Abstract: Disclosed is a photochromic golf ball with a one- or multi-piece structure, which comprises a photochromic compound. The photochromic golf ball reversibly changes between two different color states according to exposure to U.V. radiation associated with direct sunlight. The photochromic golf ball is white when it is shielded from direct sunlight, but changes in color when it is directly exposed to direct sunlight. In a golf ball structure having a core, an outer cover, and a transparent coating, the photochromic compound is present either in the outer cover or the transparent coating.

Abstract: Disclosed is a thermochromic golf ball with a one- or multi-piece structure, which comprises a thermochromic compound. The thermochromic golf ball reversibly changes between two different color states with temperature. The thermochromic golf ball may be white when it is warmed to higher than a thermochromic temperature point, but shows a characteristic color when it is cooled to lower than the point. In a two-piece or three-piece ball, the thermochromic compound is present in either the outer cover or a transparent coat applied to the cover. The thermochromic pigment changes color when a critical point temperature is reached, thereby alerting the golfer that the current temperature of the golf ball may have power performance characteristics.

Abstract: Disclosed is a photoluminescent golf ball with a one- or multi-piece structure, which comprises an encapsulated photoluminescent composition. The golf ball is clearly visualized at night and under overcast conditions, so that it can be easily found where it lands after tee shots or fairway shots. Additionally, the golf ball has excellent mechanical properties including surface smoothness, driver distance and strength, and offers improved luminescent properties including brightness and decay luminance. Additionally, the photoluminescent pigment has better physical and chemical compatibility with constituent materials of a golf ball, providing a more durable ball than is achieved with conventional photoluminescent pigments.