Basic Composition of Modern Golf Balls
- What are golf balls filled with – Core
A golf ball’s core is its energy store and central component, contributing to its overall compression and initial velocity. The modern core is made from synthetic rubbers infused with polymers, aimed at providing the best elasticity and shape recovery once the clubhead compresses the ball. Low-compression golf balls such as Srixon Soft Feel and Callaway SuperSoft have become popular in recent years. They feature large cores and are ideal for slower swing speeds. Golfers with faster swing speeds need firmer cores with higher compression.
- Mantle layer of golf ball explained – Mantle Layer
The mantle layer surrounds the core and consists of one or more layers of ionomers or other proprietary materials. Its main purpose is to increase control by reducing the spin generated by the core’s eagerness to expand upon clubhead contact. Manufacturers use different mantle designs and materials to influence the ball’s feel, spin rates, and control across varying shots and course locations. Five-piece balls such as TaylorMade TP5x feature three mantles to induce maximum control and provide a progressively stiffer transition from the core to the cover.
- What is the outside of a golf ball made of – Cover
The cover is the golf ball’s outer layer, mostly made of Urethane or Surlyn (ionomer resin from DuPont Company). It has to be stiff enough for the ball to fly long distances from the energy generated within but also not too stiff to avoid cracking easily. Ionomer covers offer less spin on full shots, a firmer feel, and durability. They are ideal for average golfers due to their distance capabilities and affordability. Urethane covers provide better control, higher spin rates, and a softer feel, especially on short game shots like chips and pitches.
- Why are there over 300 dimples on a golf ball? – Dimples
Since manufacturers discovered that indentations on the golf ball enhance aerodynamic capabilities, dimples have become important in the ball-making process. Modern golf balls comprise 300–500 dimples, which must be as symmetrical as possible for the ball to be officially sanctioned. Dimples create a turbulent boundary layer around the ball, reducing drag and resulting in a more accurate and longer ball flight. They also work alongside spin to produce more lift by having higher pressure amounts on the bottom of the ball.
Final Thoughts
Thanks to technology, pro golfers can choose balls tailored to their swing speed, playing style, or expected weather/course conditions. You can even get balls with alignment aids, such as arrows or lines, to help accurately line up shots. Beginners and casual players can take advantage of practice/range balls, markouts/X-outs, and recycled balls, which are cheaper and more durable, to help them hone their skills. Consider factors such as affordability, spin, compression, colors, and cover when purchasing golf balls.