Bryson DeChambeau made headlines during this year’s U.S. Open when he discussed soaking his golf balls in Epsom salt to test them for balance. DeChambeau explained that floating golf balls in a solution helps determine if they are out of balance due to manufacturing errors. This practice dates back to when golf balls were not as precise in their construction, leading players to test them in Epsom salt to ensure they were round and balanced.
DeChambeau’s use of Epsom salt to test his golf balls generated buzz, especially after he went on to win the U.S. Open. While DeChambeau is known as a “mad scientist” willing to push boundaries for a competitive advantage, the practice of testing golf balls in Epsom salt predates his involvement. Golf professionals Peter Kostis and Gary McCord discussed on their podcast how they used to test golf balls in Epsom salt out of necessity due to the lack of precision in ball construction.
Before modern golf ball technology, it was common for balls to be imperfectly round. McCord recalled filling a bathtub with golf balls to test them, with only a few out of a dozen being round enough for play. Additionally, older golf balls had elastic bands on the inside that could break after a few holes, rendering the ball unusable. The evolution of golf ball technology has led to more precise construction and durability, with players no longer needing to test each ball for roundness and balance.
The practice of testing golf balls in Epsom salt is not new, dating back to an era when precision in golf ball construction was not as advanced. However, DeChambeau’s public discussion of the process has brought attention to this age-old practice. The use of Epsom salt to test golf balls is a method that players and professionals have used for decades to ensure the quality and balance of their equipment. As technology continues to improve, golf balls are now constructed with greater precision, reducing the need for manual testing methods.
DeChambeau’s unconventional approach to golf, including the use of Epsom salt to test his golf balls, is part of his reputation as a unique and innovative player. By pushing boundaries and exploring new methods, DeChambeau has distinguished himself as a “mad scientist” in the golf world. His success at the U.S. Open further solidified his reputation as a player willing to take risks and try unconventional strategies to improve his game. The discussion of “salty balls” has sparked interest in the world of golf equipment testing and the history of ball construction.
To learn more about the origins of testing golf balls in Epsom salt, golf professionals Peter Kostis and Gary McCord discussed the practice on their podcast. They shared stories of testing golf balls in Epsom salt as a necessary step before playing, due to the lack of precision in ball construction at the time. Their experiences highlight the importance of ensuring that golf balls are round and balanced for optimal performance on the course. The use of Epsom salt as a testing method has a long history in the world of golf and continues to be a valuable tool for players looking to optimize their equipment.
