If you’ve ever fished a golf ball out of a pond and wondered, “Will this still perform the same?”—you’re not alone. The idea of waterlogged golf balls has circulated among golfers for years, with many believing submerged balls lose their distance and performance.
But is it true? Can modern golf balls really absorb water, or is this an outdated myth? In this article, we’ll break down the facts, explore how water affects golf balls, and share practical tips to ensure you’re always playing your best game.
What Happens When a Golf Ball Gets Wet?
Golf balls are meticulously designed with layers of protective coatings to maximize performance. However, a golf ball sitting in water long enough can start to absorb moisture—especially if the cover is damaged. Here’s what happens:
- Short-Term Exposure (12-24 hours): Minimal impact. The outer layer may absorb a small amount of water, but performance remains relatively unaffected.
- Extended Submersion (Days or Weeks): Water can start seeping into the core, which alters the compression and energy transfer of the ball.
- Damaged Balls: Any cracks or scuffs in the ball’s surface allow water to penetrate more quickly, leading to noticeable performance issues.
In short: While modern golf balls are more resilient, they are not completely waterproof. Let’s dive into the details.
How Water Affects Golf Ball Performance
Golf balls are designed to compress and rebound upon impact, transferring energy efficiently for distance and spin. When water infiltrates the ball’s core:
- Reduced Compression: Water hardens the core, making it less responsive to energy transfer. This results in lower ball speeds and shorter distances.
- Inconsistent Flight: A waterlogged ball may fly unpredictably due to changes in its weight distribution.
- Loss of Spin Control: Premium multi-layer balls rely on a reactive core to generate spin. A water-compromised core reduces that precision.
A study conducted by golf ball divers confirmed that balls submerged for extended periods—especially those with visible wear—perform worse than new balls.
How Long Can a Golf Ball Sit in Water?
So, how long does it take for a golf ball to lose its effectiveness? The answer depends on the condition of the ball and the duration of submersion.
- Mint Condition Balls: Golf balls with an intact surface can resist water for several weeks or months without significant impact.
- Damaged Balls: Balls with scuffs, scratches, or cracks can become waterlogged in as little as 6 hours.
- Modern Technology: Thanks to advancements in ball design, many premium balls have waterproof coatings that extend their durability, even underwater.
Expert Insight: According to the USGA, most modern golf balls can remain submerged for 1-2 years without noticeable performance loss—provided the cover is undamaged.
How to Tell If a Golf Ball Is Waterlogged
If you’ve retrieved a ball from the water, here are a few ways to check if it’s still playable:
- Visual Inspection: Look for cracks, discoloration, or faded branding—these are signs of wear that make water penetration likely.
- Bounce Test: Drop the ball on a hard surface next to a new ball. If it bounces noticeably lower, it could be waterlogged.
- Weight Check: Compare the ball to a new one. Waterlogged balls often feel heavier.
If you’re still unsure, it’s safer to retire the ball for backyard chipping practice rather than using it on the course.
Recycled and Refurbished Golf Balls: Are They Worth It?
Recycled golf balls are pulled from ponds, cleaned, and sold at discounted prices. While these balls can save money, performance may vary depending on how long they’ve been submerged:
- Mint Recycled Balls: Nearly identical to new balls if the surface is undamaged.
- Refurbished Balls: Often repainted or re-coated to look new. These may lose performance and durability, especially if the core is compromised.
If you’re serious about consistency in your game, stick with new or high-quality recycled balls. A subpar ball can cost you valuable strokes.
The Technology to Optimize Your Game
While waterlogged golf balls can compromise your shots, even perfectly conditioned balls won’t perform their best if your swing isn’t dialed in. That’s where Gears Golf Swing Tracking System comes into play.
What is Gears Golf?
Gears Golf uses cutting-edge 3D motion capture technology to analyze your swing with millimeter-level precision. The system captures every detail of your club and body movements, providing actionable insights to improve your performance.
How Does It Help?
- Optimize Your Swing Path: Gears tracks the exact club path and face angle at impact, helping you identify inefficiencies.
- Compare to the Pros: Match your swing data against professional benchmarks to pinpoint areas for improvement.
- Consistent Results: Even small adjustments can lead to major gains in distance, accuracy, and confidence.
With Gears Golf, you’re not leaving your swing—or your scores—to chance.
Tips to Avoid Waterlogged Golf Balls
Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your golf balls in peak condition. Here’s how to protect them:
- Avoid Risky Shots: Play smart around water hazards to minimize lost balls.
- Inspect Your Golf Balls: Regularly check for cracks, scuffs, or other signs of damage.
- Store Properly: Keep your golf balls in a cool, dry place—extreme heat or humidity can weaken the cover.
- Retire Old Balls: Don’t risk your score with questionable golf balls. Use older ones for practice rounds or backyard drills.
Do Golf Balls Get Waterlogged?
Yes—golf balls can become waterlogged, but it’s not an instant process. Modern golf balls are more water-resistant than ever, thanks to advanced coatings and durable materials. However, extended exposure to water, especially for damaged balls, can lead to performance loss.
If you’re retrieving a ball from a pond, inspect it carefully. If there’s any doubt about its condition, it’s best to leave it out of play. After all, why let a compromised ball ruin your round?
