Tour Play for Moderates

2008-08-18

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By Steve Pike

Bridgestone Golf, which established itself as a major player in the performance golf ball market with the B330 line, is introducing three new Tour level balls it says as a direct result of data garnered through its nationwide Bridgestone Challenge ball-fitting sessions. The new line includes the B330-RX, the newly enhanced four-piece versions of the Tour B330 and Tour B330-S series. The balls are expected to hit retailers’ shelves on Sept. 1.

Through its ball-fitting program, Bridgestone Golf tested thousands of golfers. The company reported found that no ball could deliver Tour-level spin and performance on the greens while also offering a softer compression that allowed moderate swing speed players the ability to compress the core in the same manner a high swing speed player does with other TOUR-level balls. As a result, Bridgestone said it developed the B330-RX – a ball made specifically for low handicappers who do not have Tour level swing speeds, but want Tour level performance in their short game.

With its soft Gradational Compression Core, Bridgestone said the B330-RX is designed for swing speeds between 85 -105 mph. In addition, the company said the B330-RX will be the softest multi-layer ball on the market.

“We’re very excited about the B330-RX as we believe it addresses a segment of players that have not received the attention they deserve,’’ said Brandon Sowell, Golf Ball Marketing Manager for Bridgestone Golf.
 
Bridgestone said the 2008 versions of the Tour B330 and B330-S feature its new dual-mantle four-piece construction technology. The new inner mantle used in both balls, according to Bridgestone, provides reduced spin and a smoother energy transition resulting in even more distance off the tee. The new Tour B330 and B330-S also feature a slightly softer core and cover, Bridgestone said, for increased touch on the greens and better spin performance on half wedge shots.

The 2008 B330 family of balls will carry a suggested retail price of $56 per dozen, meaning the expected street price will be around $42.99 per dozen.