If you are an avid golfer, it’s important to understand the circumference of a golf ball. Many players use a variety of golf balls throughout the golfing season but may not realize exactly how big or heavy the golf ball is and how it affects the game.
The following information will show you the circumference of a golf ball along with other important information regarding golf balls.
What is the circumference of a golf ball?
The circumference of a standard golf ball is 5.28 inches or 13.4 centimeters. This is based on the widest part of the ball and is the distance measurement around the ball known as the equator.
What is the diameter of a golf ball?
Most golf balls have a diameter of 1.68 inches or 4.267 centimeters. This is the measurement from one side of the ball to the other passing through the center of the ball.
How to calculate the circumference of a golf ball?
To calculate the circumference of a golf ball, you need to perform some simple math. Simply multiply the diameter of the golf ball by a factor of 3.14 which is the mathematical constant number for pi. This will equal the circumference.
Golf ball circumference = 1.68″ (diameter) x 3.14 = 5.28″
How heavy is a golf ball?
According to USGA.org, a golf ball can not weigh more than 1.620 ounces or 45.93 grams.
Do all golf balls weigh the same?
No, not all golf balls weigh the same. The weight of the ball directly impacts it’s performance. As mentioned above, the rules of golf specify that the ball can not weigh more than 1.620 ounces but they do not specify a minimum weight.
Depending on the brand and design, golf balls can vary slightly in weight. Light weight balls can weigh between 1.3 to 1.62 ounces.
An example of a lightweight golf ball is the Bridgestone Golf e12 Contact which only weighs 1.33 ounces.
How big is the golf hole or cup?
Since the object of the game of golf is to hit the golf ball into the hole or cup, the golf hole must be larger than the ball itself. The golf holes are designed to measure 4.25 inches or 10.8 centimeters in diameter.
Golf holes are also designed to measure 4 inches in depth.
Knowing that the diameter of a golf ball is 1.68 inches, you can see that the ball will fit easily into the hole.
Have golf balls changed in size and weight over the years?
Yes, the size and weight of a golf ball has changed over time. Until 1932, there were no regulations regarding golf ball size and weight. At that time, the USGA set a new regulation that states a golf ball must be 1.68 inches in diameter. This regulation is still in effect today.
In early days, golf balls were made out of heavier materials such as leather. As time went on, golf balls were made using rubber which lowered the weight. Again in 1932, the USGA set a regulation stating that a golf ball must weigh less than 1.620 ounces. This regulation is still in effect today.
Size and weight of a golf ball compared to a ping pong ball
Since golf balls and ping pong balls are somewhat similar, let’s look at the size comparison. A ping pong ball measures 1.57 inches in diameter. A golf ball measures 1.68 inches in diameter, therefore is 0.11 inches in diameter larger.
A ping pong ball weighs 0.95 ounces or 2.7 grams. A golf ball weighs 1.620 ounces or 45.93 grams, therefore is 0.67 ounces heavier.
How many dimples does a golf ball have?
The number of dimples on a golf ball can vary between 300 – 500. There can be more or less depending on the brand and design. The number of dimples on a golf ball directly affects it’s overall performance.
What is the purpose of golf ball dimples?
The dimples on a golf ball play a crucial role in determining how a golf ball performs. Dimples allow for an increase in aerodynamic performance and a reduction of drag on the ball as it moves through the air.
Golf ball dimples work by providing a very thin layer of air over the golf ball which will reduce drag and ensures the ball travels farther through the air. Dimples also improve golf ball stability and flight path allowing for a more accurate shot.
What do the numbers on a golf ball mean?
Depending on the manufacturer, a golf ball can have either 1, 2, or 3 digits marked on them. These numbers have a different meaning. A single digit on a golf ball is for identification purposes. If you are playing golf in a group, you can easily identify your ball from others based on this number.
A double digit number can also be used for identification purposes but it can also refer to the compression rating of the ball. This refers to how tightly wound its core threads are.
A triple digit number refers to the number of dimples on the golf ball. As mentioned, the number of dimples on a golf ball can vary between 300-500. Although 2 or 3 digit numbers are not as commonly seen on golf balls today as years ago, you may still notice them.