When is it time to change your golf ball – damaged golf balls and overuse
Usually, your golf ball is lost before it becomes too damaged to play, but we discuss how to know when it is time to change your golf ball. These days, the modern golf ball is made up of a much more durable material than those of its predecessors. Golf balls can withstand hits of over 200kph! Unless the ball has been mishit or sliced (which may deform or damage the soft outer layer) they should be OK. Depending on the quality of the ball, the outer cover and the inner core, plus the length of time the ball has been in play will determine if it needs to be changed to a new ball.
Damaged core of golf ball
In the old days, balls used to be filled with rubber bands and liquid centres. Nowadays, they are filled with polymers that can withstand repeated high speed strikes without losing their shape or becoming damaged.
Damaged outer layer of golf ball
On the premium multilayer balls that the pros play with, they are covered with a soft urethane which resist damag
e from poor shots, but can be more susceptible to other types of damage such as cart pathways, trees or even sharp surfaces on an iron. Other balls outers are made from a firmer ionomer material – these balls can withstand bad shots and hard surfaces.
Scuffs and any other visible damage can reduce the distance the ball will travel in some cases. But if there are no obvious signs of wear and tear on the ball, it is likely to be OK to keep using (unless lost first of course!). If the ball is becoming rough to touch, it is time to change it for a new one.
If you are one of the lucky golfers not to lose your golf balls consistently – then they should last at least seven full 18 rounds of golf before they need to be replaced.