Golf has always been a fount of eccentricity and superstition. Some golfers won't play high numbered balls because they think they encourage higher scores. Others prefer balls with the number 8 on them, in the belief that they offer better symmetry in flight. Shopping for golf balls can be confusing. Like most products, golf balls are tailored to fit the needs of different clienteles.
Compression is an industry yardstick that measures the hardness of the ball.
The higher the compression the harder the ball. Three-piece balls have liquid centers wound with elastic and covered with balata rubber. They're said to be easier to put backspin on and curve more easily in flight, attributes that make them more appealing to professionals. Balata balls are, however, more susceptible to cuts and scuff marks. Two-piece balls have a solid synthetic center covered with surlyn.