How to Store Golf Balls and When to Replace Them

If Temperature Is Constant, Chemical Reactions Slow Down to Prevent Curing and Extend Lifespan
Maintaining a Fresh and Dry Environment Is Key, Consume Within One Year of Purchase
Replace If Surface Is Scratched or Cracked to Remove Factors That Interfere with Distance and Spin Amount

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] There is always a ‘friend’ by your side during a round.

That is the golf ball. It accompanies the golfer at every shot. This is why the golf ball is so important. How should you properly store golf balls? First, golf balls themselves do not have a specific lifespan. If stored properly at room temperature, they can be used for a long time without any performance difference.

The most crucial factor in storing golf balls is preventing hardening. It is about preventing them from becoming hard and stiff. Storing them in a place with a stable temperature slows down chemical reactions, delaying performance degradation. Above all, maintaining a cool and dry environment is key.

The performance of golf balls changes drastically depending on storage conditions such as temperature. Distance increases in high temperatures or at high altitudes, while it relatively decreases in cold weather or when flying over water. Golf balls are vulnerable to moisture. The compression of the core loosens, causing the coefficient of restitution (COR) to drop. Over time, the loss of distance becomes greater.

The most desirable way to use golf balls is to consume them all within one year. After two years, distance is analyzed to decrease by at least 20%. Leaving golf balls in a car trunk is risky. As the temperature drops, water droplets form on them. Places with large temperature differences, such as apartment balconies, are similar.

There are also situations on the field where golf balls need to be replaced. This happens when golf balls hit cart paths or trees. The surface gets scratched or cracked. Dimples get damaged. This interferes with achieving maximum distance and optimal spin. Tour players also change golf balls during rounds. Golf balls are directly linked to performance. For reference, lost balls suffer a 22.3% loss in spin and a 14.4% loss in distance.