Golf balls: everything about weight, diameter, size and dimples at a glance

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 dimensions: How big is a golf ball?

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.

• Golf ball diameter: The official diameter of the golf ball must be at least 42.67 mm (1.680 inches).
• What is the maximum diameter of a golf ball? Interestingly, there is no maximum diameter for golf balls. A ball can theoretically be as big as a soccer - however, it would hardly fly due to the massive air resistance and would no longer fit into the hole. In practice, all manufacturers adhere exactly to the minimum size in order to achieve the best aerodynamics.
• Golf ball volume: The standard volumeof a golf ball is approx. 40.6 cm³.

Weight: How heavy is a golf ball?

In addition to size, the weight of a golf ball plays a decisive role in flight distance and stability in windy conditions.

• How much does a golf ball weigh? An official golf ball may weigh a maximum of 45.93 grams (1.620 ounces).
• Why is there a limit? If you're wondering how heavy a golf ball is and why it can't be heavier: a heavier ball would have more kinetic energy and would fly significantly further. This limit was introduced to prevent the courses from becoming "too short".

The surface: What are the small dents on a golf ball called?

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.

How many dimples does a golf ball have?

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.

• How many dimples does a golf ball usually have? Most models have between 300 and 500 dimples.
• How many dimples does a golf ball have in extreme cases? There are special balls with well over 500 dimples (e.g. from Mizuno), while classic designs are often around 330 to 392. Models with more dimples often have so-called micro-dimples in addition to the round indentations, which lie between the standard round indentations.
• The function: These dimples drastically reduce air resistance. Without them, the golf balls would only fly about half as far and not as stable.

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!

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about golf ball properties

We have summarized the most important facts briefly and concisely for you here:

Conclusion

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.