While playing golf have you wondered why mid range golf balls don’t perform better than the expensive ones in terms of distance, spin and control? It is mainly because of the cover of the golf ball.
Golf ball covers are a very important factor of ball performance. But many golfers don;t pay attention to many of the golf ball characteristics like dimple pattern , cover and compression rating. Choosing the right golf ball can drastically improve your performance on the golf course.
The two main options available in the market are Surlyn and Urethane. Urethane is mainly used in soft golf balls and the expensive ones. While Surlyn is mainly used in inexpensive and mid range golf balls.
In this article we will compare Surlyn vs urethane golf balls and tell you which one is better for your game?
When it comes to golf balls, Surlyn and Urethane are the two main types of covers you'll encounter. Each has its own set of characteristics that can significantly impact your game.
Overview of Surlyn and Urethane golf balls
Surlyn is a type of ionomer resin known for its durability and lower cost. Manufacturers usually use it in golf balls that are cheap or mid range. Urethane is a material used in premium golf balls because of its softer feel. A great number of Professionals and experienced golfers use urethane cover golf balls for better control and spin.
Key differences in performance characteristics
The main difference between these lies in the performance characteristics. Surlyn cover golf balls offer great distance and are durable making them a better option for golfers who are on a budget and prioritize length off the tee. Urethane golf balls are more liked by avid and professional golfers because they like precision in their game. Urethane covered golf balls provide greater spin and control.
Importance of considering skill level and playing style
When choosing a golf ball it is important to consider your skill level and playing style as if you choose a golf ball whose characteristics are in contrast to your playing style then it will negatively impact your game. Beginners and mid golfers usually like Surlyn because they want better distance and durability, while experienced and skilled golfers like spin and precision in their game so they choose urethane golf balls.
Surlyn Golf Balls: The Durable Option
Surlyn was found in the 1960s and after its discovery people started to use it in many sports equipment like masks or cover for various sports equipment.
Advantages of Surlyn golf balls
- Durability: Highly resistant to cuts and abrasions, extending the lifespan of the golf ball.
- Distance: Lower spin off the driver results in longer shots.
- Affordability: Generally less expensive, making them a cost-effective choice.
- Forgiveness: Reduces side spin, which helps in achieving straighter shots, beneficial for beginners and high handicappers.
- Consistency: Provides more consistent performance due to its robust material.
Durability and distance
Surlyn covered balls are usually known for their durability. It is tougher than Urethane. It is a type of ball that is cut and scuff free. It is usually very hard to put a scuff or cut on it. These balls can be used for a longer period of time. You don’t have to replace them very often.
Surlyn cover golf balls usually have very great distance because they don’t offer a lot of spin. Imagine standing on the tee box of a long par 5, facing a wide fairway lined with bunkers and rough. You confidently tee up your Surlyn-covered golf ball, knowing its low spin characteristic will give you the distance advantage you need. With a smooth swing, you strike the ball solidly, watching it soar effortlessly down the fairway, surpassing your usual distance. As it lands softly and rolls out, you realize that the durability of your Surlyn ball not only gives you the distance you crave but also the confidence to tackle any challenging hole on the course.
Forgiving nature for beginners and high handicappers
The Surlyn balls are very beneficial for Beginners and High handicappers because of their forgiving nature. One of the great examples is Callaway Supersoft Surlyn balls are designed to reduce spin and improve distance for straighter shots helping new and high handicap players to achieve consistent performance. This helps in minimize the side by side movement of the ball which results in fewer hooks and slices.
Urethane Golf Balls: The High-Performance Choice
Urethane was found in late 90s and is being used as golf balls covers till then. It is becoming a popular and go to choice for skilled golfers offering great spin and control.
Advantages of Urethane golf balls
- Spin and Control: Offers higher spin rates, especially around the greens, allowing for better control and stopping power.
- Feel: Provides a softer feel, which is preferred by many advanced players for better feedback on shots.
- Short Game Performance: Enhances performance in the short game with improved control and precision.
- Professional Use: Used by professional and low-handicap golfers due to its superior performance characteristics.
- Versatility: Performs well in various conditions, offering consistent playability in different weather and course conditions.
Control and spin
Urethane golf balls are renowned for their exceptional control and spin capabilities, making them the preferred choice for players who demand precise shot-making abilities. The advanced cover material of urethane balls allows for increased friction between the clubface and the ball upon impact, resulting in greater spin rates. This enhanced spin enables players to shape their shots with precision, whether it's drawing a ball around a dogleg or stopping it quickly on the green.
Feel and precision for skilled players
One of the distinguishing features of urethane balls is their soft feel, providing a distinct sensation upon contact with the club. This tactile feedback is highly valued by skilled players as it allows them to gauge the quality of their strikes more accurately. The responsiveness of urethane balls translates into enhanced precision, enabling players to execute delicate shots with finesse and confidence. Whether it's a delicate chip onto the green or a controlled approach shot, the exceptional feel of urethane balls empowers skilled players to achieve their desired results with consistency and accuracy.
Urethane vs Surlyn: Which One is Better for You?
Now as all of the qualities and performance characteristics of each ball is explained. It is on you how you see your game but if you are still in confusion then below we will tell you which golfer should use which cover.
Surlyn is less expensive than urethane and offers more distance and durability. It is a great choice for beginner and mid to high handicap players. As these players usually prefer the distance of the ball then spin.
Urethane offers spin and is expensive so experienced and skilled golfers should choose these golf balls. As these golfers usually like control and spin in their short game compromising on distance.
Which ever golf ball you choose, knowing about the both types will heavily elevate your game on the course.
