Using 'hot' balls? Cool it - golf balls - Brief Article

Just how much farther could you hit one of those "hot" balls you see advertised from time to time? We tested two nonconforming models-the Desperado and the Condor. Although a speed limit on golf clubs is a recent action (see December 1999), limits on golf-ball perfor-mance have existed since the U.S. Golf Association set a distance standard in 1976-280 yards plus a 6-percent tolerance. The USGA also limits a ball's size, weight and initial velocity.

No cheating

You can't use an illegal ball in tournament play. The USGA plans to rule soon on whether hot balls can be used when posting scores for handicap purposes.

An unfair advantage

Robotic and player tests showed the "hot" balls averaged 5 to 15 yards longer off the driver than a conforming distance-type ball. Most of this difference was in carry.

Weighty issue

Nonconforming balls are smaller and heavier. This ball weighs 1.82 oz. The USGA maximum is 1.62 oz.

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