Have you ever wondered why golf balls have those tiny holes—or are they even holes at all? If you’re getting into golf, you’ve probably noticed the small indentations covering the surface of every golf ball. These little details aren’t just for show—they play a major role in how the ball behaves in the air.
In this article, we’ll answer the intriguing question “how many holes on a golf ball?”, and uncover the science behind these tiny features that help shape every shot. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your game or simply curious about golf ball design, you’ll discover why these so-called “holes” (actually called dimples) matter far more than you think.
Let’s dive in and explore what they are, how many you’ll typically find, and why they make such a big difference—especially if you’re new to the game.
What Are the ‘Holes’ on a Golf Ball?
When people ask, “How many holes are on a golf ball?”, they’re usually referring to the small round indentations on the ball’s surface. These aren’t technically holes—they’re called dimples.
The term “holes” is a common mistake, especially among beginners. Since the dimples look like tiny pits or impressions, it’s easy to confuse them with actual holes. But in golf terminology, “holes” usually refer to the targets on a course—not the ball.
So, How Many Dimples are on a Golf Ball?
If you’re wondering how many holes on a golf ball, the accurate question would be: How many dimples are there on a golf ball? Most golf balls have between 300 and 500 dimples. The standard number is 336, but this can vary depending on the brand and design.
Manufacturers tweak the number, depth, and pattern of dimples to affect how the ball flies, spins, and lands. There’s no “one-size-fits-all,” but 336 is the most commonly used layout.
Golf Ball Dimple Count Comparison
| Golf Ball Model | Number of Dimples |
|---|---|
| Titleist Pro V1 | 388 |
| Titleist Pro V1x | 348 |
| Callaway Chrome Soft | 332 |
| TaylorMade TP5 | 322 |
| Bridgestone Tour B RX | 338 |
| Srixon Z-Star | 338 |
Why Do Golf Balls Have Dimples?
So, why do golf balls have dimples? The short answer is: aerodynamics. Dimples help a golf ball cut through the air more efficiently. Without them, a golf ball wouldn’t travel nearly as far or straight.
Here’s why:
- Dimples reduce air resistance (drag).
- They create lift, helping the ball stay in the air longer.
- They help maintain trajectory and stability.
A smooth ball would wobble and fall short. A dimpled ball stays steady, climbs better, and flies farther—even when hit with the same force.
Optional Visual Idea: Side-by-side airflow comparison between a smooth ball and a dimpled ball.
How the Number of Dimples Affects Performance
Not all dimples are created equal. Here’s how different dimple features affect the golf ball’s performance:
- Dimple Depth: Deeper dimples create more drag and a lower trajectory. Shallower dimples help the ball fly higher.
- Dimple Pattern: The arrangement (hexagonal, circular, etc.) influences spin and lift.
- Dimple Count: More dimples = smoother airflow and longer flight, but too many can reduce spin control.
Beginner Tip
Don’t assume more dimples automatically mean better performance. The ideal ball for you depends on your swing speed, skill level, and desired control.
Don’t miss knowing: How to choose the right golf ball?
How Many Dimples on a Golf Ball for Beginners?
If you’re a beginner, you might wonder: how many dimples on a golf ball for beginners?
There’s no perfect number for everyone, but beginners benefit from balls with:
- Around 330–350 dimples
- Balanced spin control and distance
- Soft feel and forgiveness on off-center hits
Recommended Beginner-Friendly Golf Balls Hole
| Model | Dimple Count | Why It’s Good |
|---|---|---|
| Callaway Supersoft | 332 | Forgiving, soft feel, easy to hit |
| Titleist TruFeel | 376 | Great control and distance |
| Srixon Soft Feel | 338 | Affordable and beginner-friendly |
Fun Facts About Golf Ball Dimples
- Early golf balls (featheries and wooden balls) had no dimples. Smooth surfaces were standard—until players noticed that scuffed balls flew farther!
- The Guinness World Record for most dimples on a golf ball is 1,070.
- Manufacturers experiment with hexagonal, shallow, and even multi-depth dimple patterns to fine-tune performance.
FAQ Section (Schema-Friendly)
How many holes are on a standard golf ball?
None. A standard golf ball has about 336 dimples, not actual holes.
Is it correct to call them holes on a golf ball?
No, the correct term is dimples. A golf ball has dimples, not holes. The only “holes” in golf are on the Golf course itself.
Are more dimples better for beginners?
Not necessarily. Beginners should focus on balls that offer balance in distance, control, and forgiveness—not just high dimple count.
Do all golf balls have the same number of dimples?
No. The number varies between 300 and 500, depending on the brand and purpose.
What are golf ball dimples called in physics?
They relate to turbulent boundary layers—a concept in fluid dynamics that explains reduced drag and enhanced lift.
What happens if a golf ball has no dimples?
It won’t fly far or straight. It will have unstable flight and lose distance quickly due to higher drag.
Conclusion
So, the next time you hear someone ask, “How many holes on a golf ball?”, you’ll know the right answer: None, but most balls have around 336 dimples.
These tiny indentations are far more than just surface details. For beginners and pros alike, the design and number of dimples can influence performance, flight path, and overall control. Understanding them can help you make better buying decisions—and better shots on the course.
Next time you’re holding a golf ball, give it a close look. Those little dimples? They’re doing a lot more than meets the eye.