The Maxfli TriFli is a three-piece golf ball designed to offer a balance of distance, feel, and control. It’s positioned as a versatile option for golfers seeking all-around performance without breaking the bank. Let’s explore what makes this ball unique and how it performs on the course.
Features and Construction
Three-Piece Design:
The TriFli, as its name suggests, features a three-layer construction:
- Low Compression Core: Provides a super soft feel on all shots from tee to green
- Highly Resilient Mantle Layer: Delivers faster ball speed and low spin
- Soft Ionomer Cover: Allows for impressive tee-to-green performance at a competitive price point
This construction aims to optimize performance across various aspects of the game, from distance off the tee to control around the greens.
Cover Material:
The TriFli utilizes a soft ionomer cover, which is a departure from the urethane covers found on many premium balls. This choice of material contributes to the ball’s durability and helps keep the cost down while still providing good overall performance.
Performance Analysis
Distance:
Many users, myself included, have found that the distance is comparable to other balls in its class and even some premium options. The combination of the low compression core and resilient mantle layer seems to contribute to impressive carry distances off the tee.
Accuracy and Spin:
The TriFli appears to offer added accuracy, which can be a confidence booster when standing over full swing shots. In terms of spin, it’s worth noting that the ball has significantly lower spin characteristics compared to high-compression balls like the Vice Pro or Pro V1. This lower spin profile can be beneficial for reducing slices or hooks off the tee but may impact control on approach shots and around the greens.
Feel:
The low compression core of the TriFli provides a super soft feel on all shots from tee to green. This soft feel can be particularly appealing to players who prefer a more muted impact sensation and can contribute to better feedback on putts and short game shots.
Durability:
The ionomer cover of the TriFli contributes to its durability. In my testing, I found that the ball held up well over multiple rounds, maintaining its performance characteristics and resisting scuffs and cuts better than some softer-covered premium balls.
Who Is It For?
The Maxfli TriFli is well-suited for:
- Mid to high handicap golfers looking for a balance of distance and control
- Players who want a versatile ball that performs well in various aspects of the game
- Golfers on a budget who want premium-like performance without the premium price tag
- Those who prioritize distance and a soft feel over maximum spin and control
Pros:
- Excellent distance performance, comparable to more expensive balls
- Soft feel on all shots, from driver to putter
- Good durability thanks to the ionomer cover
- Competitive pricing, offering good value for the performance
- Versatile performance suitable for a wide range of playing conditions
Cons:
- Lower spin characteristics may not suit players who rely on high spin for short game control
- May lack the premium feel and precise control of tour-level urethane-covered balls
- Not ideal for low handicap players who need maximum workability and spin control
Comparison to Other Maxfli Options:
When compared to other Maxfli offerings, the TriFli sits in an interesting middle ground:
- Maxfli Tour: The Tour series is Maxfli’s premium offering, featuring a urethane cover and designed for better players. It offers more spin and control than the TriFli but at a higher price point.
- Maxfli SoftFli: While both balls offer a soft feel, the TriFli is likely to provide more distance and potentially better all-around performance due to its three-piece construction.
The TriFli seems to bridge the gap between Maxfli’s budget offerings and their premium Tour series, offering a balance of performance and value.
Value Proposition:
One of the most compelling aspects of the Maxfli TriFli is its price point. At roughly $45 for two dozen balls, it offers exceptional value for the performance it delivers. This pricing makes it an attractive option for golfers who go through a lot of balls or those looking to try a step up from the most basic two-piece distance balls without investing in tour-level prices.
On-Course Performance:
During my testing, I found the TriFli to be a consistent performer across various aspects of the game:
- Off the Tee: The low spin characteristics helped in reducing slice and hook tendencies, while the resilient core contributed to impressive distances.
- Approach Shots: While not as high-spinning as premium urethane balls, the TriFli still offered decent control and stopping power on the greens.
- Around the Green: The soft feel was noticeable in the short game, although players used to high-spin tour balls might need to adjust their expectations for spin and check.
- Putting: The soft compression provided a nice feel off the putter face, contributing to good distance control on longer putts.
Drawbacks:
While the TriFli offers a lot of positives, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
- Lack of Workability: The low spin characteristics that help with reducing slices can also limit the ability to shape shots intentionally, which might be a concern for more advanced players.
- Greenside Spin: Players used to premium urethane-covered balls might find the spin and control around the greens to be less than they’re accustomed to.
- Feel Preferences: While many will appreciate the soft feel, some players prefer a firmer sensation, especially off the tee.
Final Thoughts:
The Maxfli TriFli represents an intriguing option in the crowded golf ball market. It offers a blend of distance, feel, and moderate spin control at a price point that makes it accessible to a wide range of golfers. While it may not unseat the premium tour-level balls for low handicappers and pros, it provides an excellent alternative for mid to high handicap players looking to improve their game without breaking the bank.
