Do Golf Balls Go Bad? Should You Play With Used Golf Balls?

Golf balls, those small, dimpled spheres so essential to the game of golf, might seem like they could last forever with their hard exteriors and seemingly indestructible nature. However, the question of do golf balls go bad or lose their effectiveness over time is a matter of both science and storage.
The Lifespan of a Golf Ball
Golf balls are designed to withstand the force of a club striking them and the various environments they encounter on a golf course. Manufacturers use robust materials like urethane, Surlyn, and rubber to craft balls that can endure hundreds of hits. Despite their durability, golf balls do have a finite lifespan, but it’s not as short as you might think.
Under normal playing conditions, research says a golf ball can last for around seven (7) 18-hole rounds before it starts to show signs of wear and tear such as scratches, scuffs, and changes in color.
However, in my personal experience I have found they can last up to 10 to 15 18-hole rounds before I notice any wear and tear.
These physical changes can affect the ball’s aerodynamics and, consequently, its performance in flight and on the green.
Factors Affecting Golf Ball Longevity
Several factors can influence how long a golf ball remains in good condition:
- Usage: The more frequently a golf ball is used, especially on rough terrain, the quicker it will wear out.
- Storage Conditions: Extreme temperatures and moisture can degrade the materials of a golf ball. Keeping them in a moderate, dry environment helps preserve their integrity.
- Quality of the Ball: Higher quality balls tend to last longer due to the superior materials and construction methods used in their manufacturing.
Do Golf Balls Go Bad With Time?
Even if not used, golf balls can degrade over time. The consensus among experts is that golf balls stored under optimal conditions (room temperature, out of direct sunlight) can maintain their performance characteristics for five to ten years. Beyond this period, the materials can start to break down, leading to a loss of elasticity and, consequently, distance and accuracy when hit.
How to Maximize Your Golf Balls’ Lifespan
To ensure your golf balls maintain their performance for as long as possible, follow these storage guidelines:
- Temperature-Controlled Storage: Avoid leaving golf balls in your car or garage where temperatures can fluctuate to extremes. Avoid sunlight and exposure to the sun’s UV rays. Almost like you are storing wine =)!
- Dry Conditions: Store your balls in a dry place to prevent moisture from seeping into the ball, which can affect the core and the ball’s overall performance.
- Rotation: Regularly rotate the balls you use to ensure they wear evenly over time.
How Can I Tell If A Golf Ball Is Still Good?
1. Visual Inspection
- Check for Physical Damage: Look for cuts, cracks, or significant scuffs on the golf ball’s surface. While minor scratches and marks are normal, deep gouges can affect the ball’s aerodynamics and performance.
- Observe the Color and Finish: A golf ball that has significantly discolored or lost its original sheen might be an indication of aging or exposure to harsh conditions.
2. Performance Tests
- Consistency in Flight: If you notice that the ball is not flying as straight or as far as it used to under similar conditions and using the same clubs, it might be losing its performance characteristics.
- Feel on Impact: A golf ball that feels too hard or too soft on impact compared to when it was new could indicate changes in the core material, affecting its playability.
3. Bounce Test
While not a definitive test, a simple bounce test can give you a rough idea of a ball’s condition. Drop the golf ball from a height of about 6 feet onto a hard surface and observe its bounce. Compare it with the bounce of a new golf ball. A significant difference in bounce height might indicate that the older ball has lost some of its elasticity.
Can I Play With Used Golf Balls?
Yes, you can definitely play with used golf balls, and many golfers do so for various reasons. Used golf balls can offer significant savings over new balls and can be especially appealing for beginners, casual players, or those who tend to lose balls frequently.
How To Buy Used Golf Balls?
When buying used golf balls, it is essential to thoroughly inspect them for any signs of damage or wear and tear. You can also purchase them from reputable sellers who guarantee the quality and grade of the used balls.
- Mint: These balls are like new, showing little to no signs of use. They are the highest quality of used balls and offer the best performance.
- Near Mint: Slight signs of wear but still in excellent condition. These balls may have minor surface blemishes but no cuts or significant marks.
- Good: Balls in “good” condition show visible signs of wear but are still suitable for play. They are perfect for practice or casual rounds.
- Practice: These balls have significant wear and are best used for practice sessions.
What To Do With Used Golf Balls?
- Donate Them: Many organizations and programs accept donations of used golf balls for resale or use in beginner clinics.
- Sell to Refurbishers: There are businesses that specialize in refurbishing used golf balls for resale.
- Use Them for Practice: Keep them handy for practice sessions at the range or your backyard. Reusing old golf balls is also an affordable way to improve your skills without breaking the bank.
- Craft Projects: Some people get creative and use old golf balls for art projects, such as making Christmas ornaments or garden decorations.