Have you ever wondered what happens to your golf ball when it unexpectedly lands in water? Whether it’s a pond, a stream, or a rainy day, water can be a quite the enemy to a golf ball.
Let’s dive into the world of golf and find the answer to, “Do golf balls get waterlogged?”
Can Golf Balls Get Waterlogged?
Golf balls can get waterlogged if they are submerged in water for a long period. While modern golf balls are more water-resistant than older models, they can still become waterlogged.
To ensure consistent performance, it’s essential to inspect your golf balls for any signs of damage if they have been exposed to water for too long.
How Can Golfers Check if a Golf Ball is Waterlogged
It can be annoying to play with a water-damaged ball. To maintain accuracy in your shots, it is crucial to identify a waterlogged ball. Here are some signs to watch out for:
Weight and Performance: Pick up the ball and feel its weight. Does it seem heavier than usual? This is because water seeps into the tiny pores of the ball, adding extra weight.
Flight characteristics: Watch the ball when you take a shot. If it does not carry distance, water damage might affect its performance.
Discoloration: Inspect your golf balls closely. A waterlogged ball might not look as shiny and new as once.
Sound Check: Listen to the ball’s sound when you hit it. A healthy ball has a crisp, sharp sound upon impact. If it sounds dull or ‘thuddy,’ water might be the issue.
Spotting a waterlogged golf ball early can be a game-changer. Always look for visible damage and have backup balls ready, just in case.
How Water Damage Can Affect Your Game
Have you ever noticed how different your golf game feels after your ball has been sitting in a pond? Playing with a waterlogged golf ball can be quite daunting and will eventually impinge on your performance on the fairway. But why does this problem arise in the first place?
Water Penetration
Golf balls are designed with a protective coating. Despite this, water can get inside, ruining its design.
The added weight from the water makes the ball heavier, which makes it bounce off your club way slower than it typically would.
Lost Compression
Water can cause the outer layer of the ball to lose its compression, affecting the ball’s surface and overall performance.
Tips To Prevent Your Balls From Waterlogging
You want to ensure your golf balls stay as dry as possible when you’re out on the golf course. So, what can you do?
Here are some ways to prevent your ball from absorbing water.
Avoid water hazards altogether.
Carry a towel in your golf bag to quickly dry off your balls whenever they get wet from rain.
Store your golf balls in a cool and dry place and keep them away from sunlight.
Note: The Titleist Pro V1, Bridgestone Tour B RX, and TaylorMade TP5 are premium golf balls created to provide golfers with a blend of distance, control, and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions (faqs)
Check out these answers to common questions from our experts!
Q: How long does it take for a golf ball to become waterlogged?
A: The time it takes for a golf ball to be waterlogged can vary depending on its quality and how often it comes into contact with water.
Q: Are new golf balls less likely to get waterlogged?
A: Yes, brand-new golf balls are less likely to get waterlogged than older, more worn-out balls.
Q: Can golf balls lose their performance if they become waterlogged?
A: Yes, golf balls can lose their performance as the water affects their weight and aerodynamics, impacting their flight and distance.