Golf balls are often advertised as being 2-piece or 3-piece, but what’s the difference and why does it matter?
TLDR
The number of layers affects the spin, compression and distance the ball fly’s. 2-piece is good, 3-piece is for when you are good, and 4- or 5-piece Golf balls are for the Hulk or people with too much bloody money.
What is a 1-piece Golf ball?
Basically, it’s a lump of resin called Surlyn. These are often what are used at the driving range because they are extremely durable, but they don’t spin much, and they don’t fly very far. Great for mini-putt or smacking into a paddock, not so good for improving your Golf score.
What is a 2-piece Golf ball?
A 2-piece Golf ball has an inner Core which is then covered in resin, generally still Surlyn. The inner core is made from a synthetic rubber, like a kid's bouncy ball, that controls the balls compression and helps the ball fly further, while the outer cover gives the ball durability and allows dimples to be added.
What is a 3-piece Golf ball?
A 3-piece Golf ball is basically a small 2-piece Golf ball that has been covered in a new outer layer, usually a substance call urethane. Urethane is a half rubber, half plastic coating that is softer than Surlyn, so when it is hit it squeezes into the grooves of your irons creating higher levels of spin. It also gives a nice soft feel while putting making it the ball of choice for the majority of Golf pro’s.
What is a 4 or 5-piece Golf ball?
These add more layers to the mantle (the Surlyn layer between the outer cover and the rubber core) at different compression levels to try in increase distance or soften the feel. Unfortunately, unless you are the Hulk and swing your club faster than 105mph (very, very fast) to get through all of the layers, it likely won’t make any difference to your game, just your wallet.
Is 2-piece or 3-piece better for me?
2-piece Golf balls tend to have lower compression for slower swing speeds, are designed to go a long way and the do it without too much spin, so they tend to fly straighter. They also tend to be cheaper, making them great for people who are still learning the game or higher handicap players.
3-piece Golf balls tend to suit lower handicap players with higher swing speeds and players that can control ball flight (height and shape). They give spin on the greens for your approach shots and still feel soft while putting. Basically, they do everything you want from a Golf ball if you are already skilled at hitting one.