Srixon AD333 ball

Technology

Cover - Srixon's Spin Skin technology has been applied to the new AD333 - a feature that first appeared on Srixon's Z-Star balls - to enhance control on scoring shots. The cover is made from a blend of Rabalon HR+ and Pana-Tetra, which is designed to be very durable.

Core - The Energetic Gradient Growth (EGG) core starts with a soft centre and becomes increasingly firm towards the ball's outer layer. This should help to increase distance on full shots.

Dimple design - A new 344 Speed Dimple design should reduce drag, thanks to the enhanced surface area coverage. Reduced drag means more carry and a penetrating flight that copes with the wind.

Aesthetics

Shelf appeal - While the package design clearly means nothing to the performance on offer, it does offer an updated and modern look that will catch the eye of many players.

Durability - The durability of the 2011 version of the AD333 was already excellent. The new ball continues the trend and copes very well with full rounds of golf. Where the improvement is noticeable is how the ball doesn't scuff when full shots are hit with new wedges.

Performance

Flight - The AD333's long-game flight was excellent. The trajectory was similar to the previous incarnation - plenty of height, without spinning too much. It's a flight that works particularly well on wet or lush fairways when there isn't much run on the ball.

Distance - You aren't likely to see much, if any, drop in distance compared to the premium Srixon Z-Star, and some will even find it longer. The ball certainly offers impressive hang time off the tee, and there was impressive distance offered right through the set up to full wedge shots.

Forgiveness - Full-shot testing of the AD333 took place on a driving range, with a left-to-right wind blowing, before being tested out on the course. The ball coped very well in the wind, with purely struck shots maintaining their line. The reduction in full-swing spin is a benefit into the wind.

Spin - This is an area where a premium ball with a urethane cover will offer clear improvements. When hitting into firm greens, there isn't quite as much stopping power as there would be from a premium-priced ball.

Feel - You could be surprised at how soft the AD333 feels off the putter face, and when chipping and pitching. This helps to provide the confidence to attack the ball aggressively .