Golf balls are one of those pieces of equipment a golfer can’t live without. Golf balls are immensely involved with this sport that you can’t even think of golfing without having this tiny equipment. Many golfers are not so much concerned about knowing some necessary information about the equipment, and this lack of knowledge often leads them to a short term success. It’s great that you have the curiosity to explore the game more, which brought you to this guide.
Like other professional sports, golf also has some strict rules and regulations regarding its equipment, including golf balls. This article will discuss those regulations that make a golf ball legal for the game, including its weight.
The average weight of a golf ball
Golf balls are the lightest, among other golf equipment. Probably you know by now that golf balls are smaller than any other sport’s balls. Well, this also has an explanation. A golf ball needs to have an incredible velocity to cover the distance so that you can end the game with lesser shots. On top of that, the size of the golf hole cup is not broader or more prominent. The balls have to be in the right size to fit the golf hole cup. That’s the reason usually golf balls are smaller and lightweight than other typical balls.
USGA has set a standard weight for golf balls, just like any other equipment used in golf. As per USGA rules, a standard golf ball can’t exceed the value of 45.93 grams or 1.620 ounces. If the ball is more massive than 46 grams, it will be considered illegal. USGA has set this standard weight because it is just right for an incredible velocity and perfect shape and size for the golf hole.
Manufacturers of golf balls keep this weight in mind strictly as this weight is only allowed by USGA. There are only a few companies that make balls slightly heavier than this weight. However, the difference is not very notice-worthy.
Types of golf balls
You will find different types of golf balls based on various features. Although almost every golf ball comes in the standard weight, the features differentiate the classes and let you choose the ball you demand. Golf balls are primarily classified based on its construction.
Construction
We see five types of golf balls classified based on construction. But, three types among these five types are considered as one single type. So, in a nutshell, we can say there are three types of constructions in golf balls.
One-piece golf ball: One-piece golf balls have no cover or core. They are made as a solid piece ball with plastic or rubber. This kind of ball is not appropriate for flight distance.
Two-piece golf ball: Two-piece golf balls are constructed with a rubber core and a cover at the surface. The outer shell is made of either surlyn or urethane. Beginners use these balls for practice to provide a moderate distance and long-lasting if taken care of properly.
Multi-layered golf ball: Multi-layered golf balls can be made of 3 or 4 or 5 layers. The number of layers in the core decides how many layers would be in a golf ball. Professional and skilled golfers mostly use these multi-layered golf balls. They are often relatively heavier and deliver a massive flight distance.
Next, we can classify golf balls based on the compression. Compression is the ball’s pressure, which is felt when the ball is hit with the club. There are two kinds of golf balls, depending upon the compression.
Compression
Low compressed golf balls: By the name, you got to understand that these balls come with lower compression. They are softer and compress more to provide a reasonable distance.
High compressed golf balls: High compressed golf balls deliver a more rigid feel when hit by the club. These are recommended for the experience of golfers who can control the ball well. These balls are also outstanding performers as they can deliver a faster swing speed.
Dimples
Dimples are very crucial parts of a golf ball. You will find two types of golf balls offering balls with dimples and balls without dimples. Let’s discuss these two types of golf balls.
Golf balls having dimples: A typical golf ball is seen with so many tiny dimples over the surface. This is the most common and most prominent golf ball. These small dimples help the ball to follow the rules of aerodynamics and deliver a better flight. These dimples help to prevent the drag of the air so it can fly to a moderate distance.
Golf balls without dimples: Golf balls without dimples have a plain surface. These balls are not valid for use in any professional competitions. If you are a newbie and looking for golf balls for your primary practice, then you can surely go with this choice. But when you develop your skills, you won’t prefer this ball anymore.
Golf balls for female golfers
Women have a different playing style than men on golf ground. It is natural as the postures and natures are different from men to women. This difference is also apparent in golf balls. Golf balls for females are constructed with slight changes. There are almost every manufacturer has some modified and unique golf balls for females.
You will find an expected difference in women’s golf ball, and that is the look. Swing speed is also another crucial difference between a female golf ball. Generally, many of the female golfers can’t have a swing speed like men. That’s why they need a ball that will give a better swing and flight with a light stroke. Generally, lower compression golf balls are better for females as they feel softer and can deliver a better flight and overall great distance. Female golf balls are mostly very much controllable. They also come with dimples for a smooth flight.
If you are a female and looking for a golf ball, you can find a suitable one for you at any nearest sports store or online marts. There are lots of companies that make golf balls for females to keep these facts in mind.
Golf balls for children
Junior golfers or the children who start golf at an early age are not skilled enough and professional. They start golfing either because of their hobby, or they want to pursue golf as their career in the future. Their golf balls should be different from the senior ones. Considering children who love golfing, manufacturers produce golf balls that are convenient for them.
Golf balls for children come with a lower swing speed as children have a lower rate of hitting the ball. Also, they can’t have control at the beginning. That’s why experts suggest children use a soft compression ball with a lower spin rate. These types of balls deliver a better flight, a great distance with lesser swing speed. Talking about construction, multi-layered golf balls would be just right for the children as these golf balls are very durable. When children start golfing, they are likely to do various experiments with the equipment as everything creates curiosity for them. In this case, multi-layered golf balls might be saviours as they are long-lasting and compatible with children.
Golf balls for Seniors
We can see so many senior citizens have the hobby of playing golf. This is not a rare case of seeing a gentleman in the ’60s playing a match with you on the golf course. At this age, people usually don’t have that much energy to hit the ball to such a long distance. They also have a slower swing speed. Golf balls with lower swing and lower spinning rate are perfectly suited for old aged golfers. They can again go for a lower compression golf ball. Low-compressed balls can cover a decent distance with a light-stroke.
Golf balls for practice
Practice golf balls or regular golf balls are for regular practising. This type of ball is a bit different than the one used for professional matches. Practice golf balls are lightweight for the convenience of practising. They are of light colours, so you can quickly notice them in green. They are also very much durable as people use them for practising. A practice golf ball has to endure hitting repeatedly, so the durability is ensured by the manufacturers.
An appropriate golf ball is essential for boosting your skills. You will find each type of golf ball at the market as per your need. Almost every golf ball comes with a weight of 45.93 grams. Only some exceptions, such as Pinnacle, is 46 grams, and the lightest is Dunlop, weighs of 45.43 grams. As you can see, the difference is not very much note-worthy.
Here, I have discussed almost all kinds of available golf balls. Now it is up to you to choose a suitable ball and show your skills in the course. I hope this guide could help you to understand more about the golf ball and the facts you should remember.