| abstract |
A multi-piece solid golf ball has a solid core, an envelope layer that encloses the solid core, an intermediate layer that encloses the envelope layer, and a cover that encloses the intermediate layer and has a plurality of dimples on a surface thereof. The diameter of the solid core, the center hardness, surface hardness and hardness difference between the center and surface of the solid core, the thickness and surface hardness of the envelope layer, and the thickness and surface hardness of the intermediate layer are each optimized within specific ranges. Moreover, the intermediate layer is formed so as to be harder than the envelope layer and the cover. In addition, the thickness and surface hardness of the cover, and the combined thickness of the envelope layer, intermediate layer and cover are each optimized within specific ranges. This golf ball is more advantageous than prior-art golf balls because it reduces the spin rate of the ball on full shots taken with a driver and increases the carry of the ball, in addition to which it provides a good performance on approach shots. |