Is there any piece of golf apparatus so maligned as the ball? Clubs may get their fair share of abuse, but it is the ball at which players usually vent their spleen. Now, the seasoned golfer should gracefully accept their part in a shot going awry, but nevertheless a huge amount of research has gone into improving shot control by making golf balls as customisable as clubs. Technological advances are constantly being made through experimentation with multi-layering, spin levels and changes with the material and dimpling used on the ball surface which alters its feel. Golfers should try different combinations of layering, spin allowance and feel to identify the unique ball whose design affords them optimum shot control. Beginner and intermediate golfers should use one or two layer balls, which offer distance and durability. Three layer balls are the popular choice of experienced players as they combine distance, performance and control. A sound option is Titleist, who has recently unveiled its new NXT Tour and Pro V1 balls. Both deliver penetrating trajectory, accuracy and consistency. At the top of the range is the four layer ball of which the new Nike One Tour is a fine example. These promote a higher launch angle, longer ball flight and greater roll distance and are strictly for advanced players looking for genuine tour performance. When it comes to spin a player should first analyse their swing. Low spinning balls will straighten trajectory when the player is prone to slicing. Mid spinning balls suit the all round golfer and offer consistent flight and distance. Golfers who have a degree of hook or draw to their swing will find a high spinning ball will improve control, but with reduced roll distance. Time should be taken to give all balls a spin. The feel of a golf ball impacts on its flight. A firm golf ball will gain great distance by striking hard off the clubface, but allows less shot subtly on the green. Mid feel balls provide a balance between distance and control. The low handicap golfer whose swing already achieves excellent distance will find a soft feel ball will help the accuracy of their short game. You owe it to your game to take a swing at a wide range of golf balls. Teeing off with the right one should be a priority for any golfer seeking to play their way to perfection. Read more »
