The USGA tests balls, clubs and other equipment for conformity to the Rules of Golf. The purpose of the rules is to protect golf’s best traditions, to prevent an over-reliance on technological advances and to ensure that skill remains the dominant element of success for golfers everywhere. Public tours of the USGA Research and Test Center in Far Hills, N.J., are available as part of a visit to the USGA Museum.

Guide to the Rules on Clubs and Balls

This guide is designed to help competition officials interpret the rules relating to the design and manufacture of golf clubs and balls, as set out in Appendices II and III of the Rules of Golf. The guide is currently being updated to reflect changes in the 2008-2009 Rules of Golf and to include information regarding the recently adopted changes to the specifications for grooves, which will go into effect on January 1, 2010. The updated guide should be available for purchase in hardcopy form and/or online viewing by Summer 2009.

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