


Anyone who is regularly on the golf course knows that not all golf balls are the same. But while spin and feel are often discussed, it is the hard facts that define a legal tournament ball. But how big is a golf ball exactly and what does a standard golf ball weigh? In this guide, you will learn all about the golf ball diameter, the exact golf ball weight and the fascinating technique of dimples, as the indentations are called.
The size of a golf ball is strictly defined by the highest governing bodies of golf (R&A and USGA). There is a minimum size for golf balls in order to keep the game fair and comparable.

In addition to size, the weight of a golf ball plays a decisive role in flight distance and stability in windy conditions.
The characteristic indentations in the golf ball are not a design gag, but pure science. In technical jargon, these are known as the dimples of the golf ball.
Many beginners ask themselves: How many holes does a golf ball actually have? First of all: they are not holes, but dimples. The question of how many dimples a golf ball has cannot be answered with a single number, as manufacturers vary here.
Expert knowledge: Want to know exactly how aerodynamics work? We have investigated what happens when a golf ball has to fly without dimples. The results will surprise you!
We have summarized the most important facts briefly and concisely for you here:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How many dimples does a golf ball have? | Usually between 332 and 492 dimples, depending on the model. |
| How much does a golf ball weigh exactly? | A maximum of 45.93 grams. |
| What is the diameter of a golf ball? | At least 42.67 mm. |
| What are the small dimples on a golf ball called? | These are called "dimples". |
| How many holes does a golf ball have? | A golf ball has no holes, but approx. 300-500 dimples. |
Whether golf ball size, weight or the number of dimples - every detail is designed to get the maximum out of the flight characteristics. The next time you ask yourself why golf balls have dimples on their surfaces, you will know that they are dimples, the "little helpers" that keep the ball stable in the air.
26 Jan 2026
How big and heavy is a golf ball? Why does it have dimples? Find out here. (Photo: Adobe Stock)