for recreational golfers replaces
the firmer TreoSoft, generating
more spin and control around
the greens because of its newly
formulated soft Ionomer cover.
A low-compression core helps
yield a higher launch with less spin.
brIdgestone
Past versions of the
Tour B330-S have been very
popular with better golfers.
Now the 2011 model
($56/dozen) features a
new material that’ll fuel
105 mph-plus swing speeds
with more tee shot distance
and better wind piercing.
taylormade
The soft-feeling Burner Tour
($22/dozen) sports a new softer
cover and large, low-compression core for high spin around
the green where you need it,
and less on 8-iron-and-longer
strokes where you don’t.
taylormade
The next-generation Burner ($19.99/
dozen) aims to maximize distance and
feel through a high launch and long
carry. Its high-energy, low-compression
core yields distance and soft feel.
The cover is soft, resilient, durable and
shear-resistant.
callaWay
The soft core of the three-piece
HX Diablo Tour ($25.99/dozen)
gets firmer toward the outside,
for low driver spin and more
distance. A soft cover enhances
feel and yields more spin on
short shots, while an inner cover
reduces driver spin.
callaWay
Meanwhile, the two-piece,
distance-oriented HX Diablo
($19.99/dozen) wraps a soft,
resilient core with an Ionomer
cover that promotes low spin
and distance off the driver.
Like its sibling, this model has
HEX Aerodynamics instead
of conventional dimples, for a
more penetrating flight.
Aside from breaking in a new set of clubs, is there any greater on-course quipment rush than teeing up a fresh, brand-new golf ball? You get that
unspoken confidence that you’ll nail your drives and pinpoint your approaches.
Well, that sentiment will be magnified in 2011 because ball manufacturers
are packing their products with even more performance features. Think low-
compression cores that ultimately help soften impact feel yet gain yardage
when you need the long ball. And when you strive for some check-action
spin as you approach the pin from 150 yards or try to stick it close from
the side of the green, these new softer covers conveniently help out.
There are other changes you’ll notice in the ball market. Last
year, Srixon made a retro-splash with its fluorescent Tour Yellow
Z-Star golf balls. They were so well received by golfers and Tour
PLAY
BALL
SCOTT KRAMER By
pros that the company is expanding that color to other ball models this year.
Competitor Bridgestone has taken notice, debuting its popular e6 ball in both
yellow and orange. You’ll also be happy to see that the bulk of performance
balls seem to be dropping slightly in price: Even top brands will cost you
roughly $20-$25/dozen.
With so many choices, you may not be sure which ball is best for you.
Which is why nearly every ball company now offers some form of
fitting. Titleist and Bridgestone have traveling fitting centers—check
their respective websites for dates and locations—and others offer
interactive, online systems that’ll help you zero in on the right
model. Of course, nothing beats good old trial-and-error—which
gives you the chance to sample all these fun new offerings.
