What Do The Numbers On Golf Balls Mean?
One of the biggest questions golfers ask each other on the golf course concerns the numbers on the golf balls.
What do single-digit numbers mean?
Do they mean anything?
Since golfers spend hundreds of dollars annually on golf balls, it certainly makes sense to ask if golf ball manufacturers are signaling something important to players with those numbers printed under the logo.
Especially since we know that most professional golfers customize their golf balls to help with identification purposes with those one-digit numbers.
However, do the numbers mean something different for weekend warriors?
In this article, we’ll answer eight of your top questions on what these numbers mean and how you can customize your golf balls to help you play more efficiently on the golf course.
What do the different colored numbers on golf balls mean?
A single red number is primarily placed on a golf ball for identification purposes only.
However, a black or red two-digit number in the dimples and outer layer along the side of the ball typically indicates the compression rating. The lower the two-digit number, the lower the ball’s compression rating.
Compression ratings for golf balls correspond with a golfer’s swing speed. The lower the swing speed, the lower the compression rating needs to be with the golf ball.
Lower compression ratings help these golfers get more distance and better launch than higher two-digit numbers you’d find on the golf ball.
A three-digit number typically would not be found on most golf balls as compression ratings don’t usually get that high for balls readily available to amateurs.
What do high-numbered golf balls mean?
When it comes to high-numbered golf balls under the company’s logo, that’s simply the golfer’s preference.
Suppose you see numbers on the side of the golf ball that is either a high double-digit number (from 50-90) or even a triple-digit number (such as 100) related to the compression rating.
Low-compression balls are roughly 50-70, while two-digit numbers between 80-100 are considered high-compression golf balls.
What do numbers on balls mean?
The numbers on the golf ball help golfers identify their shots on the course. The single digits printed on the side can help players quickly locate their golf ball in the rough, which is especially helpful for professional golfers when they play challenging courses around the globe.
PGA Tour players also like to use their lucky number on the golf ball.
Dustin Johnson once had “32” on the side of his golf ball but changed it later to “1” because the two digits were distracting when putting. The two-time major winner also implemented the change to remind himself on the green that one putt is the goal.
Also, since many PGA pros use the same high-compression-rated golf balls, such as Titleist Pro V1 and Callaway Chrome Tour, personalized numbers coupled with symbols drawn by a permanent marker can offer an easy identification process on the course.
Before your round, you should always share the numbers, company, and symbols on your golf ball to ensure that none in your playing party has the same markings on the golf ball.
What does the number on a top golf ball mean?
If you enjoy a few games at Top Golf, a popular golf entertainment facility, you may notice that their balls also carry a number on the outer layer. Their range balls carry a specific number corresponding to their location and patented gameplay system.
All their hitting balls are microchipped to provide scoring to the player’s computer in their stall.
Since novice and beginner golfers are the majority of players at the entertainment venue, you should expect their golf equipment to lack the feel and softness of actual individual balls.
What is the significance of single-digit numbers on golf balls?
Usually, there are four sleeves of three golf balls in a box. With each sleeve, you’ll find the numbers 1-4 on each golf ball in that particular sleeve.
You’ll find this when you purchase golf balls because four players are the typical playing group size for a tee time. This allows each golfer to play with a one-digit number different from their partners, making it easier to identify their golf ball.
How do golf ball numbers relate to their construction?
While a single-digit number under the company’s logo doesn’t really hint at how your golf ball is constructed, you might get a hint at your ball’s compressing rating if you see numbers bigger than that.
For example, if you find a three-digit number on the side of your golf ball, you will know you are playing with a high-compression ball.
Are there industry standards for golf ball numbering?
There is no universal numbering system for the single-digit number you’ll typically find on one golf ball.
Companies can utilize numbers as they see fit or allow players to particular order their desired double-digit numbers on the golf ball.
If you see three digits on your ball, it’s more likely to be related to compression than any identification purpose.
How can understanding golf ball numbers improve your game?
Using a single-digit number like “1” or “11” can provide a guide when putting on the green, helping weekend warriors find the center of the face with more consistency.
Taking the time to understand how a ball’s compression rating dictates your shot’s result is far more critical than worrying too much about the red numbers under a company’s logo.