To the untrained eye (or at least to golfing newbies), golf balls are all the same. However, those who play or watch a lot of golf will know that is certainly not the case. There are various different types of golf ball, and each type is designed for a different type of player and different course conditions.
In this article, we will explore the different varieties of golf ball and how to decide which type is best for you. Let’s dive in.
What are the different types of golf balls?
There are five different types of golf-balls, all varying in the amount of materials and layers used to create them. These layers have a real impact on things like shot height, distance, spin, and the feel of the ball upon impact. Typically, golf balls with more layers are geared towards more experienced players.
One-piece golf balls
One-piece golf balls are made using only one material – usually Surlyn. Surlyn is known for its impressive durability, but because of this, single-piece golf balls have a tinny, heavy feel and won’t give much of a spin.
Due to the toughness and lack of spin, this type of golf ball is usually found on crazy golf courses, rather than during a proper game of golf.
Two-piece golf balls
If you guessed that two-piece golf balls are called two-piece golf balls because they’re made out of two different materials, you get a gold star! These balls usually consist of rubber in the middle and a casing of either Surlyn or urethane.
They are more commonly used than one-piece balls, and are highly recommended for golfing beginners, as they are slightly softer, designed with both durability and distance in mind. They also tend to be much cheaper, which is good when you start out, as you will end up losing a few!
Three-piece golf balls
Three-piece golf balls are probably the most common golf ball. The design and composition of the three layers in a three-piece golf ball (the core, the mantle and the cover) are intended to provide a balance of distance, control, and feel, making them suitable for a wide range of golfers, from intermediate to advanced players. These balls often offer a compromise between distance off the tee and control around the green, making them a popular choice for many golfers.
Gone are the days when three-piece balls lagged in the distance department. Thanks to technological advancements, that’s no longer a concern. However, it is worth noting that, due to their soft exterior, three-piece golf balls can show signs of wear and tear more quickly.
Four-piece golf balls
A four-piece golf ball is designed with four layers to provide a combination of distance off the tee, controlled spin rates, and excellent feel and control around the greens.
There is a bit of controversy around four-piece golf balls and whether the fourth layer actually makes any difference. This is because of the presence of ‘spin separation’ – a scientific theory where the extra layer only makes a difference when the player reaches fast enough swing speeds.
In theory, when hitting the ball with a driver, a four-piece ball should spin less. However, if you hit a four-piece ball with a short iron, the ball’s spin should increase, which is said to give advanced golfers the best of both worlds.
Five-piece golf balls
The final type of golf ball is probably the least common, and the most complicated. The principle is similar to four-piece golf balls; these additional layers are designed to manage spin and compression for improved performance.
However, you should weigh the cost against the potential benefits. These balls tend to be on the pricier side, so consider whether the enhanced performance justifies the higher investment. It’s a decision each golfer needs to make based on their preferences and priorities.
Which type of golf ball is the best?
There isn’t really such a thing as the ‘best’ golf ball, it really does depend on where you are in your golfing journey. Here’s our rough guide, based on your golfing abilities.
For complete beginners
When you’re just starting out on your golfing journey, obsessing over finding the perfect golf ball isn’t the top priority. In the beginning, it’s all about getting the hang of the game, finding some consistency, and, well, trying not to lose too many balls.
However, a one-piece golf ball is best if you’re just playing for fun, or a two-piece golf ball might be for you if you’re wanting to improve your skills, but are just starting out.
For developing players
As you begin to gain more confidence in your game, it’s time to shift your focus from just playing consistently to actually improving. That’s when you should start thinking about what type of golf ball might suit your needs. Look for a ball that can help you work on the areas where you struggle.
For instance, if you’re having trouble hitting it straight off the tee, consider a golf ball designed for lower spin on long shots, such as a two-piece golf ball. If control is your challenge, go for a softer golf ball with a higher spin rate, like a three-piece golf ball.
For the average golfer
As your game progresses, and you’re moving down the handicap ladder (even if it feels slow), it’s a good idea to pick one specific golf ball to work with. Some golfers think that using different types of balls in a round can help, but that’s not the case.
In reality, switching between ball types can mess with your game. The distance you get from one ball can be significantly different from another, sometimes 5 to 10 yards less. So, it’s not worth the gamble. The right golf ball can make a big difference. Stick with the one you choose and see if it helps to improve your game.
In the grand scheme of things, the golf ball you should pick boils down to what suits you best.
When finding that out, consider factors such as your skill level, swing speed, where you need improvement, and your budget. Each of these will play a role in deciding which type of golf ball is best for you.
How Cash Fore Clubs can help you
At Cash Fore Clubs, we offer a wide range of golf balls, golf clubs (both second hand and brand new) and other essentials to suit golfers of all levels and budgets.
Whether you’re just starting or you’re an experienced player looking to upgrade your equipment, we have the clubs you need to play your best. Shop our selection of golfing essentials today or contact us to find out how we can help you.
