Recycled vs Refinished Golf Balls: Which Should You Buy?
Recycled vs Refinished Golf Balls: Which Should You Buy?
Buying golf balls can be confusing, especially with all the options out there. A lot of golfers mix up the terms used, recycled, and refinished. Used and recycled golf balls are the same thing, while refinished balls go through extra steps to look new again. Both options save you money, but the way they are processed and how they perform on the course is not the same.
If you want to save money, practice smart, and still enjoy a good feel when you hit, it helps to understand the difference. By the time you finish reading, you will know what type of ball fits your game and your budget. You will also see why choosing used golf balls is a smart choice for your wallet and for the environment.
What Are Recycled or Used Golf Balls?
Recycled golf balls are balls that have been played, collected, cleaned, and graded for resale. They are not coated or resurfaced to look brand new. These are genuine used balls that have been properly cleaned and are ready to play.
We use a clear grading scale so you know what to expect. Here is how we classify our balls:
5A (AAAAA) – These are our best quality used balls. They play and feel like new. They may have minimal markings or small corporate or team logos. These balls do not include practice balls or X-Outs.
4A (AAAA) – Second-best quality balls. They may have minor blemishes, slight discoloration, or small scuffs that do not affect performance. These balls also do not include practice balls or X-Outs.
3A (AAA) – Bargain-quality balls. They may have player marks, scuffs, discoloration, or blemishes. Some may have a slightly textured feel. Practice balls, X-Outs, and corporate logos may appear in this grade.
2A (AA Hit-A-Way) – These are our lowest grade balls. They are intended for practice or range use, not match play. They have major flaws and are not returnable.
Used balls are ideal for beginners, casual golfers, or anyone who wants to practice without spending a lot on brand-new balls.
What Are Refinished or Refurbished Golf Balls?
Refinished golf balls are used balls that have been coated or resurfaced to look new. They are cleaned, repainted, and sometimes re-stamped. The goal is to make them appear almost like they just came out of the box.
Some golfers like refinished balls because they look fresh and have a consistent appearance. The downside is that the coating can change the feel and spin a little. On top of that, refinished balls usually cost more than high quality used balls, so you are often paying for looks rather than performance.
Many refinished balls are marketed as like new even when they have minor imperfections. If your main goal is to save money without sacrificing real performance, recycled/used balls often offer a better option than refinished ones.
Performance Comparison
Here is a look at how used and recycled balls compare on the course:
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Recycled Balls |
Refinished Balls |
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Distance: |
Very consistent for 5A and 4A grades |
Generally consistent |
|
Feel: |
Natural feel, varies slightly by grade |
Coated surface may feel different |
|
Durability: |
5A through 3A last multiple rounds |
Coating may peel |
|
Spin and Short Game: |
5A and 4A provide excellent control |
Some coatings slightly reduce spin |
Most casual golfers notice better value and performance with 5A through 3A used balls. You get reliable performance at a much lower price.
At iLove2Golf we focus on selling used golf balls. We do not refinish balls ourselves. If we ever sell refinished balls, we make sure the listing clearly states it.
Price Comparison
Price is one of the biggest advantages of choosing used balls.
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5A balls can be 30 to 50 percent less than brand new balls.
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4A balls are a great value for players who want high performance at a lower price.
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3A and 2A balls are ideal for practice, beginners, and casual rounds.
Refinished balls often cost nearly the same as new balls. You are mainly paying for cosmetic touch ups, not better play.
The Eco-Friendly Benefit
Buying used golf balls helps the environment. Every used ball keeps one more out of landfills, limits extra manufacturing, and supports a more sustainable approach to golf. Small choices like this make a difference over time.
Which Should You Buy?
If you want a near-new feel and solid performance without the new ball price, choose 5A or 4A.
If you want affordable balls for casual rounds or practice with realistic play, 3A is a solid choice.
For practice and range sessions, 2A Hit-A-Way balls are perfect.
Think about your game, your budget, and how seriously you take short game practice. There is a grade that fits every player.
Ready to Try Used Golf Balls?
If you want to see the difference for yourself, check out our collection of used golf balls. We offer all grades, from premium 5A quality to 2A practice balls, so you can find the right fit for your game. Save money, play more, and enjoy a more sustainable way to golf.