The method of using Epsom salt and water to “detect” defects in golf balls returned to the spotlight thanks to Bryson DeChambeau, who claims he won the U.S. Open using it.
The technique involves preparing a solution of Epsom salt and water and submerging the golf ball until it floats. Once on the surface, the ball is marked and checked to see if it consistently floats with the mark facing up. According to Bryson, this reveals whether the ball’s center of gravity is off, allowing him to position it strategically on the greens. He argues that, despite factory quality controls, all balls have small imperfections, and this method gives him a tactical advantage.
However, scientists and manufacturers have questioned the reliability of this test. Ball flotation depends on multiple uncontrollable variables, so results can be misleading. While the practice dates back to the balata ball era and has been part of golf folklore for decades, advances in manufacturing and quality control have made the technique scientifically unreliable.
Despite the media attention Bryson has brought to it, experts emphasize that true quality starts at the factory with rigorous internal testing. Relying solely on the Epsom salt test to improve performance is risky. Ultimately, the safest approach remains selecting the right balls at your trusted golf shop and focusing on your game.