Eight years after it first appeared as a custom option in Titleist’s juggernaut lineup of golf balls, the company’s Pro V1x Left Dash (known by its sidestamp of –Pro V1x) is getting a facelift with a new dual-core technology and enhanced aerodynamics. The result, a golf ball that isn’t just an aside in the line, but an option that has helped players win USGA Championships.
“We won’t introduce a product just because it’s new,” said Mike Madson, Senior Vice President of Titleist Golf Ball R&D. “It has to be better, and it has to be validated by players.”
The next generation of Pro V1x Left Dash has already hit professional fairways, making appearances on the PGA Tour, Korn Ferry Tour, among others since last October. By making significant enhancements through practically every component of the golf ball, the Pro V1x Left Dash offers a high-flying ball with less spin on longer shots.
Developed over four years, one of the prototypes was identified as the Left Dash of the future more than two years ago. The ball was then tested extensively by professionals and amateur players alike. The challenge was that spin on the prototype wasn’t where many players felt it needed to be, leading Titleist to start the process all over again. The new prototype focused on low spin, and the result was this new model.
Product keys
Changing core
Finding the right balance between the core and the outer layers is always key to ball’s success, and that’s clearly the case with the Pro V1x Left Dash. The latest version offers a new high gradient dual core with improved resiliency that increases distance and speed.
Stopping power
The thinner cast urethane cover adds bite around the green, an altered aerodynamics package, featuring a spherically-tiled 348 tetrahedral dimple design, generates a more efficient and consistent flight for optimal performance through the air.
Is it for me?
Each Titleist Pro V1 has distinct characteristics that ensure it appeals to a player seeking a certain flight. For example, the Pro V1 offers low spin on long shots, a soft feel and a mid-trajectory, while the Pro V1x offers a higher flight with more spin and feels firmer. In contrast, the Left Dash has a higher flight, but dramatically less spin on longer shots. “It’s still low spin off the tee. It’s faster, it’s longer, it’s more penetrating into the wind,” says Madsen. “It’s everything that a Dash player loves with a little bit more.”