Amazon vs. Costco: A New King of Discount Golf Balls for Alberta Golfers?

For anyone who plays golf in Alberta, the search for a good deal is as much a part of the game as avoiding the fescue.

 

This is where our latest golf equipment review of discount golf balls in Alberta comes in, focusing on a new challenger aiming for the throne.

 

For years, the undisputed champion of value has been the Kirkland Signature golf ball, a cult favourite found at Costco locations from Grande Prairie to Medicine Hat.

 

It delivered impressive performance without the premium price tag.

 

But now, a new contender has entered the ring: the Amazon Basics Core Soft golf ball.

 

This isn't just a new product; it's a direct challenge to Kirkland's dominance.

 

Priced even lower than Costco's offering, Amazon has officially launched what might be the cheapest conforming golf balls on the market.

 

This move is clearly aimed at the budget-conscious Alberta golfers who are tired of losing expensive balls in the woods.

 

But there’s a critical difference that every player needs to understand.

 

The key distinction lies in the ball's cover.

 

Kirkland Signature balls boast a urethane cover, which provides the softer feel and superior green side spin that better players demand.

 

The Amazon Basics ball, however, uses an ionomer cover—a harder, more durable material typically found on entry-level balls designed for distance over finesse.

 

The result is a classic trade-off between price and performance.

 

Early feedback from the fairways reflects this divide perfectly.

 

Many casual golfers and higher-handicap players praise them as a fantastic deal, offering perfectly adequate performance for someone who just wants to play a round without breaking the bank.

 

However, more discerning players have been less impressed.

 

Some reviews describe the feel off the club face as being "like hitting a rock", with a dead trajectory and poor feedback on well-struck shots.

 

Ultimately, this new entry into the market is a win for consumers looking for a bulk low cost ball.

 

If you prioritize saving money above all else, the Amazon Basics balls are almost impossible to ignore.

 

But if you rely on the soft feel and spin of a urethane ball for your short game, sticking with the tried-and-true Kirkland Signature is likely your best bet.

 

FAQ:

 

Are Amazon Basics golf balls any good for an average golfer?

For high-handicap or casual golfers in Alberta, the Amazon Basics balls offer incredible value for their price point, providing decent distance and durability. However, they lack the soft feel and green side spin of more premium balls.

 

What is the main difference between Amazon and Kirkland golf balls?

The biggest difference is the cover material. Kirkland Signature balls use a soft urethane cover for better feel and spin, while Amazon Basics balls use a harder ionomer cover, which prioritizes distance and durability at a lower cost.

 

Where can I buy cheap golf balls in Alberta?

Besides major retailers like Amazon and Costco, local pro shops and sporting goods stores across Alberta have sales on previous-year models or offer their own value-oriented brands.