As a golf professional who has tested and played with numerous golf ball brands over the years, I’ve watched Vice Golf emerge as a disruptive force in the golf ball market.
Since their launch in 2012, they’ve carved out a significant niche by offering premium golf balls at competitive prices through their direct-to-consumer model. In this comprehensive review, I’ll analyze each ball in Vice’s current lineup, helping you understand which might best suit your game.
Vice Pro Plus
The Vice Pro Plus is Vice’s flagship model, designed for advanced players with higher swing speeds. This tour-level ball targets golfers who prioritize distance off the tee without sacrificing short-game control.
Features
The Pro Plus showcases a sophisticated 4-piece construction that maximizes energy transfer while maintaining precise control. Each layer works in harmony to deliver optimal performance throughout the entire shot spectrum.
The cast urethane cover provides an exceptional feel and control around the greens. This premium material allows for maximum spin on short shots while remaining durable enough for regular play. The surface texture is particularly effective when opening the clubface for delicate shots around the green.
At the heart of the Pro Plus lies a high-energy speed core, engineered to maximize distance for players with faster swing speeds. This core technology helps maintain ball speed while optimizing launch conditions for longer carries and more consistent flight patterns.
The 336 dimple pattern has been carefully designed to provide stability in varying wind conditions. This aerodynamic configuration helps reduce drag during flight while promoting a penetrating trajectory that better players often prefer.
A dual casing layer works in conjunction with the core and cover to fine-tune spin rates for different clubs. This technology helps reduce driver spin for maximum distance while maintaining high spin rates with shorter clubs for enhanced control.
The ball comes in three distinct colorways – classic white, high-visibility lime, and distinctive red. Each color option maintains the same performance characteristics while offering players choices in visibility and aesthetics.
Pros
- Exceptional distance off the tee for players with fast swing speeds (95+ mph)
- Outstanding greenside spin and control
- Excellent durability compared to other premium balls
- Competitive price point for a tour-level ball
- Superior stability in windy conditions
Cons
- May generate too much spin for slower swing speed players
- Limited color options compared to competitors
- Premium price point within Vice’s lineup
Vice Pro
The Vice Pro represents a slightly softer alternative to the Pro Plus, designed for players seeking tour-level performance with an enhanced feel. It’s an excellent option for mid-to-low handicappers who prefer a slightly softer feel around the greens.
Features
The three-piece construction of the Vice Pro represents a perfect balance between performance and feel. Each layer has been meticulously engineered to work in harmony, providing optimal performance across all aspects of the game.
The cast urethane cover utilizes Vice’s advanced manufacturing processes to deliver exceptional feel and control. This premium material provides the soft touch and responsiveness that better players demand, particularly on shots around the green.
Vice’s proprietary S2TG (Stick-to-the-Green) technology enhances the ball’s interaction with the green on approach shots. This innovative feature helps the ball grab the green more effectively, leading to improved stopping power and control.
The 318 dimple pattern has been specifically designed to optimize aerodynamics for this three-piece construction. This configuration promotes a stable flight pattern and helps maintain consistency even in challenging wind conditions.
The BJ13 (Break Junction) coating represents a significant advancement in cover technology. This special coating helps maintain the ball’s surface integrity while enhancing spin control across all shots, from drives to chips.
Pros
- Excellent balance of distance and control
- Superior greenside feel and spin
- Good durability for a softer urethane cover
- Performs well in all weather conditions
- More affordable than traditional premium balls
Cons
- Slightly less distance than Pro Plus for high swing speeds
- Some players report difficulty distinguishing it from Pro Plus in play
- White color can scuff more noticeably than other colors
Vice Pro Soft
The Vice Pro Soft is engineered for players with moderate swing speeds who seek maximum feel without sacrificing significant distance. It’s particularly effective in cooler weather conditions.
Features
The three-piece construction of the Pro Soft has been specifically engineered to maximize performance for moderate swing speeds. Each layer works together to provide optimal energy transfer while maintaining the soft feel that many players prefer.
The urethane cover represents Vice’s most advanced soft-cover technology. This specially formulated material provides an exceptional feel on all shots while maintaining sufficient durability for regular play.
At the heart of the Pro Soft lies a low compression core, designed to maximize energy transfer at moderate swing speeds. This core technology helps players with slower swing speeds achieve optimal distance while maintaining control.
The 336 dimple pattern has been carefully engineered to promote a higher trajectory optimal for moderate swing speeds. This aerodynamic design helps maximize carry distance while providing stable flight characteristics in various conditions.
The enhanced visibility matte finish options offer players superior ball tracking capability in various light conditions. This unique finish not only serves a functional purpose but also provides a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from traditional golf balls.
Pros
- Exceptional feel on all shots
- Excellent performance in cool weather
- Strong greenside spin
- Available in distinctive matte colors
- Good value for a premium soft ball
Cons
- Distance loss for high swing speed players
- Durability can be an issue
- Matte finish can show marks more easily
Vice Tour
The Vice Tour represents the company’s mid-range offering, targeting mid-handicap players seeking a balance of performance and value. It’s an excellent option for golfers transitioning from distance balls to more performance-oriented models.
Features
The three-piece construction provides an excellent balance between performance and durability. This design offers more sophistication than entry-level balls while maintaining excellent longevity.
The Surlyn cover offers superior durability while providing a good feel and moderate spin characteristics. This material choice helps keep the cost down while delivering consistent performance throughout multiple rounds.
The Energy Speed Core (ESC) technology lies at the heart of the Tour ball. This innovative core design maximizes energy transfer at impact, helping players achieve optimal distance with various swing speeds.
The 312 dimple pattern has been specifically engineered for the Tour’s construction. This aerodynamic design promotes a consistent ball flight while providing good stability in varying wind conditions.
The high energy return design emphasizes efficient power transfer from club to ball. This technology helps players achieve maximum distance without sacrificing too much control.
Pros
- Good overall distance
- Consistent ball flight
- Excellent durability
- Very good value proposition
- Performs well in varying conditions
Cons
- Less greenside spin than urethane models
- Firmer feel than premium models
Vice Drive
The Vice Drive is designed for beginners and high-handicap players focusing primarily on distance and durability. It’s an excellent option for those still developing their game or playing on courses with many hazards where ball loss is common.
Features
The two-piece construction of the Vice Drive represents a straightforward but effective design philosophy. This simplified construction focuses on maximizing distance and durability while keeping the price point accessible for developing players.
The DuPont Surlyn cover employs advanced material technology to provide exceptional durability. This specially formulated cover material resists cuts and scuffs while maintaining consistent performance characteristics throughout the ball’s lifetime.
At the core of the Drive lies a high-energy center designed specifically for maximum distance. This core formulation helps players with developing swing speeds to achieve optimal distance while maintaining reasonable control.
The 368 dimple pattern represents Vice’s most aggressive aerodynamic design. This configuration reduces air resistance during flight, helping players achieve maximum distance while maintaining a stable ball flight even in challenging conditions.
The cut-proof construction incorporates special manufacturing techniques that enhance the ball’s durability. This robust design helps the ball maintain its structural integrity even when coming into contact with cart paths, trees, or other hard surfaces.
Pros
- Maximum distance for slower swing speeds
- Extremely durable construction for extended play
- Very affordable price point for budget-conscious golfers
- Consistent flight characteristics across all conditions
- Minimal sidespin helps promote straighter shots
Cons
- Limited greenside control compared to premium models
- Firmer feel may not suit players preferring soft feedback
Vice Pro Zero
The Vice Pro Zero represents Vice’s innovative approach to enhanced visibility and alignment while maintaining premium performance characteristics. This ball is specifically designed for players who prioritize visual feedback and precise alignment without sacrificing tour-level performance.
Features
The three-piece construction delivers sophisticated performance characteristics that satisfy demanding players. Each layer has been carefully engineered to work in concert, providing optimal feedback and control throughout the entire shot spectrum.
The cast urethane cover incorporates Vice’s latest advancement in material science. This premium cover material delivers exceptional feel and control while featuring special visibility-enhancing properties that distinguish it from traditional golf balls.
The alignment aid system represents a significant innovation in golf ball design. The distinctive markings help players achieve precise alignment on all shots, particularly beneficial on the putting green where small alignment errors can lead to missed putts.
The 318 dimple pattern has been specifically optimized for the Pro Zero’s unique construction. This aerodynamic configuration promotes stable flight characteristics while maintaining the visual properties that make this ball unique.
The high-visibility design incorporates special pigments and patterns that enhance ball tracking. This feature proves particularly valuable in challenging light conditions or when playing in the early morning or late evening hours.
Pros
- Exceptional visibility in varying light conditions
- Premium performance characteristics match tour-level expectations
- Strong alignment features aid in setup and putting
- Good durability for a premium performance ball
- Distinctive appearance helps with ball identification
Cons
- Premium pricing position within the Vice lineup
- Limited color options compared to other visibility-focused balls
- Some players find the alignment aids visually distracting
- Availability can be limited due to production constraints
Vice Pro Red
The Vice Pro Red caters to players seeking maximum visibility without compromising tour-level performance. This ball particularly excels in low-light conditions and serves players who experience difficulties with traditional white golf balls.
Features
The three-piece construction maintains Vice’s high performance standards while incorporating visibility-enhancing technology. This sophisticated design ensures no performance sacrifices are made in pursuit of improved visibility.
The cast urethane cover features a specially formulated neon red colorway. This unique color treatment provides exceptional visibility against both light and dark backgrounds while maintaining the soft feel and control characteristics of premium urethane.
The Keep in Line (KIL) putting alignment system represents a breakthrough in alignment technology. This innovative marking system helps players achieve more consistent alignment on the greens, potentially leading to improved putting performance.
The 336 dimple pattern has been carefully engineered to complement the ball’s unique coloring. This aerodynamic design ensures the ball maintains consistent flight characteristics while optimizing the visual tracking capabilities of the neon red finish.
The visibility-optimized surface treatment enhances the ball’s tracking capabilities in all conditions. This special finishing process helps maintain the ball’s bright appearance even after extensive play.
Pros
- Outstanding visibility across all lighting conditions
- Premium performance characteristics match tour standards
- Excellent alignment aids enhance putting accuracy
- Good durability for a colored urethane cover
- Distinctive appearance aids in ball identification
Cons
- Color may not appeal to traditionally minded players
- Can be challenging to track in extremely bright sunlight
- Premium pricing reflects advanced technology
- Limited availability during peak season
Buying Guide and Recommendations
Before you buy your first Vice Golf ball, here are a few things you must know.
Understanding Your Game Profile
Before selecting a Vice golf ball, it’s crucial to understand your playing characteristics. Your swing speed, skill level, and playing style significantly influence which ball will perform best for you. A properly fitted golf ball can enhance your strengths while helping minimize your weaknesses.
Consider tracking your average scores, swing speed (if known), and typical miss patterns. Pay particular attention to your short game preferences – whether you prefer a softer or firmer feel around the greens, and how much spin control you typically require. This self-assessment will guide you toward the most suitable Vice model.
Low Handicap Player Recommendations (0-8)
Players in this category typically demonstrate consistent swing patterns and possess the skill to manipulate ball flight when needed. For these golfers, control and feedback are usually more important than maximum distance.
The Vice Pro Plus stands as the primary recommendation for low handicappers with faster swing speeds (95+ mph). Its four-piece construction provides the complete performance package these players demand. The ball’s ability to maintain stability in windy conditions while offering precise short-game control makes it ideal for better players.
For low handicappers with moderate swing speeds or those preferring a slightly softer feel, the Vice Pro offers an excellent alternative. It provides similar control with a bit more forgiveness, making it particularly effective when conditions demand a more tactile response.
Mid-Handicap Solutions (9-17)
Mid-handicap players often find themselves in a transitional phase, where they’re developing consistency while still requiring some forgiveness. Ball selection for this group requires a careful balance between performance and playability.
The Vice Pro Soft emerges as the primary recommendation for this category. Its three-piece construction provides enough spin control for developing shot-making skills while offering forgiveness on mishits. The softer feel helps with distance control, particularly important as players in this category work on their short game.
The Vice Tour serves as a cost-effective alternative, particularly well-suited for mid-handicappers who play frequently and want to maximize value without sacrificing too much performance. Its durability and consistent performance characteristics make it an excellent choice for regular practice and play.
High Handicap Considerations (18+)
High handicap players benefit most from balls that enhance confidence and promote consistency. Distance and durability often take precedence over spin control for this group.
The Vice Drive stands as the optimal choice for beginning players and high handicappers. Its two-piece construction focuses on maximizing distance while minimizing sidespin, helping to keep shots straighter. The exceptional durability also provides excellent value, particularly important for players still developing consistent contact.
For high handicappers showing improvement and seeking more short game control, the Vice Tour can serve as a stepping stone toward more advanced models. Its three-piece construction offers a good balance of distance and moderate spin control without overwhelming the player with too much feedback.
Specialized Playing Conditions
Different playing conditions can significantly impact ball selection. Here’s how various Vice models perform in specific scenarios:
Cold Weather Performance
The Vice Pro Soft excels in cooler temperatures, maintaining compression and feel when other balls might feel too firm. Its low compression design helps players maintain distance even when temperatures drop.
Windy Conditions
The Vice Pro Plus, with its penetrating ball flight and stable trajectory, performs exceptionally well in windy conditions. The 336 dimple pattern helps maintain consistency even in gusty situations.
Wet Conditions
The Vice Pro and Pro Plus, with their urethane covers, provide better control in wet conditions compared to ionomer/Surlyn covered balls. The S2TG technology particularly helps maintain spin control on wet surfaces.
Visual Preference Considerations
Vice offers several options for players with specific visual preferences or tracking difficulties:
High Visibility Needs
The Vice Pro Red provides maximum visibility while maintaining tour-level performance. It’s particularly effective in low-light conditions or for players who struggle tracking traditional white balls.
Alignment Assistance
The Vice Pro Zero offers enhanced alignment features without compromising performance. Its marking system proves particularly beneficial for players focusing on improving their putting accuracy.
Value Optimization Strategies
Vice’s direct-to-consumer model offers unique opportunities for value optimization. Here’s how to maximize your investment:
Bulk Purchasing Benefits
Buying in larger quantities significantly reduces the per-dozen cost. Consider splitting bulk orders with playing partners to access better pricing while maintaining fresh ball stock.
Practice vs. Tournament Selection
Consider using different models for practice and tournament play. The Vice Tour might serve well for practice rounds, while reserving the Pro or Pro Plus for tournament play.
Season-Specific Recommendations
Different seasons present varying challenges and opportunities for ball selection:
Summer Play
During warmer months, all Vice models perform consistently with their design intentions. Choose based on your skill level and preferences rather than weather considerations.
Winter Golf
In colder conditions, consider moving to a softer model than you typically play. The Pro Soft or Tour can provide better feel and compression in cold weather.
Testing and Selection Process
Initial Assessment
Begin your Vice golf ball selection journey by conducting an honest assessment of your game. Consider your current handicap as a starting point, but don’t let it be the sole determining factor. Take note of your typical swing speed if you know it, and consider your usual ball flight patterns. Pay attention to your most common misses and whether they tend to be hooks, slices, or straight pushes and pulls. This initial self-evaluation provides the foundation for making an informed ball selection.
Trial Pack Strategy
Vice offers various trial pack combinations that allow you to test multiple ball models without committing to a full dozen of each. Start with a trial pack that includes balls from different categories within their lineup. For instance, combine the Pro Plus with the Pro and Pro Soft if you’re a lower handicap player, or mix the Tour with the Drive if you’re still developing your game. This approach provides direct comparison opportunities under your specific playing conditions.
Controlled Testing Environment
When testing different Vice models, create a controlled environment for meaningful comparison. Visit a practice facility that allows you to hit multiple shots with each ball model under similar conditions. Use the same club for comparison shots, and try to maintain consistent swing thoughts and tempo. This controlled approach helps isolate the ball’s performance characteristics from other variables that might influence your assessment.
Full-Shot Evaluation
During your testing, start with full shots using various clubs throughout your bag. Begin with the driver, noting not just the overall distance but also the ball’s flight characteristics and how they align with your preferences. Move to mid-irons, paying attention to trajectory and stopping power. Finally, test long irons or hybrids, observing how each ball performs in terms of launch and land angles.
Approach Shot Analysis
Dedicated approach shot testing is crucial as this area often reveals significant differences between ball models. Hit a series of shots from 100-150 yards, noting how each ball responds to different types of shots. Observe both full shots and three-quarter shots, paying particular attention to how the ball reacts upon landing. Note which models provide the stopping power and control you prefer for your typical approach shots.
Short Game Assessment
Perhaps the most critical phase of testing involves short game shots. Spend considerable time hitting chips, pitches, and bunker shots with each ball model. Pay attention to how different balls respond to various club faces and shot types. Some players prefer a firmer feel for consistent chip shots, while others might favor a softer feel for enhanced touch around the greens. Test both high and low shot trajectories to understand how each ball responds to different short game demands.
Putting Evaluation
While many overlook putting in ball selection, different models can feel notably different on the greens. Test each ball model with both long and short putts, paying attention to the sound, feel, and roll characteristics. Some players prefer a firmer feel for better distance control, while others might favor a softer feel for enhanced touch. Consider how each ball’s alignment aids work with your putting routine and visual preferences.
Weather Condition Considerations
If possible, test the balls under various weather conditions. Some models perform differently in wind, rain, or cold temperatures. The Vice Pro Plus, for instance, might excel in windy conditions due to its lower flight characteristics, while the Pro Soft might provide a better feel in cold weather. Understanding how each ball performs in different conditions helps make a more informed final decision.
Performance Documentation
Keep detailed notes during your testing process. Record not just the empirical data like distances and trajectories but also your subjective impressions of feel, sound, and control. Note any particular strengths or weaknesses you observe with each model. This documentation becomes invaluable when making your final selection, especially if testing extends over multiple sessions.
Final Selection Criteria
Base your final selection on a comprehensive evaluation of all testing phases rather than any single aspect of performance. Consider how each ball performs across all situations you commonly face on the course. Factor in the frequency of play and your budget, remembering that Vice’s bulk pricing can make premium models more accessible. Choose the ball that offers the best overall performance for your game while aligning with your practical needs and preferences.
Long-term Considerations
As your game evolves, your ball needs may change. Consider these factors for long-term satisfaction:
Skill Development
Choose a ball that not only suits your current game but also accommodates anticipated improvement. The Vice Tour or Pro Soft can grow with your game more effectively than the Drive.
Cost Management
Balance performance needs with budget constraints. Vice’s bulk pricing makes premium balls more accessible, but ensure your selection aligns with both your game and financial considerations.
Final Thoughts
Vice Golf has successfully carved out a niche in the golf ball market by offering premium performance at competitive prices. Their direct-to-consumer model and bulk pricing strategy make premium golf ball performance more accessible to many players.
For most golfers, Vice offers a compelling alternative to traditional premium balls, especially when purchased in bulk. The key is to match the ball to your game and take advantage of the bulk pricing when you find a model that works for you.
Consider testing multiple models through their trial packs before committing to a bulk purchase. This approach ensures you find the perfect match for your game while maximizing the value proposition that Vice Golf offers.
