Golf clubs have an intrinsic attraction to physicists. Not only is the game a relaxing sport, but designing the perfect golf club requires the modelling of some very complex interactions. Manufacturers have to take into account vibration, flexibility and rotational torque dynamics to make sure that the maximum amount of power or energy is transferred from the head of the club to the ball.

One way to minimise the effect of rotational torque is to reduce the drag produced by the club. Some inventors have altered the surface of the club by embedding circular dimples evenly across the surface to reduce drag. Others have used fine grooves to create a turbulent air boundary layer on the outer surface of the club. This air cushion reduces the drag and the rotational torque around the club head.

Patent 5700208 has taken these ideas one stage further by implementing dimples in a coordinated pattern to mimic the effect of both the grooves and the dimples.