What are the Different Types of Golf Balls?

Everyone knows what a golf ball looks like and it does not matter whether you are a fan of golf or not. Golf balls are dimpled, small and white. However, did you know that there are two different types of golf balls? These are called Balata and Surlyn. The main difference between these two is the ball cover or compression. The compression of the ball has an effect when it is hit by a golf club. As a rule the higher the compression, the harder the golf ball feels when you hit it. Ball compressions are usually rated between 80 and 90. When a golf ball has a compression of 100, it has a more solid feel to it. The most common compression used by golf players though is 90. There is no standard as to what compression provides the best result. It would go down to the payer's personal preference. Balata and Surlyn covers are preferred particularly by those who are looking for distance and high spin. Here are some of the other things that you should know about the different types of golf balls.

A Balata golf ball is made of three pieces: a liquid core, rubber and balata. Balata is a soft substance and because the covering of the ball is made of this material, it provides "softness" which players say gives them better playability. What this means is that the golfer can fade or draw his or her shot and get more backspin on the greens. Players have said that with a Balata, they are able to work better on it because of the spin. However, the downside to it is that it can be more expensive and it has a shorter life than the other type of golf balls.

Surlyn golf ball is made of only of two pieces: solid core and the surlyn cover. It is much harder compared to a Balata. It has been designed to reduce cuts and nicks because the material used to make it is considered to be "uncuttable." It is also able to provide players with more distance. While its hardness makes it great to use, there are also a few downsides to it. There are many players who said that they find it difficult to fade, draw or get backspin on the greens when they are using a Surlyn. It is less expensive though than a Balata and lasts longer.

When choosing what golf ball to use, it is important to consider your playing style. Beginners don't really notice the difference between the different types of golf balls but as you get better in the game, you will have to think about it and what suits your level of playing better. Keep in mind though that as you step up your level of playing, you will have to spend more on the golf balls that you will use.

It is also important to consider your playing environment when choosing golf balls. A particular type of golf ball would work well on dry courses but may not do so on wet ones and it could also be the other way around. The temperature also has an effect on golf balls. The compression of a ball would work differently when placed in various weather conditions. It would help if you ask for advice from people who know the sport well as they will be able to say what golf ball to get.