Every golfer out there is constantly looking for the latest and greatest golf balls to help lower their golf score. The Pro V1 is the king of the mountain while Vice Pro Soft golf balls seem to be gaining some ground due to their 2020 balls out-performing their predecessor.
So, in the debate of Vice Pro Soft vs Pro V1, which is better? The Vice Pro Soft golf ball seems to be the more logical choice over the Pro V1, but is it because of the affordability vs actual performance?
The Pro V1 and the Vice Pro Soft balls have much in common but have a couple of big differences, and depending on the kind of player you are, could make a difference. If performance and cost are important to you, then see how these two aspects impact each of these golf balls.
Vice Pro Soft vs Pro V1 Comparison
To start this debate I’m first going to cover the Vice Pro Soft golf balls. In the end you’ll need to decide what is important to you. But here’s some additional information to help you make an informed decision.
Vice Pro Soft
To begin with, the Vice golf balls are a golf ball that isn’t as well known as the Titleist brand, so if you’re unfamiliar with them, that’s to be expected. Vice was primarily direct to consumer ball seller.
They also provide themselves with word of mouth advertising and tiered savings (the more you buy, the more you save). Things have changed and while the Vice brand is primarily available online, there are some stores that carry the brand as well.
The Vice Pro Soft features an advanced 3-piece design with a urethane cover. It also has a High Energy Speed Core (HESC) for higher ball speed and distance off the tee. The lower compression of the Vice Pro Soft makes them geared towards those with a slow to mid swing speed.
Features and Benefits:
- Made of a 3-layer urethane cover
- Affordability (over Pro V1)
- The design of the Vice Pro Soft is optimized to ensure maximum distance off of the tee
- New “keep in line” for accurate putting
- If the color is your thing, The Vice Pro Soft is available in 3 different color options, all of which feature a matte finish for enhanced visibility
Overall, the performance, feel, and distance of the Vice Pro Soft is very appealing.
Titleist Pro V1 Golf Balls
The Titleist Pro V1 golf ball has been one of the leading golf balls in the industry for decades. The Pro V1 is a medium compression golf ball that is used by many a number of touring professionals and amateurs alike.
The compression of the golf ball is how tightly the core threads are woven together, and that’s what makes the Pro V1 so appealing to some. With a compression around 90, the Pro V1 and Pro V1x are considered a couple of the higher compression balls available.
So, a golf ball with low compression will be much softer and travel farther than a golf ball with a high compression which will be harder and more accurate. A medium-high compression ball, like the Pro V1, is a combination of the two combining distance and control.
Features and Benefits:
- Long-distance with consistent ball flight– The Pro V1 is one of the longest and straightest golf balls due to its large casing layer which allows for maximum speed off the clubface producing long tee shots.
- Low Spin Drives: The Pro V1 is one of the lowest spinning golf balls which can be contributed to the fast core of the golf ball.
- Penetrating Trajectory: When the golfer compresses the Pro V1 which a solid descending strike, the ball comes out with a penetrating ball flight and a good launch angle with all clubs.
- Soft Feel: The Pro V1 is great around the greens with its soft feel. The ball pops off the clubface with enough backspin to stop on the greens.
If your game puts a premium on a softer feel over an x-type ball, the Vice Pro Soft ((for driver swing speeds (How to Swing A Golf Club Faster) at 95mph and below)) is more than a match for a Pro V1.
Biggest Differences Between Pro V1 and Vice Pro Soft
The biggest differences between the Pro Soft and the Pro V1 are compression and price.
Compression
So what does the compression difference mean for you? The compression of a golf ball refers to how tightly wound its core threads are. The tighter they are wound, the harder or more compressed the core is. A ball with low compression is wound less tight and is considered softer.
A ball with a higher compression is wound tighter and is referred to as being harder. The Pro V1 compression is much higher meaning, the ball is designed for the harder hitters with a fast club speed.
Affordability
I think this one is pretty clear. If you’re familiar with the law of diminishing returns, you might understand that the Pro V1 might fall into this category. While I can understand the perception, the more you spend on your golf ball, the better it has to perform for you.
However, in recent years, Vice has narrowed that gap and possibly completely closed it, all while doing it at a lower cost to the end-user.
Trust me, I understand the mental component of golf, and if the Pro V1 gives you the confidence you need, by all means, keep using that ball. If you’re looking to try something different the Vice Pro Soft may be just the ball.
If you aren’t familiar with Rick Shiels, he does an excellent analysis of the Vice golf balls. Check out his quick video and get his perspective of Vice golf balls.
Wrapping up Vice Pro Soft vs Pro V1
When it comes to feel, I seriously doubt that you’ll be able to tell the difference. Short of hitting the balls blindfolded it would be nearly impossible to tell, when it comes to feel. If you’re hitting the Pro V1 just because it’s a market leader and the premium price tag makes you think it’s the best, it might be time to switch it up.
The Pro V1 claims ultimate control with its spin, but are you really willing to give up distance for such a marginal gain in spin? I believe that if you give the Vice brand a shot, you’ll not only play just as well or better but come to learn that a higher price doesn’t always translate to a better golf ball.
I recently did a poll of avid golfers and after 3 days of polling, the Pro V1 is still a favorite. This takes into consideration, the price, performance, looks, feel, and durability. Do you agree?
Vice Pro Soft vs Pro V1
If prestige and brand name are the thing that makes you feel like you can shoot a personal best round, then hit the Pro V1. That being said, I think you’ll gain a bit more prestige if you can shoot as good a round, or possibly even better, with a more affordable ball.
FAQ on Vice Pro Soft and Pro V1
Do Vice Balls Have Tiered Pricing?
Unlike the Titleist Pro V1, Vice offers discounts if you buy in bulk. If you’re looking to really get the best bang for your buck, get a higher quantity.
Can You Buy Vice Balls at the Store?
Vice is sold directly to consumers. So while you probably won’t find them on the shelves at your local retail store, by getting them direct, you’ll save more money.
Are Pro V1 Balls Suited For Amateurs?
The Pro V1 ball can be used by anybody. Although the compression of the ball is better suited for players with a higher swing speed.