When you first start out, it is not always obvious what golf ball you should use. Most beginners simply use whatever ball is available, but that’s a big mistake that can hinder the learning process. Although there are hundreds of different types of golf balls out there, there are certain characteristics that are best for beginners.
What to Think About When Selecting a Golf Ball for Beginners
Construction
The way a ball is constructed changes the way it responds to your swing. There are five main types of golf ball construction.
One Piece – This type of golf ball is made out of a solid sphere where the dimples are molded in. This type of ball is best suited for areas where the ball need not travel long, like on a driving range. One-piece balls are great for the driving range because they are strong and can take a beating. They are also the most affordable type of ball, which makes them ideal for the driving range, where you are likely to lose a few.
Two Piece – Two-piece golf balls combine durability with distance. Though the balls can go the distance and are made of a solid core in the center, you don’t get a lot of control with this type of ball.
Three Piece – In a three-piece golf ball, there is a layer of liquefied rubber between the solid rubber core and the outer plastic cover. This kind of ball allows the player to have better control. It also enables the player to give the ball a good spin on impact.
Four Piece – This kind of golf ball combines the feel of a three-piece construction with the distance of a two-piece construction. A soft rubber core is covered in two different layers, which makes for a good spin rate. These balls have a soft feel and can go the distance when hit.
Five Piece – In a five-piece construction, a high-powered core is covered by three mantle layers designed to optimize spin and a soft cover. These are generally very forgiving balls that are great for high-handicappers.
Dimples
The dimples on the outside of a golf ball impact how far and how fast it will travel. In fact, a ball with dimples is known to travel twice the distance of a ball without dimples. A slight change in the depth of these dimples can create a big change in the trajectory of the shot.
Compression
Compression is the measurement of how much the ball compresses against the clubface when hit. The higher the compression of the ball, the more is the distance traveled.
When the compression is lower, the ball tends to be soft and compress easily. This type of ball is best suited for new players and high handicappers. High-compression balls are preferred by experienced players who have good control over their shot and their swing.
Spin
Golf balls are designed to suit the “spin” needs of a player. These categories are:
Low Spin – Balls with a low spin are often recommended to beginners and high handicappers because they make it easier to hit the ball a farther distance.
Mid Spin – This is a combination of low-spin and high-spin balls and can be used in all standard conditions.
High Spin – These balls spin the most and have better control than other balls. However, they won’t travel the distance of low-spin balls.
What are the Best Golf Balls for Beginners?
The exact right ball for you will vary depending on playing style. Generally speaking, though, these soft-compression golf balls are well suited to those new to golfing.
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