When to Switch Balls Before they wear out, balls are likely to be lost or destroyed. According to Golf Digest, unless there is evident damage to the cover, the typical golf ball should endure at least seven full 18-hole rounds before performance degrades. Some brands last longer than others; however, all but the most durable balls should be changed before then. The number of times that you should replace a ball depends on how far you want to travel with each shot. If you're hitting straight shots into the wind, it may not matter how many times you change the ball, as long as you switch back before it wears out. But if you're often hitting into the breeze or the rough, it's best to go with a ball that will last several rounds. In addition to the distance you want to travel with each shot, the type of terrain you cross also affects how many times you should replace balls. If you mostly play fairways and greens, you only need to replace the ball every few rounds. But if you're using driver more often than not, you'll need to change the ball more frequently. If you don't have access to a bag of mixed balls, it's best to buy one that matches your game style. For example, if you usually play short holes, it makes sense to purchase a set of balls that are designed for shorter distances.