The differences in golf ball construction can affect everything from distance to trajectory to just the feel of the ball coming off the club head. But as in any sport, subtle differences in technology will be largely noticed by better players. Someone just learning the game of tennis, for example, may not see a change in her shotmaking between one racket and another. Likewise, the better the golfer, the more a particular ball's hardness and dimple pattern will affect his game.
Types
When it comes to construction, there are basically three types of golf balls: two-piece, wound and multi-layered, according to Imprint Golf website. Each design offers unique advantages, though the multi-layered golf balls tend to provide the best all-around performance and are more expensive as a result. The two-piece ball are designed for distance. The wound golf balls are so named because there are rubber threads wound many times around the core to give the ball greater spin a softer feel off the club and around the green. Multi-layered golf balls contain a core made for distance, layers to help with accuracy off iron shots, and a cover that tries to duplicate the spin and feel of a wound ball.
Testing
Golf ball manufacturers do countless product tests, in the development of new golf balls and to help market golf balls with claims of greater accuracy, distance and feel. The best way for the average golfer to decide which golf ball will affect his game in a positive way is to try out a few types of golf ball, keeping in mind that the high-value, multi-layered golf balls will be the most expensive. Talk with your local golf pro about what type of ball might best suit your game. The editors of Golf Tips Magazine, for example, note that golfers without an especially fast swing can get more distance from a ball with a soft core and a firm cover, though that type of ball tends to have less spin and control on the green.
Core And Cover
A ball with a harder core won't have as much "ball deformation at impact" with the club face, according to Top-Flite, a longtime manufacturer of golf balls. That means the brief and subtle change in the ball's shape when it is struck with the club will be even less with a ball featuring a harder core. That in turn results in a higher velocity and subsequently greater distance. A softer core will catch the green and spin a little more when it lands.
Expert Insight
In a "Golf Digest" article on finding the right golf ball, Dean Snell, senior director of golf ball research and development for golf equipment manufacturer TaylorMade, suggests that if you try a variety of golf ball types from various spots on the fairway and around and on the green. He recommends hitting one type of ball and then hitting a second type from the same spot to give you some immediate feedback. Trying out golf balls from the tee won't be as helpful, he says.
Considerations
If you try out a variety of golf balls and you really don't notice a difference, Snell suggests you go with a less-expensive ball. Be willing to try out new golf balls periodically as your game improves. And think about your game and try to identify areas you'd like to see improved. If you really want a golf ball that will give you that nice backspin on the green, then start using a ball with a soft cover for awhile. You may notice a difference after you get used to playing a particular ball for some time.
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