With the price of top-of-the line golf balls being so high it’s no wonder the used golf ball market has exploded.
When you think that a new Pro V1 costs about $3.75 each, and if you tend to lose 3 or 4 balls a round you just added $10 to your round of golf — well do the math.
And the beauty of used golf balls is you can often choose how much you want to spend. If you you want practically new quality (what are called AAAAA balls) then you can pay a bit more (about $30 per dozen for a Pro V1). But if you want golf balls that still work fine but don’t look “perfect” you can pay as little as $5.95 per dozen.
And if you want to find good, 2-piece balls like Titleist DTs or Pinnacle Golds you can pay a ridiculously low price of about $3 a dozen
What’s Wrong With Used Golf Balls?
Sometimes nothing. Again, depending on the quality level you choose you may see no difference between the used Pro V1 and a brand new one out of the box. Of course at some point imperfections in the cover of the ball can effect ball flight. But even with AA grade balls you might see no problem with ball flight or control. I’m using used Pro V1’s now and they range in quality from AA to AAAAA and I see very little difference in performance.
But I have to be honest. Sometimes looking down at a scuffed ball is not so cool. So it takes some adjustment of the pride-o-meter to get me to use some of these balls. I just try and remember how much I’m saving and how well that Pro V1 still performs.
So let’s review the different grades of used golf balls…
Used Golf Ball – AAAAA
This grade is like new and in excellent shape. You would have a very hard time telling this ball from a new one.
They are like new in appearance and will feel and play as a new ball would. These balls will include team or corporate logo ball and/or player pen marking. We like to call them “One Hit Wonder” golf balls as it was most likely lost after the first swing.
Used Golf Ball – AAAA
Good condition with 2-3 dimples of slight cosmetic blemish or minor imperfection. They will include team or corporate logo ball and/or player pen marking. These balls are similar to a new ball after being played for 3-4 holes. The shine and color of the balls may slightly vary, but the integrity of the flight characteristic is not compromised at all.
Used Golf Ball – AAA
Slightly scuffed or blemished balls that may have minor discoloration. One might find a few good quality x-outs or practice balls in the mix. They will include team or corporate logo ball and/or player marking. No cuts will be found in AAA golf balls. These balls are similar to a ball that has been played for 9 or more holes.
Used Golf Ball – AA
Looks worn and discolored, with most having scuffs or blemishes. It is appropriate for range and green practice. They will include team or corporate logo ball and/or player marking and will look similar to a ball that was played for 18 holes.
