Are Used Golf Balls as Good as New?

The debate over whether used golf balls are as good as new ones has been a topic of discussion for golf enthusiasts for years. Some believe that the differences between new and used balls are negligible, while others argue that using new balls is always the best option. This article aims to provide a comprehensive view of the differences, focusing on performance aspects such as club head speed, dynamic loft, launch angle, and backspin. Additionally, we will explore the practical considerations of using used golf balls for driving practice and their performance benefits.

The Differences between New and Used Golf Balls

The differences between new and used golf balls are indeed marginal but can vary based on certain factors. In a study comparing the performance of new and used Titleist Pro V-1 golf balls, it was found that the club head speed was slightly higher with the new ball. However, the dynamic loft, launch angle, and backspin were only marginally different between the two types of balls.

Club Head Speed: Club head speed is directly related to the player's swing and how hard they hit the ball. In the study, the new balls demonstrated slightly higher club head speeds. This could be due to the freshBall's enhanced elasticity and reduced friction, which helps in achieving a quicker impact and therefore a slightly higher speed.

Dynamic Loft and Launch Angle: Dynamic loft and launch angle are crucial for the ball's trajectory and distance. The research indicated that the new balls provided a slightly flatter dynamic loft and launch angle. This might be because new balls typically have a smoother surface that allows for better initial contact, resulting in a slightly lower launch angle compared to used balls.

Backspin: Backspin is a critical factor in golf as it affects the ball's height, roll, and overall performance. The study found that the difference in backspin between new and used balls was only marginal. This suggests that the ball's core and intermediate layers remain effective, even after extended use.

Practical Considerations for Driving Practice

When it comes to driving, new golf balls are often considered the best option due to their consistent performance. However, used golf balls can still be a viable choice for certain scenarios, particularly for driving practice. Here are some considerations:

No Loss of Compression: New golf balls often boast a higher compression rating, which is beneficial for longer drives. However, used golf balls can still maintain a significant portion of their compression, especially if used sparingly and not excessively. Compression is a measure of how much a golf ball deforms under an external force and affects the ball's distance and feel.

Practical Use: Old golf balls can be highly useful for target practice and driving into pastures or water hazards. They won't "smiley," meaning they won't deform incenteral configurations, which can be a problem with new balls that lose their shape quickly under the force of impact.

For instance, during the lockdown, the author was gifted a box of Titleist Pro V-1 golf balls. While practicing putting in the living room, the balls showed no signs of wear and tear. This demonstrates that under appropriate conditions, used golf balls can still provide excellent performance. However, it is essential to acknowledge that the differences, albeit minor, can still impact overall performance and consistency in driving.

Conclusion

In summary, the differences between new and used golf balls are indeed marginal, especially in terms of club head speed, dynamic loft, launch angle, and backspin. While new golf balls offer superior compression and consistent performance, used golf balls can still be a good option for driving practice and certain types of play. Golfers should weigh the pros and cons based on their specific needs and preferences. Whether you choose new or used golf balls, the key is to maintain consistency and practice regularly to improve your game.

Keywords: golf balls, used golf balls, compression loss