2017 Titleist Pro V1 & Pro V1x Ball

We review the latest premium ball offering from number one brand Titleist

Titleist Pro V1 Gets Its 3,000th Win On Tour 2017 Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x Golf Balls Revealed
(Image credit: Bruce Peterson)
Golf Monthly Verdict

We’re talking very marginal gains here when comparing the old generation of Pro V1 and Pro V1x to their replacements. While many golfers will now struggle to notice a tangible difference between the performance of the two models, more players could now fit into either model whereas before it was more common that faster swing speeds would opt for the firmer Pro V1x while the majority of players would suit the Pro V1. As always, the only way to determine which is best for you is to try them both on a launch monitor and take them out on the course to find out which offers you the best balance of distance, feel and control.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Exceptional feel, short-game performance and improved durability

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    The difference between the two models has lessened somewhat

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2017 Titleist Pro V1 & Pro V1x Ball Review - Golf Monthly's in-depth review of the premium, high-performance Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls

2017 Titleist Pro V1 & Pro V1x Ball Review

Key Technology The ZG Process Core, first introduced in 2011, may not have changed in the Pro V1x, the new Pro V1 features a Next Generation 2.0 ZG Process Core that benefits from a new formula which generates lower spin and faster ball speeds.

The new Pro V1 is said to be lower-spinning through the bag, but the biggest reductions will be seen in the long game. The number of dimples on both balls hasn't changed, but the master hob in which the dimples are created has been improved.

The new dimple designs are now laser etched, resulting in better coverage and more consistency from dimple to dimple and ball to ball. Golfers can expect a more aerodynamically consistent ball flight and a tighter peak-height window on each shot’s apex.

Related: GM Readers test the Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x on the course

GM REVIEW

Long game The fact that the Pro V1 has been made marginally lower spinning (we found it spun around 100 rpm less than the previous Pro V1 at our 108mph driver swing speed) meaning the difference between the two balls off the tee had arguably been made more similar. The Pro V1x launches a touch higher, but not something you would notice unless you were using a launch monitor.

Feel Both these balls offer an exceptionally soft feel, especially on and around the green. The Pro V1 was perhaps marginally softer but it really was difficult to decide 100 per cent that was the case as both the balls felt fantastic.

Spin/Control It was difficult to detect any difference in spin and control on chip shots and putts. The Pro V1x seemed to react a little more on longer pitch shots with the added clubhead speed and even more noticeably on greenside bunker shots.

Ball flight The Pro V1x did seem to fly a noticeably higher with irons, potentially providing greater stopping power on firmer greens. We’ve always found the Pro V1 to deliver a consistent ball flight on well struck shots and this theme continues with the new models.

Joel Tadman
Technical Editor

Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 12 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all product content here at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader find exactly what they are looking for. So whether it's the latest driver, irons, putter or laser rangefinder, Joel has his finger on the pulse keeping up to date with the latest releases in golf. He is also responsible for all content on irons and golf tech, including distance measuring devices and launch monitors.


One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 3.2.


Joel's current What's In The Bag? 

Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9° 

Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15° 

Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18° 

Irons: Ping i230 4-UW

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 54°. Titleist Vokey SM9 60° lob wedge, K Grind

Putter: Evnroll ER2V 

Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x