When we talk about buying cheap golf balls, the refurbished, or reconditioned, balls are differentiated from other reclaimed balls by the level of treatment they receive during the reconditioning process.
While terms like “refinished” and “recycled” are often used interchangeably to describe reclaimed balls, there are subtle distinctions that make a difference in the treatment and performance expectations of each type. Let's see it:
Refurbished Balls:
- Technical Reconditioning Process: The balls refurbished They undergo a more exhaustive technical process compared to simply refinished balls. This process involves not only surface cleaning and restoration, but also technical improvements aimed at recovering or even improving the original characteristics of the ball.
- Restoration of Technical Features: They often undergo procedures that seek to restore specific technical characteristics, such as compression, spin and response on the green. This can take them beyond simply looking good and make them perform more similarly to how new balls would.
- Performance Tests: They often undergo more rigorous performance testing to ensure they maintain high quality standards. This may include flight testing, compression testing, and other specific measurements to assess their performance in-game.
- Reapplication of Finish: In some cases, they may receive a new coat of finish to improve their appearance and durability, in addition to technical improvements.
Other Recycled or Refinished Balls:
- Surface Focus: Refinished balls, for example, often focus on restoring the surface of the ball. The process can include cleaning, removing surface marks, and in some cases, reapplying a new finish to improve appearance.
- Less Emphasis on Technical Features: Unlike refurbished balls, balls recovered without an emphasis on technical reconditioning may not receive significant improvements in technical characteristics such as compression or spin.
- Variety in Quality: Recovered balls can range in quality depending on the process they have been subjected to. Some may simply be cleaned and graded, while others may undergo more thorough treatment.
- More Affordable Options: In general, reclaimed balls, whether refinished or simply cleaned, tend to be offered as more affordable options compared to new balls, giving golfers an economical alternative.
