Why Do Golf Balls Have Dimples?
Why Do Golf Balls Have Dimples? Most golf balls have between 300 to 500 dimples, though the pattern, depth, and number vary significantly between different manufacturers.
The dimples, or small indentations, on the surface of a golf ball are designed to increase the ball’s distance and accuracy. When the golfer strikes the ball with a club, the club puts a spin on the ball.
As it spins in flight, the ball’s dimpled surface whirls air along with it. This whirling action decreases the air resistance encountered by the ball, and at the same time generates a lifting force.
As a result, the distance the ball can be driven is increased. The ball’s indentations also enable the golfer to control and maneuver the ball with greater accuracy.
These two things combined can make the golf ball go as much as three times farther than the same ball without dimples.