Do Used Golf Balls Get Waterlogged and What You Need to Know

Golfers often wonder if used golf balls can get waterlogged, especially when they retrieve balls from water hazards or buy secondhand balls. The answer might surprise you. Understanding how golf balls interact with water can help you decide whether used balls are worth playing and how to care for them properly.

Golfer retreiving golf ball from lake with scoop.

How Golf Balls Are Made to Resist Water

Golf balls are designed with multiple layers, including a solid core and a durable outer cover made from materials like Surlyn or urethane. These materials are chosen to keep the ball’s weight, shape, and performance consistent, even when exposed to moisture.

• The outer cover is water-resistant and prevents water from seeping inside.

• The core is sealed tightly to avoid absorbing water.

• Dimples on the surface help with aerodynamics but do not affect water resistance.

  
  

Because of this construction, golf balls do not easily absorb water, even if they spend time submerged in a pond or lake.

Can Used Golf Balls Get Waterlogged?

Waterlogging means a ball absorbs water, becoming heavier and losing its original bounce and distance. For golf balls, this is a common concern, but in reality, used golf balls very, very rarely get waterlogged.

Here’s why:

• The sealed core and tough cover prevent water from penetrating.

• Even if a ball is submerged for a long time, it does not absorb enough water to affect play.

• Some older or damaged balls might have cracks or worn covers that allow water in, but this is uncommon.

  
  

What Happens When a Golf Ball Is Damaged?

If a golf ball has a crack, deep scuff, or a compromised cover, water can enter the core. This can cause:

• Increased weight

• Reduced bounce and distance

• A softer feel on impact

  
  

Damaged balls are more likely to be waterlogged, but most used balls in good condition will not have this problem.

Buying Used Golf Balls: What to Look For

Used golf balls can be a great way to save money, but knowing how to pick quality balls is key.

• Choose balls from reputable sellers who sort and grade balls by condition.

• Look for balls labeled as “mint” or “near mint” condition.

• Avoid balls with visible cracks or heavy scuffs.

  
  

Many used golf balls perform almost as well as new ones, especially if they are inspected and graded properly.

What Happens to Balls Left in Water Hazards?

When golf balls land in water hazards, many players assume they are ruined. In reality:

• Balls can be retrieved and cleaned.

• If the ball’s cover is intact, it will still perform normally.

• Balls left submerged for very long periods may degrade, especially if exposed to algae or chemicals.

  
  

Courses sometimes collect balls from water hazards and sell them as used balls after cleaning and sorting.

Environmental Factors Affecting Golf Balls in Water

Water quality and temperature can influence how golf balls hold up:

• Saltwater can be more corrosive, potentially damaging the cover over time.

• Freshwater is less harsh but may still cause algae buildup.

• Cold water slows down chemical reactions, possibly preserving the ball longer.

• Warm water may accelerate wear and degradation.

  
  

Knowing the environment helps when deciding whether to retrieve or buy balls from water hazards.

In summary, golf balls recovered from water hazards, cleaned, graded and re-sold are an exceptionally good way to save a lot of money when keeping your bag stocked.

Diver retreives golf balls from water hazard at Golf Course