Golf Ball Construction
Over the years, golf balls have evolved as much as technology advances. The basic components of the golf balls are the cover and the core. Typically, there are 2-layer balls, 3- or 4- layer balls (multilayer). The cover of today’s golf balls are made from 3 primary materials; Suryln, Balata and Elastromer.
Suryln is one of the early materials used in construction of golf balls since the 80s. It is one of the more widely used and most durable covers for golf balls. The characteristics of a suryln covered balls features :
- Cut / abrasion resistance due to it harder nature
- Good distance
- longer life span
- less expensive thus affordability
- lesser spin due to its hardness
Balata is a slightly softer material made of natural rubber. Due to its softness, it is prefered by players who demand feel and control in their golf balls. This allow the players easier to control and shape a shot when necessary. The characteristics of the balata covered ball features :
- Susceptible to nicks and cuts due to its softness
- shorter life span, not as long lasting
- more expensive than suryln covered balls
- Spins easier
- allows for more control and feel
Elastromer is a more expensive material that provides the control and feel that most advanced players demand and also the durability of the golf ball.
The 1-piece golf balls are typically a ball made of a single material suryln with dimples moulded in. This ball is cheap to buy and durable. However, it is not a very popular choice of golf balls among many players, especially the more advanced players. Beginners can consider them for a start. These type of balls are usually used in driving ranges. It also lacks the distance.
The 2-piece golf balls are made up of a cover and a core. The core is solid and made of acrylate or resin type material. The core is then covered by a hard cover material such as the suryln. This construction not only provides the durability of a 1-piece ball but also increased distance. It is one of the most popular construction used by golfers today due to its affordablity, durability and distance. Good choice for beginners or high-handicappers. However, it lacks the feel and control in a softer ball.
The 3-piece golf balls (multilayer) are basically similar to the 2-piece golf balls except that in the 3-piece balls, there is an additional layer of material between the core and the cover. The balls are usually made up of a large synthetic core (solid or liquid), a layer of enhanced rubber and the cover of with suryln or balata. The enhanced layer can be made of tightly wound rubber or elastic materials around the core. This gives the balls with a softer feel with enhanced higher spin capability.
Another mutilayer ball is the 4-piece golf balls which are still quite new in the market. As the name suggests there are many layers in the golf ball with each layer serving a specific purpose. A 4-piece golf ball also have a small core compared to the other ball types. This will provide the players with the softest feel with the longest distance and spin rate.
Well, golf balls are getting more and more advanced nowadays. Who knows, maybe titanium or other metals can make their way into the golf balls we used today.
