Written by: MyGolfSpy
A premium golf ball can cost up to $4 to $5 a piece and sometimes only last a golfer a single hole.
A report in the New York Times estimated 300,000,000 golf balls are lost each year by Americans alone. It’s also estimated that US golfers spend over $650 Million per year on those same golf balls.
As consumers, we all want to save money and make more informed decisions. However, we don’t necessarily want to give up performance just to save a couple dollars.
So, is it possible to find a high-quality, tour-level golf ball at a fraction of the cost?
That is the purpose of the latest test at MyGolfSpy. We want to help you find the perfect ball at the perfect price.
So, we went shopping at Costco Wholesale. Yes, the same place better known for 5-gallon jugs of mayonnaise. Costco has entered the golf ball market and their initial entry is called the Kirkland Signature. Some of you may or may not be familiar with the Kirkland Signature line. For those not familiar, it is a private label line of products that offers consumers a unique value in their everyday purchases.
“The working rule followed by Costco buyers is that all Kirkland Signature products must be equal to or better than the national brands, and must offer a savings to our members,” says Costco.
So, is it possible for a ball that costs $15/dozen to compete with the #1 Ball in Golf?
Let’s find out.
HOW WE TEST
At MyGolfSpy, we do data-based product testing and research. We always put consumers’ needs first.
- GolfBallTest.org bench testing showed the 2015 Titleist Pro V1 was closest to the Kirkland based on compression and cover hardness.
- Titleist Pro V1 is currently #1 Selling Ball at retail.
- Testing was done using Kirkland Signature Tour Performance and Titleist Pro V1 golf balls.
- Testers all used the same Mizuno MP-T10 56* sand wedge, Taylormade PSI Forged 6-iron, and Taylormade M1 460 Driver (10.5* Stiff).
- 6 golfers with handicaps ranging from 0-15 and driver swing speeds between 90 and 110 mph participated in this test.
- Each tester hit 10-12 shots with each club (rotating between clubs).
- Any gross mishits coming to rest more than 50 yards from center line were eliminated and not included in the shot counts.
- Remaining outliers are identified using Median Absolute Deviation (both distance and offline), and dropped prior to the averages being calculated.
- Ball Data was recorded using Trackman 4 golf radar.
- Testing was done at Kiskiack Golf Club with supervision from Ed Teer Golf Academy
THE DATA
Club and ball were randomized for each tester. Three (3) shots were hit with each ball, switching balls until 10-12 good shots were hit. Participants then switched to a different club and continued the process. First we’ll take a look at the sand wedge data for both balls.
OBSERVATIONS:
- Launch data for both balls were extremely similar.
- The Titleist Pro V1 only launched marginally faster and further.
- On average, the Kirkland Signature golf ball spun just over 200 rpm faster than the Pro-V1.
- It is interesting to note that the Kirkland Signature also flew three feet lower on average.
- Although the Kirkland ball flew lower, the average distance difference is about a quarter of a yard shorter.
OBSERVATIONS:
- The table above shows 6 iron Trackman data for the Kirkland and Titleist golf balls.
- Again, very similar launch conditions between the two golf balls.
- For the test group, Titleist Pro V1 flew just marginally faster and further with the 6 iron.
- On average Kirkland Signature did launch and fly higher than the Pro V1.
- Yes, we did double check the numbers on the identical descent angle.
OBSERVATIONS:
- The above data table shows driver Trackman data for the Kirkland Signature and Titleist Pro V1 golf balls; where the largest differences are noticed.
- The Kirkland Signature golf ball few almost a full 1.5 mph faster than the Pro V1; it also went almost 10 yards further.
- When hitting a driver, generally, less spin is better – and the Kirkland Signature achieves over 300 rpm less than the Pro V1 on average.
- A flatter descent angle and less spin is a recipe for success in seeking to increase distance with the driver.
- The Kirkland Tour Performance actually out-plays the Titleist Pro V1 in every aspect on this data table.
VERDICT
- The Kirkland Signature Tour Performance golf ball stood its own against the “#1 Ball in Golf.”
- Although tester subjective feedback revealed the Kirkland ball felt “firmer” the data shows it performed better than the Pro V1 in many aspects.
- The largest and most noticeable differences are found within the driver – the Kirkland ball flies almost a full 10 yards further.
- The Tour Performance lives up to the Kirkland name – to perform just as good, if not better than the leading brand.
- 10/10 highly recommend
Bruce Mahon
5 years agoJust wish Costco could stay in stock on their balls. I have two dozen and will not use in practice rounds to conserve them for rounds that count.
General Patton
5 years agoThis last Friday I was able to purchase 2 boxes of them or 4 dozen balls for less than $50 before tax and shipping. Hell of a deal indeed. Plan on buying even more as they become available.
Peter Jones
5 years agoWow awesome post, very detailed..i love the pro v1’s, but not to fond of the price and the spin i get off the tee box; will definately try the kirklands
Alex
6 years agoI tested the Kirkland balls and the feel is very similar to the pro v’s, but all the Kirkland balls I have used are deeply stamped with the marks that the irons leave when you go for that backspin, and that doesn’t happen to the pro vs, I’m surprised that no one has te same issue.
don sinna
6 years agoI try to buy american. These balls are just Korean knock offs. Sure they are cheaper. Cheaper made also. But I know buy american doesn’t mean much to many people. But I’d rather spend my money on goods made in the USA
jake
6 years agoDon… Titleist ball is also owned by koreans.. last year ACUSHNET was listed at NYSE and it’s largest shareholder (that controls the management) is a korean company… Titleist is US brand, Kirkland is also a US brand.. it’s meaningless
Richard
6 years agoFor your information, ProV1s are not made in America either. They are made in Korea.
Pkc
5 years agoActually ProV1 are made in Massachusetts and you can go to the plant and get a tour.
Dave
5 years agoI would like to buy Canadian but we don’t make golf balls ,so I’ll buy the foreign ones cheaper than paying American . I also like to support my own country . But little chance of that happening in the near furture. Ever check your new irons lately shaft made in Korea head made in china assembled in the USA. So who are we really supporting?
Bryan
6 years agoI’ve been testing the Snell’s. It’s a good ball but you do get the occasional dud. Of the two dozen I’ve used, 2 we’re dud’s and then 1 was exceptionally hot. Distance off he driver is same as ProV1x but the Snell is a bit longer off the irons. Spin is slightly more on short irons but not long irons. The Snell is considerably firmer on the pitch/chip shot and personally, I have some issues with this the most. So just a player based opinion…. QC is an issue but the value gap favors the Snell. I’ll play them on the weekends but I would not go into tournament play with them. Kirklands, I’ve yet to lay clubs on.
Tim
6 years agoI found “Made in Korea” on the box. I did try to find who made it. Finally, I hve found that “Nassau Golf” is supplying the KSig golf ball to COSTCO. Interrestingly, Nassau is supplying not only COSTCO but also TMaG and Snell. Nassau is supplying tour grade urethane golf ball to TMaG and Snell. For your reference, Jason day, Dustin johnson, Justin Rose and TMaG pro golfer are using TP and TPX golf ball. By the way, Nassau is producing and supplying the balls for TMaG EU and Asia. So I think, if we can’t buy KSig golf ball from COSTCO that we should buy Snell MTB ball.
Dan
6 years agoThe KSig golf ball is made in Korea. I have found who made it. The maker is the “Nassau Golf” in Korea. The most interestings, Nassau is supplying urethane golf ball to TMaG for tour player. Jason day, Dustin johnson, Justin rose are using the TMaG urethane golf ball wihch are made by Nassau with TMaG US factory. And Nassau is supplying not only TMaG and but also Snell. The snell MTB and Get Sum are made by Nassau.
Jim
6 years agoKSig was removed from Costco’s website. You can’t even find the page where it says out of stock. Something is up.
TheTaxKiller
6 years agoThese are the real deal. Go farther than my ProV’s play the same. Long and straight.
mailcat
6 years agoI’ve been checking COSTCO website daily, everyday it says “out of stock”, today the K-Sigs didn’t show up, just the Callaways. What is up? Are they gone forever?
Wayne Follenius
6 years agoAny news when Costco will be restocked??
Eric
6 years agoThey are not even listed as an item on their website as of this morning . Usually they just put an out of stock sticker over it. Now they have vanished. Does anyone know if there was an issue
JOHN EDWARDS
6 years agoLooks like K-Sigs are on back order (again). In the meantime, I recommend Snell’s My Tour Ball. Comparable to ProVs but at a much better price.
Richard white
6 years agoI was very interested in trying out the ball, I am always up to try something new. I looked online and Costco is sold out and apparently they have raised their price to 29.99 per dozen with 5.00 shipping. Am I missing something?
wee
6 years agoThe $29 price tag gets you 24 balls (2 dozen), read the fine print.
Mark
6 years ago29.99 is for 2 dozen.
Frank Cruz
6 years agoTitleist balls like NXT, Velocity, DT could be dust now, PRO V will definitely suffer as only the loyalists wanting the label on their ball will pay the price. All the balls from Bridgestone, Srixon and others will face serious trouble (millions $) if the ball were to comeback. I don’t expect to see the same Kirkland ball ever again! The collective business will stop it, they may buy the plant that makes these and close it down, they may call it a test pilot or Beta run that could not be sustained…. blah blah. Or simply make some “Improved” version that it is not as good and does not threat the premium balls, the manufacturer will still get a good amount of money from the golf companies and be very happy. Not the first time this happens in business.
Jorge
6 years agoHow about GD not mentioning Kirkland on the list?
Really make me think all those Hot List Equipment reviews are biased… not good ///
http://www.golfdigest.com/gallery/the-top-golf-equipment-stories-of-2016
DL
6 years agoGolf Digest HotList has become a total joke to me. “Feels like butter off of the face.” What does that mean?
Give me Gofspy any day of the week.
No surprise GD doesn’t even mention the biggest golf ball story of the year!
Jim
6 years agoI’ll stick with the Snells for now as they are less expensive that the name brand balls, although not as cheap as the Kirkland, and they perform just as good or better than the name balls. MGS gave it high ratings as well. The Kirklands sound like a good buy though.
TopPakRat
6 years ago12-20-16 SOLD OUT IN 2 HOURS!!!!!
TopPakRat
6 years agoBACK IN STOCK AS OF THIS MORNING 12-20-16. THEY WON’T LAST LONG. COSTCO’S WEB SITE WAS EXTREMELY SLOW AND WENT DOWN TWICE AS SOON AS THEY RELEASED THEM. GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!
Aaron
6 years agoI switched to VICE pro golf balls about a year ago, buy them 3 dozen at a time for 25/dozen. Very similar to a prov1 and half the price. I play at a 2 handicap and these balls are fantastic for the price, Next time the wife and I are getting groceries I will have my eye open to purchase these balls as well. “K-SIG” sounds cool as well. The three pack of Callaway gloves Costco offers is a great deal as well, looks like I’ll be buying my gloves and balls from a grocery store now lol. NO wonder why Golfsmith went bankrupt.
Stretch
6 years agoCostco is a grocery store?
Harold W
6 years agoYou say your for golf and love the game. Then you make a stupid comment about support the PGA pro only if he takes care of you.
What a statement that says everything about you and your company.
I have sold to the pros going back to the late 1960s and they have given their all to the game. In those days the pro owned his shop and then the big box asses took over. The first being Walter Keller on Westwood ave outside UCLA. You may remember him he backed Amy Alcott. Those were the days of true golf. OEMs would not sell to them unless it was a green grass. I would bet that 90% of the great 2&3 handicappers would have been 12or13 with that equipment.
Now all the gimmicks on clubs and balls and yes shafts (I make shafts). Now I have a new shaft with two flex points only to make ball go further.most players will only hit it further out of bounds. Yes support your local pro or buy from a stock boy. Still waiting for the Robot to hit it for me.
steve
6 years agoWhen will Kirkland be offering drivers? 8*)
DL
6 years agoA very, very interesting idea to me
Mark Hrobowski-Burnett
6 years agoIs the Kirkland ball back in stock
Colby Evans
6 years agoNo the price hasn’t doubled. The $29.99 price is what it’s always been. That’s for a double dozen box. You get 2 dozen for that price. They’ve never sold single dozens, you have to buy 2 dozen. That 2 dozen is $29.99
Chris Ridings
6 years agoI wouldnt mind having a dozen to try out. Or even a sleeve.
2ndShot
6 years agoYeah, and I bet you would like to buy a pint of Kirkland mayonnaise to try !! Good luck !!
DL
6 years agoPah, I can get a pint of mayo at the grocery store, I go to Costco to get the gallon mayo…
Scott Robillard
6 years agoTrying to track them down but hard right now – once I make my own decision and like them – when they coming in Yellow! lol
Mark Hutchinson
6 years agoNot to mention driver prices have basically stayed the same since the late 90’s and so have balls. Only industry with no inflation. Sold professionals for 50 back in the day and the r7 quad was 499, how soon we forget.
Mark Hutchinson
6 years agoNo they are not. They are a continuation of the eBay, dicks, amazon, fast food style of golf sales. I’d love to actually make money on golf balls. But we don’t. And this won’t change it. It’s not like Titleist will start selling my store pro v’s for 10 bucks so I can sell them for 20. Like I said have fun not being able to try clubs out when all of us mid range retailers are shoved out by the public that has no clue what is involved in golf retail.
Jack
6 years agoHow about trying to come up with something that works for consumers rather than just complain? Customers don’t understand because their sole purpose is to buy golf stuff that works for them. They can either try it in a shop (really how realistic is that anyway) or buy it and try it on the course. If it doesn’t work then sell it second hand. Honestly even if they buy it from you and don’t like it they still would do the same, except lose more money.
So you tell me why they should buy from you.
Steven Roglen
6 years agoAnd these balls aren’t why sales are dwindling.
Steven Roglen
6 years agoOh no, prices might come down. Horrors for consumers
Geo Golfx
6 years agoThe OEMs can compete. That’s capitalism.
Sean Packer
6 years agoTerrible sounding job: writing legal letters about Snell and K-Sig. Fun sounding job: reviewing the Snell and K-Sig!
Dan Bellock
6 years agoMaybe the rush to make the cheapest best ball could backfire consumers as ball manufacturers go BK. TITLIIEST did get greedy. They forgot that nothing rolls like a ball. Easily replicated. The industry is in trouble. Should be interesting.
Dan Bellock
6 years agoThe question will be quality control.
Bill Thomas
6 years ago50 years of arrogance and narcissism. He’s one of the reasons people leave the game and give golf pros a bad name.
Russell Franks
6 years agoFirst it’s Costco not Cosco. Second, got buy your own balls and try them yourself. Third, 50 years in the golf business means you are to old for anyone to give a crap about your opinion. You are not the target audience. Boom!
Robert Slack
6 years agoFirst (secondly)… it’s “GO BUY YOUR OWN BALLS, NOT “GOT” BUY YOUR OWN BALLS”…. AND IT’S “TOO OLD, NOT “TO” OLD……
HEHEHE….JUST BREAKING BALLS….
Mark Follmer
6 years agoThe popularity of this ball should show the big equipment manufacturers one thing…. the price of their clubs is balls are too high. The golfing public has been waiting for the cost of balls to become reasonable again. Credit Costco with understanding this and rolling out their ball. If it’s good it will continue to sell out. If it’s not it will just be another cheap golf ball
Mark Ochinegro
6 years agoCostco has been out of inventory for a month now. Looking forward to grabbing these
Eric Mendez
6 years agoThink they give us bs info about balls?
Jes A Looper
6 years agoDon’t know a single pro or low handicapped golfer who uses this ball… but I’ll look for em in the deep rough and hopefully find a couple so I can hit em for myself. As a caddie, I haven’t bought a ball in 6 years and donate a couple hundred a year to first tee…. I appreciate the articles and testing performed by MyGolf Spy as I think it necessary to have checks and balances in every industry…. including golf. Keep writing yawl… my shack and I will keep reading!
Mark Hutchinson
6 years agonot exactly. As a retailer I can’t get that ball to sell. Nor can I get one that cheep. If you would like all the retailers to go out of business have fun trying to get fit
John Magdalene Agel Sjc
6 years agoIt’s capitalism.
Better product, better price, better sales.
Lee Herman
6 years agoI’m a 14 handcicap who doesn’t spin the ball as much as I’d like to. So far from hitting a bunch of 20-50 yd shots, I’m liking the feel and stopping ability of this ball.
Wayne J Bosley
6 years agoMyGolf Spy Nassau are happy to sell similar balls to any company today ,,,, the K-Sig are similar to the 2013 TP model but not identical as the cover is not cast urethane to start with,,,the only reason this has happened IMHO is because TM pulled the pin on the size of their orders going forward due to the upcoming sale by Adidas ,,, Nassau invested big time in plant and machinery on the back of TM promises of future growth but after Dean Snell left TM I believe the wheels fell off the relationship to a degree. They (Nassau) firstly supported Dean directly against TM balls at a price and now with this project they have shown how desperate they are for replacement sales that they don’t care what happens to the whole market perception of quality balls by giving Costco the right ball to help smash the pricing for all other brands,, the only problem is there are now another 5 or 6 other factories also desperate to do any sort of deal they can to gain a sale pathway in the US,,,,,,,with just as good products.
Rafael Lenartowicz
6 years agoso i read… as the article states – these things sell out faster than patato guns at walmart’ ? tried twice, N/A
Doug Jordan
6 years agoToo bad you can’t get them
ernie ostapovich
6 years agoto bad we cant buy then in canada
John Adams
6 years agoNo thanks. New ball I will be trying is Snell.
Lee Herman
6 years agoGreat review Mygolf Spy! I can’t believe the demand this has caused…If anyone needs some? I have (11) 2-dz packs left (been selling like crazy, but keeping a pack for myself this time)…I have a set price, but open to discussing it directly… Just message me.
Kevin Schula
6 years agoHow much are your Kirkland balls per dozen?
Billy Walker
6 years agoI play Kirkland now and they don’t have near the sidespin as ProV’s. I’ve hit Bridgestone and they’re a good ball but you can’t get them for $15 a dozen.
Matthew Waldron
6 years agoI picked up a box from Costco but will be using a softer compression ball during the cold weather months. Looking forward to warmer weather when I can give these a try. I’ve never bought anything pricier than Bridgestone E6’s. I will enjoy rubbing my buddies noses in the fact that I’m getting better performance from my Kirkland ball that they get from thier $45 a box balls.
Greg Baldwin
6 years agoIf they ever make this baby in yellow, I’m all over it!
Steve Topalian
6 years agoI played the ball today hitting it like hogan
Matt Allen
6 years agoSimilar to the relationship I had heard about Grey Goose and Kirkland Vodka. The OEM aftermarket and private label game is crazy.
Roy Koeppe
6 years agoI just hope the cost remains the same when Costco finally gets them back in stock.
Chad Johansen
6 years agoNo, not yet. I fully plan on it though. I’ve read the reviews and I’m impressed. I tagged my brother in law because he’s plays golf for Westminster and only plays pro v1x.
Thomas Beckstead
6 years agoYou play these Chad?
Thomas Beckstead
6 years agoGlad I bought 30 dozen, then after I gave or sold some to friends I went and bought 10 more dozen. Longer than prov1x for sure.
Thomas Beckstead
6 years agoKirkland represent. One day I’ll be a KS brand ambassador. #lifegoals
Bob Vitti
6 years agoOK, being the open and honest guy I am, I just went back and read all your ‘data’ again. Oh, sorry, did I forget to mention I also spent 18 years in T&E of military systems? I know bs testing and ‘predetermined results’.
First, I can assure you that any test device can be ‘calibrated’ on the fly. So, if anyone with access lacks integrity, the entire test is bogus. Second, you need a minimum of 30 reps under identical conditions to generate statistical significance. Third, if you have testers with 15 handicap and 90 mph swing speed, just how do you get those ‘mean’ carry distances with ANY BALL. I could go on about dimple depth an ball flight, procedures and metrics for determining outliers, and on and on. Bottom line, your data lacks merit on several levels.
Typical marketing bs.
BTW, did you know that if I had purchased a new Callaway driver every year for the past ten years, my average drive would now be 480 yards!
Yup, marketing bullshit!
On the other hand, if you want a true operational test of your precious balls, just send me a sleeve. Oh, did I mention I was the quality consultant for the TSA HQ building? Oh, and I’m also a Golf Teaching Professional!
I guess your mother didn’t tell there are some folks you just don’t mess with.
Dee Dalmeyer
5 years agoNo one cares about where u work or what u think about how this test was performed! If both balls where hit by the same golfer and same equipment the test will give us a general idea on how they compared!! Get a life!
Will Stokes
6 years agoBob, if they were getting paid to review the balls, MGS would have given you a politically correct answer. Thankfully, they didn’t which I respect even more in today’s climate. MGS is for the golfer… you’re barking up the wrong tree.
MyGolf Spy
6 years agoBob Vitti – You are right, we did this for you and all other golfers. Once again do your research, see who we are and what we have been doing since the first day MGS started. And while you are at it, stop making baseless claims like so many others on the internet. Don’t be a sheep.
Bob Vitti
6 years agoMyGolf Spy , nobody does something for nothing.
MyGolf Spy
6 years agoBob – not sure why you assume we got paid. But do your research, Costco does ZERO advertising. We bought all the balls as well for the test.
Darryn Patch
6 years agodoesn’t Titleist pay Bridgestone an amount for every ball Titleist produces due to Titleist breaching Bridgestones patents???
I dont care what I use so long as it goes straight
Fred
6 years agoAnd that’s the bottom line, Darryn.
Nathan McGrath
6 years agoI’d like to get hold of some in Australia
When will a PGA pro start using them
John Sears
6 years agoI absolutely believe it. $90 Nike golf shirts is absurd. $4 rubber golf balls is equally absurd. I thank you, and I’m now a My Golf Spy fan for life.
Clay Chadbourne
6 years agoI was one of the fortunate ones to get an online order in…the store told me they couldn’t get floor stock as the online sale of the balls are wiping out everything that gets delivered to the main warehouse…I’ll post how they compare to my usual Titleist Truesoft, MG urethane, and ProV1s. Supposed to get them Saturday.
Ed Hiney
6 years agoTitleist is owned by the Koreans…..What a coincidence!
Andrew Stephens
6 years agoTested these the last few days. A bit livelier off of the putter and wedges than a tour ball and a bit firmer but performs incredibly well. Assuming they can keep them in stock I think these will put a large dent in the $25-35 per dozen balls.
Mike McLaughlin
6 years agoFor 29$ for 2 dz everyone can afford to try these
John W Temple
6 years agoInteresting
Ken Faus
6 years agoGreat article
Kevin Unterreiner
6 years agoMust be working… ProVs marked down to $39. Never seen that before
Josh Sopczak
6 years agoThey do this every year to clear out the prior year’s version of the ball.
Trever Trez Mala
6 years agoI heard titleist is dropping their prices now because of kirkland balls… hhhmmm.
Will Stokes
6 years agoI would love to see the legal letter you received from titleist. Its about time these big brands got a much needed kick in the nuts. Their arrogance and propaganda has plagued the growth of the game. Way to go MGS.
Tim Lee
6 years agoHow does it compare with Snell , that would be an interesting test ⛳️️
Arnie Kourtjian
6 years agoRecieved my order from costcos. For sale $50! Just kidding. Great article and thank you for informing the consumer..
Dave Conner
6 years agoI went from prov-1 to Wilson staff and if I can find some kirklands I’ll use them if they feel right .
Dave Conner
6 years agoI can’t it anywhere !
Terry Reilly
6 years agoEventually prices will increase so they can pay unbiased educators like yourself…..
Chris Komas
6 years agoMGS rocks! Keep up the fight to bring the real deal news to the average joe player. #PowertothePlayer
Layne C. Chastain
6 years agoI’m just curious if any of you ever played the short lived TOP FLITE TOUR ball? It was a urethane 3 piece that sold for $20 per dozen back in 2001-2. It was a great performing ball but left the TOP FLITE line up as quick as it came.
Geo Golfx
6 years agoWe are seeing a shift. It’s slight, but it’s there. Golfers are better educated. Some golfers are realizing- Just because you carry a bag,clubs, wear a hat with logos all over them- you are advertising for a brand – FOR FREE. Now, anyone can have a preference – which is fine. But, equipment of the past decade – consumers have gained in choices in every category. Maybe, JUST maybe , some are understanding the old saying “You can’t buy a game ”
Chris Sykes
6 years agoNot available in Golf Canada
Trent Kitch
6 years agoThanks for a look behind the wall. This insight goes way beyond just golf.
Benjamin Tetz
6 years agoThese balls are perfect. The best of the prov and prov1x combined. They are amazing in the wind. Durability is great- played two of the same balls the same round, the third of the sleeve was never used. Distance is pure if not a little better- you don’t have to worry about not having enough club. The ball has good spin around the greens and comes off the club pure.
I worked in golf retail for a few years. I would play different balls and sold what I felt as the better ball for the individual, regardless of brand. I would not be able to sell another prov if I were still in retail.
Derek Loy
6 years agoWe’ll never get any if they keep selling out lol
Mike Rose
6 years agoDamn hard to get, Costco is sold out right now.
John Hall
6 years agoVice golf balls kinda tried to do the same thing but once the got a bit popular they raised their prices. I hope it is going to change the market completely. Golf balls are way over priced.
Mitchell Levengood
6 years agoI’m gonna try em too
Ske Romero
6 years agoI can’t find these in the stores and or online. Any suggestions?
Lee Herman
6 years agoI have some left…Message me to discuss.
Breakin75
6 years agoWas interested in the kirkland golf balls. Do you have anymore and if so, how much. Thanks!
Ed Murr
6 years agoWay to stick to your guns MyGolf Spy! Shows true moral fortitude!
Benji Smith
6 years agoWhen Dick’s started selling Maxfli U series(4, 4X, 6, 6x) I made the switch. Many friends scoffed. I have yet to pay more than $25 a dozen for them, even with my custom printing. I will be trying the costco balls. I gave up on brands after being close to a manufacturer’s henchmen. Seeing the smoke & mirrors, if not outright lying, was enough to keep me from purchasing anything from them.
Benjamin Tetz
6 years agoI liked the U3/U4 and U6x when they were bogo. This ball out performs the u6’s in distance and feel by a lot. At the price of the u3/u4.
Lee Howell
6 years agothink this is only in usa, ive never seen them in uk
Greg Burris
6 years agoI’m looking forward to getting my 6 dozen. I should have maxed out the cart at five 2-packs. Thanks for this and other very enlightening reviews.
Armand Arias
6 years agoThank you for printing the article. I found a dozen on Ebay and so far so good. Very soft off the putter face. Will finally get to play them tomorrow. Excited.
Jadie Matthew
6 years agoI bought 2 dozen of these when they first came out, figuring that $15 a dozen for a four piece ball was a pretty good deal, even if they wound up in the practice bucket. I have been very pleasantly surprised. MGS research backs up what I’ve experienced on the golf course. Now if Costco can just keep them in stock.
John Sabourin
6 years agoAs soon as they come to Canada i’ll be trying them,( and i have not bought balls in 20 years).
Geoff Morrison
6 years agoTitleist is scared… and they should be. When you sell out Costco twice, that’s millions of dollars they just lost. 75% of the people who play Pro V’s aren’t good enough to play that ball anyway.
Steve Balzano
6 years agoSold out again? I only bought 10 dozen
Frank Cruz
6 years agoI only bought 2 dozen, will never buy Pro V1X ever again unless the ball gets a lot better. I like Costco anyway.
Darryn Patch
6 years agoeven ppl who are good enough don’t play them, I’m off 7 in Oz and I dont have a fast enough club head speed to compress a pro V1 but I’ll break 80 9 rounds out of 10 with any ball bar a Pro V1, seems as I dont compress it enough it gets too much side spin on it and they end up in the trees???
Gorse Richard
6 years agoThe manufacturing cost of this Kirkland signature golf ball ($8 per dozen) is very similar to the manufacturing cost of any other 3/4 piece premium tour golf ball. The difference in is the RRP. With a leading brand you are paying for their advertising / sponsorship of tour players as part of the RRP. Here you are just paying for the manufacturing cost of the ball, logistics, taxes and a much small retail margin for Costco.
John Maskal
6 years agoJust received. Love these.
Cesar Hernandez
6 years agoCould you tell me what the item number is?
John Maskal
6 years agoCesar Hernandez go to Costco.com and search Kirkland golf balls.
Austin Kreger
6 years agoLet’s hope that this little BOOM will give some incentive to the big dogs to lower their prices. Highly unlikely but I can dream right?
Got myself a dozen dozens in yesterday of the K-Sig. From first hit I thought they performed very similar to a TPx or Lethal type Taylormade ball.
Kevin Unterreiner
6 years agoYep…
Scott Spinler
6 years agoI lost one yesterday. In case anyone wants to look for it go check #4 at Conestoga in Mesquite.
Harvey
6 years agoWe played Conestoga on the 25th and my wife found it.
She likes it and won’t give it back…sorry.
Andrew Von Lossow
6 years agoThis ball is deemed…. PURE!
Kevin Unterreiner
6 years agoI played this ball and it’s true… longer than my ProV and similar performance off irons & wedges. I smile when I hit it and even smile when it goes in the woods cause it’s only $1 lost.. Glad I didn’t buy stock in Titleist
Garret Roach
6 years agoKU, my plan was to buy these, plus a dozen snell and vice balls and compare them titleist and Bridgestone. Might make for a fun PCC experiment.
Kevin Unterreiner
6 years agoGarret let’s do it! I ordered 4 dozen
Ben Goergen
6 years agoBeen told by industry insider that Taylor made produces them for them but don’t hold the patents, rights or technology of the ball. Allegedly only manufactured by them. Not a rebrand of any of TM balls.
Miguel Dabu
6 years agoI am a Titleist fan but if the numbers are there, stats don’t lie as my friend always say, then there is no doubt about the performance of this Kirkland ball. I think Titleist was threatened because they went hard on social media promoting the Pro V1. I just hope this makes it to Canada so that we can try it out. But the way things are, it may not even reach us since they keep on getting sold out in the US alone.
Greg Smith
6 years agoTHAT IS AWESOME! I applaud you for actually doing something that major OEM’s refuse to, look out for the player!
Gil Bloomer
6 years agoI don’t care one iota about Kirkland balls. I’ll take my Bridgestone Tour RX every day of the week. Don’t get caught up in the hype. I’m sure I’ll get some negative feedback about this but that’s how I feel.
MyGolf Spy
6 years agoGil – Sorry you missed the point. It has nothing to do with the ball, rather the paradigm shift. We don’t care if it is Bridgestone, Kirkland or Titleist just don’t do it for the name.
Gil Bloomer
6 years agoI stand corrected.
Peter Mazza
6 years agoCan anyone else hear Gil making this negative comment in a Yosemite Sam voice? “STOP THAT MUSIC, YA CRAZY RACKIN’, FRACKIN’, VARMINT RABBIT!”
Gil Bloomer
6 years agoPeter Mazza What’s so negative about it? It was a comment about my ball preference, that’s all. Actually, I think all golfers prefer one ball over another, don’t they? If you’re going to buy a ball just because it has a certain name on the side of it that you believe will impress someone else or your own ego, good for you. I try every ball on the market and based on my own personal preference, the RX ball is best for me. It just happens to be the RX until I find a better ball. Thanks for your comment though you darned galoot.
Robert Greer
6 years agoI am a LOYAL B330 player, but I will be testing the Kirkland ball in 2017…
Eli Gone Fishing Yates
6 years agoHe didn’t even say anything controversial. He just listed his preference for a particular Bridgestone ball. Which is really a non issue. Some people will want to try the other ball some will remain loyalists. All of this is technically fine.
It is particularly irksome though… In my opinion… That companies would try to silence critics and control the opinions of others. Hopefully MyGolfSpy remains true to their convictions.
Jeff Bacon
6 years agoHow can I get some?
Bob Menzies
6 years agoWow, you are EXTREMELY close minded. I played this ball all last week in Florida (bought them at the Ft. Myers Costco), and it was EXCELLENT! A GREAT ball with an EXCEPTIONAL price, a win-win! Thank you Kirkland/Costco! ?
Gil Bloomer
6 years agoBob Menzies If you’re referring to me did you read where I said I try all kinds of balls and my preference is still the Bridgestone RX. I’ll try the Kirkland ball at some point and maybe I’ll be impressed, maybe I won’t. Until then I reserve judgement. I’m glad you had a positive experience with the Kirkland ball. Good for you.
Peter Mazza
6 years agoLet me guess, Gil you play Titleist clubs..?
Gil Bloomer
6 years agoPeter Mazza No, Cleveland as a matter of fact. Why are you so concerned about what I play? I like Cleveland products and the Bridgestone balls. What is so unusual about either? I won’t ask you what you play because it really doesn’t make a difference to me what you play but I suspect it’s something you like and feel comfortable with. Same with me.
David Stucky
6 years agoBridgestone, that you?
Joe Skrabutenas
6 years agoSo funny
Wayne J Bosley
6 years agoMyGolf Spy the thing is this should drive greater innovation in the ball space, the Kirkland is a quality paint finished injection molded urethane ball ,,,, which will cause many ball companies a lot of grief over time but only if they continue to sell similar type products as their main premium offering ,,,, this should cause someone to create the next big thing ,,,, or not. 🙂 Premium Game Improvement Designs could be the new Top Shelf product offering,,,,
Andy Endicott
6 years agoFor all the people that want to continue with B330s, ChromeSofts, ProV1s, let them do it. It means more people won’t be buying the Kirkland Balls and have them sold out everywhere. I’m a big proponent of play what you believe is best for you so if you like the RX, great. I just know that I’m relatively in consistent with ball striking so some days I’ll shoot a 75 and some I’ll shoot a 90 so I don’t buy balls that are $45-$50 a dozen. These are perfect for me, but not perfect for everybody.
Eric Mendez
6 years agoI don’t play by ball names. I play a bunch of different mixed balls. If I play like crap, it’s on me not the ball.
Gil Bloomer
6 years agoI know several guys who do the same thing. If that’s what you like to do, okay. I prefer to know how my ball will react to different shots, that is to say how it will react and travel off different clubs and different balls will react differently. Using one ball takes the guesswork out of the equation.
Nevets Soriedem
6 years agoGoing to try to convince a couple Titleist loyalists
John Schaar
6 years agoI don’t care who makes them…they are $15 and perform just as well if not better them most high dollar balls.
Vance Welch
6 years agoI bought 4 dozen as soon as I heard about the ball and I love it.
Andrew Von Lossow
6 years agoI bought some of these and they are awesome! Been playing them a bit and love them. Real deal!!!!
Russell Franks
6 years agoI thought they were being made in S Korea by Volvik.
Nevets Soriedem
6 years agoLike i said, as long as it performs it doesn’t matter if lego makes it. I live in Titleists back yard and don’t play them. Currently using chrome soft.
MyGolf Spy
6 years agoWhat we are hearing is they bought the ball from Taylormade and Nassau produces it for them. But that is not known yet to be true.
Fred Copeland Jr
6 years agoI love Snell and want to try the Kirkland. I love to find the products that most people don’t know about. Most people don’t research they just eat the hype.
Terry Schott
6 years agoI’m like you Fred, I played a ball made by 3up golf for the last few years until they were sued by the number 1 ball in golf & had to go out of business. Ready to try Snell & Kirkland
Justin Blair
6 years agoSame. Vision, Snell, Mg, KickX balls (gotta get a Costco membership!) balls. Hireko, Diamond Tour, GolfWorks (among others) clubs.
Fred Copeland Jr
6 years agoI buy old technology as far as clubs. Not good enough to know the difference.
Nevets Soriedem
6 years agoI asked cause i read it yesterday that they were. Don’t matter as lond as they perform.
Joseph Dreitler
6 years agonever heard of Nassau. Do they sell a ball in the US?
Dan Spencer
6 years agoThey’re made by Nassau in Korea.
Nevets Soriedem
6 years agoOk, just because i loved the penta, and tour preferred x
Steve Balzano
6 years agoI bought $30 worth originally upon release. I play with guys from +1 to 5 hcp and everyone made fun of my ball choice. That day the Kirkland ball was low gross in the group. I just received 10 dozen in the mail in time for Xmas “if” I choose to share
They seem to fly as far or farther than my ProV1x but spin more off irons. My only critique would be they spin too much for my iron game instead of just stopping where it lands.
Jay Hinkle
6 years agoI had the same experience.
Dan Spencer
6 years agoNo they’re not
Jon Kurz
6 years agoThey seem to be sold out at all the costcos I’ve been able to find some for retail price on eBay. Great ball!
Peter Ciambrone
6 years agoMGS has changed the golf Industry, keep doing what you do, happy thanksgiving!
Jay Hinkle
6 years agoI was fortunate enough to get these in the first go around. My friend and I put this ball in play a few weeks ago. We have handicaps of 3.8 and 4.5 respectively. My results are, the ball is just as long if not a bit longer and has more spin than the ball I was using (Taylormade X). My friend is averaging 20 yds longer than usual and is visiting parts of the fairway he hasn’t seen in years. (Pro V1 & B330)
These balls are the real deal. Thanks for your honest testing and feedback. I will be donating to your cause.
Jonathan Melendez
6 years agoSince you guys came out with the intention of doing the test, Titleist ramped up hard, the “PROTOTYPE” demos and noise over social media about the “new” Pro V’s. That was enough for me to know ,even before the test came out ,that the Kirkland ball was going to crush the Pro V’s on your test. Keep it up MyGolf Spy!!
Tom Medlin
6 years agoDean Snell pulled the curtain back, and we all benefit from it. I feel his ball is a top notch product as good or better as any of the ” name ” balls, but without the high prices that are the result of expensive marketing and endorsement fees.
John Maskal
6 years agoI switched from ProV’s to Snells, now Kirklands, at half the price of Snell’s. Great golf ball.
Hans Wimmer
6 years agoHello kids and wife this would be fine for Christmas
TopPakRat
6 years agoMYGOLFSPY nailed it on this one!!!!!
Test results are as advertised! I tried a sleeve Kirklands a friend of mine had and fell in love. Longer off the tee and is just as good as my pro V1’s around the green. Reacts soft and true off the putter face. Have played my first ball a full 36 holes with little or no wear to the cover. This is by far the BEST ball I have ever played. Was lucky enough to nail 48 of these just before Costco sold out.
A quote from Costco’s web site as follows:
“Due to overwhelming demand, our available inventory has been depleted far faster than our expectations. We are working diligently to get additional inventory as soon as possible. Sorry for any inconvenience.”
Note you can find these on Ebay currently at nearly double the Costco selling price.
KJ Johnson
6 years agoCan’t wait to try…… still sold out
Gary Patterson
6 years agoIn stock as of this morning-
Limit 5 per customer, I bought 2.
I enjoyed the sleeve that was given to me- great feel and performance. Unbeatable at $15dz
http://m.costco.com/Kirkland-Signature-Four-Piece-Urethane-Cover-Golf-Ball%2c-2-dozen.product.100310467.html
[email protected]
6 years agoI woke up, grabbed my phone to order a couple of boxes and they’re already gone. They pulled it from the site completely. Lol
Bad timing I guess. They must have misjudged the publicity they received.
Gary Patterson
6 years agoThat didn’t last long- sold out in 2 hours!
Gary Patterson
6 years agoThe produce has been removed from the website-
I think we all broke Costco.com!
David Kulp
6 years agoHaha. Let the Titelist conspiracy theories begin. ?
Gary Patterson
6 years ago4 years ago, they were only $40!
CARL BONGIRNO
6 years agocan hardly wait to buy some and try them for myself.
Justen Geiger
6 years agoDamn I’m gonna have to check them out
Collin Martin
6 years agoI was thinking the same thing
Roy Koeppe
6 years agoWhoops, you are quite right. I just looked a little closer. Thanks! Gotta get me two dozen now.
Cliff Morgan
6 years agoYes I’ve got a friend that likes them. It’s not like top flight hard but you are getting what you pay for. Like I’ve always said most people can tell a difference between balls. If you’re not a single digit, play what you like and can afford.
Michael Frey
6 years agoHave you tried it?
Michael Frey
6 years ago$30 for 2 dozen
Gerard Thompson
6 years agoTaylorMade makes this ball, that’s why it’s so good!
Jeff Eddins
6 years agoYea, if TM owns Nassau Golf!
Ricardo Reyna II
6 years agoU read the article. That’s crazy
Larry Stewart
6 years agoNegative, but I will be now lol
Ricardo Reyna II
6 years agoNeed to find these balls. U a member at cosco?
Shane Ahmet
6 years agoMight give them a go mate . Might help my game ??
Carl Friday
6 years agoWhy do y’all buy pro v. I just hit a few ball snagging pockets of woods and creeks and get plenty and I only spend ten mins of my time,usually looking for the one I just hit lol.
Carl Friday
6 years agoSounds like a great deal you got a family hook up
Evan Roser
6 years agoI hope the price of Pro V1’s keeps going up to keep you satisfied
Hassan Jaafar
6 years agoSold out online I checked. If you find them pick me up some
Justin MacDonald
6 years agoAs good or better than pro v1. If they have them when I go this week I’m getting us some to try.
Hassan Jaafar
6 years agoI love and support Costco, I’ll give them a whirl
Bob Clark
6 years agoJust went to Costco online. Found the Kirkland signature golf balls. Very good price at 29.99 for two dozen, and yes they are sold out. However, on the same page there was 4 dozen callaway balls for 49.99. Isn’t that cheaper? Maybe there should be a comparison test there somewhere.
Jeremy Bell
6 years agoCrazy that they were out performing the pro vs
Chris Morrison
6 years agoWho’s got a Costco membership lol
Matt Kruse
6 years agoBorrowed one from a friend. I’m a good player and have played them all, but I always go back to the ProV1X. After trying the Kirkland ball, I’m convinced it’s on par with any premium golf ball out there. I didn’t notice much of a difference between it and the ProV1X, but at less than a third of the price, you’d be crazy not to at least give it a try. I’ve played one round with one Kirkland ball and tied a personal best with 9 birdies and shot a personal best 7 under 64. This ball is for real.
Shuvam Bhaumik
6 years agoThey’re sold out.
Taha Jafri
6 years agoWanna go to Costco tomorrow?
Tyler Raymond Patterson
6 years agoNice
Austin Kreger
6 years agoAnyone that doesn’t try this is doing themselves a disservice. I have been a ProV1x loyalist for about 4 straight years, Callaway Tour ix and iZ before that and this Kirkland Signature ball is every bit as good if not better than any ball on the market across the board. Plus you can get 3 dozen of them for the price of 1 dozen ProV1x.. you do the math. Would you pay 3x more for a product that does nothing better?
Michael Frey
6 years agoUsed today for the first time. Very compatible with the ProV1. At $15 a dozen I’m hooked.
Billy McDonald
6 years agoAnother virtual unknown is the Snell My Tour Ball. Cheaper, but not $15. I can’t tell any difference between it and the ProV1.
Will definitely try the K-Sig once I can get my hands on them. Fantastic reports on the various golf boards I frequent.
Mike Mueller
6 years agoI put this to the test on course against the pro v1x. Although I got roughly 5 yards more on average out of the ProV1x, off the irons and wedges, they were almost identical. Aside from tournament use, I’ll be playing the “k-sig” all year. I’m sold, and would encourage everyone to at least try them.
Chris Marcil
6 years agoSo. you’re going to play one ball all year…but for “tournament use”, you’re going to switch balls all for the sake of 5 yards off the tee?
Is that for the 5 yards, or is that for the vanity of you don’t want to play in a tournament using a ball bought at Costco?
RC
6 years ago+1
Mike Mueller
6 years agoActually bud it’s because I trust the consistency of Titleist equipment. Once you’re good enough to understand what I’m talking about, you’ll be able to relate. Until then, you can work on your trolling skills. They need work.
Chris Marcil
6 years agoAh yes…the classic, “you must suck, and I am a +6” reply. Of course.
But….just so I’m clear, “bud”, you’re going to trust Costco for every single one of your rounds all year….except the tournament rounds?
If so, cool. I’m just asking…because what better place to change balls than a tournament. ?
Mike Mueller
6 years agoNah. +1 if you want to be technical. But thanks anyway. And yes, bud…I’m going to because I play in tournaments nearly every weekend. Why don’t you go do something productive with your time instead of adding your useless insight on what was meant to be a helpful post. ✌
Ashley Longstreth
6 years agoThat’s wild I want to try them now.
Jericho Das
6 years agoDammit if I end up playing a ball that is made by the same company who makes my underwear I’m gonna be pissed
Jeff Bahry
6 years agoCostco is sold out completely on these balls
Leon Covin
6 years agoNovember 21 you can order them.
JackECMP
6 years agoNot available here in Charleston as of Friday. 🙁
JP
6 years agoI like these Kirkland Signature golf balls. They have performed exceptionally well for me both off the tee, fairway, around the greens and on the greens. And at 15.00 a dozen one cannot go wrong. I am a six handicapper.
Shortside
6 years agoGoing to be interesting to see how many of these I find in the bushes and leaves next year. $1.30 a ball instead of 4.25+ for the same or better performance is going to get the attention of even the most brand loyal. These could well take a significant bite of the market share. Have to wonder how long it’ll take for them to show up on the Tour.
Trey Sanders
6 years agoDoes is it spin more or less than pro v1x?
Travis Sayer
6 years agoWhen can we get them in CANADA
mike
6 years agoguess that’s what happens when you strip out tour sponsorship & marketing costs & retailer markup, any golfer who wouldn’t spend $30 for two doz tour quality balls to try them should just stick to their pinaccle
Travis Sayer
6 years agoCan’t argue with Trackman numbers. Currently sold out online
Toad37
6 years agoKSig with TruVis markings for the win
G-Man
6 years agoAs a current long time employee of the company involved, I just wanted to contribute to this excellent thread about the KS Golf Ball. Let me start by saying I am a devoted Golf Spy reader and love everything they do for us that are involved in this wonderful game(while I spend a lot of $ trying to get better based on their advice…..lol). I am an avid user of the Snell MTB golf ball that helped win me 2 match play club championships and 1 member/guest(thank you Golf Spy). I also have the wonderful opportunity to rate courses in the Southeast & currently carry a 10 handicap. I guess what I am saying is that if I am not working, I’m playing or practicing. That being said, the KS golf ball, for the price, might be the best quality ball us amateurs can play. I was fortunate enough to get a sleeve before they were available, and a box while they were available online. This ball rocks for everyone, and you can’t beat the price. As for availability, I can tell you that it will not be available at any warehouse until next year as they concentrate on making them available online(which I am told is being currently worked on) as quickly as possible. What everyone has said about the ball can be open for interpretation, but, let me tell you, Tony and the crew have done a fantastic job in identifying a golf ball that can give you tour performance without having to pay a tour price. Callaway, Taylormade and Titleist should be concerned about this golf ball offering out of a quality retail establishment. Cheers to Golf Spy!
matt
6 years agoThe $15-per-dozen Kirkland Signature golf balls are USGA conforming, and are produced by Nassau Golf Co. Ltd of South Korea.
http://www.nassaugolf.co.uk/golf-balls/nassau-quattro/
Alfredo Smith
6 years agoI would not play them these balls even if they were free. I’m a brand loyalist
George
6 years agoWell then, Alfredo…..you can go down with the sinking ship! Cheers!
JP
6 years agoSo which brand do you support Mr. Alfredo Smith? This is a brand name golf ball and at $15.00 a dozen they are better and longer and softer
than any ball on the market today. Not too many weekend hackers are going to pay almost $50.00 for brand name dozen who can’t break 90.
Robert Greer
6 years agoWHAT THE WHAT?!?
Mike
6 years agoI play the Kirkland ball I was playing the prov1x and the Kirkland ball does the something. The Kirkland ball is a very good ball to me I’m a 4 handicap. Don’t get caught up in the name. The Pro v 1 is manufacture in China for cheap and sold to us for top dollar. I shop at Costco and they have a lot of quality products. Kirkland golf balls the way to go
msg
6 years agoAren’t all Titleist golf balls made in the USA?
Key Lloyd
6 years agoNo, but most sold in America are. You can see on the box to be sure.
Joe Meissner
6 years agoI normally play the TM TPx and sometimes a prov1x. The Ksig so far has been just as good for me as those. Distance, spin and feel off of all clubs are all close. Ksig is just a little softer when putting. I am officially sold!!
Kiel Massong
6 years agoI have played two rounds with Kirkland Signature now. I played the ProV1 for a long time before experimenting with Srixon XV and Snell offerings. I will never buy a different ball again unless I am unable to acquire these. They feel soft off the face of an iron and with my M1 driver I consistently hit them 310 off the tee. The real test for me though was the low pitch shot. They are extremely receptive on the one-hop-stop shot. I am playing about scratch and two rounds into my Kirkland Signature career I have posted a 69 and 72 with these and have zero complaints. If you are spending more than this on golf balls please start using them and redirect the difference to my bank account.
Matt Frenzer
6 years agoI’m going to have to pick up a box and try them out, for science
Lock Kyle
6 years ago#makegolffunagain Make Golf Fun Again
gunmetal
6 years agoDo we know who makes them for Costco?
Tony Covey
6 years agoManufactured by Nassau Golf in South Korea.
Good time to discuss design vs. manufacturing…
So again, manufactured in Korea, however, an extremely credible source is telling me that the ball itself was actually designed by a major OEM and sold to Costco. Basically, legitimate big boy R&D for $16.00/ dozen. I don’t have a second source and given the magnitude of what it would mean as far as undercutting the entire ball industry for a one-time payout means, I’m not going to name the company that designed the ball until I have more.
kirkland fan
6 years agohmm… South Korea… I do some business in South Korea and my gut is telling me that this is a Volvik ball…
kirkland fan
6 years agosomebody who has this ball – can you count how many dimples this ball has? I’ll guess 392? (but maybe 492, 432, 446, or 350)
Brian
6 years agoNassau started making golf balls since 1968. now they are major factories for Taylormade balls from 2003.
Sam
6 years agoTitleist is south korea company
Bradley Reynolds
6 years agoI’m using the Kirkland right now! Pretty comparable
Michael brown
6 years agoThat’s right a damn good ball
Marcelo Fernandez
6 years agoOut stock! ?
Mike Rausch
6 years agoUhh Costco
Clay Chadbourne
6 years agoThey were sold out in the two stores I checked this week. Supposedly back in before thanksgiving
Jason Dawe
6 years agoIts a no brainer
Heath Hughes
6 years agoNo stock in SA 🙁
Shane Goodwin
6 years agoWorth a look
Daniel Stuart
6 years agoBulk buy
Ryan
6 years agoWas there a test between the Kirkland and the pro v1x? Quite honestly testing a 4 piece against a 3 piece isn’t a fair comparison. And does anyone know the compression of the Kirkland ball?
Jeremy
6 years agoSame compression basically
Michael brown
6 years agoWhy pay 50 for a 3 piece ball when can pay 15 for a very good 4 piece ball. I play the Kirkland and I’m a 4 HANDICAP. I WAS PLAYING THE PRO V 1 X AND THE KIRKLAND BALL DOES THE SAMETHING.
Skip
6 years agoWhat about the test makes it unfair? Sounds like you’re implying that more layers is better lol. If that were the case we’d see 10-layer balls by now. Looks like they compared with ProV1 because it was the closet in compression and cover hardness, determined by a third-party bench test and the Kirkland flat outperformed.
Key Lloyd
6 years agoThe layers matter because most 4 piece tour balls are designed to lower spin off the tee and that is the most obvious advantage listed.
Skip
6 years agoThat’s only an advantage if that’s what the golfer needs. A low-spinning ball is of no use to someone that needs more spin. By your logic, the ProV1x is a better ball than ProV1? MGS has explained why they decided to compare to the Prov1, my point is that this test is a completely fair test which found the Kirkland Ball to outperform the ProV1 (regardless of construction) on a number of characteristics for these golfers on that day.
Michael
6 years agoI’m in agreement that the better test would have been against the ProV1x. Not for the number of layers, but because they used players who averaged 170 yrds with a 6 iron and 270-280 yrds off the tee. The majority of players with those numbers fit into the Pro V1x more often. A comparison with the Kirkland against the Pro V1 would have been better with players who average 150-160 max with the 6 iron and 230-240 off the tee, as more players with these type numbers tend to use Pro V1 over Pro V1x. (note: PGA players majority use V1x, LPGA majority use V1).
Nick Ippolito
6 years agoMan for as fast as I lose balls high quality at a low price is where it’s at for me.
Mike Garvie
6 years agoAnthony Smith, they will not be a stock item till spring, however, you apparently can get them at Costco.ca
Anthony Smith
6 years agoCan’t find any at the local COSTCO in Nanaimo, so why not?
Kevin Mahoney
6 years agowell done boys.
Brian Dixon
6 years agoGood luck …. There’s only one ball #1 TITLEIST all the way!
Rick Hogan
6 years agoKeep drinking the Kool-aid, bub.
Johnny Scooba
6 years agowow.
Nicholas Analla
6 years agoI’ll stick with my Nike balls their $15 too
Jamie Hunnell
6 years agoLovely fall specials on every end cap.
Carlos Mosquera Alejo
6 years agoThe same..? and the price to…lol
Romeo Filip
6 years agoPicked up a box after seeing the coming soon article from you guys. Played the ball this past weekend and loved it. Just picked up 10 boxes today. Seriously crazy price for the quality.
Jas Sandhu
6 years agoWow..Costco does it again
Russell Parsons
6 years agoBranding… it’s a thing. Of course we’re getting ripped off… how is a $600 driver still profitable a year later for $150. 🙂
Todd Cook
6 years agoTheir trail mix is delicious as well!
Jamie Hunnell
6 years agoThis article had me at “gross mishits”. I never spend more that 15 for a box of balls anyhow. Ill grab us some uncle bud
Jason Shultz
6 years agodo they float? that’s what i need!
Pedro Petey Zamora
6 years agoTime to get a Costco membership haha
Thomas Schaefer
6 years agoBoom! They are as good as purchased for 2017 season!
Matt Dumble
6 years agooh yeah
Thomas Noel
6 years agoAs an American I do my best to support American workers despite the cost. And I think you should too! But if you are a cheapskate or just a crappy golfer go with the cheap ball! The extra money doesn’t seem that much to me but then again I rarely loss a ball. Personally, I love Bridgestone. Support American worker! If Titleist are not American made I stand corrected.
Glen Burr
6 years agoPro V’s are made in Massachusetts.
Tom M
6 years agoCostco balls are made in Korea and as Glen stated below all Titleist balls are made in Massachusetts.
Michael Garrard
6 years agoBut by buying their balls you are supporting Costco, and they are a great company that takes care of their employees.
Jimbo
6 years agoIncorrect. Some Titleist balls including ProV1 are made in Thailand
Brian
6 years agoTitliest is owned by Korean company, Fila Korea.
Eddie Cho
6 years agoWow!!
Jeremiah D Stocker
6 years agoI bought a box before the test results came in. Wish I would have bought 10 boxes! Long, straight, and great green side work. Equal stopping power as the proV1. Now it’ll be a matter of getting them again. Wish I wouldn’t have given 2 sleeves away for my friends to try? lol
Lawrence Twirdy
6 years ago2 dozen for $30
Daniel Robert
6 years agoI’m gonna try a dozen
Billy Walker
6 years agoGreat ball and a great price. Three dozen Kirkland’s for the price of one dozen ProV’s? All day.
tony whiles
6 years agoI want to try these.
tony whiles
6 years agoWhere can I buy a dozen of these??
Mike
6 years agoCostco
Mike Eovino
6 years agoThanks for the test. This is why we read MGS. And… Go Tribe!
Marissa Coiro
6 years agoI bet they are better 🙂
Sean Francis
6 years agoThis will be a short lived phenomenon, with Titleist and Callaway making up 75-80% of the ball business these days there are a number of ball companies losing money right now. They are giving Costco access to their designs, patents, manufacturing plants etc… in the short term in exchange for royalties,etc… but that is not a long term sustainable business model.
MyGolfSpy
6 years agoWhich Callaway employee is this? Harry?
Change of name every comment but almost all about Callaway with a hint of insider info. Hmm.
Mark OSullivan
6 years agoYup
Chris Herbig
6 years agoAwesome ball at an unbelievable price.
John Sabourin
6 years agoStill not available here yet, but they said they’re working on it
Mike
6 years agoI played six rounds on vacation last week and used the Kirkland exclusively. It’s on course performance was impressive and the testing results are not surprising. At $30 per two dozen pack it’s a no brainer. Sure the price will rise as these catch on!
Scott Cronin
6 years agoI am not surprised this ball came out of South Korea. The ProV1 and V1x are great balls. But, they have many horses to feed in that stable. In order to make it work the price of the ball is inordinately high. The marketing leads us to believe their is nothing better. The MyGolfSpy team have proven that wrong. So, well done Costco you’ve given us a great product.
Mark A. Veniero
6 years agoIll try em!
Brandon Greulich
6 years agoF*&^ing a man! We went on Saturday and they did not have them available in. the Crown Valley location
Paul Morris
6 years agoHow’s this for value? Interesting test.
Michael Lynch
6 years agoLooks like I should give these a go next round I play. It’s worth a try at least.
Danny McKay Wright
6 years agoWhat was the average club head speed for the 6-iron and driver?
Troy Partridge
6 years agoHaha well when u lose em at the rate I am right now why not cheap out!!!
Chris Mou
6 years agoI’ll go grab a box and we’ll have to check these out! $15 a doz!?!
Eoin McCormack
6 years agoInteresting results… we all pay a big premium for brands we trust
The Club Nut
6 years agoAgreed. Thats’ the only thing keeping the little guys out of the golf club market right now. There’s few people that would take a chance on a lesser known product – and i’ve heard some great things about these balls. I’m going to pick some up for next season methinks.
Peter Borham
6 years agoHave we got Costco in Australia ?
Scott ODonohue
6 years agoHmm there is 1 store in QLD. Might be a little while before we can get the here. ?Interesting all the same. Can retire earlier hopefully??
Keun Balgi
6 years agohttp://www.costco.com.au/Common/ContactUs.shtml
Sydney, Melbourne, QLD
Mark Killoh
6 years agoAnywhere online I can buy these in the U.K.
Soonhyeok Kook
6 years agoWow
steve Rhinefrank
6 years agoi would bet acushnet is less concerned with this than Snell is…
Buddy Spretz
6 years agoCan hardly wait to get to Cosco.
Gary Oftedahl
6 years agoAre the K S balls USGA approved???
Tony Covey
6 years agoYes. They are on the USGA’s conforming list.
Steve DeSantis
6 years agoThey’re the largest seller of wine on planet earth, so why not golf balls? It just as much of a commodity and they could care less what the SKU is. My favorite part of all this is how the many millions that Callaway, Srixon, Bridgestone, Nike, etc. have spent trying to prove their products are better for years and years is getting trounced by an afternoon Demo Day by Costco. Ha!
Greg Burris
6 years agoCan’t wait to try these.
Allan Nousiainen
6 years agoKirkland 5 with 7 red dots and 4 blue dots
Jeff Omspaugh
6 years agoThey need to get them into the stores
Nathaniel G. Dubyah
6 years agoNeed a dozen ASAP
release
6 years agoOur local Costco has the K.S. golf balls in stock and displayed on the floor.
Call your local warehouse to confirm if they have the item in before heading out.
I don’t think anything on the market could tough this at the current price line. A super value, which could be an introductory price.
Gorse Richard
6 years agoAnyone feel ripped off by Titleist? Someone has to pay for all those tour pros.
Gorse Richard
6 years agoAnyone can place an order for this golf ball ($8 per dozen FOB) with the Korean factory and put your own brand name / logo on it. Minimum order quantity applies.
JJ Louw
6 years agoHi,
Where can I do this.(order for this golf ball ($8 per dozen FOB) with the Korean factory and put your own brand name / logo on it. )
I live in South Africa and with our exchange rate, ProV’s are just too expensive.
Wayne J Bosley
6 years agoJJ you have to order 3000+ dozen to get stock plus its extra with packaging ,,,,, with a plan to buy more
JJ Louw
6 years agook, thanks, too rmuch!
Wayne Bosley
6 years agoThere will be an option for Sth Africa soon enough ,,,, it all depends on who wants to do it first.
Teletext
6 years agoWayne, are you shipping any to anyone in NZ or do you have plans to do this?
Gorse Richard
6 years agoIt used to be that RRR was based upon 4 times the manufacturing costs. This ball should be retailing at over $30 per dozen. Its half price. We were quoted based upon the usual commercial quantities.
Wayne J Bosley
6 years agoGorse Richard try this Costco work on 6% – 8% markup on into to store prices,,, the memberships seem to be the key,,reminds me of a pyramid scheme,,,,
JJ
6 years agoI would love to see this type of test as a “Most Wanted” test including the Chromesoft, Wilson’s new Duo U, Bridgestones BX line and new E6 line, etc.
Mitchell Logan Kurtz
6 years agoThet aren’t in Canada yet?
Jackie Chow
6 years agoAt 1/4th the cost and similar results….
Tom
6 years agoSaw an article on these balls a few weeks ago on this site. Ordered the 2 dozen from Costco online and received them in about 5 days. I have played them for two rounds of golf and they are my new “go-to” golf ball. They performed as well as the high end tour balls I have been playing (Pro v1x and the TaylorMade Tour Preferred). They feel solid off a driver and I struck them solidly, they gave better yardage with less slicing or hooking. Spin off the wedges was very good and I see little difference in the performance compared to my previous brands. You can bet I will be getting more of these when I need new golf balls!
Robbie Vogel
6 years agoDude this is wild
Dan O Connor
6 years agoTitland.
Chris Marcil
6 years agoOk…but the ball is comparable to the X, not the X1. Is there a Kirkland ball made that is similar to an X1, or is this the only Costco ball? I play the X1, so as much as I am impressed with these test results, I’m still not going to buy it, but if they come up with an “X1” version, I’ll likely give it a try.
Charlie Floyd
6 years agoMakes you wonder about pro v pricing doesn’t it
Anthony Zumpano
6 years agoRob did you watch it?
Ricky Yacko
6 years agoI’m on it
Jack Pacleb
6 years agoBought my 2 dozen when first available. About $33 total delivered to Hawaii via UPS. I’m a fourteen and enjoy playing a “Kirkland” brand ball from Costco. Can’t believe the inflated prices I’ve seen on eBay, when available. Don’t fall for the greed. Costco has come a long way with respect to quality in a lot of their products.
Courtney Floyd
6 years agoSeriously though
Casey Floyd
6 years agoSeriously tho. How crazy is that. Costco matched the #1 ball in golf for a third of the price
Courtney Floyd
6 years agoWhat the what
George P
6 years agoC’mon guys! Who cares about potential scuffing and where the ball is made? It’s LONGER than the #1 Ball in Golf, with identical control features…..and ALL for….what……$1.25 per ball? Give me a break!! You’d have to be a Titleist employee or on their Tour Staff NOT to switch to this ball! #nobrainer
Matthew Gagnon
6 years agoI couldn’t care less how the 2015 Pro V1 compares to the Kirkland ball.
It’s almost 2017.
The Snell ball is a must try. It’s a game changer.
Fred
6 years agoTotally agree, Matthew. I’ve been using the Snell MyTourBall since it came out; wouldn’t consider using another ball.
John Fatte
6 years agoThe Snell MTB is superior to the Kirkland Signature in one very important area, in my opinion. On the green, the Snell comes off the putter face with a much software feel and tracks unbelievably well. Also seems to be more reliable for consistent putting distances.
In my testing, the Snell and Kirkland were about equal in driving distance, but the Snell seemed to carry 1 – 5 yards further for me.
The difference is price is pretty significant when you consider you have to spend $ 26 a dozen for the Snell MTB and $ 15 a dozen for the Kirkland, but I can’t quantify the value of the strokes that the Snell has saved me since I started using it 3 months ago, so I’m going to stay with it.
Chris Morrow
6 years agoI’ve been a huge fan of the Snell MTB since the day I got my hands on them; as noted above they are excellent on the green. Plus I like the distance gain and the price point. Will be trying the Costco ball. For sure. Price doesn’t really matter though I hate the notion that I’m being ripped-off. Hope this is a game changer from a pricing perspective but that is likely wishful thinking. Hope to be proved wrong.
Mike
6 years agoI been playing the Snell My Tour Ball for 6 or so months and wouldn’t change. Was a pro v1 player for years. Got a sleeve of the Kirkland’s from my buddy and have to say, it’s a great ball. I like the Snell off the driver a bit better, the Kirkland better off long irons, Snell on approach, similar on the greens. Pretty small sample size for me, but if I could get more for $15/dzn, my mind might be swayed. Didn’t get a lot of under 100 yard play with the Kirkland’s.
Wayne Bosley
6 years agoThe Snell is a 3 piece with a slightly lower compression setup from the same people ,,, it wont take too long to make any adjustments if the market asks for it,,, I believe this buy cheap / sell cheap with no real R&D expense as Taylor-Made have supported the factory in being able to make these balls at this level and prove it in the market over the past 8+ years,,,,, I feel for Dean and for Taylor-Made as this is not a good market development.
Ryan Skinner
6 years agoTold ya they were coming in hot
Joe Conroy
6 years agoNice job; pretty convincing. Blind testing would have added a bit to the validity and perception of results – simply black-out the identifying letters as it appears on some of the balls in one of the pics. Something to think about for future tests.
Bill Presse IV
6 years agoI’d like to see a roundness cg test … also is there a visible seam on the Kirkland ball ?
Tony Covey
6 years agoThat would certainly be interesting. That said, if whatever differences that might exist in CG/roundness/Seam/etc., aren’t significant enough to cause tangible performance degradation (which we clearly didn’t observe), do they actually matter?
Dave the ball man
6 years agoHow much do Kirkland spend on R&D annually??
Spitfisher
6 years agoZero dollars on R and D……and the same goes for pro golfers, advertising, merchandising……
Tony Covey
6 years agoDoes it matter if the performance is nearly identical?
Here’s your reality check – there has been almost no meaningful innovation in the golf ball space since the transition from wound to solid core. It’s why companies are spending their time talking about soft feel instead of whatever minute annual enhancements they’ve made to their spin slopes. As per usual, a good bit of the credit/blame for the stagnation of the industry falls on the USGA.
And so the here we are…spinning wheels with urethane, rubber, and other miscellaneous polymers.
Nike thought it was getting somewhere with resin, but whether or not it actually was is matter of debate. And so you have solid core balls with some amount of layers (2-5), and some blend of materials, and you have either urethane or suryln covers. You have golf ball expertise at the big OEM level. You have expertise at the small company level (Dean Snell), and you have expertise at the factory level overseas. And yeah…it’s fair to say you have a fair amount of reverse engineering.
As we saw with small companies like Monsta, 3 UP, and everybody else who got sued by Titleist, it doesn’t take a goliath R&D team to produce a competent golf ball.
Wayne Bosley
6 years agoThat’s it Tony,,, Titleist have said in the past with their informal industry meetings that you can do nearly everything you want in a 3 piece let alone 4/5 or 6 ,,,,, what we have seen is basically no “real” improvements other than specification variations in the No 1 ball since 2000 ,,, 16 years of similar performance. The rules of golf stopped innovation dead ,,,, what you gain in one area you tend to lose in another when sticking to the rules ….it is all about trade offs ,,, I feel for Taylor-Made and more so for Dean Snell as they did the heavy lifting with Nassau,,,and these factories and there are now about 5 or 6 that want to be a big part of your US Pro ball market are very happy to sell good balls to who ever wants them at cheap prices ,,,,,, the question though is has any urethane patents been infringed or have they taken out a licence ,,, I would ask Bridgestone for their thoughts,,,,
From what I have heard the factories are chasing big normal retailers for sales not golf industry retailers,,,, they see them as the right size to justify the cost of manufacturer ,,,,
Interesting days,,,,,,
Oldeadeye
6 years agoI will order some today. I notice Costco has their current Callaway balls on sale. They have great products and this is one more. If I could only buy a better swing.
Chris Christiansen
6 years agoThe spin on driver shots was higher on Kirkland
Chris Nickel
6 years agoUmmmm…don’t think so – check the chart again – Ksig was 300 or so RMP LESS than the Pro V1
jb
6 years agoProv1 was 2900 and Kirkland was 2600 according to the post.
Matt d
6 years agoCostco is out of those golf balls. Coming in at the end of November.
Chris Christiansen
6 years agoLooks like we’re gonna have to load up on Kirkland balls…
Edward Colligon
6 years agoWhile the price is amazing, I have heard that durability is much worse. Also, what about compared the the ProV1X, which I believe it was your testing (or perhaps golfballtesting) showed had better driver ball speed, lower spin, but had more spin on the wedges. That being, I guess I should at least give them a go. If you’re not willing to try something new, you’ll never find anything.
Mike ODonnell
6 years agoPlayed six rounds last week in Palm Desert with the Kirkland and no durability issues at all. The ball is phenomenal for the price and is my new go to ball. Stock up now before the price increases!
Cody LeVea
6 years agoHadn’t got a chance to watch yet, figured I’d tag you so I can go back to it
fred
6 years agoFor me the Vice has been the best overall ball followed by the Chrome Soft. Just started testing on the Kirtland. Performs more similar to the Vice than Chrome Soft. Like it. Prov1 is way over-priced for what you get.
Steve Balzano
6 years agoChris Marcil because Kirkland ball performs like the x on driver. I play the x, bought 4 boxes and have been impressed with the carry and overall driver distance over 300
Chris Christiansen
6 years agoLiterally was in the process of sending u this link lol, what u think?
Caleb
6 years agoThanks for the comparison.
It worries me that the RPM on both balls was around 6,000 for both the Pro-V and the K-sig. Not nearly high enough to back the ball up on greens.
Ed Teer
6 years agoWhy in the world do you “need” to back the ball up with a six iron? When working with most of my better players we are trying to improve consistency of hit and stop and illiminate the spin back in the greens.
Skip
6 years agoAverage 6-iron spin for a PGA Tour Pro is 6231 Via TrackMan lol.
Kenny B
6 years agoWhat’s interesting to me is that this data performance test backs up the on course play evaluation from many of us MGS forum members! Are we good or what??
Rob Nieth
6 years agoNow I wish there were similar cost effective alternatives to golf gloves.
chemclub
6 years agohttp://mggolf.com
I have re-ordered several times. Excellent gloves
Kelly Schmitt
6 years agoIf I ever get to play again and will try a dozen. Like the extra driver distance.
robin
6 years agoThat’s great can you send my password I have ask 5 times no help
NevinW
6 years agoDoes anyone know who the actual manufacturer is for the Costco ball?
Dan
6 years agoA company called Nassau out of Korea
Spitfisher
6 years agoMade in korea……Titleist is also owned by a Korean company…..very interesting……I don’t think this a coincidence, people talk after all….
Brian
6 years agoThe ball manufacturer, Nassau, is also main factory of Taylormade balls.
Perry
6 years agoI wonder how they feel when putting and concerns about quality control. Those are two big reasons I play the PRO V1
J. Cross
6 years ago2 questions:
1) Why are the spin numbers in the 6,000 rpm range for both balls with the Sand Wedge? They should be around the 9,000-1-,000 rpm range.
2) Why are the 6 iron and Sand Wedge numbers the EXACT same for the Pro-V1?
Something seems a little off. Maybe a typo?
J. Cross
6 years agoUpdate: the rpm numbers on the prov1 6 iron were changed 75 rpms…
Sean Farrell
6 years agoThanks for the great info and keeping us informed of all the great products! Don’t trust the name, trust the results! I can’t wait to try these, if they ever go back in stock! 🙂
txgolfjunkie
6 years agoThese balls are sold online only…not sold in stores…and they are sold out until Nov 21. My suggestion is set your alarm on Nov 21st the check the website frequently. If you’re not a member, you’ll pay an extra $1-$2 in non-member purchase fee. I just hope they can keep selling them before one of the big boys, ahem…Titleist, slap them with a lawsuit for patent infringement.
As far as durability goes, they will scuff and nick just like any other golf ball.
I played with the KSig at Tiger’s Blue Jack last week…the ball lasted the entire round. It was scuffed pretty good after wedge shots, but TM, Srixon and Pro V1x all scuff as well. The ball is soft off the putter and checks nicely around the green.
Drew I
6 years agoThese are sold in warehouses as well. May take awhile to get them in everywhere.
Jm. Sigmon
6 years agoWhere. Can. Thanks. Buy. Balls
CL
6 years agoIm a 2 handicap and these performed great for me. Had the spin with wedges and distance was even a little longer for me. the durability was the same. Full wedges will chew up the cover a little bit but no worse than a pro v. Im sold.
J. Cross
6 years ago2 questions.
1) why are the spin numbers with the sand wedge for both balls only in the 6,000 rpm range? They should be in the 9,000-10,000 rpm range.
2) why are the spin numbers for the pro-v1 6 iron and Sand wedge the EXACT same number?
Something seems a little off. Maybe a typo?
J. Cross
6 years agoUpdate: the rpm numbers on the prov1 6 iron were changed 75 rpms…
Tony Covey
6 years agoWith regard to your second question, the guys at the test center are double-checking, but I believe we did wind up with exactly the same numbers (it happens more than you’d think).
As far as question 1 goes… a few things worth noting:
1. Testing was done with a leading radar-based launch monitor. The PGA Pro at the course where we conducted testing has seen similar results during his day to day use and is reaching out to the vendor for an explanation.
2. As you might imagine, no two golfers produce the same results. Within our testing group, the average range was roughly 4500 to 8700 with the sand wedge. While that the former may seem incredibly low, we’ve seen this time and time again with average golfers.
3. Wedges were cleaned after each 3 shot sequence, so it’s possible that accumulation of debris, coupled with range grass that was likely a bit taller than fairway grass, could account for the lower than expected results.
4. To be doubly sure of our results we ran the data through 2 different outlier detection engines. The first (what we use in driver tests) looks for outliers based on deviation from both the average total distance, and average yards offline. The second method of evaluation checked for outliers based on deviations from average launch and average spin. While the different sorting methods returned slightly different results, under both scenarios, the relationships between the two balls was consistent.
So while spin numbers for the wedge are, based on the hard numbers, less than we’ve been told to expect, they’re not too far out of line with what we’ve observed in the past in player testing. Also, given that the testing conditions were identical for both balls, we believe that the comparison between the two is reliable.
Lyle Lingenfelter
6 years agoI think this shows the inherent flaws in using regular golfers to test premium products. Although this is possibly what happens when we hit the ball, it factors in too many marginal strikes. We know when we hit it poorly or even marginally the results are not gonna be great. Truthfully, many players play premium balls who don’t always get the benefits simply because of the poor strike. HOWEVER, we play it because of what happens when we do hit it like we are supposed to hit it. I would much rather prefer results from an Iron Byron or similar swing machine. That is the only true way to compare apples to apples (or Pro V1’s to Kirkland’s). When the strikes are identical, the varied results will mean something. Until then, you are gonna see things like identical spin rates from a #6 iron and SW. That likely means one of the two was not hit properly.
Tony Covey
6 years ago1) Nobody plays golf like a robot. Titleist would never recommend basing your ball buying decisions on what a robot does…nobody in the industry would. We’ve been over this one ad nauseam.
2) Regarding average golfers and premium products…Who do you think has made the Pro V1 the best-selling ball in golf? If the story was that the Pro V1 is meant exclusively for elite, or even better players then maybe, but the reality is Titleist targets the entire market with the Pro V1 (specifically arguing against Bridgestone’s swing speed compression theory). It’s not #1 because it only works for better golfers. We’re told it’s for everybody, and the market share suggests the consumer (the average golfer) believes the message.
If only really good golfers bought and played the Pro V1, it wouldn’t be the number 1 ball in golf. Consumers buy it because they’ve been told it’s better and they’ve largely bought into that message.
What if, as you suggest, average players can’t recognize the difference/benefits; then shouldn’t you also argue that it is therefore foolish for the average golfer to spend $50+ a dozen when the performance, for his ability level, is virtually indistinguishable in a ball that retails for 25% of the cost?
Ultimately, the question becomes this: If the technology benefits are so minute that they can only be realized by elite golfers, should the average consumer really be footing the bill?
Look, I know some very well informed, very skilled golfers who won’t play anything but the Pro V1, and for guys like that, the cost makes sense, but for the weekend warrior who loses 2 balls around en route to shooting a 95 (and that’s the majority of golfers)…man, that’s a harder argument to make.
Lyle Lingenfelter
6 years agoTony Covey- You have completely missed my point. My point is strictly in regard to the results. The results “seem” to indicate the Kirkland ball is actually a bit better in many areas than the Pro V1. While it is certainly possible this could be the case, I cannot rely on data based on a variety of marginally struck golf balls. In order to perform a scientifically accurate comparison you have to eliminate as many variables as possible. The fact that average golfers struck them introduces many variables. In addition, I think I read where clubs were cleaned after every 3 shots and this introduces another extremely large variable related to spin. Were the grooves full of dirt or clean? Nearly any golfer knows this makes a huge difference in spin numbers. When you said, “Nobody plays golf like a robot. Titleist would never recommend basing your ball buying decisions on what a robot does…nobody in the industry would. We’ve been over this one ad nauseam.” I have to wholeheartedly disagree. I am in the industry and have these discussions regularly. If I want to assist someone in finding a correct shaft, I would like to have data based on identical hits. Does one shaft typically launch the ball 2* higher and produce 300 rpms less spin? If so, that tells me something. However, if I don’t know whether a ball was hit in the center or low on the face, I really don’t have comparable data. No one hits it solid all the time but that is exactly why identical robotic data would be a benefit. The average player does hit it solid sometimes. He also hits it low on the face, high on the face, toward the heel and toward the toe. Most often there is some pattern but the basis for determining which piece of equipment is most likely to perform is based on technically accurate and comparable data. If it wasn’t, why would companies even go so far as to describe balls as high spin or low compression? It is to give a basis for who would want to try it. In order to truly determine which of these balls is better in each of areas, consistent strikes, consistent speeds, consistent attack angles, consistent face angles all need to be present. Short of that – its guesswork at best.
Tony Covey
6 years agoYour opinion is not shared by basically anyone we’ve spoken with on the subject, including R&D professionals at several major golf companies, Tom Wishon, and Dick DeLaCruz (the guy who invented the golf robot). They all agree that robots are great tools to assist in the design process, but that human testing is the best measure of performance.
I would encourage you to read the shaft study by Dr. Sasho Mackenzie. While it’s purpose had nothing to do with robot vs. human testing, what happened during the test is perfect illustration of why robot testing is less than ideal. Short version, humans react to what they feel…robots don’t.
I always ask…how would you configure the robot? What angle of attack, what swing speed, what impact location, what face angle?
How many conditions would you test? How many shots under each condition? As a practical matter, how would you account for the time it takes to configure a robot. It’s not as simple as affixing the club and hitting a button – it requires a sometimes exhaustive amount of precision – most people don’t realize that either.
The reality is that robots do not replicate human swings, and once you accept that reality, there’s very little additional arguments to be made. Do you actually favor the consistency of a device that doesn’t replicate the behavior of the audience it’s designed for over real-world testing.
I’m not sure what you mean by marginal contact, but the reality is that we don’t hit the center of the face all the time (although the data we’ve gathered over the past several years suggests that other variables aren’t as inconsistent as many would think), so why would you make a performance decision based around machine-driven, idealized contact that a human is highly unlikely to replicate?
And with all of that said, if I was going to test ball mechanically, I’d do it with an air cannon anyway.
Lyle Lingenfelter
6 years agoLet me start by saying the ultimate proof is in the pudding (Karsten Solheim was famous for using this phrase). Its whether or not it works for you. Having said that, a group of testers, each hitting it very differently does not tell me anything. Similarly, I will restate the fact that identical testing is the only way to ACCURATELY COMPARE 2 items. Controlling variables / parameters is commonly known to be the only way to ACCURATELY DETERMINE the differences between 2 test items. Even drug companies try to isolate to get good data when dealing with human subjects (the most complex and intricately variable of all).
As for the amount of conditions I would test – as many as possible to isolate variences. This obviously this relates to time. I see in this test, 3 clubs were tested. I also see wedges were not wiped off and grooves cleaned after every shot. It takes time but, if its not done, your spin rate number comparison sucks. It doesn’t mean the Kirkland still couldn’t be better, it just means the results of the test don’t tell anything of consequence.
The fact that robots and humans don’t swing identical is truly irrelevant. No two humans swing the same. The marginal contact simply means just that. The bottom line is 5 basic variables control all ball flight. That’s true with humans and robots. It doesn’t matter who or what is at the grip end of the club. It only matters what the club is doing at impact. You and I both know if its not doing the same thing with both balls then you certainly can’t tell which ball is performing better! Be serious.
Regis
6 years agoCorrection. You’ll restate your “Opinion” that identical testing…… but its not the ” fact ” . Robot testing may provide the best purely data centered analysis for accurately comparing two items but human feedback is far more critical to a product review. No robot has ever been developed (nor will it) that can match the responses of its human counterpart. For that matter, forget Iron Byron. Just shoot two competing balls out of a cannon like device with identical speed, spin, and impact settings.
Lyle Lingenfelter
6 years agoYou stated “Robot testing may provide the best purely data centered analysis for accurately comparing two items” and that is precisely my point. While the guys in the test may all have different results based on their particular faults and flaws, those results do not accurately compare the 2 items. The accurate comparison done under identical circumstances lets the consumer know something specific about the product that then might lead to a personal evaluation of the product to see how it performs specifically for them. As for the air cannon, I must admit my lack of knowledge. However, my inclination is to think it ironic that those against robotic / Iron Byron testing because people get different results would then be in favor of using an air cannon instead striking a ball with an actual club. The thought of “shooting” a ball from an air cannon would seemingly tell me nothing about how it interacts with a club, grooves, etc.. IN SUMMARY, I JUST WANT EVERYONE TO CONSIDER THIS – WHEN THE USGA TESTS EQUIPMENT TO DETERMINE ITS CONFORMITY, THEY USE AN IRON BYRON / ROBOTIC MACHINE BECAUSE IT ISOLATES VARIABLES AND ACTUALLY TESTS THE ONE PIECE OF EQUIPMENT FOR WHICH THEY ARE TRYING TO DETERMINE CONFORMITY. IT IS VERY PRECISE BECAUSE THE VARIABLES ARE VERY LIMITED AND THE RESULTS ACTUALLY TELL THEM WHEN A BALL OR CLUB PARAMETER IS EVEN SLIGHTLY ABOVE A LIMIT. If I am interested in comparing the Kirkland and Pro V1, I’m interested in real differences under machine testing…. then I will try it to determine how it specifically responds to my game. If the ball is not self correcting in flight, then I simply want to know what it does when I hit it flush with clean grooves because that is my goal every time I step up to it and I want a reward when i accomplish it.
David
6 years agoI hear you and I tend to agree. Use a bot that hits its it flush with varying angles of attack (steep, medium, shallow) just to show the difference if it perfectly. Now, having said that, I was lucky enough to finally find these and if they work for me around the greens, say 100 yards in, they will be the ball for me. I don’t need extra distance.
Uhit
6 years agoHow does a air cannon replicate the deformation of a ball at impact?
How does a air cannon replicate the spin, which is also depending from the deformation?
How would you control the airflow (and loss of pressure depending on it´s deformation during acceleration) beside the ball during he is accelerated in the tube?
A very soft ball could get too big for the tube of the air cannon, due to compression…
How would you determine the smash factor?
…and the mechanical durability of the cover of the ball?
…how could a air cannon help? – or was your air cannon hint only a joke?
Tony Covey
6 years agoI probably should have mentioned in my previous reply. Our thinking process was, I think, similar to yours at one time. It’s why we had the conversations to begin with…stuff like how much does a robot cost, what’s it take to setup a test, etc.. We asked these questions because we believed robots were the right answer. It wasn’t until we had these long conversations with the experts at 4 of the biggest companies in golf (along with smaller conversations at a few others). Once we took the time to become educated on the subject, it became clear to us that robots weren’t right for what we wanted to do.
Lyle Lingenfelter
6 years agoWhat is it you desired to do? I understand the robotic cost aspect but that is just a confession that the test is limited because of the cost and not a basis for the test being valid and accurate.
Uhit
6 years agoI also see no reason, why a robot, for testing golf balls, should be no good…
…in regard of golf shafts I can understand, why a robot may not be the one and only solution…
…but in regard of balls?
Tony Covey
6 years agoCost was never a concern. That’s not to say it would have been easy, but we’ve always started from the perspective of figuring it out how to do it right, and then figuring out how to make it work. For sure, sometimes that’s a progressive process Our club testing, for example, started with 3 testers, then 5, then 6, then 10 – all the while renting launch monitor time and refining the process. About a year and a half ago we opened our own facility and increased the number of testers for our core Most Wanted tests to 20. This year we may increase that number further.
To be sure, instead of building a human testing facility we could have allocated our resources to building a robot testing facility if there had been any sort of consensus that robots were better tools for performance testing. There simply wasn’t. Seriously. None.
For us, that was actually surprising. Like you, and others, we started from the assumption that robots were the right way to do it – the consistency argument made sense to us too. So we had preliminary conversations with some R&D guys, we asked about things like cost, and where to actually buy one, and how they work, what it takes to setup…and we got answers, but we also got a question:
Why do you want a robot?
And so we explained what we wanted to test, at which point we were told we didn’t want a robot, and were given a long list of reasons why that was true. And so we checked with other companies and got the same answers with the same reasons. Those are pretty much laid out in our why we don’t use robots article, but it comes down to design vs. performance.
Ultimately, we had an idea, a belief that is common to many of our readers, but once we took the time to talk to experts and educate ourselves, it became clear that what we assumed to be true simply wasn’t.
You mentioned the USGA in a previous comment, and that’s an interesting point that brings up a very interesting distinction. The USGA does not test performance. It tests conformity. Its club tests don’t require hitting golf balls. Pendulums on driver faces. For golf balls, the USGA runs two separate velocity tests (robots are used here), but velocity is the only concern. Spin rates off various clubs, different impacts positions, etc., not part of the equation.
Regarding the consistency of impact, swings, etc. between humans and robots, I understand and certainly, there is some validity to that argument, but with robots there are variables that you must ignore because they cannot be programmed in such a way as to replicate the reality of humans playing golf. With humans we get what we get across the population of testers. They react to what they feel, and some contact is better than others. With robots you get what you program, so again, how many scenarios do you cover:
Do the math:
Face angle – open, closed, square
Angle of attack – positive, neutral, negative,
swing speed – 80, 85, 90, etc, etc, etc,
plus some other things like dynamic loft, dynamic lies, etc. that change based on humans, but are difficult to replicate robotically.
How do you account for the things humans do that robots don’t?
And that’s before we dig deeper into studies like Dr. Mackenzie which should wildly different results with actual humans than you would get with electronics. The bottom line is that human swings cannot be replicated with robots. There is widespread industry agreement on this.
I would also direct you to a club test Edwin Watts did several years ago. They independently tested all of the models for a given season (2011, 2012…somewhere in there). On paper, great test..9 points, everything you would expect. Unfortunately for the consumer, the drivers they identified as the best simply were not among the best performing in any other club test that season – including ours and our immediate competitors. They didn’t sell well, and we believe that’s because they didn’t perform well.
Now I suppose you can argue that the robot is right and everybody else got it wrong, but clearly the robot performance didn’t translate.
I can’t speak to what other testing operations do, but we’ve gone to extensive lengths in our testing procedures (consistency) and number crunching (mathematically identifying and removing outliers). That gives us a much higher degree of consistency and repeatability in our numbers, it also gives us the ability to parametrically filter the results to show how anything we test performs under specified conditions. For example, we can compare performance based on high-toe driver impact generated with a positive angle of attack by swing speeds over 105 MPH.
We’ve said from the beginning of this endeavor of ours that there’s no such thing as a perfect test. Some tests are better than others, and we’ll put how we do things up against anybody’s. I doubt that anyone who has never gone this deep into it understands the decision matrix, the forks in the road, and that almost no decision offers 100% benefit over the other possibility. That’s the cold hard truth about testing golf equipment.
That said, with the whole of data within this test we see remarkable similarities. There is amazing consistency (on an individual, and therefore average basis) in swing speed, angle of attack, dynamic loft, etc.). What changes are the parameters associated with the ball itself. Worth mentioning as an example, a few readers have mentioned swing speed differences as a possible explanation for the Pro V1 being shorter off the tee. In actuality, average swing speeds among testers were actually a bit faster (I think it was like 1/10 of 1 MPH) with the Pro V1…statistically the same, the results…less so.
What we do is look at the data and try and make a determination. In this case, we found better to equivalent to slightly better average performance from the Kirkland at 25% of the cost.
But here’s the greatest part of all of this:
We’ve told you how tested. We’ve shared those results. And while you may remain resolute in your belief that robots are the only way to do this, I’ve told you exactly why we rely on humans – and shared my perceptions of why I think the data we get out of that is inherently more meaningful (seriously…please come back after the 2017 Most Wanted Driver test publishes and see what we’re able to do BECAUSE we test with humans).
You’ve already been given more information than you’d get anywhere else.
And after all of that you and everybody else reading is free to decide if it’s meaningful to you on an individual basis. Seriously…isn’t that great. If you have lingering doubts, spend the $30 for two dozen and check it out for yourself. Think the test is completely invalid? Be it because of brand loyalty, skepticism over the data, lack of robots, whatever…that’s fine too. Keep spending whatever you spend to play whatever you play.
All I can tell you is that we’ve done the test the right way…better than anyone else with policies and procedures more stringent than anyone who independently tests golf equipment. I believe immensely in our process, the quality of the work, and the effort put into it. These are the things we can control.
Take it or leave it, that’s up to you, but do so with the understanding that we started from a place not far from where you are right now, and leveraged input from every expert we could find to help us get to where we are today.
For everything beyond that, it is what it is.
David Kulp
6 years agoBrilliant. Thanks for all of your hard work!
Rafael Munoz
6 years agoI’m in !
Charlie Floyd
6 years agoWow! Nice. Maybe I will have to get a dozen for when you come home.
Dave Ott
6 years agoCan you compare them to pro v1x sometime? Interested in 4 piece vs. 4 piece. Played 18 with the Kirkland yesterday tho and found nothing to make me play a different ball other than curiosity.
Casey Floyd
6 years ago$15 a dozen
Stevegp
6 years agoAn eye-opening test.
It just shows how heavily-marketed products can influence one’s perception.
Rich
6 years agoVery interesting, I’m so pleased that there is a ball that is as good or better than the ProV1 and at such a great price. There is a Santa Claus! I hope Cosco has plenty…..! Now who makes the ball for Kirkland? Do they have others under different names?
Chris Marcil
6 years ago“the same” would be pretty darn good, wouldn’t it?
Dan Spencer
6 years agoThat looks and sounds like a Callaway Hex Black Tour, rebranded as Costco’s own, just saying…
MyGolf Spy
6 years agoIt is made by Nassau not Callaway.
Dan Spencer
6 years agoMyGolf Spy so it’s a Nassau Quattro then?
HouTexGolfer
6 years agoIt appears to be a last generation Nassau Quattro with 360 dimples. The newest Quattro has a 350 dimple cover design. Nassau and their ball factory are very experienced, QC will be as good as any.
James. Sogmon
6 years agoI w ant. Try
JB from THP
6 years agoWhy did they not test it against the Callaway Chrome Soft? The ball that changed the ball! I know they are my second favorite Callaway balls to put in my mouth.
Sharkhark
6 years agoWhy did they not test against the chrome soft? They answered your question in the article.
The Prov1 is the number 1 selling ball.
You can’t expect them to test against everything. So not number 2… Or 3…etc .
Prov1 is the king so that’s what they compared .best against best.
Dan
6 years agoIs the Kirkland USGA legal? sounds like it might not be, to get that sort of length over a Pro V…
Sam
6 years agoYes, they were put on the USGA conforming list.
HouTexGolfer
6 years agoIt is on the USGA approved list already. Most likely a rebrand of the Nassau Quattro ball, widely used by pros in Europe.
Stephen Vang
6 years agoI can see Rory Mcilroy and/or even Tiger Woods making the switch…..watch out PGA Tour…..the KS ball is coming……to your local Costco.
Scott Spinler
6 years agoThis article will sell so many more of these golf balls. . I’m glad I grabbed a few dozen when they were in stock. .
CJ Leonard
6 years agoAlready out at both Omaha Costco’s. ?
Hula_Rock
6 years agoimagine if this went viral before the IPO, which already took a beating…..
Miguel Dabu
6 years agoI wonder when this golf ball will come to Canada? Let’s see if this will dethrone the Pro v1.
Jonathan Melendez
6 years agoNO BRAINER!!!
Will Jones
6 years agoThey are currently out of stock and won’t be available until after November 21st.
Charlie Floyd
6 years agoAnd probably a really good price. I’ll check next time at Costco. ⛳
Stephen Vang
6 years agoThe Kirkland Signature golf ball is legit by Costco! Don’t forget that if you are not satisfied with its durability, performance or you end up shooting 100+….you can simply return it! “No questions asked.”
*please bring your costco membership card when you return them.
PaulR
6 years agoLooking at the pic of the balls cut in half, did the Kirkland balls scuff up more? Is the cover as durable? Thanks
Andy Romanow
6 years agoI played one this weekend. I liked the ball but noticed that by the end of the round, the cover got dinged up via normal play. Reminded me of the cover on the Pro-Vs from ~8 years ago, how it was tough to squeeze more than a round out of a ball. But at under a buck a ball I’m not sure I care… When they are back in stock I’ll buy em.
PaulR
6 years agoThanks for the reply. I have to wait until they come to the UK where of course they will be more expensive, but if it’s £30 for two dozen I’ll still give them a go 🙂
HouTexGolfer
6 years agoIn my first round it was barely scuffed at all, was not as shiny as new but could easily go another 18. In fact it will!!
GilB
6 years agoVery interesting stuff guys. Thank you.
Ken Mykietowich
6 years agoGreat data. Thanks guys. Guess I know what ball I’m buying next! Can’t wait to compare the Kirkland againt my Srixon Z
Kanoito
6 years agoSince the ball was firmer… were there any comparisons made vs the Pro V1X?
The Club Nut
6 years agoI was wondering this as well. What were the non-quantifiables like on the ball. I’ve heard people say they are more comparable to a proV1x in feel, but others have said they’re soft like a ProV1. I’m wondering a lot about the durability as well. ProVs tend to cut and peel moreso than other harder covers, but they are decently durable for a urethane ball – if these scuff up or peel/cut easily, then it partially negates the $15 pricetag since you’ll be buying more in the durability aspect. Still – 3 dozen for the price of one is still pretty damn good if you ask me.
Andy ROmanow
6 years agoThey do scuff.
Uhit
6 years agoNo surprise, that Bridgestone offers the consumer a direct comparison between the new Bridgestone e6 balls vs. the ProV1(x) balls…
…they probably knew, that they will win…
…if Kirkland can.
JE
6 years agoSHOTS FIRED!
Jim
6 years agoI guess this reinforces the fact that Pro Vs are too expensive. There’s now options to purchase golf balls at a reasonable price and get similar if not equal performance. I personally play the Snell MTB and have found it to be very similar to the more expensive balls so this doesn’t surprise me that another manufacturer has arrived. Not saying I dislike Pro Vs but they are just too expensive for my taste.
HouTexGolfer
6 years agoTitleist has a lot more expenses to cover so they have to charge more. I did a balance test in salt water comparing the KSig to both the ProV1 and the V1x and found the Titleist balls to have a more prominent “heavy” side than the KSig. That might mean the KSig actually has better manufacturing QC.