With the game of golf dating back to early 15th century Scotland, the golf ball has undergone many changes to its construction over the years. Two basic categories for the modern day golf ball exist: wound and solid. The solid golf ball category is further divided into one-, two-, three- and four-piece balls. Each type of ball has its own set of characteristics that affect game play and influence golfer preference.
Wound Golf Balls
Consisting of rubber threads wrapped around a liquid or solid rubber core and covered by a hard, rubber-like material called balata, wound golf balls are known for having optimal spin. However, there are two major down sides to the wound golf ball involving distance and durability. The distance this type of ball travels is considered poor by today's golfing standards, not to mention decreased flight distance in colder weather. In addition, wound golf balls are not as durable as solid golf balls and require more frequent changing.
One-Piece Golf Balls
First appearing in the mid 1960s, a single piece of synthetic rubber without any covering constitutes a one-piece golf ball. These golf balls are know for having great durability and low cost. This is why one piece golf balls are used primarily at golf driving ranges today. Since the one piece design makes for mediocre flight distance compared with multiple piece golf balls, you most likely will not see them on the fairways.
Two-Piece Golf Balls
Made of a rubber composite core with a plastic polymer cover, two-piece golf balls go very far without much spin. This type of ball is known for having a hard feel when hit, which some golfers say is comparable to hitting a rock. First introduced in 1982 by major tire manufacturer Bridgestone, two-piece golf balls are often used in driving competitions.
Three- And Four-Piece Golf Balls
A three-piece golf ball is basically a two-piece golf ball with a urethane cover. When you hit the ball hard it will go far, however, it has a much softer feel, which is ideal for short-range shots and putting. Experienced golfers are able to control the ball's spin characteristic, making for more well-placed shots. Similar to its three-piece counterpart, four-piece golf balls contain an extra core, giving the ball an even softer feel and increased flight distance.
References
- "Journal of Chemical Education"; Modern Sport and Chemistry: What a Golf Fanatic Should Know; Scott E. McKay; October 2008
- "Journal of Applied Physics"; The Aerodynamics of Golf Balls; John M. Davies; July 2009
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