As a professional golfer and experienced equipment reviewer, I’ve had the pleasure of putting the Vice Pro Plus golf ball through its paces in various conditions and courses. This review will provide an in-depth look at the performance, features, and suitability of this premium offering from Vice Golf.
The Vice Pro Plus: An Overview
The Vice Pro Plus is positioned as the flagship model in Vice’s lineup, designed to compete with tour-level balls from major brands. It’s a 4-piece ball with a cast urethane cover, aimed at skilled players with high swing speeds.
Who Is It For?
The Vice Pro Plus is best suited for:
- Low-handicap players.
- Golfers with high swing speeds (110 mph and above).
- Players who prioritize control and feel around the greens.
- Those looking for tour-level performance at a slightly lower price point.
It may not be the best choice for:
- High-handicappers or beginners.
- Players with slower swing speeds.
- Golfers on a tight budget.
Construction and Technology
4-Piece Design:
The Vice Pro Plus features a sophisticated 4-piece construction, which allows for optimal performance across all aspects of the game. This design incorporates:
- A high-energy speed core.
- Two mantle layers.
- An extra-thin cast urethane cover.
Dimple Pattern:
The ball boasts a 336 dimple design, carefully engineered to provide optimal aerodynamics. This pattern contributes to a stable ball flight and helps maximize distance, especially for players with higher swing speeds.
Urethane Cover:
The cast urethane cover is a standout feature, providing excellent feel and control around the greens. It’s designed to be extra-thin, which enhances spin on short shots while maintaining durability.
Performance Analysis
Off the Tee:
The Vice Pro Plus truly shines when it comes to distance off the tee. The high-energy core and aerodynamic dimple pattern work together to produce impressive carry and overall distance. In my testing, I found it to be on par with, and sometimes exceeding, the performance of more established premium balls.
Approach Shots:
The ball offers excellent control on approach shots. The urethane cover provides the necessary bite to hold greens, even on longer irons. Skilled players will appreciate the ability to shape shots and control trajectory.
Around the Green:
This is where the Vice Pro Plus really stands out. The soft urethane cover delivers exceptional feel and spin on chip shots and pitches. I found it to be particularly responsive when opening the face for delicate flop shots.
Putting
On the green, the Vice Pro Plus offers a firm yet responsive feel. It rolls true and provides good feedback on both long and short putts. Some players might find it slightly firmer off the putter face compared to other premium balls, but it’s a minor difference that most will adjust to quickly.
Weather and Course Conditions
Wind Performance:
The Vice Pro Plus performs admirably in windy conditions. Its stable flight characteristics help maintain accuracy even when the breeze picks up. However, players with slower swing speeds might find it a bit more affected by strong crosswinds due to its low-spin characteristics off the tee.
Wet Conditions:
In wet conditions, the ball maintains its performance well. The urethane cover provides good grip on soggy greens, and the overall construction seems to resist waterlogging effectively.
Different Course Types:
I’ve tested this ball on various course types, from links-style courses to parkland layouts. It adapts well to different conditions, making it a versatile choice for golfers who play a variety of courses.
Durability:
One concern with urethane-covered balls is often durability, but the Vice Pro Plus holds up well. After multiple rounds, the cover showed minimal scuffing, maintaining its performance characteristics. It’s not indestructible, but it certainly competes with other premium balls in this regard.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional distance off the tee for high swing speed players.
- Excellent greenside control and spin.
- Premium feel on all shots.
- Good durability for a urethane-covered ball.
- Competitive pricing compared to other tour-level balls.
Cons:
- May generate too much spin for some players, especially on full shots.
- Slightly firmer feel on putts compared to some competitors.
- Not ideal for slower swing speeds or high-handicappers.
Drawbacks:
While the Vice Pro Plus is an excellent ball, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
- Availability: As Vice operates on a direct-to-consumer model, these balls aren’t as readily available in pro shops or retail stores. This can make it challenging to pick up a sleeve on short notice.
- Brand Recognition: Some golfers might be hesitant to switch from more established brands. While performance speaks for itself, there’s still a psychological aspect to consider.
- Customization: While Vice offers customization options, they may not be as extensive as some major brands.
Conclusion:
The Vice Pro Plus is a high-performance golf ball that delivers tour-level performance at a competitive price point. Its exceptional distance off the tee, combined with excellent control around the greens, makes it a strong contender in the premium ball market.
For skilled players with high swing speeds looking for a ball that can compete with the best in the business, the Vice Pro Plus is definitely worth considering. It offers a blend of distance, control, and feel that can enhance the game of discerning golfers.
In my professional opinion, the Vice Pro Plus stands toe-to-toe with the top balls in the market, offering a compelling alternative for golfers willing to step outside the mainstream brands. It’s a testament to Vice’s commitment to quality and performance, and a ball that deserves serious consideration from skilled players looking to optimize their game.
