Two-piece ball
This consists of a cover and a solid core.

The theory is that this enables the energy at impact to be transferred efficiently to the ball in flight.

Good for: Distance.

Three-piece ball
This consists of a cover over elastic windings wound around a solid core centre.

Good for: Feel and control.

Materials
Manufacturers use a combination of different materials with different features, such as hardness, weight, etc to make both types of ball.

Some claim these balls can even compensate for slight mis-hits. The most common golf ball covers are made from two materials; Surlyn and Balata.

Surlyn provides a stronger, more durable cover, while the Balata is a softer material that offers a little more spin control but might not last more than a few rounds.

Most professional players prefer the control of the Balata golf ball.

Amateurs are better off with the Surlyn which last longer.

Dimples
The surface is 'dimpled' to increase lift and reduce air resistance.

Balls come at different compressions; 100, 90 or 80.

As a general rule, the 'hardest' balls should only be used by low handicappers.

Any other numbers on the ball are only there to help you identify your ball on the course.

The competition between manufacturers is fierce and they each make all sorts of claims such as 'aircraft-inspired aerodynamics' to make us believe theirs will travel further.

But for many amateurs, brand new golf balls are an expensive luxury and we make do with 'seconds' and keep a bag of their oldest most battered balls with which to practice on the range.

Always carry enough balls to finish a round of 18 holes - the number will depend on how often you lose them!