Whether you’ve been playing golf for years or a beginner every player probably has an opinion of what golf balls to use. With a box of new premium golf balls costing close to $50 for a box a 12 it can be a considerable cost. The alternative is to use what are called ‘Lake balls’ which are used second hand but what is the difference and is it really worth using premium new balls.
Ball Manufacturing.
Golf balls come in a wide variety of types using different manufacturing methods and each has an intended use. The construction commonly used are one-piece, two-piece, three-piece, four–piece and five-piece which refers to the number of layers used in manufacture. The lower number of layers used generally makes them cheaper, more durable but create less spin and distance and are commonly found on driving ranges. The four and five piece layered balls are more expensive, less durable but provide the greatest distance and control often used by professionals. Most amateur golfers will use three-piece layered balls as a compromise on cost, durability, distance and control. Other manufacturing materials and ball design can also influence ball spin and are often categorized as low, mid or high spin giving them different playing characteristics. Other differences will be the materials used, usually Surlyn or Urethane and the compression rating from low (soft) to high (hard).
Premium Balls.
The recognized golf brands all offer their premium golf balls citing the latest technology and design and often sponsor PGA tour players to raise their profile. In general, premium balls usually offer higher quality manufacturing and are longer lasting with excellent performance and consistency providing golfers with increased distance, spin and control. Premium balls are however, very expensive for amateurs who typically lose a number of balls when playing a round.
Lake Balls.
A familiar site in any pro shop will be the buckets of used lake balls, usually recovered form water hazards and out of bounds zones. They are cleaned and graded depending on their condition and prices reflect this, they will always be cheaper than new balls. Used lake balls can deteriorate and this will impact on performance reducing distance and spin control.
Ball Decision Time.
For low handicap players who regularly compete in tournaments the new boxed premium balls are the logical choice. It's likely they have managed to narrow down the exact ball brand and profile that suits their style of play to give them a performance edge. For mid and higher handicap players selecting a used premium brand high graded lake ball can be a sensible choice but availability of the ball they prefer may be limited as it depends what is on offer. For high handicap players and beginners, it is doubtful that they will realistically notice much difference between a new premium ball and a low graded lake ball. Given that they are also more likely to lose several balls on a round using lake balls is a sensible low-cost option.
On a final note, there are some alternative options now available as manufacturers new to the golf ball scene are offering an online direct to consumer route making their new balls considerably cheaper. Some of the premium brands are also doing this with their lower performing balls in an attempt to gain market traction. For amateurs who prefer the lower cost option of lake balls they should prioritize the brand and ball type that suits their style of play. Using a bunch of mixed lake balls can give widely different results so for consistency play a round using the same brand and performance stye ball.
Wherever you play in the world it’s always great to have the right training aids and accessories to improve your golf game and playing experience. One of the best value online stores is Top Golf Goodies who have a huge range of putting and swing aids and accessories. Most of their products are priced at well under $30 and best of all shipping is free.
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