A golf ball includes a cover that includes a plurality of layers over the core. A reacting layer changes when exposed to a particular atmospheric or environmental agent. A protecting layer protects the reacting layer from exposure to the agent. A top layer covers the other layers, though the top layer, the protecting layer, and the reacting layer may be intermingled with each other to varying degrees. Upon deterioration of the top layer and the protecting layer, the reacting layer becomes exposed to the agent and undergoes a change. This change alerts a golfer to the deterioration of the ball.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The ball selected by a golfer has a great effect on the golfer's score in a round of golf. Golf balls are designed that have varying types of properties, such as a particular size, weight, and density, all of which affect the flight path of the ball.

[0003] In addition to these properties, the outer surface of the ball also affects the flight path of the ball. Balls are designed with a variety of dimple sizes and shapes, in addition to being made with various materials that also affect the flight of a ball.

[0004] Golf balls may be designed with a particular flight path in mind. If a ball becomes scuffed or otherwise damaged, the flight path of the ball may change. While golfers may be aware that such a change occurs, they may be unaware of what level of scuffing or damage causes a change in the flight path.

[0005] Therefore, it may be useful to a golfer to have a ball that includes an indicator that alerts a golfer that a ball surface has deteriorated and that the flight path of the ball may be different from that which was originally intended.

SUMMARY

[0006] In one embodiment, an outer composite layer of a golf ball includes a wear indicator that reacts when exposed to an environmental reaction initiator. The outer composite layer includes a top layer, a reacting layer, and a protective layer. The reacting layer is capable of reacting to the initiator. The protective layer is between the top layer and the reacting layer. The protective layer is capable of protecting the reacting layer from exposure to the initiator.

[0007] In another embodiment, a golf ball includes a wear indicator that includes a wear indicator that reacts when exposed to an environmental source. The golf ball includes a core and a cover. The cover includes a reacting layer that is radially outward of the core. The reacting layer comprises a reacting material that is capable of reacting when exposed to an environmental source. The cover also includes a protecting layer that is radially outward of the reacting layer. The protecting layer comprises a shielding material that is capable of shielding the reacting layer from the environmental source.

[0008] A method of determining whether to use a golf ball is also disclosed. The method includes the steps of striking the golf ball with a golf club, examining the golf ball to determine whether the golf ball has reacted to an environmental source, and choosing to continue to use the golf ball. The method further comprises choosing to discontinue use of the ball and choosing to replace the ball.