New vs Used Golf Balls: What Should You Buy?
Walk into any golf shop and you'll find bins of lake balls for $1 each. Shop online and you'll find mint-condition Pro V1s in dozen packs for $20. Are they worth it? It depends entirely on the grade, the source, and your own game. Here's everything you need to know to make a smart decision.
What "Used" Really Means
Used golf ball grades vary by seller, but the most common scale runs: Mint (virtually no marks, played fewer than 5 holes), Near Mint (minor scuffs not visible in play), Grade A (light cosmetic wear, no cracks), Grade B (visible wear, may have logo stamps), and Practice / Grade C (heavy wear, suitable only for the range). The jump from Mint to Near Mint is negligible in play. The jump from Near Mint to Grade B is significant.
Who Should Buy Used Balls
Used balls make the most sense for high-handicappers who lose several balls per round, golfers who want to try premium ball models without committing to full price, and players practicing a new shot shape or strategy. If you're losing four or more balls per round, buying mint used Pro V1s for $20/dozen instead of $54/dozen saves real money over a season.
Who Should Stick With New
Low handicappers who rely on precise spin rates and consistent compression for scoring shots benefit from new balls. The urethane cover on a used premium ball degrades subtly, especially around abrasions. If your short game is a serious weapon and you're playing to compete, new premium balls give you the most predictable performance. Anyone below a 5 handicap should probably stick with new.
What to Look for When Buying Recycled
Buy from sellers who grade consistently and offer photos of actual ball condition. Look for sellers who sort by model and grade rather than mixed buckets. Check reviews specifically for grading accuracy — a seller who says 'mint' and ships 'near mint' is still trustworthy; a seller who ships Grade B as 'mint' is not. Buy a small batch first before ordering in volume.
Red Flags to Avoid
Avoid ungraded mixed lake ball lots — you have no idea what you're getting. Avoid "practice grade" balls for on-course play; the cover damage affects flight. Avoid sellers who don't specify the ball model clearly, and avoid any ball with visible cuts, cracks, or deformations.
For most recreational golfers, mint or near-mint used balls from a reputable seller are an excellent choice. For serious competitors, stick with new.
About the author
Tom Anderson
Tom Anderson is a golf equipment expert and deal hunter who has spent years helping golfers find the best value on premium gear.