As he walked on to the 4th green during the first round of the Sanderson Farms Championship, the confusion on M.J. Daffue’s face was readily apparent. He was sure he’d hit a decent shot, yet didn’t see his ball on the putting surface. As his eyes scanned the surrounding area, a volunteer quietly said, “It’s in the hole.”
“Oh, I’m in the hole?”
As he raised his arms in celebration, he probably didn’t have time to realize that his ace was the very first for Titleist’s 2023 Pro V1 and Pro V1x line. While it officially launched a week later at the Shriners Children’s Open, Titleist had quietly allowed Daffue (Pro V1x), Garrick Higgo (Pro V1), and Gary Woodland (Pro V1x), who had been testing prototypes for the last month, to put the new balls in play. A month later, Seamus Power gave the 2023 Pro V1x its first tournament win at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship.
More importantly to us though, the golfing world at large can begin writing their 2023 Pro V1 story. Titleist believes the newest generation of their flagship line will fit a wider swath of players while providing more distance, more consistent flight, and the same greenside control consumers have come to expect.
Redesigned High Gradient Core
Central (literally and figuratively) to the Titleist 2023 Pro V1 line is their reimagined high gradient core. In the simplest terms, a high gradient core has progressive firmness from the center outwards. Firmest on its outer areas, the core gradually softens on the inside. According to Titleist, the result of this design is faster ball speed and lower spin with long clubs, which they believe will bring more distance and control off the tee.
It should thrill many equipment fanatics to know that Titleist took inspiration from the high gradient cores of their two most popular custom options, Pro V1 Left Dot and Pro V1x Left Dash, when designing their new 2023 line. While many readers may not know much about those two balls, they are slight variations on the 2021 core line, have a strong underground following, and are used by several professionals.
Considering this, and the fact Titleist believes they can fit even more players with their new line, we asked if they expected any of their Tour staff to migrate from these custom options to either the 2023 ProV 1 or Pro V1x.
“Several players have already made the transition and we anticipate some others to follow as the season progresses and they have the opportunity to test and practice with the new models,” said Jeremy Stone. “Among those already making the switch are Keith Mitchell, Ben Taylor and SH Kim (Left Dot to new Pro V1); Vince Whaley (Left Dot to new Pro V1x); Richy Werenski (Left Dash to new Pro V1); and Charley Hoffman (Left Dash to new Pro V1x).”
In addition to the redesigned high gradient core, ProV1x’s inner core was increased in size from 1” to 1.13”. Titleist tells us this change, “works in concert with the high gradient core, as the larger and softer center helps to drive down long game spin and increase stability through the air.”
Titleist says that consumers should expect the same basic attributes from Pro V1 and Pro V1x.
- Pro V1, a three-piece ball, delivers a softer feel and lower, penetrating ball flight with excellent greenside spin.
- Pro V1x, a four-piece ball, will feel firmer and offer higher flight and spin with irons and wedges, while still providing low spin on longer shots.
Titleist says they’ve improved the feel of both balls in 2023, but believes that their customers will find the feel of both balls familiar and pleasing.
Surrounding the newly designed cores of the 2023 Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x is a “high-flex casing layer” that works with the core to reduce driver spin, and at the same time interacts with the urethane cover to produce short game spin. The picture above shows the casing as a clear layer directly underneath the cover.
Speaking of the cast thermoset urethane cover, many consumers believe there isn’t another one quite like it on the market. It’s the one part of the ball that everyone can see and feel, and Titleist is quite proud of its formulation and the way its manufactured.
Titleist states, “Two separate components are mixed, and the liquid urethane is cast into Titleist-manufactured cavities which form the appropriate dimple pattern into the cover. The precise timing of the curing process and temperature are integral to the consistency of the urethane and the performance the golfer experiences on the course.”
The company believes their manufacturing process is critical to the consistency and quality of their product and takes immense pride in the fact that its precision tooling is machined and inspected in-house by Titleist employees.
Aerodynamics
Spherically-tiled Tetrahedral Dimple Designs. How’s that for a mouthful?
That’s the technical language Titleist uses for the 388 dimples on Pro V1 and the 348 on Pro V1x. They were designed to give both golf balls “optimized aerodynamics to fly consistent and far”. It is worth mentioning again that Pro V1x is the slightly higher-flying ball of the two, and a big reason for that is its dimple design.
We asked Titlist whether they made changes to the 2023 dimple pattern, and they confirmed they had not. To clarify further, Stone explained:
“Both were first utilized in the previous generation Pro V1 and Pro V1x and carried over for the new 2023 models. As is often the case, one innovation leads to another, and the updated aerodynamics and softer cast urethane cover first introduced in 2021 have allowed for more research into High Gradient core technologies that push the new golf balls forward in both distance and consistency.”
Details
- Available in white or high optic yellow
- White available in numbers 1-4, 5-8, and all the same play numbers 00 or 1-99.
- High optic yellow available in numbers 1-4.
- Price: $54.99/dozen
Oh hello.
These balls are good. I’ll vouch for them.
I’m sure they are great. Took a jump in price about where I expected. Waiting to see how they compare to the new Srixon stuff.
Really good write up [USER=1193]@Hawk[/USER]
The new core sounds solid and I enjoyed the aspect of expectations from the limited releases they offer. Which I do believe are partly popular because of their dashes and dots (not to take away from their performance).
Always enjoy your articles, Hawk. Through my own personal ball fitting that I did myself ProV1x seems like it should be my ball. Glad to read we can expect the same foundation of last version in 2023 version.
Maybe one day I’ll go for an actual ball fitting to see if the data backs up it being the ball for me.
This was probably my favorite write up of release season Hawk great stuff. I am excited to try the new ProV1X. For a while there, the V1x was the ball that fit my game the best but it felt like some of the characteristics between the V1 and V1x were flipping slightly.
Interesting. Should be a seamless transistion from old X to new X.
The one Titleist Ball, I always wanted to try is the ProV1 Star. But I doubt we see that anytime soon at retail.
These are the golf balls [USER=53737]@OldandStiff[/USER] and I used on Chicago. I can notice a slight upgrade in firmness and a slightly lower ball flight overall.
Thanks for the deets here [USER=1193]@Hawk[/USER]!!!
I have been tinkering with ProV1X this winter. I love the sound of them making it more like the left dash because I love that ball and the ZStar XV which I find very similar.
[QUOTE=”JB, post: 11239259, member: 3″]
Really good write up [USER=1193]@Hawk[/USER]
The new core sounds solid and I enjoyed the aspect of expectations from the limited releases they offer. Which I do believe are partly popular because of their dashes and dots (not to take away from their performance).
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It will be interesting to see how consumers react to the gap narrowing between CPO and standard line balls. While pros are already switching, I think you’re right that consumers are sometimes more interested in the exclusivity.
Looking forward to trying these – I started regularly gaming the ProV1X back end of last season.
Great information [USER=1193]@Hawk[/USER] ! Looks like another strong performer from Titleist. The $54.99 price tag isn’t optimal, but expected in this day and age.
I’ve been using the V1x since late last season to get a little more iron spin and it’s been very solid for me. Driver numbers are really good. I wish it was a bit softer at times, but it’s definitely better the better you strike it.
Very interested in giving this generation a run on the golf course.
Like the pro v1 when I used them. Interesting new core. Price tag hurts but seems like it’s the trend
Are these out now or is there a release date for them?
You had me in the second paragraph of the core [USER=1193]@Hawk[/USER] ! Merging similarities from the left’s has me probably the most excited about this version.
So excited to try these out when the weather clears up!
[QUOTE=”Ryanr760, post: 11239310, member: 73486″]
Are these out now or is there a release date for them?
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Can always change, but I was told retail is the 25th. I’ve kind of been hounding some local places about it. ?
Seems like they made some interesting changes this time around. I’m curious to try them, but realistically they would have to absolutely blow me away to even consider playing them full time at that price.
It was a nice surprise to also enjoy a little [USER=53737]@OldandStiff[/USER] content this morning. Nice shoutout to THP and the Titleist ball experience.
[QUOTE=”OldandStiff, post: 11239323, member: 53737″]
Can always change, but I was told retail is the 25th. I’ve kind of been hounding some local places about it. ?
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This is what we were told as well.
Making a great ball better is always an upgrade and some added durability is a huge plus.
[QUOTE=”Carolina Dundee, post: 11239344, member: 51300″]
Making a great ball better is always an upgrade and some added durability is a huge plus.
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The durability of these compared to some other recent new releases never ceases to blow my mind. It’s legit.
I can shred balls indoor and out a little quicker than most, and these hold up really well.
[QUOTE=”OldandStiff, post: 11239291, member: 53737″]
Oh yay! ?
Been playing these most of the winter thanks to the [URL=’https://www.thehackersparadise.com/forum/index.php?threads/the-golf-ball-experience-live-from-club-champion-with-titleist.8945624/’]Titleist Ball Experience[/URL] ! ?
Cool to read about some of the players switching because of the changes.
I yammered about my experiences on course with them a bit
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with some quick data from the other day.
I know [USER=53038]@AnthonyC[/USER] has been loving life after being fit into the right ball for him and will hopefully share some of his thoughts.
So grateful for the chance to meet him and [USER=7]@GolferGal[/USER] and experience a Titleist ball fitting at Club Champion. And to have my own observations be confirmed and talk about all of that. I am a ProV1x guy within their line ? percent and been enjoying the heck out of these balls. The core changes are exciting and one of the things we couldn’t share with others.
Should be an easy transition and only good things for most playing them and I’m excited for other forumers to get their hands on them.
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😳 The sound of those strikes…..
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[QUOTE=”DNice26, post: 11239412, member: 45706″]
😳 The sound of those strikes…..
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Those irons are pretty decent with that. Love them with the V1x.
Looking forward to trying these, definitely the 1X
[QUOTE=”OldandStiff, post: 11239351, member: 53737″]
The durability of these compared to some other recent new releases never ceases to blow my mind. It’s legit.
I can shred balls indoor and out a little quicker than most, and these hold up really well.
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[USER=60107]@jfox789[/USER] will be happy to hear this.
I like it so when I use a tree to stay in play I will lose less performance.
I’ve ignored Titleist balls for the last few years for the most part. I’ve always been a ProV guy more than X. I do like they keep just making it better and this new core sounds pretty good. This might be the year I go back but damn that price…ugh
[QUOTE=”Hawk, post: 11239300, member: 1193″]
I’ve been using the V1x since late last season to get a little more iron spin and it’s been very solid for me. Driver numbers are really good. I wish it was a bit softer at times, but it’s definitely better the better you strike it.
Very interested in giving this generation a run on the golf course.
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I had the v1x 2 years ago – I couldn’t hit them hard enough to make them really go. I didn’t dislike the ball but I don’t think I’m fast enough for them, or was hitting them well enough. It might be time to give them another go in a year or two and I think the article was great.
Great writeup [USER=1193]@Hawk[/USER] ! Interested in checking out the new versions of these, Same spin, more distance = Intrigue.
Looking forward to putting these in play.
Great Write up @hawk , I love the feel and response of the old ProV1X one the regular V1. Now i have to try a whole new generation….
good grief. Prov1s have always been great balls. Great write up Hawk. But dang $54/dzn. $4.5/ball!!! I will not be buying many of these.
All kinds of great information in that write up [USER=1193]@Hawk[/USER]. Well done. As a ProV1 player, I can’t wait to give these bad boys a go.
Would love to see the Buy 3 Get 1 come back this year.
Thanks for reading folks. I do appreciate it.
[USER=1193]@Hawk[/USER], you are killing it with your write ups. I decided to stalk up on some Yellow Triple Track ChromeSoft Xs while they were available, but I will still have to try these out. The Pro V1X has been a very good ball for my needs.
Another great THP article. Thanks Hawk. Have always played prov1s. Hate that the price is up 10% though
[QUOTE=”jbb2388, post: 11240549, member: 67726″]
Another great THP article. Thanks Hawk. Have always played prov1s. Hate that the price is up 10% though
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But inflation is only 7% LOL
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Great write up Hawk! I have grown to really like the ProV1 over the past few years and am looking forward to trying the 2023 version. 1X is a little too firm for my liking but I’m sure I will try the new one in that model also.
good writeup! that gradient core sounds interesting. hopefully will get a chance to try both of these this year.
Awesome write up Hawk. Did Titleist update the custom numbers that can be printed? This shows that there are quite a few exceptions. To me it doesn’t make any sense why it just wouldn’t be 1-99, but I’m sure they have their reasons.
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X is my go to ball. Looking forward to it!
It’s hard to not get excited for a new ProV1.
I’m desperate to see the left dot gain some more traction or at the very least, continue in a larger form.
[QUOTE=”Kmench, post: 11241102, member: 56250″]
Awesome write up Hawk. Did Titleist update the custom numbers that can be printed? This shows that there are quite a few exceptions. To me it doesn’t make any sense why it just wouldn’t be 1-99, but I’m sure they have their reasons.
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It’s kind of confusing. They say “all the same” Play Numbers are available, so I’m going to assume it means the ones already available.
[QUOTE=”Canadan, post: 11241147, member: 2320″]
It’s hard to not get excited for a new ProV1.
I’m desperate to see the left dot gain some more traction or at the very least, continue in a larger form.
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I get that. It’s cool that they continue to innovate and improve, even incrementally.
I hope the left dot gains more traction as well.
It’s going to be fun to give these a go.
[USER=1193]@Hawk[/USER] or [USER=53737]@OldandStiff[/USER] was there much difference in peak height on the ‘23 balls? Also, long game spin has been reduced and Titleist says dispersion is improved as a result. Did Titleist explain this claim to either of you?
[QUOTE=”noodle3872, post: 11241456, member: 56″]
[USER=1193]@Hawk[/USER] or [USER=53737]@OldandStiff[/USER] was there much difference in peak height on the ‘23 balls? Also, long game spin has been reduced and Titleist says dispersion is improved as a result. Did Titleist explain this claim to either of you?
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Hey there. Sorry for the delay. I haven’t had the opportunity to test the ball, so I can answer your first question.
Your second question is reasonable and one that ran through my head after I’d already submitted questions to Titleist. This is their general statement on the subject, though I’m not sure it really explains anything.
“High-gradient core technology, combined with the continued advancement of Titleist’s unparalleled manufacturing process, produces more consistent spin and speed performance for even tighter dispersion.”
[QUOTE=”noodle3872, post: 11241456, member: 56″]
[USER=1193]@Hawk[/USER] or [USER=53737]@OldandStiff[/USER] was there much difference in peak height on the ‘23 balls? Also, long game spin has been reduced and Titleist says dispersion is improved as a result. Did Titleist explain this claim to either of you?
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I lost around 5-7 feet peak height. I haven’t really noticed a difference in long game spin.
Will be loading up for the season
[QUOTE=”noodle3872, post: 11241456, member: 56″]
[USER=1193]@Hawk[/USER] or [USER=53737]@OldandStiff[/USER] was there much difference in peak height on the ‘23 balls? Also, long game spin has been reduced and Titleist says dispersion is improved as a result. Did Titleist explain this claim to either of you?
[/QUOTE]
You mean between the V1 and V1x? I definitely notice a little different peak height between them on course with mid and long irons. Little more spin and little different aero has the V1x peaking higher. V1 a little flatter flight and comes in at a little different angle for me.
If you mean compared to the prior ones, that’sa little harder to judge. I haven’t really spent time comparing that.
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What to look out for. ^ The boxes are similar enough to the last ones that it threw me at first.
And someone posted a few pics of cuts for the ultra curious.
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