Tech Talk w/ Dean Snell - Episode #29 - What goes into making yellow golf balls?

What Goes Into Making Optic Yellow Golf Balls?

Tech Talk Episode #29

Golfers are used to seeing the classic white golf ball, but over the years, optic yellow has become a popular choice. The brighter color makes the ball easier to track in the air and spot on the ground, especially in low light or cloudy conditions. But what actually goes into making a yellow golf ball, and does the process differ depending on the type of ball?

In this week’s Tech Talk, Dean Snell answers a question from John Parmley:

“What goes into making the optic yellow golf balls?”

The Simple Version: Ionomer & Surlyn Balls

For two-piece ionomer or Surlyn golf balls, the process is relatively straightforward. Manufacturers add a yellow color concentrate directly into the cover material during the injection molding process. Those colored pellets are melted, molded, and form the yellow cover to the ball’s exact specifications.

The result is a durable, brightly colored cover that’s consistent across the production line.

The Complex Version: Urethane Balls

Things get trickier when it comes to urethane-covered golf balls. In the cast urethane process, the cover is formed by mixing different chemical components. Adding yellow pigment directly into this mix affects the entire production line.

Dean explains that if you mix yellow into the urethane, it can leave behind color traces in the machinery for months, making it difficult to switch back to white balls. This adds significant cost and complexity.

The Workaround: Paint Systems

Instead of coloring the urethane itself, most manufacturers apply a yellow paint system on top of the cover. But even this isn’t easy. Creating a bright, durable, and uniform yellow paint that bonds well to urethane is a challenge. Getting the color right while maintaining performance and durability takes specialized formulas and quality control.

Why Yellow Matters

Optic yellow golf balls aren’t just about looks—they’re about playability. Many golfers find yellow balls easier to see in the air and easier to find on the ground. This visual advantage can make a real difference for older players or anyone who wants more visibility.

Final Thoughts

In Episode #29, Dean explains why making yellow golf balls is more complex than it seems. For Surlyn models, it’s simple—just add pigment to the cover. But for urethane tour-level balls, manufacturers rely on special paint systems to deliver the same optic visibility without disrupting production.

Check out the full Tech Talk episode below to hear Dean’s explanation in detail: