Golf Ball Types

There are two main classes of balls: spin, and distance.

Spin

Designed to spin more. Often, they are of three-piece construction. A central core (liquid in the highest spin balls) is surrounded by rubber windings, which is often covered with a thin, soft material called balata. These balls spin more, making them easier to draw or fade, and they hold the green. They also have a softer feel but won't travel as far as distance balls. Less expensive versions of these balls offer a measure of durability. Their cover is typically Surlyn (a durable, synthetic material) or a Surlyn blend, they may be two-piece rather than three-piece, and have a solid core.

Distance

Made with harder, more-durable covers and solid cores. Most are two-piece. The inside of the distance ball is a firm synthetic material. The combined firmness of the cover and core allow the ball to travel longer distances and be very durable. However, these balls don't spin a great amount. Less spin means less control and stopping ability in certain cases. These have a harder feel than balls with wound construction.