This premium offering, Mizuno RB Tour Golf Balls, has gained attention among players particularly with faster swing speeds for its feel and performance. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the ball’s features, performance characteristics, suitability for different golfers, and address some drawbacks.
Who Is It For?
The Mizuno RB Tour is best suited for:
- Low to mid-handicap players.
- Golfers with moderate to high swing speeds (above 100 mph with the driver).
- Players who prioritize feel and control around the greens.
- Those who prefer a softer-feeling premium ball.
Features and Design:
The Mizuno RB Tour is a meticulously engineered 4-piece golf ball, featuring:
- Urethane cover for excellent feel and control.
- 360 Cone Dimple design for optimized aerodynamics.
- Moderate compression (around 90).
- Low driver spin for increased distance.
- High-energy core for enhanced ball speed.
Performance Characteristics
Off the Tee:
The RB Tour is designed to offer low driver spin, which translates to increased distance for players with higher swing speeds. During testing, I found the ball to launch with a penetrating trajectory, cutting through the wind effectively.
Approach Shots:
The urethane cover provides excellent responsiveness on iron shots. Players can expect good stopping power on the greens, allowing for aggressive approaches to tucked pins.
Around the Green:
This is where the RB Tour truly shines. The soft urethane cover offers exceptional feel and control on chip shots and pitches. Skilled players will appreciate the ability to manipulate spin and trajectory on short game shots.
Putting:
On the greens, the RB Tour offers a soft yet responsive feel. The ball seems to stay on the face a fraction longer, which can help with distance control on longer putts.
Durability:
Despite its soft cover, the RB Tour has shown impressive durability during testing. The urethane cover resists scuffs and cuts well, maintaining performance over multiple rounds.
Pros:
- Excellent greenside control and feel.
- Low driver spin for increased distance.
- Consistent performance across various conditions.
- Good durability for a urethane-covered ball.
Cons:
- May not provide optimal performance for slower swing speeds.
- Premium price point may not suit budget-conscious golfers.
- Slightly firmer feel compared to some competitors’ tour-level balls.
- Potential for increased spin on off-center driver hits.
Price and Value:
While the RB Tour is priced in the premium category, it offers strong performance at a competitive price point. For players who go through balls quickly, the durability of the RB Tour may provide additional value.
Who Shouldn’t Use This Ball:
- High-handicap players or beginners who may not benefit from its advanced features.
- Golfers with slower swing speeds (below 90 mph with the driver).
- Players who prefer a significantly softer feel on all shots.
- Those looking for maximum forgiveness on mishits.
Conclusion:
The Mizuno RB Tour is a high-performance golf ball that delivers excellent results for skilled players with faster swing speeds. Its standout features include exceptional greenside control, low driver spin for added distance, and consistent performance across various conditions.
While it may not be the best choice for players with slower swing speeds or those on a tight budget, the RB Tour is a worthy contender in the premium ball category. Its blend of distance, control, and durability makes it a solid choice for low to mid-handicap players looking to optimize their game.
