoned balls on the course.
What is an unsourced golf ball?
Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. A golf ball is a special ball designed to be used in the game of golf . Under the rules of golf, a golf ball has a mass no more than 1.620 oz (45.93 grams), has a diameter not less than 1.680 in (42.67 mm), and performs within specified velocity, distance, and symmetry limits.
What do the letters on a golf ball mean?
The small letters you see are simply markings from the molds used to form the covers, and are used by our manufacturing facilities for identification of the molds. They do not affect performance in any way.
What is the difference in numbered golf balls?
The compression rate of a ball relates to the feel of the ball. A golf ball with a lower compression rating of around 70-80 would indicate the ball was for a lady, whereas a ball with a number of 100 would indicate that the golfer would have to swing hard to make the ball work properly.
What number golf ball should I use?
0:202:24Golf Tips : What Do the Numbers on Golf Balls Mean? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThey'll have different numbers. And basically the reason that a ball has different numbers is soMoreThey'll have different numbers. And basically the reason that a ball has different numbers is so that you know your ball. For example I have two balls here both of them made by the company Swick's on
What is the best golf ball for a novice?
9 Best Golf Balls for BeginnersCallaway 2021 Supersoft Golf Balls. ... Wilson Staff Duo Golf Ball. ... TaylorMade Noodle Long and Soft Golf Balls. ... Titleist Velocity Golf Balls. ... Srixon Soft Feel Golf Balls. ... Pinnacle Soft Golf Balls. ... Vice Golf Pro Soft Golf Balls. ... TaylorMade Project (s) Golf Balls.More items...
Is there a difference between red and black numbers on golf balls?
Recently, manufacturers used red color numbers to indicate balls with a compression rating of 90 and the black color–balls with a compression rating of 100. Today, the red color indicates a soft feel, and the black color indicates a firm feel.
What does XL mean on a golf ball?
In this case, XL stands for “extra long,” which refers to the company's claim that its products will travel farther than the typical golf ball. Consumers should be aware that certain golf balls will travel farther only when hit by players with high swing speeds.
Do the numbers on golf balls mean anything?
Nothing, really. These single-digit numbers are simply there for identification purposes. Say you and your buddy both play the same golf ball—a Titleist Pro V1, for example. You want to make sure you can tell them apart during the round, and using balls with different numbers can help you do that.
Should I use a line for putting?
Some golfers should use a line on their putter when they putt and others should not depending upon their putting style. If a golfer likes to pick a specific point to putt to — a small target six inches right and three feet short, for example — then go ahead and use a line.
How many golf balls can you have in a sleeve?
3 golf ballsBut for the most part, sleeves contain 3 golf balls. Some golf ball manufacturers offer sleeves with four golf balls in them but those are becoming quite the rarity. Quite a few years ago, Callaway even offered their Rule 35 golf balls in sleeves of five.
What is the easiest golf ball to hit straight?
The straightest golf balls on the market are the Titleist Velocity golf balls. This is a two piece design that is well manufactured and allows for faster ball speeds and very straight flight technology. The next time you need a dozen golf balls, give the Titleist Velocity a try.
What is the easiest golf ball to hit?
Best Beginner Golf BallsBest Overall Beginner Golf Ball: Pinnacle Soft.Best Value Beginner Golf Ball: Nike PD Long.Top of the Range: Titleist Velocity and Callaway Supersoft.Worthy Competitor #1: Srixon AD333.Worthy Competitor #2: Callaway Warbird.Worthy Competitor #3: Taylormade Burner.
What is the most forgiving golf ball for beginners?
The Bridgestone E6 is an ideal golf ball for beginners and high handicappers. The Callaway ERC Soft is an ideal golf ball for beginners and high handicappers. The Callaway Supersoft is an ideal golf ball for beginners and high handicappers. The Srixon Soft Feel is an ideal golf ball for beginners and high handicappers.
What is the purpose of a golf ball?
The main purpose is for the identification of the ball and to differentiate it from other players. Even if you and your friend are playing using the same brand of a golf ball, you will start the game with balls of different numbers. For instance, yours is 1 while your buddy’s ball is 2.
How big is a golf ball?
A golf ball has a diameter of 1.68 inches or 42.67 mm. Older golf balls, however, have a diameter of 1.62 inches. The diameter is standard across several manufacturers. This is important to make sure that it fits in standard golf holes.
How many digits are in a golf ball?
When a golf ball has three-digit numbers, they will usually range from 300 to 500. These numbers are indicative of the dimples a golf ball has. This is a lot more common in older golf balls. For newer balls, this number is indicated on the box instead.
Why are there numbers on golf balls?
The numbers printed on a golf ball are there for easy identification of who owns the ball during a game. With most balls looking the same, identifying each can be difficult, which is exactly why the numbers exist. The meaning will differ depending on the manufacturer. There can be one, two, or three numbers.
How much does a golf ball weigh?
This is another important number you need to know as it is indicative of the weight of a golf ball. A standard golf ball has a mass of 1.62 ounces or 45.93 grams. Using a lighter or heavier golf ball will affect its performance, especially the way it travels.
What does 22 mean on golf balls?
Rory McIlroy is one of the most popular players with custom number golf balls. His golf balls have 22 printed on them, which signifies his wedding anniversary. This perhaps shows how his wife is his inspiration in his games.
Can you be sanctioned for golf if you have no number?
What this means is that they are not that important apart from identification of the player who owns the ball in a round of golf. You won’t be sanctioned in tournaments if your ball has no number.
How big is a golf ball?
The Rules of Golf, jointly governed by the R&A and the USGA, state in Appendix III that the diameter of a "conforming" golf ball cannot be any smaller than 1.680 inches (42.67 mm), and the weight of the ball may not exceed 1.620 ounces (45.93 g). The ball must also have the basic properties of a spherically symmetrical ball, generally meaning that the ball itself must be spherical and must have a symmetrical arrangement of dimples on its surface. Additional rules direct players and manufacturers to other technical documents published by the R&A and USGA with additional restrictions, such as radius and depth of dimples, maximum launch speed from test apparatus (generally defining the coefficient of restitution) and maximum total distance when launched from the test equipment.
How does impact affect golf ball?
When a golf ball is hit, the impact, which lasts less than a millisecond, determines the ball's velocity, launch angle and spin rate, all of which influence its trajectory and its behavior when it hits the ground.
Who broke the world record for the fastest golf ball?
Canadian long drive champion Jason Zuback broke the world ball speed record on an episode of Sport Science with a golf ball speed of 328 km/h (204 mph). The previous record of 302 km/h (188 mph) was held by José Ramón Areitio, a Jai Alai player.
What Do the Numbers on Golf Balls Mean?
Each number marked on the golf ball has an interesting meaning that you may have never heard about. Below are some common ways of numbering you may notice.
FAQs
Below, I have gathered and answered some of the most frequently asked questions that people are asking in the golf community about what the numbers on their balls mean.
Conclusion
Above are the numbers that can be written on the golf ball and what it means. If people in the past used numbers as indications, numbers on modern golf balls mainly present personal meanings and preferences for the purpose of distinguishing.
One-Digit Number
Most golf balls have a single-digit number on them that is placed right underneath the brand name. This is put on the golf ball purely for identification purposes. The number is put there to help golfers avoid careless penalties during their rounds.
Two-Digit Number
Golf balls with a double-digit number show their respective compression rating. What does compression rating mean? It’s simply a way to measure the hardness level of a golf ball.
Three-Digit Number
Have you ever seen a golf ball with a triple-digit number on it? The three digits are letting you know the number of dimples on the golf ball. Most golf balls that use this feature have a dimple pattern of between 300 and 400 dimples.
Mike Noblin
Mike has been involved with sports for over 30 years. He's been an avid golfer for more than 10 years and is obsessed with watching the Golf Channel and taking notes on a daily basis. He also holds a degree in Sports Psychology.
What are the different types of golf balls?
Types Of Golf Spin Balls. Golf balls are specially created with 3 different types of spins. It includes low spins, mid spins, and high spins. This refers to the backspin that’s transmitted using the loft of the golf club.
What is the innermost mantle of a golf ball?
The innermost mantle has a soft feel and gives low spins using long irons to provide great distances and high flights. The semi-firm mid mantle takes care of mid spins and mid launches using the middle irons. The outer mantle delivers optimum spins using short irons to get the ball to stop quickly.
What is the cover material of a golf ball?
The modern golf ball consists of mainly 2 types of cover materials. This includes the surlyn cover and the urethane composition. - Surlyn: Its commonly used cover and is an ionomer resin made by DuPont. It has a slightly harder feel and is scratch-resistant and durable.
What is the compression rating of a golf ball?
On average, most of the golf balls' compression rating lies between 50 and 100.
What does impact do to a golf ball?
When you hit the golf ball, the impact determines the velocity, spin rate, and launching angle of the ball. Some balls are specially created to maximize the distance with the help of shorter clubs, whereas some increase the distance using the driver.
What is high spin golf ball?
High Spin Golf Balls: High spinning balls are mainly designed to enhance the ball's spin-off in the air. When you hit a golf ball, it’s released into the air with a sufficient degree of backspin. This ball can further increase this backspin, thereby creating a longer carrying distance.
Why do golf balls have multiple layers?
This is because it provides the players with a complete package. The multiple layers function well with one another to provide optimum spin, feel, and distance. Each layer gets activated depending on your swing speed and the club you are using.
What is the outer layer of golf balls made of?
The four-piece golf balls give more distance and feel on shots. The outer layer is thin and almost always made of urethane. The inner layer made of rubber helps to produce that explosive distance. When you hit with drivers, you will get to know how it feels. Dimple counts are also more in these balls.
Why is a golf ball flat?
A flat golf ball would be more affected by the air compared to a ball having dimples. The dimples decrease the area on a golf ball for air to create drag. When the ball is hit in the air, the air molecules bounce off the dimples, and so the ball can travel far and straighter.
Why are premium balls better than urethane balls?
Premium balls are superior and have significant performance benefits. Because of their Urethane covers, they produce more distance and spin. Less expensive Surlyn Covers can provide durability, but when you are looking to take your game to the next level, you should prefer premium balls.
Why is golf played in the summer?
Golf is best when it is played in the summer or in warmer conditions. This is because winter affects both your visibility and the performance of the balls. For every 10 degrees decrement of temperature, Golf balls lose quite some distance. And the speed is also affected.
Is it better to stick with a golf ball?
It’s best to stick with a golf ball that you have tried and tested. There are hundreds of balls from different brands out in the market. It’s easy to get attracted by the functionality of these balls. Some might offer more spin and some more distance. You should experiment and find a golf ball that matches your budget.
Does compression matter in golf?
Tip 3- Compression doesn’t matter. Compression matters for tour players who have a fast swing speed of more than 110 mph. If you are starting out, you might not have developed such speed yet. Higher compression balls have more energy transfer during shots.
Is a mid spin golf ball good?
The spin is also minimized for accurate hitting. If you are starting out your journey in golf, a mid spin golf ball should be good enough for you.
Golf Ball Positions for Drivers, Woods, Irons, and Wedges
With higher-lofted clubs, you’ll position the ball toward the center of your stance, working your way forward and to your left heel if you’re driving with a right-handed grip.
Golf Ball Positions for the Driver
We’ll start with the big hitter and the club for which the ball should be most forward in the stance — the driver.
Golf Ball Positions for Woods and Hybrids
The golf ball position should gradually move back from the front foot from the driver to the putter.
Golf Ball Positions for Irons
By now, you understand that generally, the ball goes further back in the stance from driver to woods to irons.
Golf Ball Positions for Wedges
For wedges, golf ball positions should be the furthest back, approaching between half and two-thirds of the way back in the stance.
Tips for Stance and How It Relates to Ball Positioning and Your Shot
Your stance and ball positioning go hand in hand for creating magnificent shots.
Can My Stance Cause Me To Top the Golf Ball?
The swing arc is usually why beginner players end up topping the ball. Changing the ball’s position to the centerline is the easiest way to fix the problem.
Overview
A golf ball is a special ball designed to be used in the game of golf.
Under the rules of golf, a golf ball has a mass no more than 1.620 oz (45.9 g), has a diameter not less than 1.680 inches (42.7 mm), and performs within specified velocity, distance, and symmetry limits. Like golf clubs, golf balls are subject to testing and approval by The R&A (formerly part of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews) and the United States Golf Association, and those th…
History
It is commonly believed that hard wooden, round balls were the first balls used for golf between the 14th through the 17th centuries. Though they were no doubt used for other similar contemporary stick and ball games, made from hardwoods such as beech and box trees, there is no definite evidence that they were used in golf in Scotland. It is equally, if not more likely, that leather balls filled with cows' hair were used, imported from the Netherlands from at least 1486 o…
Regulations
The Rules of Golf, jointly governed by the R&A and the USGA, state in Appendix III that the diameter of a "conforming" golf ball cannot be any smaller than 1.680 inches (42.67 mm), and the weight of the ball may not exceed 1.620 ounces (45.93 g). The ball must also have the basic properties of a spherically symmetrical ball, generally meaning that the ball itself must be spherical and must have a symmetrical arrangement of dimples on its surface. While the ball's dimples must be sy…
Aerodynamics
When a golf ball is hit, the impact, which lasts less than a millisecond, determines the ball's velocity, launch angle and spin rate, all of which influence its trajectory and its behavior when it hits the ground.
A ball moving through air experiences two major aerodynamic forces, lift and drag. Dimpled balls fly farther than non-dimpled balls due to the combination of these two effects.
Design
Dimples first became a feature of golf balls when English engineer and manufacturer William Taylor, co-founder of the Taylor-Hobson company, registered a patent for a dimple design in 1905. William Taylor had realized that golf players were trying to make irregularities on their balls, noticing that used balls were going further than new ones. Hence he decided to make systematic tests to determine what surface formation would give the best flight. He then developed a patter…
Behavior
Today, golf balls are manufactured using a variety of different materials, offering a range of playing characteristics to suit the player's abilities and desired flight and landing behaviours.
A key consideration is "compression", typically determined by the hardness of the ball's core layers. A harder "high-compression" ball will fly further because of the more efficient transfer of energy into the ball, but will also transmit more of a shock through the club to the player's hands …
Selection
There are many types of golf balls on the market, and customers often face a difficult decision. Golf balls are divided into two categories: recreational and advanced balls. Recreational balls are oriented toward the ordinary golfer, who generally have low swing speeds (80 miles per hour (130 km/h) or lower) and lose golf balls on the course easily. These balls are made of two layers, with the cover firmer than the core. Their low compression and side spin reduction characteristics su…
Marking and personalization
Golfers need to distinguish their ball from other players' to ensure that they do not play the wrong ball. This is often done by making a mark on the ball using a permanent marker pen such as a Sharpie. A wide number of markings are used; a majority of players either simply write their initial in a particular color, or color in a particular arrangement of the dimples on the ball. Many players make multiple markings so that at least one can be seen without having to lift the ball. Marking t…