DTG Golf July 2015 | Page 8

Manufacturers have flooded the market with an amazing number of balls, all designed to be fine tuned to individual swing characteristics and ball striking ability. The major players, such as Titleist, Callaway, Nike, Bridgestone and TaylorMade, feature an almost exhaustive array of balls that promise better playability and forgiveness…for the high handicapper to the most accomplished golfer.

If there is one constant in golf balls it is change. To wit, the constant tweaking of designs in order to squeeze out every last ounce of performance from the little sphere. Just take a quick glance at the shelves in your local pro shop and you will quickly discover how competitive a marketplace it is. There’s Cleveland/Srixon’s interesting launch of its yellow (or yellow/green depending upon whom you talk to) Srixon Z-Star, Titleist’s consistently hot selling Pro V1 line, Callaway’s wonderful new Solaire and HX Bite balls, Bridgestone’s innovative B330 and “e” lines, and TaylorMade’s ground-breaking five-piece) that’s right, five piece!) Penta. There seems no limit to the choices consumers have when it comes to laying down a few bucks (or more) for a sleeve or a dozen balls.

It is vitally important that golfers take a little time to determine what ball is best for them. Some golf balls are designed to match the launch elements of the club being used, especially the driver. The right ball for your swing speed can add distance and accuracy to your repertoire. If it short-game scoring you’re after, then you’ll want a multi-piece ball that can impart maximum spin and shot shaping to your clubfaces. If you are a mid-handicapper desperate for a bit more distance off the tee and from the fairway, try a new dual-core or three-piece design that produces hot ball flight, while offering more control than the sometimes rock-hard two-piece balls of a decade ago.

Don’t allow golf balls to be an impulse purchase, something you do last minute at the counter before heading out for your round. Do a little homework and find the ball that fits your game. You’ll be surprised at how much of a difference it can make.

Tools for

better Putting

A carpenter's chalk-line and a CD disc are great putting aids to have in your golf bag. The chalk-line is useful to help you with your alignment and stroke. Find a straight six to ten foot putt on a practice green. Snap a chalk-line from the hole back to desired distance. Put a ball on line and make sure your putter and body are lined up properly. Try to roll the putt right up the chalk-line.

Use the CD as a mirror. Lay the disc on the green and place a ball in the hole. Take you stance until your eyes are either directly over the ball or just inside.

When it comes to golf

balls its all about Choice