Which Golf Ball is Right for Me?

Golf balls come in many categories and varieties, but not all golf balls are created equal. The right golf ball for you will depend on your swing speed, skill level, budget, and personal preferences.

In this post, we will discuss the different factors to consider when choosing a golf ball, as well as some tips for choosing the right ball for your game.

Types of Golf Balls

There are two main categories of golf balls: those with a urethane cover and those with a surlyn cover.

• Urethane covers are more expensive, but they offer more feel and control. They are also more likely to spin on approach shots and around the greens.

• Surlyn covers are less expensive, but they are more durable and have lower spin. They are a good choice for golfers who hit the ball with a lot of speed, as they will help to reduce sidespin and keep the ball in the fairway.

Within these two categories, there are a variety of different golf balls to choose from. Some balls are designed for distance, while others are designed for control. Some balls are designed for high handicap golfers, while others are designed for low handicap golfers.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Golf Ball

Here are some of the factors you should consider when choosing a golf ball:

• Your swing speed. If you have a slow swing speed, you will need a ball with a lower compression rating. If you have a fast swing speed, you will need a ball with a higher compression rating.

• Your skill level. If you are a beginner, you will need a ball with a larger core and a softer cover. This will help you get more distance and control. If you are an advanced golfer, you can choose a ball with a smaller core and a harder cover. This will give you more feel and control.

• Your budget. Golf balls can range in price from a few dollars to over $50 per dozen. Choose a ball that fits your budget.

• Your personal preferences. Some golfers prefer balls with a bright color so they can see them better in the air. Other golfers prefer balls with a matte finish so they don't reflect sunlight.

Tips for Choosing the Right Golf Ball

Here are some tips for choosing the right golf ball for your game:

• Try out different balls. The best way to find the right golf ball for you is to try out different balls and see what works best. You can often find balls at your local golf course or sporting goods store.

• Read reviews. There are many websites and magazines that review golf balls. Reading reviews can help you learn more about different balls and narrow down your choices.

• Talk to your friends and fellow golfers. Ask your friends and fellow golfers what they use and why they like it. They may be able to give you some good advice.

Choosing the right golf ball can make a big difference in your game. By considering your swing speed, skill level, budget, and personal preferences, you can find a ball that will help you improve your game.

Understanding Golf Ball Compression for the Layperson

Golf ball compression is a foreign concept to many amateur players. Most players don't take the time to research which type of golf ball best suits his or her game. Understanding every element of your equipment and how each pieces fits your game is critical to lowering your scores over time. Here are a few tips to consider before buying that next sleeve of golf balls.

Swing Speed and Compression

The majority of amateur players have swing speeds lower than 90 mph. They will not benefit as much from the same golf balls their favorite professional players use as they would from a ball with lower compression.

When you hit a golf ball, the force of your club at impact causes the ball to lose its round shape for a millisecond. The ball becomes "flatter" due to compression, much like how a basketball flattens when dribbled on the ground. Your golf ball then expands back into shape as it flies toward your target. This transfer of energy translates to a boost in distance that can differ widely depending on the swing speed/compression rating relationship.

Traditionally, higher swing speeds (for example, PGA Tour pros) over 100 mph benefit the most from high-compression golf balls. The opposite is true for slower swing speeds who "should" use lower compression balls.

A Shift in Opinion

Recent research has prompted manufacturers to question traditional beliefs about golf ball compression. For example, Titleist believes that golf ball compression has less to do with a golf ball's performance and more to do with feel. Qualities like dimple pattern and spin rates have a bigger impact. Therefore, the world's leading golf ball manufacturer suggests that players with slower swing speeds don't need lower compression golf balls.

Does it really matter?

Do you have any idea what the compression rating is for your current golf ball? Most manufacturers no longer list this information on their packaging. You are more likely to see info on spin rates, cover durability and mantle construction. This distinction alone suggests that marketing focus has shifted away from compression and toward other performance characteristics.

However, many companies -- including Titleist -- offer golf balls with different compression ratings. Golf ball selection is still a highly personal process where feel reigns supreme for most players. Manufacturers understand this and do all they can to offer different "flavors" of the same performance tech (dimple pattern, mantle construction, etc.) to appease every golf ball feel palate.

(Photos via Titleist.com)