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Step 1
Check out the basics of a two-piece ball. It is less expensive, usually hard and constructed of a cover molded over a big rubber core.
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Step 2
Check out multi-layer balls. They are more expensive, softer and constructed of a soft core surrounded by a hard mantle overlayed by a soft cover.
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Step 3
Look into the differences between golf ball coverings. Surlyn covered balls are hard and difficult to scuff or cut. Urethane is easier to cut and scuff, but it has more feel.
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Step 4
Think about what you want from a ball. A hard ball with a surlyn cover has low spin and provides extra distance. A soft ball with a urethane cover has high spin and provides extra control. The soft ball also give you more hook and slice with less distance. Different dimple patterns can also influence the flight of the ball, high or low.
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Step 5
Examine how the cores, covers and dimple patterns can be combined to produce hundreds of slightly different golf ball flights.
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Step 6
Choose a two-piece ball if you're trying to break 90. There is no reason to spend between $40.00 and $50.00 for a premium multi-layer ball, unless you simply want to play the ball the pros play.
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Step 7
Choose a two-piece ball that "feels good." Check the "Probable Golf" article that catalog's these balls and their prices. The only way you will know how a ball feels is through trial and error. The "Golf Digest" article cited in "Probable Golf" demonstrated little difference between supposed "clunkers" and new balls, so how a ball feels is as valid a criteria as any other.
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Step 8
Choose a multi-layer ball if you are trying to consistently break 80. These balls are being changed constantly. Any golfer who plays in the low 70s might consider investing in a practice session using a launch monitor, a driver, wedge and a variety of balls. Touring pros use these sessions to "match" balls to their equipment and swing. "Golf Illustrated" often publishes articles about the newer multi-layer balls.
