What Golf Ball Should I Use?

You may believe that every golf ball is the same. Yet golf balls are manufactured in different ways to give varying types of performance to the game. Some types of golf balls will give more spin, while other balls provide additional responsiveness. The type of ball you should use must be based on your skill level. Using the same ball just because you see the professional’s use it doesn’t mean it will improve your stroke.

Ball Construction

Balls are constructed with multiple layers that can affect its distance, control and spin. Balls will have one-layer construction up to five-layer construction. In addition to the number of layers a ball will have, how the layers are compressed together and the materials used for the cover will also affect how the ball responds to different players and their skill levels. Balls that normally have two to three layers will offer less spin and feel harder to the touch as they are more durable. Balls that have four or five layers are softer, will give more control as you take an approach shot and will spin more.

Golf balls can have two different covers on the surface: ionomer and urethane. Ionomer covers will be more durable and harder, reducing the amount of spin. These balls allow a golfer to reduce the slice and hook of their shot. Balls covered with urethane are softer as the ball will react more when the player is using it for the greens.

Deciding On The Right Ball

Beginners will find that two-layer balls made from ionomer will work best for their game. The hard core, low compression and durable cover will give more distance after the swing. The ball also won’t slice as badly when hit off the tee.

Players who are in the mid-range skill experience will gain more benefits from advanced two-layer and three-layer golf balls. Advanced golf balls have the low compression for the layers and either a hard ionomer cover or a soft urethane cover. The ball gives distance but also allows for more spin as the golfer will see more consistency to their game play.

Advanced golfers normally play with tour balls that have four or five layers.The number of layers combined with the softer urethane cover will give the ball tons of spin. These golfers enjoy the control they have to stop the ball on the green, as well as fade and draw their shots.

Selecting A Ball

The best way to select a ball is to take several different kinds to the golf course and check out how they feel. See how the ball responds to your skills when making tee shots and when hitting balls at 100 yards. Then select the ball that you like based on how it can improve your overall score.