This Golf Ball Test Shows the Differences Between a New vs. Old Ball
Every golfer has asked a simple question at some point in their playing days: How much does a used golf ball impact performance versus a fresh golf ball?
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While most people don't take it upon themselves to do a golf ball test, the Rainmakers Golf crew has nothing but time on its hands, so we figured we'd have some fun to gather info and determine how a used ball performs versus a new golf ball.
The Results of the Rainmakers Golf Ball Test
In the video above, Rainmakers' Nick Peres does a fun golf ball test that's meant to give some guidance for players everywhere.
While it's not overly scientific, it's a simple way to see how used balls perform versus new balls.
Peres explains his testing method.
'I'm going to hit 20 shots with both balls [old and new], and will compare the differences in carry, ball speed, and spin rate,' he shares. 'I'll then take the averages of the five best shots from each ball.'
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So how did the old and new ball hold up in this simple golf ball test? Peres says he didn't feel much difference when hitting both, but that the data showed some significant contrasts.
'The brand new ball carried six yards further on average, had 3 miles per hour more of ball speed,' Peres discloses. 'Lastly, and the most interesting part, is that the old golf ball actually had a little bit more spin than the brand new one.'
While Peres admits his ball-striking isn't pro-level — which may have an impact on the golf ball test results — nonetheless, the data suggests using an old ball during rounds may, in fact, negatively impact your overall performance.
So if you're someone who just grabs the first used ball from your bag before teeing off each round, make sure to make some adjustments in club choice in order to avoid being short on every shot!
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Related: 2 Little-Known Factors That Influence Your Short-Game Shots
Related: Master 100-Yard Golf Shots With This Simple Course Management Tip
Related: Try Nick Dunlap's Easy Practice Drill for Straighter Putts
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 4, 2025, where it first appeared.
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