out or if you've played just enough to know you really want to give this sport a try. They're also terrific for high handicap golfers who have been around a while. Hey, we can't all be pros! These are the most common type on the market and usually less expensive than 3-piece balls. Best of all, the large rubber core provides faster speed off the tee for those of you with a slow swing. In turn, that gives you greater distance.

It could happen that the first time you played, everyone was astounded at the way you slammed that little white ball with the power of a major league batter aiming for a grand slam. But that's doubtful. Distance is usually developed over time as you develop your swing and find the groove. When you are just beginning, chances are you need to improve your accuracy more than your distance. Once you've developed your accuracy, then is the time to choose a ball and clubs that will help improve your distance.

If you haven't developed consistent accuracy – that is, having the ball consistently land in the same "general" area each time – then the 3-piece ball probably isn't right for you. It's just not as forgiving of miss-hits as the 2-piece ball. The same goes for high performance balls. They're pretty much designed for advanced golfers...and their price bears this out!

One factor to always be considered is cost. Simple, standard 2-piece balls usually come in 18-packs and are relatively inexpensive. The cost of balls may seem small in comparison to the overall cost of pursuing the sport but the inexperienced golfer can go through a lot of balls in a very short space of time!

The key, as with most equipment, is to choose the right kind of ball for your level of play. Consider your swing and your game, and then choose the ball that will help eliminate your weaknesses and build upon your strengths.

If you don't choose the right ball for your level of play, your round might just become what Mark Twain once called it: "...a pleasant walk, spoiled".

Copyright 2005 Donald Saunders
Newcomers to the world of golf may find choosing the right golf balls a difficult task. Check out the local suppliers in your area and don't be too tempted by those personalized golf balls or logo golf balls that are all the rage today.