MyGolfSpy Ball Lab is where we quantify the quality and consistency of the golf balls on the market to help you find the best ball for your money. Today, we’re taking a look at the 2021 Costco Kirkland Performance + V2. To learn more about our test process, how we define “bad” balls, check out our About MyGolfSpy Ball Lab page.
About the Kirkland Performance + V2
While the world awaits another four-piece Kirkland golf ball that will hopefully be the equal of the original, golfers still have the option of choosing Costco’s three-piece Performance + V2.
At less than $13 a dozen, it seems like a great deal but when we ran the original through Ball lab, we found that although the ball was cheap, it was of no value. Nearly a quarter of the sample had a significant concentricity issue and the diameter consistency easily qualified as poor.
In our recent robot test, we found that Costco’s ball doesn’t always hold its own against the premium balls on the market. The Performance + V2 is shorter than most due largely to its high spin properties and there are some question marks around its performance in the wind. Those details alone suggest it’s not a ball for everyone but for those it fits (or for those who are willing to sacrifice some performance for value), the question of quality lingers (or at least it should).
Is the Costco Kirkland Performance + V2 an improvement over the original? Here’s what we found.
Kirkland Performance + V2 — Compression
On our gauge, the Kirkland Performance + V2 measures 94 compression on average. That’s up about four points over the previous model, placing it in the same general range as the Callaway Chrome Soft X and Vice Pro. In fact, it’s the firmest three-piece ball in our database.
Kirkland Performance + V2 — Diameter and Weight
A single ball in Kirkland Performance + V2 sample exceeded the USGA weight limit of 1.62 ounces. While that’s not good, it’s not uncommon for overweight DTC/factory balls to come in bunches so the fact that the issue was limited to a single ball is encouraging.
None in the sample failed to meet our standard of roundness, though it’s worth mentioning that, while it’s not as big as its predecessor, the Performance + V2 still qualifies as large by urethane ball standards.
Kirkland Performance + V2 — Inspection
Centeredness and Concentricity
Unlike the previous Kirkland three-piece ball, layer concentricity was not a concern this time around. We only noted a few balls with minor concentricity defects but none was severe enough for us to flag the balls as bad.
Core Consistency
Core color was generally consistent. No miscellaneous debris, chunks, etc., were noted.
Cover
No significant cover defects were noted. However, we did observe some dimple irregularities that appear to be the result of the ball not exiting the mold perfectly cleanly.
Kirkland Performance + V2 — Consistency
In this section, we detail the consistency of the Kirkland Performance + V2. Our consistency metrics provide a measure of how similar the balls in our sample were to one another relative to all of the models we’ve tested to date.
Weight Consistency
- Weight consistency falls within the low end of the average range.
- Weight in Box 3 was a bit less consistent overall.
Diameter Consistency
- The Kirkland Performance + V2 is an exceptionally large golf ball (by urethane standards). As you can see, not every ball completely fits on our chart.
- While large, size was generally consistent (average on our scale), with Box 3 trending slightly smaller
- A large ball is typically a shorter ball so golfers seeking to maximize distance should rightfully be concerned about the larger diameter.
Compression Consistency
- Compression consistency falls within our good range.
- While there were a couple of noticeably firmer balls, the delta across the entire sample was only eight points.
- The average compression delta (the compression range across the three points measured on each ball) was also generally good, with only a couple of balls showing a wider range.
True Price
True Price is how we quantify the quality of a golf ball. It's a projection of what you'd have to spend to ensure you get 12 good balls.
The True Price will always be equal to or greater than the retail price. The greater the difference between the retail price and the True Price, the more you should be concerned about the quality of the ball.
Kirkland Performance + V2 — Summary
To learn more about our test process, how we define “bad” balls and our True Price metric, check out our About MyGolfSpy Ball Lab page.
The biggest takeaway should be that the consistency of the Costco Kirkland Performance + V2 is significantly better than the original three-piece. From a quality standpoint, it’s an above-average ball. While that’s what we focus on in Ball Lab, I’d be remiss not to point out that the performance characteristics of this ball—notably mid-low launch and excessively high spin—solidly position it as a niche offering.
While nearly everyone loves a value, the overwhelming majority of golfers will be better served by a ball with less extreme performance characteristics.
The Good
- Significantly improved quality
- Above average compression consistency
The Bad
- Oversized and excessively spinny
Final Grade
The Costo Kirkland Performance + V2 gets an overall grade of 84.
The True Price of the Kirkland Performance + V2 is $12.85. That’s a whopping 36 cents above retail which speaks to how ridiculously inexpensive it is.
Teddy Makuch
2 weeks agoWould LOVE to see kirkland make a yellow ball !
Karl
3 weeks agoSounds like the perfect winter ball for me (not tournament player w/o handicap). Ship them over to Europe 🙂
Paulo
3 weeks agoNot one comment from Tony boy in this section. Titleist must be fuming.
Ragnar Danneskjold
3 weeks ago0.25% larger than the ProV1 is exceptionally large? What is the practical effect on a normal player’s shot? A ball that spins more with a mid-low launch – does that mean it’s good for someone with a more level angle of attack on irons and may want more backspin? Good for pickers, not for diggers? Better for people with upward angle of attack on drivers, who are already low spin drivers? Weird to get all these measurements without much description of practical effects.
bill
3 weeks agoNot too bad, especially for a beginner or someone not wanting to pay $2+ per ball. I hope they can work with the manufacturer to get another top tier offering ( as do many others) but with TM consolidating Foremost and Nassua under their umbrella, may be more difficult. I keep saying, I want to see the RZN team collab with Costco to make the next gen Kirkland Tour ball…
In the mean time, with same quality and price, maybe a 2.0- (right dash) version can cut the spin down a bit, make this a more formidable contender.
Bill
6 days agoI agree! Great great forward thinking!
Mal
3 weeks agoWhen I’m in the woods looking for my ball, I find a lot more ProV1’s than Kirklands.
Mike
3 weeks agoGee, no kidding. But can definitely say I’m finding more & more Kirklands than ever before.
Jeffrey Rub
3 weeks agoI’ve been playing the V2.0 since it came out. It’s a great cheap alternative and is much faster off the driver than it’s 3 piece predecessor. Spin rates are higher across all clubs but spins higher than most premium balls on full and 3/4 shots. It’s an amazing value and exceptional performance for mid to low spin players. I’m a higher speed lower spin player so while it’s a little shorter than a prov1x and I can’t get the same ballspeed out of the kirkland it’s a little more accurate because I also don’t get the low spin hooker with the driver and 3 wood. It’s a great winter ball for extra carry or dry firm greens with 15mph of wind or less. Any more wind and I have to start flighting the ball because of the extra spin rates
Peter
3 weeks agoGood to see the quality of the ball is vastly improved. I don’t play this ball much anymore because it does indeed spin too much but I always keep a couple sleeves in my bag for the days when I’m “off” or it’s really windy and I don’t want to risk losing my $4 balls.
It is a ball that I don’t hesitate suggesting to people who either only play “found” balls or don’t want to pay for a higher priced ball. This ball HAS to be a better option than the cheap 2 piece balls, right?
Steven M.
3 weeks agoPlayed this ball through (40)+ rounds this past Summer. The spin rates are definitely higher around the greens. Drives out of the tee box carried well with a mid-launch, but with less rollout on the fairway.
Smitty
3 weeks agoI bought a few boxes of Kirkland golf ball this spring
One case was missing a few balls
When I called Costco the girl said try reaching
out to the manufacturer. I called the number she
gave me and it was Callaway golf. I am in Ontario
Canada
Bill
3 weeks agoIs it me or am I starting to realize that the some of the big names are bullying DTC ball suppliers. With Titleist and Kirkland law suit over the 1st KS ball and now TM taking the Nassau factory and putting the squeeze on Snell, Vice and probably other DTC ball companies. #ballbullies
Shaun M
3 weeks agoTaylor made bought Nassau because they can’t keep up with demand. They aren’t “bullying” DYC companies, they needed the capacity and could afford it. It happens in all industries, this is not a unique occurrence.
TN
3 weeks agoI find the covers on these balls scar up easily. They are much improved from last version that were really bad. Awaiting patiently for the 4 cover ball return from Kirkland.
David V
3 weeks agoLately the only chance I get out on the course is when I take my 8 and 10 year old kids out for a quick 9 on a really short track. My kids aren’t going to be next generation of professional golfers, but we all have fun. The last time we played we lost 10 balls… in 9 holes. 🙂 So these balls are perfect for us. We get to play reasonable quality balls as opposed to dimpled rocks. The “excessive” spin means the boys might actually get the ball to stop on the green when they hit a shot that carries that far. And you don’t cringe/curse when another ball goes sailing into the water or undergrowth. The kids would be happier if they came in fluorescent colors through.
Adam
3 weeks agoGreat review! Glad to know I can rest easy knowing I will get something consistent and predicable for a great price.
I play the Kirkland V2s and really like them. I put a lot of spin on the ball so these are certainly not the best ball for me, but playing a consistent ball that feels good has certainly helped my game. I like Pro V1s and other premium balls maybe more, but not 400% more and I don’t think any ball will make me improve enough to justify the cost at this time.
Kevin
3 weeks agoIt’s good to see that the quality is improved. Like many, I really enjoyed the price and performance of the 4-piece ball. I didn’t care for the original 3-piece as it seemed to cost me too much distance off the tee compared to most other urethane golf balls. I have not bothered to try the V2 since it’s reportedly similar performance.. I don’t mind giving up some distance for that price, but I can’t afford the penalty this “niche” ball demands.
Mark
3 weeks agoWe shouldn’t be advertising or buying golf balls made in China
Earnest Farley
3 weeks agoWhy no it? What has China done to deserve being ‘cancelled’?
Scott
3 weeks agoLOL that’s a good amount of them. If you want to get upset at the political implications, get mad at the American company that has products manufactured in China, not the country that houses the factory.
Tony
3 weeks agoTotally agree with you Scott.
Chris
3 weeks agoWhy not?
Don O'Brien
3 weeks agoYou have the option to buy balls made in America. Just note that excludes all but the Acushnet Greenway. Next up – golf club components. Outside of some high end Japanese forgings, almost, all golf club components are mostly from China. Maybe you can grow hickory clubs made in Louisville But as a country we are addicted to free trade and lower production costs
Duke
3 weeks agoLast time I looked Titleist, Callaway, Taylormade and Bridgestone were made in America.
Duke
3 weeks agoI agree. Before I buy anything I check where it was manufactured. If it’s China I don’t purchase. I of course also note the company selling the product. That’s just me.
Dan
2 weeks agoI guess you don’t have an iPhone or any other smart phone.
Joe
3 weeks agoCan’t buy anything made in USA. All the businesses are understaffed.
Mike
3 weeks agoUh oh. Should I send my mail-order bride back?
Joel
3 weeks agoHow does performance compare to the non-urethane balls? At this price point is it better ball for those players that are only play found balls or cheaper balls with out a urethane cover?
Mike
3 weeks agoLove this follow up. I know a lot of folks that buy from lostgolfballs or other used balls places. So is a used ProV1 better than a brand new Kirkland v2?
Jelopster
3 weeks agoWhy not hit a 2 piece off the tee and use these around the green? Most of us aren’t playing in comps so why not get the best of both worlds without a penalty on either end?
Daiv Skinner
3 weeks agoThe rules of golf do not permit us to swap out the ball we play until after the completion of the hole (tee to green) unless the ball is damaged during play. .
The concept of playing one type ball off the tee and just swapping the ball for green side play sounds like more “fun”, but if you don’t play according to the “Rules of Golf” you really aren’t playing golf. Go bowling.
Terry
3 weeks agoBecause swapping balls is against the rules! If you are keeping an official handicap, you cannot post scores when you do not play by the rules of golf. If you just play for the enjoyment of it, then you can chose to not follow the rules.
Jelopster
3 weeks agoRolls eyes. Yes Daiv. Clearly anyone prioritizing fun over a postable score is not a serious golfer and should instead take up bowling. Man I hope hoodies and on course music don’t find their way to your course.
Mike
3 weeks agoThat’s called a practice round (or just practice in general). I laugh when I read that people actually do this for “real” rounds. It seems to take so much effort to change balls on every shot. Do you change balls if you’re going into the wind vs against the wind? How about on rainy days vs dry days?
I’m definitely a “live & let live” guy with people I play with out on the golf course. I really don’t care what you do…as long as we’re not playing for anything.
Marq
3 weeks agoWhy bother? Just find the ball & hit it till it goes in the hole. If you’re out there to just mess around, are you that concerned about greenside spin?
P.J.
3 weeks agoThanks for doing this review! I’ve been really interested in how the new V2 balls would rate. Better than expected in terms of overall quality, and the extra spin is what I was seeing as well. I use them on my simulator, but don’t play them on the course. This review was a pleasant surprise, the overall quality score is higher than a lot of popular performance balls – well done Kirkland!!
Bruce
3 weeks agoMGS ball test should get away from Titleist’s advertising and answer the question “what handicap really requires super consistency?”.
My feeling is I have more variability in my swing/contact such that a few percent variation in a golf ball will never be noticed. The Kirkland 4 layer exposed the real economics of golf balls – $50 per dozen is a rip off.
I often play Kirkland; love the stopping power with amateur spin. That probably helps my score more than inconsistent balls hurt it. No big deal if a dollar golf ball ends up wet – hate to see $5 bills make a splash.
Rob
3 weeks agoI completely agree, and a mid-high handicapper I feel I have much more control around the greens than my similarly handicapped friends. That to me is more valuable than the 10-15 yards carry I might lose on the drive, especially at the munis I play where I rarely encounter a par 4 greater than 400 yards.
Richard
2 weeks agoHow much spin do you really need to make a wedge, seven iron drop and stop? The Srizon AD 333 ( two piece) has a spin profile close to those of urethane ball
Gary
3 weeks agoWhat is the niche that this balls fills? Who would benefit most from it’s characteristics?
Michael
3 weeks agoGreat question Gary!
Christian
3 weeks agoPeople that lose a lot of balls but still want something that has greenside spin
Greg
3 weeks agoWhat if I don’t lose a lot of balls but STILL dont want to pay $50 a dozen for the balls I buy? I’m not seeing the $30+ per dozen advantage here.
Dan
4 seconds agoI guess it’s a high-speed player who hits it too high with really low spin, and doesn’t mind losing distance through the bag.
I’ve never seen this rare species in the wild, but apparently they’re out there!