Vice Golf: A Different Kind of Golf Company
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Vice Golf: A Different Kind of Golf Company

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Vice Golf: A Different Kind of Golf Company

Growing golf ball and accessory company Vice Golf was nearly called Flake Golf. That was the original name of the company created by Ingo Duellmann and Rainer Stoeckl; two German law students turned entrepreneurs who met while surfing the Eisbach River in Munich.

Fortuitously, Flake was lost in translation.

Vice Golf: A different Kind of Golf Company

Flakes, while unique, are dainty, fragile and unreliable. Not exactly a strong foundation on which to build an edgy golf brand. Vice, on the other hand, conjures adjectives like bold, maybe even dangerous. Flakes are placid; Vices have energy and conviction behind them. And while the strict definition of “wicked and immoral behavior” is perhaps a bit too literal, Vice Golf is built on the idea that being a little bad is always right.

With Vice Golf, it’s not just the model; it’s the execution

Like other upstarts in its space, Vice Golf’s mission is to make premium golf balls, sell them directly to the consumer, and with the middlemen removed from the equation, save golfers serious money in the process. Oh, and Vice Golf does it without sacrificing an iota of performance.

Success in the direct-to-consumer space begins with a product that is as good or better than that of your traditionally-distributed competitors. When you’re asking the consumer to shell out cash for a product he can’t walk into a store to see, feel and touch, he needs to be convinced what he’s getting is the equal, if not the superior, of what he can get from the store down the road. If it isn’t, what’s the point? Where’s the value proposition? Vice understands that as an outsider in an industry that thrives on tradition, its product, marketing and branding can’t have glitches or missteps. In particular, the user interface must be clean, engaging and simple to navigate. Products must meet or exceed expectations, and they need to arrive on time. Consumers only need one reason to return to the comfort of the familiar, but thus far Vice has done an outstanding job of bucking the system and building a loyal following.

IT ALL STARTS WITH THE GOLF BALL

Vice golf balls are damn good – every last one of them. You want evidence? In a recent Golf Lab’s test, the Vice Pro Golf Ball and Vice Pro Plus Golf Ball were shown to be the clear equal (or dare I suggest superior) to everyone’s favorite industry benchmark. That’s no small accomplishment given that Ingo and Rainer had no background in golf before founding Vice in 2012.

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If the past is a prologue, Vice’s new Pro Soft Golf Ball will do for pedestrian swing speed players what the Vice Pro and Pro Plus have done for the ProV1 and Pro V1x, B330 series contingent. The Vice Pro Soft offers a super-low core compression of 35, which helps slower swings generate more ball speed. The Pro Soft is a three-piece ball with a cast urethane cover that is finished with a nanotechnology matte clear coating to provide extra grip and spin around the greens. The result? High performing golf balls.

Once released, it will serve as a further example of Vice’s strict adherence to its “philosophy and mission to produce premium quality products, whether that is the golf ball or the bag, the glove, the caps,… and offer it at affordable, fair prices.”

Vice makes high quality golf balls.

Or in other words, Vice is committed to providing the consumer with high-performance alternatives to mainstream products, and with the golf ball in particular, for significantly less money than traditional golf brands.

A chance encounter while working on a separate project enlightened the pair to the excessive margins and bloated retail costs of golf balls. Large ball manufacturers have to account for raw materials, physical production/distribution, R&D, support staff (both back-office and in the field), staff players (including professional tours) as well as marketing and advertising. The pair partnered with some very bright German aerospace engineers and quickly concluded that if they sold directly to consumers, they might just have a viable business.

vice golf ball evolution

Five years removed from its beginnings, Vice runs a much leaner operation that it’s big OEM competitors. It still has basic raw material and distribution costs, but because its sales platform is entirely online, the distribution is more efficient and the approach does not require a team of sales reps to manage accounts. Perhaps most importantly, Vice doesn’t have to inflate costs to pay Tour staff or run multi-million-dollar marketing campaigns in hopes of gaining exposure and market share.

This isn’t a purely philanthropic exercise, of course. Like most any going concern, Vice needs to make a profit to stay in business, but the Vice team is passionate about working to change the golf industry in a manner which will ultimately benefit the consumer. If Vice can make a ball that performs as well (or better) than those of the industry leaders and can sell it for approximately 30% less, that’s a win for Vice, but more importantly, it’s a win for golfers.

Vice Golf Logo

The Fair Price for a Dozen Vice Balls

Ball manufacturers are excessively secretive about what it actually costs to make a golf ball. Some of this is due to the variability in pricing structures, some of it stems from the competitive nature of the industry, and the reality is that some of it boils down to them not wanting you to know how little of your $50/dozen goes towards the actual cost of the ball.

While we may never know the specific numbers, there are reasonable inferences to be drawn.

Vice Golf's business model is considered Direct to Consumer.

If the Vice Pro/Pro Plus costs $34.95/dozen and performs just as well (using any reasonable metric of performance you choose) as balls which cost $40-$50/dozen, it’s reasonable to conclude that beyond $30-$35/dozen, you’re not gaining much in the way of an additional performance benefit for your added dollars spent. Unfortunately for the consumer, the OEMs are more than happy to have us pick up the tab for the added expense that comes with greater exposure. Caveat Emptor.

AND THEN COMES EVERYTHING ELSE

Part of the execution for e-commerce businesses is exemplified by the interface between potential customers and the brand. For comparisons, look to the websites for companies like Warby Parker or Harry’s (razors). The designs are clean, appealing, and most importantly, inviting.

Helge Meyer, Head of Marketing for Vice says, “It (user interface) has to be attractive from the very beginning…with our design, we want to appeal to every golfer, from the most traditional one to the new, hip golfer who just started to play.”

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Spend a couple of minutes browsing the website, and it’s clear the template isn’t simply an information platform, but something Vice expects people to engage with and explore. Helge continues, “The highest priority for us in everything we do is premium quality and cutting-edge design. The ball, the packaging, our website, everything.”

The entire package is designed to define the Vice culture.

It’s as though Vice can’t divorce itself from the details other companies generally miss… or haven’t even considered. It’s vitally important for any company to differentiate its branding and marketing.  Not only that, the message needs to resonate with consumers. Vice is a bit edgy, but in a way which transcends gender and plays to the fun, we all enjoy having with the game.

Vice Golf Gloves are one of their marquee products.

Exhibit A: The Vice Pure glove is made from 100% lamb leather, and the cuff is accented in light gray. The fit is ideal, and it’s almost bizarre how comfortable it is. It’s just different enough to garner attention without requiring a large neon “LOOK AT ME” sign on the front.

Any company can pump out a serviceable glove made from synthetic leather in bleach white – and many do – but that’s run of the mill and ordinary. Vice is anything but.

The Vice Golf force golf stand bag.

Exhibit B: The Vice Force cary bag. Rather than traditional solid colors, Vice uses a gray mélange paired with neon lime or a black mélange coupled with cool gray. The feet are over-sized to provide better stability (which is entirely lacking in most stand bags), and an ultralight carbon frame keeps the weight down and stability up. The entire bag is waterproof and strategically located hook, and eye loops make it simple to access your gloves while carrying the bag. Speaking of which, the strap system is ergonomically designed to alleviate all risk of back strain, and extra padding on both the straps and bag maximize comfort.

While the soft goods don’t offer the same cost savings as the ball, the quality and utility speak for themselves. During Most Wanted testing, consumers spoke, and the message was clear – both the Pure Glove and Force Carry Bag are among the top five in the industry in their respective categories. You can’t fake that.

It’s one thing to claim to be detail oriented, but it’s something entirely different to obsess over it. It’s why Vice adds a carabiner to each towel and uses carbon fiber in its umbrellas. It’s why, when sourcing suppliers, Vice visits them in person and holds out for the best products, not the cheapest. Vice sweats the details and, in the case of the golf balls, delivers them at prices below more-familiar brands.

As consumers become more focused on actual performance and less manipulated by hype, hyperbole, and the comfort of the familiar, companies like Vice will have a welcome role in reshaping the industry moving forward.

Embrace your Vice is the motto of Vice golf.

What started in 2012 has spread throughout the rest of Europe, into Australia, and now, the United States. Not bad for two guys who met surfing a river in Germany.

Rainer and Ingo have a grasp on Vice’s personality and the quality product to match. Given this, there’s no reason Vice Golf won’t continue to make noise – the kind of noise you hear when consumers shove a bunch of money back in their wallets.

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Chris Nickel

Chris Nickel

Chris Nickel

Chris is a self-diagnosed equipment and golf junkie with a penchant for top-shelf ice cream. When he's not coaching the local high school team, he's probably on the range or trying to keep up with his wife and seven beautiful daughters. Chris is based out of Fort Collins, CO and his neighbors believe long brown boxes are simply part of his porch decor. "Isn't it funny? The truth just sounds different."

Chris Nickel

Chris Nickel

Chris Nickel

Chris Nickel

Chris Nickel

Chris Nickel

Chris Nickel

Chris Nickel





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      Spider Dubiel

      4 years ago

      Its my understanding that the compression of the Vice Pro Soft is 65 , not 35.

      Reply

      Jason Day

      7 years ago

      Just bought one of their gloves also. It might be the best, softest glove I have ever owned!

      Reply

      Scott Spinler

      7 years ago

      I’m waiting for the vice pro plus to get back in stock, I plan on ordering some. I already ordered Snell and have some Ksigs from the first go around. I look forward to some head to head to head on -course testing!

      Reply

      Mike

      7 years ago

      I’ll certainly give MGS the benefit of the doubt at this point but this just reads like promotional copy. There’s a bad taste in my mouth.

      Reply

      Michael H. Sterzenbach

      7 years ago

      Got a sleeve as a give away at tournament last year, liked them a lot. Good feel at putting too. :-)

      Reply

      Veronique

      8 years ago

      Always amazing to see how gullible consumers are. Vice doesn’t put any engineering effort behind their balls…that’s a nice marketing myth. They are engineered by Foremost Golf in Taiwan (not Germany). If you talk to anyone that knows a thing or two about ball manufactures they are a mass producer (10m+) and not high quality. None of the Vice Balls has had any major technical updates since 2010. Hence they scuff a lot. The high quality manufactures are in Korea such as Volvik or Nassau. Nassau is the supplier of the Kirkland Costco Ball. If This blog is taken seriously you would expect a bit more research. But it works like all advertising …nice things are being said in exchange for money or in this case maybe balls.

      Reply

      Chris Nickel

      8 years ago

      Veronique – We do plenty of research – and clearly more than you realize. If a ball (or any piece of equipment) performs, what different does it ultimately make where it’s produced? This is exactly why we test using the parameters and processes we do – to make sure consumers have access to 100% unbiased information based on performance, not hype or subjective terms such as “high quality” –

      First, there’s the conversation of what is quantifiably different or better (loosely approximating quality) and then there’s the topic of whether or not this translates into any benefit for the end user. Maybe, maybe not. Thus far, there’s ample evidence Vice makes a ball which is easily the equal of other premium tour balls. That’s not up for debate.

      It’s clear you have your opinion and well informed, researched opinions are always welcome. That said, Vice was established in 2012 and operated as Flake prior to that – so to say Vice’s balls haven’t received any updates since 2010 is neither accurate nor possible.
      Finally, your last statement regarding some type of quid pro quo arrangement couldn’t be less accurate. MGS has never operated that way and never will. That said there’s plenty of sites which do – I’m sure you won’t have any problems finding one if that’s your flavor.

      Reply

      Veronique

      7 years ago

      Little bit of insider info…they bought the balls from Foremost 2010 as Flake as well as 2012 as Vice. It is the same ball Foremost has produced since 2010. There is no change. Anyone who wants to start a golf ball company can call Foremost and asked which model they have and how much it cost. Vice doesn’t send them some secret golf ball design and they make it. All Vice does is the packaging and the selling. Acushnet realized all these new golf ball companies used the same exact ball and sued for patent infringement. http://www.golfdigest.com/story/five-golf-ball-companies-named. Same ball – 2010, 2012 and 2017. The latest addition 4 layer urethane existed at Foremost around 2012 as well when others already sold it. Just ask them. Trust me …your research is not deep enough.

      Luggy Lee

      7 years ago

      If Foremost make the ball, then Vice sell it to the consumer then there is not cutting out a middle man. Same steps from production the end user as with Acushnet, Srixon and Bridgestone.

      Look down the satellite tours and highest amateur levels where many golfers are buying their own balls; no or little Vice presence.

      They have great marketing as is this article.

      Reply

      Dan

      8 years ago

      Just bought a combo pack, I think the Tour is the ball for me but why not try all of them to confirm. I’ve been playing a snell MTB so that will be my comparison ball since I love them on everything but my drives.

      Reply

      Ted

      8 years ago

      Been playing these balls for years now and absolutely love the performance and feel. I just wish they made the Pro Plus in Neon. I really like how it’s more of a tennis ball green than range ball yellow. Coming from the V1x, I still think the V1x outperfoms the Pro Plus, but not enough to justify the cost difference. I would strongly suggest anyone interested in playing a direct to consumer ball to give them a try. Ironically, I really like the logo as the font gives it a little bit of class, probably aimed to copy the Titleist script font. It’s probably one of the only reasons I stuck with Vice over Snell.

      Reply

      Helge

      8 years ago

      Hi Ted, the VICE PRO PLUS will be released in Neon color next week ;)

      Reply

      TopPakRat

      8 years ago

      Anyone notice the just released Golf Digest issue on ball rankings and performance? Vice was given a 4 out of 5 on performance. Much to my shock the Costco Kirkland KS ball was mentioned and tested. It received 5 out of 5 stars for performance with the comment it performs as well if not better than the premium $50.00 a dozen ball. Golf Digests words not mine. If it were not for MYGOLFSPY this would have never happened.. What is Titleist going to do now with their LEGAL challenges?

      Reply

      Data Junkie

      8 years ago

      Titleist will supply data. With all due respect, a Golf Digest 5 star rating really means nothing in terms of proof.

      Reply

      Chris C.

      8 years ago

      “Embrace your Vice” Was this the hashtag started by the Marquis de Sade? I find it more than a bit depressing that a marketing campaign befitting a line of sex toys has proven so successful selling golf equipment. Then again, I also did not appreciate the golf hats and head covers emblazoned with extended middle fingers which were shown at the PGA merchandise show. By all accounts, the products sold are first rate. I simply have no desire to celebrate and/or embrace an evil, wicked, immoral life style any more than I would show up at the first tee wearing a faux prison uniform while covering my head with an “F*** You” hat.

      Reply

      Dave S

      8 years ago

      Lets start with this:

      “I simply have no desire to celebrate and/or embrace an evil, wicked, immoral life style…”

      What in the ridiculous f*** are you talking about?? Where does Vice Golf promote or embrace an evil, wicked or immoral lifestyle? Do you realize the word “Vice” has multiple definitions? Considering Vice Golf is, well, a GOLF company, pretty sure they’re referring to the following one: “a habitual and usually trivial defect or shortcoming.” So, very clearly, the meaning behind the company name is to say that playing golf can be a person’s vice (which many people would agree with). I don’t do drugs, womanize, or otherwise engage in evil, wicked or immoral activities… but I do love golf… A LOT. Golf is my vice.

      But at the end of the day, if you want to continue to be an ignorant, self-righteous loser, spouting dumb platitudes from your soapbox, then just don’t buy the stuff. I certainly won’t care and I’m sure Vice Golf won’t either.

      Reply

      Chris C.

      8 years ago

      I respectfully recommend that you read the Vice site and reread the foregoing article. Vice is marketing a lifestyle as much as it is marketing golf equipment. This is nothing new. Titleist has done it for decades. The Vice Culture , as enunciated on Vice’s website, is “being bad is so good”. Now, l am not suggesting that Vice is promoting anything akin to the four most commonly understood uses of “vice” nor even “vitium”. I do believe that Vice is marketing itself as being just a little bit naughty. In that regard, perhaps they are not depressing. They are simply boorish. They also appear to be extremely astute businessmen. As an aside, have you purchased the “F*** You” hat.

      John

      8 years ago

      One of the attributes that should be covered in reviews is the durability of the ball. I play the Snell MTB and I really enjoy playing it. Performs as well, or better, than any other ball I’ve tried… tee to green. However, I do notice that it scuffs up fairly easily. Not sure if this affects performance, but it does come to mind when you take one out of the bag and notice a scuff on a dimple or two after one round.

      Reply

      Stevegp

      8 years ago

      Thanks for another interesting article. Well done. I have tried a few of the Vice balls and especially like the Vice Pro. However, I can’t wait to try the ProSoft, which may be a great ball for me.

      Reply

      Mark Brown

      8 years ago

      If they become a $1 billion company do they comply so willingly? Most likely not.

      Frankly, Billion dollar companies don’t need the fanfare from a tiny sector of budget conscious, deal-seeking enthusiasts.

      Guy just posted:
      ‘Use this coupon for FREE balls’

      You know as well as I do don’t do anybody any good except the guy who gets free balls.

      One of the primary reasons the equipment industry is on its ass.

      Reply

      John Sears

      8 years ago

      The putting alignment print is awesome on Vice Golf. For a sport where seemingly everyone draws a line on the ball, why on earth is only Vice doing it right? If i made golf balls, they’d have a fatty long alignment aid printed on them.

      Reply

      Andrew

      8 years ago

      Hopefully I can have a look at these and other direct to consumer balls- does Nicklaus still sell the Blacks? Also I’d love to try the gloves, but there is no cadet sizing, and I’m what you’d call “very cadet” does anyone have experience with the sizing on these?

      Reply

      Chris Boker

      8 years ago

      Vice

      Reply

      Stephen Jordan

      8 years ago

      They offer a premium quality golf ball for budget ball prices. Plenty of reason to promote them.

      Reply

      Chris C.

      8 years ago

      Does Vice actually make anything or are the two lawyers simply good marketers?

      Reply

      Richard Rebugio

      8 years ago

      K-Sig

      Reply

      Dustin Wells

      8 years ago

      Great article! Balls Glove Bag

      Reply

      Brennan Gregory

      8 years ago

      Landon Gregory, Cameron Gregory, Tommy Thornburgh, Steve Layton

      Reply

      Justin Schiele

      8 years ago

      I like the Vice Pro. Bought two of their gloves and the stitching failed on one. Will try the other one and see how it holds up. Super comfy, I just question the quality at the moment.

      Reply

      Mark Vukovich

      8 years ago

      Sorry to hear that. I have gone through about 20 gloves. I play 6 daya a week or more. I have never had the stitching fail. Let me know if you have additional problems.

      Reply

      Justin Schiele

      8 years ago

      Will do, I’m going to start using the other glove purchased next week.

      Reply

      Ned Abernathy

      8 years ago

      I spent 35 years in the golf business working for two of the large golf ball companies. I knew costs. Snell and Vice are making a good margins on the ball. Yes, if you want to cut out the middle guy (retailer) you can save some money. But to me, the Green grass shops drive the game we love. They also stand behind what they sell. To me that spells value. I will spend a couple more bucks and support guys that support the game and their customers. Also, knowing how balls are tested and approved by the USGA they are equal if you are talking apples to apples. Meaning, soft ball to soft ball and Tour ball to tour ball. Tell the consumer to find the ball that works best for him and stick with it. He’ll save a lot of money in the long run. Appreciate My Golf Spy’s work. Ned

      Reply

      Brink Naile

      8 years ago

      I play the vice pro. I used to play titleist velocity (didn’t like pro v’s they were too soft off the tee) and I really like the vice pro. Good spin around the green and firm off the tee. Can’t beat that

      Reply

      Brink Naile

      8 years ago

      My swing speed is around 110 with driver. This ball is definitely worth a try! I’ve played 3 round with them and they seem to hold up well too

      Reply

      Mark Vukovich

      8 years ago

      There is a new vice ball hasnt veen released just yet. I think youre gonna love it.

      Reply

      Chris Landry

      8 years ago

      Man, what a fantastic article about a seriously awesome brand. I have been playing vice exclusively for about a year and can’t say enough good things about their products. Quality is the best word to describe it. Pro Tip: If you want some free balls on top of your order, use promo code VICEBRLA at checkout.

      Reply

      Mark Vukovich

      8 years ago

      Or my code.

      Reply

      Heath

      7 years ago

      Awesome balls. They have saved me money and perform to what I expect out of a ball. It is a choice and like you I choose Vice golf balls. Played the same ball for 3 rounds ball was flawless until I had a mis hit not the balls fault. I bought 10 dozen for the summer and given several away to friends to bring them to the priced right side of golf balls

      Tom Riker

      8 years ago

      These are great golf balls and very similar to the Q Star honestly. It ends up coming down to preference. They are also far superior to the current Snell MTB in my opinion. I have played the Q Star, Z Star, Chrome Soft, Vice Pro and Pro Plus and right now, for my game, the Q Star and Vice Pro Plus are easily the balls I like the best. I spin the ball a lot so these are great.

      Reply

      Martin Quinn

      8 years ago

      At the end of the day Vice balls are as good as Prov’s and half the price. I’m happy that Golfspy educate us on FB.

      Reply

      Mark

      8 years ago

      Just seems My Golf Spy would like to see retailers like me go under. Pushing all the direct to consumer stuff and costco like its the second coming of Christ. We don’t make a lot from Golf balls, but when people come in they buy clothes and others stuff. Be careful for what you wish for. Have fun going and buying a box set from Costco when all the retailers fold, or just go to Dicks who can not make money on golf and still be open. We bust our butt to try and be competitive and provide great customer service and I think our fittings are better than most, spend up to 2 hours for no charge with a customer. There will always be a need for guys like us, but what would a snell or Vice ball have to sell for if they sold at retail? 44 bucks? We employ 12 People and do a ton in our community for junior golf, maybe we are the big bag guys too huh?

      Reply

      Chris Nickel

      8 years ago

      Mark,

      If something’s concerning it’s your myopic approach to this conversation. Nobody is suggesting you’re a “bad guy” but I’m glad to hear you give back to your community and support junior golf. I wish more golf establishments would do that.

      We push performance, not hype and marketing. If that product is a $99 Cleveland putter, ball that costs $15 dozen, or a $500 driver, and it performs, that story is going to be told. Look at our “Most Wanted” testing as a prime example. We play no favorites.

      What consumers decide to do with that information is entirely up to them. We can yell and scream and give all of the evidence we want showing how important it is to be fit and yet, there will always be those who don’t believe it, say they cost too much or just do the trial/error self-fit approach – and typically to their own detriment.

      Regarding Vice specifically, if a consumer can buy a dozen balls, which perform as well (or better) than what they can buy in your store (or any other retail outlet) for essentially your wholesale cost, they should have that option. As I’m sure you’re aware, if they want to buy 5 dozen, that drops the cost to $25/dozen. That’s the beauty of a market based economy. Consumers have choice and no doubt, many will choose to support their local club, green grass account, etc. Again, it’s about choice and choice based on accurate, unbiased information.

      I have no idea what type of retailer you are, but you appear to be a small shop and if you want to blame someone, you should first look at the large OEM’s and the big box stores. Once that volume model became the standard, it put people like you at a severe disadvantage. Exclusivity requirements on ball sales are another example of the limitations placed on your by outside agencies. I know we’ve covered this topic in several articles before, but it has nothing to do with what any of us would “like” to see happen. It’s a function of how the economics play out given a certain set of circumstances.

      The reality is, golf (like other industries) is cyclical and that means there will be both expansion and contraction. Right now, we’re more in the contraction phase and whether we like it or not, that’s probably healthy for the industry overall. I’m not suggesting that smaller operations can’t offer some elements of service which the big box stores can’t, but longevity is in part a function of adaptability.

      Beyond the hyperbolic doomsday scenario, what grinds my gears are people who complain about problems, yet don’t see the value in trying to solve them. Our local green grass account is a great example as they’re in a similar position to you, although they employ more like 8-10 people. They get the reality of what’s changing and they’re adapting the business model to reflect that. Several other shops haven’t made it, but they have because they continue to find ways to bring value to consumers – and value which they’re willing to pay for. Hopefully your operation can do the same. Best of luck.

      Reply

      Mark

      8 years ago

      We are a medium size retail establishment. You fail to answer the question though? Why aren’t we just as mad at Vice or Snell for making a profit as we are at Titleist and others? This site continues to push smaller named companies, which I think is a good thing, although one could question the approach of only small companies paying for advertising and they always seem to end up high on the list of performance, although I am willing to trust this sites integrity. You also fail to see my big picture. Shops like mine, and i have also run much bigger independent golf shops, that do in the 4-6 million dollar range of sales, are going away and that kind of contraction is not good for anyone. We have PGA Professionals giving fittings using state of the art equipment and we all make a decent living. Imagine if Callaway sold direct to consumers for the same price they sell to me? Goodbye golf shop, yet you complain they charge too much and applaud companies for skipping middle men. Prices of golf equipment have basically stayed the same for the last 16 years.. If you like I can send you my copy of a golfsmith catalog I saved because Payne stewart was on the cover.. Callaway Driver.. 399.99, irons, 799.99 titanium irons 1299.99, professionals 48.00, maxfli revolution 39.99…. hmmmmm seems it hasn’t gone crazy.. care to argue that point???? R7 Quad 499.99, ERC fusion 499.99 10+ years ago.. Why all the complaining about how expensive golf has become on the equipment side and that all these companies are jacking the public around? I’ve posted about the price issue many times in articles and have yet to have anyone even try and combat that. I am all ears.

      Darin

      8 years ago

      Yes. Competition is bad. Whatever…

      Reply

      Mark

      8 years ago

      So 34.99 a dozen without a middle man retailer???? Why aren’t we complaining that they are gouging the consumer? I make about 10 dollars a dozen on pro V1, about 12 or 13 on chrome soft and bridgestone as the middle man.. So that means we are buying balls from an evil company at about the same price or a bit lower than what Vice and snell sell to consumers yet we applaud them?? Not sure I follow the logic completely. Basically Vice sells the balls to consumers for about the same or a bit more than a retailer can buy pro V/Chrome Soft/B330 and a few others. So how does this make the big bad ball manufacturer such a jerk. Business is in business to make a profit, they aren’t non profit organizations. Does titleist make more per dozen pro V1 than Vice does on their balls, probably, but once again, thats what they are in business for.

      Reply

      xjohnx

      8 years ago

      I don’t care who you and what product you are trying to make. If you can enter the golf business in this era and sustain (or even grow!) for a few years, and make a buzz like this, you’re doing something exceptional. I have not tried their balls but have a huge amount of respect for brands like Vice. Cheers to them!

      Reply

      John Diamantakis

      8 years ago

      Try the Snell MTB! As good as any ball made today

      Reply

      Rob Nieth

      8 years ago

      I haven’t tried the balls yet but just received the Vice Pure gloves I ordered. My first impression is that they feel and fit like the high end Titleist glove.

      Reply

      P.J. Evans

      8 years ago

      Vice’s logo looks feminine. Yes, people say if it performs, they’ll play it. But, if it looks like a lady’s ball – then a majority of them won’t.
      Yes, I have male friends who play Crystal golf balls, but not many of them. Yes, I have guy friends who play from the red tee’s, but again – not many of them. If you don’t think ego comes into it, I totally disagree. I think Vice would do well to change the logo, somewhat. It doesn’t need to be flashy, something simple will do.
      Just my two cents…

      Reply

      MyGolfSpy

      8 years ago

      Never heard that before. Actually I have most golfers telling us not only do they like their logo but that is one of the main reasons they are attracted to the brand. But looks and logos are subjective.

      Reply

      Brendan

      8 years ago

      The logo is very nice. I think it ties the line of modern and classic styling perfectly. I hadn’t considered it feminine at all.

      I personally love the look of their bags but find them a little over priced, but, I can see some genuine added quality in their design and choice materials. Their choice of colour schemes seem to fit with the branding and create a very Clem, modern feel.

      George Hanson

      8 years ago

      “…it seems unlikely that Costco will be able to reproduce the current K-Sig or anything like it for the foreseeable future, and almost certainly not for $15 a dozen.”

      http://mygolfspy.com/costco-suspends-k-sig-production/

      LOL…picked up 6-dozen at the local store today, $14.995/doz, $89.97+tax for 6-dozen.

      Vice & Mark both better start working on Plan B…

      Chris Nickel

      8 years ago

      What people like to look at is entirely subjective, but personally I don’t see the logo as particularly feminine. Others may feel differently, but that’s thus far not the typical response.

      Ego certainly can play a role in what people decide to buy and I get that. However, if anything, that suggests how important it is for people to have access to unbiased information, so at least they’re fully aware when making an ego-based decision.

      Reply

      Steven Hotmar

      8 years ago

      Brandon Martin

      Reply

      Mike Arnold

      8 years ago

      I agree but you seem to promote Vice a awful lot.

      Reply

      MyGolf Spy

      8 years ago

      Once again, 100% false. We have never written a single article about Vice, ever. Instead of just commenting, do your homework first. Thanks!

      Reply

      Cody Greenwaldt

      8 years ago

      Reply

      MyGolf Spy

      8 years ago

      Cody Greenwaldt Thats called a Facebook post not an article.

      Reply

      Cody Greenwaldt

      8 years ago

      Nice try – Mike Arnold did not limit his comment to articles only

      Reply

      MyGolf Spy

      8 years ago

      If you followed along and know what that was about it was not a promotion at all for Vice. It was Hank Haney and Breed calling us out for saying that Titleist balls were superior. They wanted examples of other balls that tested better. This was that data. Nice try.

      Reply

      Greg Eckels

      8 years ago

      What a douchey response from mygolfspy to the original poster. I’ll respond in the manner mygolfspy writes in: the original poster said it seems like you promote Vice. Not that you actually do. It was his impression. Use reading comprehension next time. Thanks!

      Reply

      Greg Eckels

      8 years ago

      You could have responded by saying that reporting superior results is not specific promotion. It’s just the results and one brand, in this case Vice, has been doing well.

      Reply

      Aaron Moon

      8 years ago

      Nice trys everyone.

      Reply

      Nevets Soriedem

      8 years ago

      They are Snell fans that’s for sure

      Reply

      Mike Arnold

      8 years ago

      Nothing wrong with being a fan of anything good.

      Reply

      Mark Vukovich

      8 years ago

      As a tour pro I can vouch that the VICE golf is everything is ut hyped to be.

      Reply

      Matthew Dumanski

      8 years ago

      What tour would that be??

      Reply

      Mike Arnold

      8 years ago

      In his mind.

      Reply

      Gary McCandless

      8 years ago

      Love this company, can’t wait to try ProSoft

      Reply

      Scott Romines

      8 years ago

      really want to try their new ProSoft, waiting to see how the MGS forum testing comes out

      Reply

      Jerry

      8 years ago

      Just back from a Florida golf getaway where I played Abacoa, Madison Green, and Crandon Golf. My brother gave me two sleeves of Vice balls. This very anecdotal test had me enjoy the ball with little notable gains or loss in any area of performance. On the third day I mixed in my Pro V1’s and thought they spun a tad better around greens and higher ball flight and had a crisper sound when struck. I guess bottom line the Vice ball is a ball I would play. Now consider I played a few days ago in Jersey and am scheduled to play in Boston on Sunday, weather depending. So getting my hands on Vice balls while traveling is an issue. This always comes down to price vs convenience. I can generally find Pro V’s on sale (Practice/X-Outs) so buying Vice Off the web is an added step. I still haven’t found Kirkland balls so can’t say if I like them.

      Reply

      Eric

      8 years ago

      I’m from NY and have been using VICE for a while. Balls & their glove. Incredible quality, refreshing design features, but the pricing & customer service seals the deal. VICE starts discounting as you buy extra packs, and despite the balls coming from Germany, I’ve received them in time for weekend rounds.

      Reply

      Chris Nickel

      8 years ago

      My understanding is they have distribution set up to be able to reach the delivery areas in 2-5 days. This doesn’t set up well for the guy who is always buying whatever the course/local store has in stock, but there’s plenty of people who will order several dozen at a time and stock up.

      Reply

      Eron

      8 years ago

      Loved the glove! It held up really well and fit great. I would compare it with the titleist players glove or Footjoys stasof- maybe a little thicker? It doesn’t stretch out like those two after a couple of rounds though.

      Reply

      John

      8 years ago

      Would love to try these, but the ball I want is sold out already. Something to consider adding into your story is the problem with getting these great balls when you want them. The big boys always have a box at the local golf store.

      Reply

      Chris Nickel

      8 years ago

      Which ball? I’m sure they’d love the feedback.

      Reply

      Tom Harris

      8 years ago

      I bought some of the Vice balls last season (2016). They had a “sample pack” of all of their offerings and so I purchased two dozen. Prior to this I had been a Snell (MTB) convert since I like the feel of the more expensive ‘tour’ balls. (Pro V & the 330’s) and the Snell had the same performance and feel for a lot less money. After using the Vice balls, I felt that the Pro and the Pro+ were very comparable to the Snell and the other more expensive balls. I didn’t like the feel of Vice’s Tour or Drive balls, they were similar to Snell’s GetSum; a bit too hard for my taste. After playing with these balls, I have become a Vice convert as well. I still will play the Snell but also the Vice. Both are bargains from my perspective.

      Reply

      steve s

      8 years ago

      1. This looks like a sales pitch for Vice.
      2. I don’t mind sales pitches for lesser known brands that produce quality stuff at lower prices than the “big boys/girls”.

      I will try Vice and Snell after I use up my dozen Pro V’s and 2 dozen Ksigs(unless they come back) because I believe in supporting the smaller players, especially when their price point saves me money. I also believe in saving a lot of money which is why I’ll buy more Ksigs if they come back.

      Reply

      Robert

      8 years ago

      Thanks for the intel. I’ll stay with my Wilson Elite 50. Perfect for my 63 year old swing. Keep up the great work MGS

      Reply

      Chris Nickel

      8 years ago

      Steve – Thanks for reading the article. To me a sales pitch lacks objectivity and can be overly narrow in focus. The manner in which we test and reach conclusions is entirely objective. The truth of the matter is Vice has really impressed us with the quality of what they produce – in particular the balls, bags and gloves.

      Anytime we can spotlight a company which can offer this type of benefit to consumers, we’re going to do that. Ultimately it’s about you and making sure you have access to unbiased, researched and quality information.

      Reply

      Mbwa Kali Sana

      8 years ago

      Just another golf ball company .If it’s only to gain a very small distance and save a few cents ,what’s the use and the interest ?
      I play the SNELL MY TOUR balls recommended by GOLF SPY X :they are good enough for me so why should I change for these VICE balls .
      Then there’s SRIXON who comes out with a new ball -the “Q” ball canvassed as superior to the others.
      I never lose any balls (Handicap 7 )so I change them only when they get scuffed (The cover of the MY TOUR SNELL balls are fragile ,by the way !)

      Reply

      Sharkhark

      8 years ago

      I’m Canadian and The usa dollar exchange makes it no go for me. I can buy premium balls various brands on sale and the cost savings aren’t there once the exchange and shipping is factored in. I’m not ordering more than I need just to get some small savings.

      Reply

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