Not all golf balls are created equal. During manufacturing, some golf balls fall short of the producer’s expectations due to minor blemishes or imperfection. These golf balls typically have minor defects which are immaterial to the golf balls performance. Because of this, these golf balls are not thrown out, but instead are sold separately at a lower price.
These less than perfect golf balls are sold as x-out or practice golf balls. The extent of the imperfection ultimately determines if a golf ball is labeled as an x-out vs practice ball.
In the article below, we are going to do a deep dive on the difference between standard, x-out, and practice golf balls. When to use which ball as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. We have a lot to cover so let’s get started.
The Difference Between X-Out vs Practice Golf Balls
Practice golf balls are one level below a standard quality golf ball. Practice golf balls will not have any defects that would impact performance. Typically, the defects on these types of balls revolve around ink or labeling miscues.
X-Out golf balls are golf balls would be a level below practice golf balls. These balls have a cosmetic imperfection such as a misplaced logo or ink smear.
They may also have an occasionally minor physical deficiency that should not affect the ball’s performance.
Often, the physical condition causing the ball to be labeled as an X-Out is so immaterial that even the best of players wouldn’t be able to recognize the difference.
Can Players Use Practice or X-Out Golf Balls In Competitive Golf?
Both X-Out vs Practice Golf Balls can be used in a casual round of golf, but what about a competitive round?
Golf ball manufacturers must submit their golf balls to the USGA for approval for them to be eligible for competition. Approved balls make it on to the USGA’s ‘List of Conforming Golf Balls.’ This list ultimately determines if an X-Out or practice golf ball can be used competitively.
Practice golf balls are considered compliant to USGA standards and therefore can be used in a competitive round of golf. The reason they are allowed is due to the type of blemish. As covered above, practice golf ball defects revolve around ink or labeling imperfections. These
On the other hand, X-Out golf balls are not permitted to be used in any competition due to their minor physical deficiencies. These balls would not conform to the USGA rules list of conforming golf balls.
What Is The Price Difference Between Standard, X-Out, vs Practice Golf Balls
Why buy X-Out or practice golf balls? Price, Price, Price. X-Out and practice golf balls are significantly cheaper than standard issue golf balls. To understand the difference in price, lets take a look at Titleist X-Out, Titleist Pro-V1 practice balls, and standard Titleist Pro-V1 golf balls.
| Type Of Golf Ball | Price |
| Standard Titleist Pro-V1 | $45-$55 |
| Titleist Pro-V1 Practice Ball | $35-$45 |
| Titleist X-Out SURLYN | $10-$25 |
Final Thoughts
X-Out vs practice golf balls are a lot like standard golf balls. These golf balls just fall short of the manufacturer’s specifications due to minor imperfections.
While these balls aren’t perfect, they do have their place on the golf course.
Practice and X-Out golf balls are prefect for casual rounds or when practicing. Just be sure to know what ball you are playing when it comes to competitive play.
Using a golf ball that does not confirm to the USGA standards may lead to disqualification.
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