Whether you're an experienced golfer or just beginning to swing the clubs, understanding the mechanics of your golfing equipment can help you to perfect your technique and improve your game. Just as there are many different types of clubs to choose from, there are also several different types of golf balls available. These can vary by how many pieces make up the ball, or what material is at the ball's core, or what material covers the ball. Players should understand how the balls differ in order to choose the one best suited to their style of play.
Two-Piece Golf Balls
Two-piece golf balls are typically designed for maximum distance, and are composed of a solid rubber core surrounded by a plastic or urethane cover. Two-piece balls yield less spin, and are constructed to offer increased durability. They are suitable for golfers who want to increase their distance but have not perfected their ball control.
Three-Piece Golf Balls
A three-piece golf ball typically has a solid core, surrounded by an inner layer of wound rubber, and a soft urethane outer layer. Three-piece balls offer both spin and distance, although they may be less durable depending on the density of the outer layer.
Solid-Core Golf Ball
A solid-core golf ball has a center that is made of a firm material; these types of balls tend to offer more distance and durability than other types. Solid-core golf balls yield less spin due to the dense construction.
Wound-Core Golf Ball
A wound-core golf ball is composed of rubber threads wound around a core typically made of liquid or solid synthetic rubber. Wound-core balls offer golfers more spin, but they lack the durability and distance of other types of balls. Their rubber core is also sensitive to temperature changes, and might not perform well in excessively cold or hot weather.
Balata-Covered Golf Ball
A balata-covered golf ball is a three-piece ball with a liquid rubber wound core, covered in a soft material known as balata, which is extracted from trees. Balata-covered balls tend to offer more backspin, roll, and bounce, because the softer covering allows for more resistance as the ball touches the ground. The softer balata covering, however, makes for more wear and tear; these balls are also usually more expensive than other types.
Surlyn-Covered Golf Ball
A surlyn-covered golf ball is a two-piece ball with a solid core, covered in a durable polymer coating known as surlyn. Surlyn-covered balls are inexpensive, can withstand a maximum amount of damage, and offer golfers greater distance on the drive. The primary disadvantage of a surlyn-covered ball is that its dense construction yields less bounce, roll, and backspin when the ball comes in contact with the ground.
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