About The Opportunity and Testers

The Forum has had some major testing opportunities in the past but none came close to the 2023 Forum member review for Titleist White Box Golf Balls Test. Of the more than 11,000 golfers registering, we selected 79 as testers. It was our largest single test ever. 

Those selected received a sleeve of Titleist prototype golf balls to test and review. At the end of their testing, they were asked to fill out a form to provide the information we now are sharing with you. 

Golfers of all backgrounds and abilities were selected to test the Titleist prototype ball. The testers also shared feedback and test results on the Forum in a dedicated thread to this testing opportunity. To date, that dedicated thread has more than 550 posts from testers and members discussing and speculating about the Titleist White Box golf balls. 

What follows is further information regarding the testing pool that was selected.

The Start of Testing

Tom the Golf Nut speculated immediately on what golf ball it was after his first few hits. “I hit into the sim screen with a 9-iron and the ball feels like the AVX and Pro V1 do. The AVX, Pro V1 and the test ball feel similar off of the putter face as well. So the ball is not in the firm ‘X’ category.”

All in all, there were mixed opinions about where this ball could eventually end up in the Titleist lineup. 

Testing Results

Due to the testers receiving only three balls each, many were careful about where and when they used them. In general, that meant a lot of putting practice to start and a lot of simulator data collected prior to getting onto the course. 

The consensus on various aspects of the Titleist prototype golf ball which was revealed in the feedback form results.

This was a common theme and characteristic. Testers frequently commented that the Prototype was shorter off the tee. Many complimented its performance but felt it was shorter than what they were currently playing. 

Some testers found the ball felt soft. For some, this was a “good” soft feeling but others said it was too soft. These findings correlated to the testers’ individual swing speeds. 

Some testers suggested spin was just adequate with the Titleist prototype and wished for more. 

The testers found very similar characteristics to the approach spin of the Titleist prototype golf ball to its short-game spin.

Despite the apparent lack of distance off the tee, many testers found the Prototype to be a lot closer in performance to their usual golf ball when it came to distance for iron shots. Some testers preferred it in this situation.

In line with the above characteristics and findings from testers, the Titleist prototype in general flew lower than most testers’ usual golf ball. 

Wrapping up the questionnaire, we asked testers to select what they preferred in several areas. Most testers preferred their usual golf ball.

Additional Feedback

Testers were asked to provide comments to help give a broader picture of their experience.

Positive Aspects

Consistent positive feedback on the prototype’s distance off the tee, especially for seniors and slower swing speed players. Outstanding spin, particularly around the greens, was a notable feature for many testers. Several users liked the soft feel of the ball. There is considerable interest in the Prototype ball once available at retail. Several will look to use it in regular play, especially after their long-term testing.

Negative Aspects:

Concern about the durability of the cover with signs of damage reported after a few shots. Mixed feedback on the height and ball flight. Some liked the straight trajectory while others noted occasional slicing. Varying reactions to the ball’s softness.

Specific Feedback

Distance and Flight

Consistent reports of the prototype being three to four yards longer off the tee for slower swing speed players, especially compared to the tester’s usual golf balls. Straight trajectory was praised by many but some experienced occasional slicing or a higher ball flight.

Durability and Cover Issues

Concerns about the cover’s durability with visible signs of damage and scuffing after a limited number of shots.

Comparisons with Other Balls

Varied comparisons with other balls including Maxfli Tour, Pro V1, Pro V1x, AVX, Bridgestone B XS and VICE Pro. Preferences noted for the prototype’s soft feel, spin and distance while acknowledging differences in specific areas.

Preferences and Suitability

Preferences for a softer feel and extra spin, particularly off irons and around the green. Mixed opinions about the ball’s suitability for different types of players with considerations for swing speed and spin preferences. Specific feedback on the suitability of the prototype for winter play and simulator use.

Final Verdict and Considerations

Interest was expressed in the prototype’s potential availability and cost. Praise for the opportunity to participate in the testing and provide feedback on the prototype. Considerable emphasis on individual preferences such as feel, spin and distance, influencing the decision to include the prototype in regular play. The big question? What will the retail price be?

These consolidated forum member reviews of the Titleist White Box golf balls provide a comprehensive overview of user experiences, highlighting both positive features and areas for potential improvement. 

Editor’s Note: This article was written in partnership with Titleist.

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