If you’re a golfer, you know how important it is to have the right ball for the job. A great golf ball can turn your okay game into something even better. But, many people actually have trouble looking for that perfect ball.
Salina Country Club is one of Kansas’ premier clubs offering enjoyable amenities to better the lives of our members. Everything, from our tennis courts and championship golf course to our variety of dining experiences is held to a high standard. Read our article below to learn what you should be looking for in a golf ball.
The Anatomy of the Golf Ball
Before we get into what you should be looking for in your ball, it’s important to understand the elements that make up a golf ball.
- Dimples: You know those circular grooves on the ball? Those aren’t just for show. They actually play a vital role in how the ball flies. They create a thin layer of air that clings to the surface and travels back to increase lift and decrease aerodynamic drag.
- The Core: The core of the golf ball is another important component of its anatomy. The core drives compression, which refers to overall density. Higher compression balls are typically for more seasoned golfers with faster swing speeds. Golf balls briefly transform shape at impact and the core needs to support this energy transfer. Golfers with slower swing speeds looking to gain distance tend to lean toward lower compression golf balls that maximize the spring-like effect created through impact.
- The Cover: There are two main types of golf ball covers: Surlyn ® and urethane. Surlyn ®, an ionomer resin developed by DuPont ™, has been used to cover golf balls since the mid-1960s. Surlyn ® covers are the most durable and afford lower spin off the tee. Urethane covers, typically found on higher-end balls preferred by more skilled players, offer a softer feel and greater control.
Additionally, you have to account for its construction. A ball can have a two-piece or multi-layer construction. Two-piece balls are ideal for beginners and high-handicap golfers with slower swing speeds. Multi-layer balls are great for players with faster swing speeds and look for more spin control.
How to Choose the Perfect Golf Ball for You
Before you decide on a ball, you should assess your overall golf game and weaknesses. If you regularly find yourself a few yards away from your desired location on long par 3s, a ball designed for additional distance may be the best choice for you. If you regularly find yourself hitting greens, but the ball is not sticking, try to find a ball designed for an additional spin that could result in hitting additional greens in regulation.
Golf.com has a great breakdown on what balls go great for specific handicaps.
- 15+ Handicap: Look for a ball that tends to fly straight and offers forgiveness on mishits. Distance is likely the top priority; spin help is often needed to augment a lack of technique to generate enough stopping power.
- 5-15 Handicap: Most players in this subset benefit from higher-launching iron shots; the other emphasis should be on the ability to hit a variety of short-game shots.
- 5 Handicap and Better: Look for a ball that’s producing the right spin window off the tee and provides ample control with the scoring clubs. Generally, you’re already impacting enough spin on the ball. Spin rates and feel are key for these better sticks.
Salina Country Club Offers Incredible Golf Experiences
Salina Country Club is one of the premier places in Kansas to play golf. We offer an excellent golf course where our members can unwind and start competitive games of golf. Additionally, we offer golf lessons from our certified golf professionals to elevate your skills to the next level. Contact us today to learn more about our golf lessons and our championship course.
