This is a dilemma for a lot of golfers. Which golf balls to use? Do I buy new ones or save some money and keep playing with the old ones until they fall apart? It is the eternal battle of new vs used golf balls. There are answers to the questions, some are simple and some are not.
The fact is you want to choose the ball you are most comfortable with playing. Also, you will want to play a ball that will help your score, right? There are always several factors going into the decision of what golf ball to play. Depending on what side you are leaning toward, it will either make sense or not. New and used golf balls will perform differently, that is no question. However, they both have pros and cons, that is true.
At the end of this article, you might find the answer you were looking for. Also, you might find some arguments that will change your idea. Either way, let’s have a look into the new vs used golf ball debate. It is one that might never be settled, or will it?
New Golf Balls: Performance and Reliability
If you are looking for guaranteed performance and consistency, look no further than new golf balls. When they come straight out of the box, you are getting an untouched gem. The new balls are intact and therefore ready to give it all on the golf course.
PROS:
- Reliable Flight Path
- Optimal Spin Control
- The Feeling of New
- Performance at Its Best
- They Last Longer (wear and tear)
All these can be extremely important if you are a golfer chasing scores or trying to play at your absolute best. It can also be invaluable for players trying to improve their game and lower their handicaps.
CONS:
- They Are More Expensive
- You Don’t Want to Lose New Balls
- Not So Beginner Friendly (see one above)
Now, the cons arguments are mostly related to the price. If you just started and are a high-handicapper you are more likely to lose balls during a round. If those balls are a bit more expensive, it gets worse. You do not want to lose multiple premium golf balls per round.
Used Golf Balls: Value for Money
The biggest argument in favor of used golf balls is undeniably money. They can be several times cheaper than new golf balls, especially compared to premium ones. When it comes to an expensive hobby like golfing (unless you golf professionally), every saved buck counts.
PROS:
- They Can Be Very Cheap
- You Can Buy More for Less Money
- No Guilt When Losing Them
- You Could Get Some Good Ones in the Batch
- Suitable for Beginners
As you can see, there are very positive arguments for playing with used balls. Again, the emphasis is on the price. Since they usually come in bulk arrangements, they can be very cheap. And, yes, you will not feel so bad about hitting one or a few in the water.
CONS:
- Inconsistent Performance
- Shorter Distances
- You Could Get Really Bad Ones in the Batch
- Not for Score Chasers or Golfers Seeking Top Performance
- Their Performance Will Decrease Quicker (wear and tear)
The cons are all about performance, which is never going to be the same as with the new balls. So, if that bothers you, don’t get used ones. Now, if golf for you is just enjoyment and you don’t care about scores, go for it. Also, sometimes sellers paint over cheap balls and make them look like premium used balls. Not cool, right? Watch out for that.
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Which Ball Suits You Best?
Now the time comes to make a final decision. You have seen all the pros and cons for both parties involved and you can decide. Or you don’t have to, it is up to you. Whichever side you find yourself on in the end, that is the right choice for you.
There is absolutely no pressure to choose correctly. It is more related to what complements your style of play and current skill level. If you look for reliability and consistency, new balls are likely worth the investment. Nonetheless, if you are not fazed by minor scuffs and you are on a tight budget, used balls would be a wise choice.
There is another point that we did not touch previously, and that is sustainability. Playing used balls is environmentally friendly. By reusing resources, you contribute to the reduction of waste.
However, if you do want to play new balls, which is perfectly fine, not all is lost. If you play new balls, make sure you play them a bit longer, not only one or two rounds (except if you lose them obviously). And even after you are done with them, you can still donate them or sell them. Some companies buy used balls and resell them as used ones. This still falls into the realm of sustainability.
Choosing which ones to play can be a process. It is perfectly fine to try out both and then decide. You can also combine, new balls for important rounds, and used balls for not-so-important ones (or practice rounds). There is always a solution.
The Right Feeling
At the end of the day, remember to include your personal goals and preferences in the equation. Both sides have strong points in their favor but are also not flawless. Personally, I do buy new golf balls, but I use them for multiple rounds (if I don’t lose them before).
It does sound like a big decision since the golf ball is the only piece of equipment you use on every hole. But, hey, no pressure, right? What matters is that you find the perfect fit, as simple as that. It is going to be the ball that feels right for you, period.
Do you prefer new golf balls or used golf balls? Share below!
