GEAR: Titleist Pro V1 RCT, Pro V1x RCT
PRICE: $64.99 per dozen
SPECS: Three-piece urethane-covered ball (Pro V1) and Four-piece urethane-covered ball (Pro V1x) with radar reflective elements
AVAILABLE: November 3
TrackMan has been one of the most popular brands of radar-based launch monitors for years because its devices are extremely accurate and easy to use. Titleist’s Pro V1 and ProV1x golf balls have been the most-played balls on every professional tour for nearly two decades, as well as the most popular ball among recreational golfers. Now, TrackMan and Titleist have worked together to develop versions of the Pro V1 and Pro V1x that are made to work indoors in golf simulators and hitting bays, the Pro V1 RCT and Pro V1x RCT.
The RCT stands for radar reflective marker. It is a technology designed to allow a TrackMan launch monitor to measure the spin rate of shots hit indoors more efficiently and accurately. Ordinarily, fitters attach small silver stickers to a golf ball to measure the spin rate of a shot in an indoor environment. Then players must be sure the stickers are positioned to allow the launch monitor to see them. By measuring the distance and position of the stickers at different times during the first instants after impact, TrackMan can determine the spin rate.
However, the Pro V1 RCT and Pro V1x RCT are designed with a unique printed, silver-toned layer on top of the casing layer of each ball. You can’t see it because it is under the urethane cover, but the TrackMan detects it regardless of how the ball is oriented on the ground before the player hits the shot. Titleist claims that the reflective layer creates 99 percent spin accuracy for TrackMan. That will make things much easier for players and fitters alike.
According to Titleist, the Pro V1 RCT and Pro V1x RCT feel and perform exactly like standard Pro V1 and Pro V1x balls. The Pro V1 has a large core inside a casing layer and is designed to fly lower and generate slightly less driver and long-iron spin than the dual-core, four-piece Pro V1x. The Pro V1x is Titleist’s highest-flying, highest-spinning premium ball. According to the company, if you played a Pro V1 RCT or Pro V1x RCT, you would not notice any difference aside from the unique side stamp.
Titleist understands that this is not going to be a big-selling ball. Still, for fitters trying to help golfers find new clubs at indoor facilities, it could go a long way in replicating outdoor conditions and performance. For teaching pros who work with clients inside during the winter season, it could also be helpful.
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