By Ed Travis
Four years can be a long time, but in golf equipment aging, it is a very long time.
Four years ago, Bridgestone was riding high with a golf ball market share in the high teens, making it a strong competitor to Titleist. Callaway introduced the Chrome Soft ball and it has subsequently replaced Bridgestone as the number two golf ball in the marketing wars. Callaway’s technological innovation and improvements increased their performance and demand, while Bridgestone seemed to lose its way.
The original Chrome Soft while not the first “soft” ball was different than competitors, since it was targeted for use by better, read higher swing speed, players. They began with a 3-piece construction and went to a 4-piece ball the following year.
In 2017 by the Chrome Soft X version, slightly firmer for those with the highest driver speeds, was introduced. Chrome Soft X had a lower trajectory than its older brother, a more piercing flight, plus it was more workable because of higher spin.
After investing $50 million for manufacturing improvements in their Chicopee, Massachusetts golf ball plant, Callaway is introducing a NEW Chrome Soft and Chrome Soft X for 2020.
Both feature reengineered cores and thinner urethane covers, but the Chrome Soft has a higher trajectory than the Chrome Soft X.
Both are available in white or yellow, the Truvis “soccer ball” cover, or Callaway’s Triple Track alignment lines. They can be found in golf shops at a $47.99 per dozen suggested retail pricing.
What You Need To Know: Chrome Soft
-Larger Dual SoftFast Core with graphene infusion provides:
-Higher launch lower spin
-Proprietary ionomer mantle system
-Thinner urethane cover
-Dimple design for reduced drag
What You Need To Know: Chrome Soft X
Large SoftFast core
Soft inner mantle firmer outer mantle
Thinner urethane cover
Dimple design reduces drag penetrating flight
