I remember a sunny afternoon on the 18th hole, the game tied, and everything came down to the final putt. As I reached into my golf bag, I was faced with a choice: the TaylorMade TP5 or the TP5x. It was in that moment of indecision that I realized just how pivotal the right golf ball can be.
From the early days of my golfing journey, the quest for the perfect ball has been both a passion and a challenge. The vast sea of options often left me overwhelmed, but two particular ones consistently stood out: the TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x.
Both have been lauded by amateurs and professionals, each claiming its unique advantages. But what truly sets them apart? Is it the trajectory, the feel on the green, or perhaps the way they respond to a powerful drive?
As I’ve experimented with both, I’ve discovered nuances that might just make all the difference in those clutch moments on the course.
Composition and Design
Golf balls are made up of several layers each of them with a different purpose. The outermost layer, known as the cover, is typically made of either surlyn or urethane.
Surlyn, popular and common in but a few industries outside of golf is a type of thermoplastic that is durable and provides a good amount of spin. Urethane is a much more widespread material. It is softer and it provides a better feel and control.
The middle layer is known as the mantle and is made of materials such as rubber or ionomer. This middle part is responsible for controlling the spin and it adds distance. The core, which is located at the very center, is typically made of rubber or synthetic materials and it is responsible for determining the compression.
This affects the ball’s distance and feel. As you can see, there is much more to it than what initially meets the eye. A lot of thought and planning goes into design.
Through History
Golf balls have come a long way since their earliest days. The entire sport has evolved tremendously so they had to follow suit. The first ones were made entirely from wood, just like the clubs. They were used in Scotland in the 17th century when the sport started to take off.
These balls were handmade and were not very durable, often breaking apart after just a few holes. They also took a long time to make due to the limited technology and skill of those responsible.
In the 19th century, they began to be made from gutta-percha, a type of rubber that was durable and had good bounce, both very important traits for something that needs to be hit. This led to the development of the first standardized variant, which became known as the gutty.
The gutty was used until the early 20th century when it was replaced by the Haskell ball. This legendary ball was made from a rubber core surrounded by multiple layers of thread and gutta-percha.
During the middle of the 20th century, they were made with synthetic materials as they were more and more available. This is when the Balata and Surlyn came into the picture, materials that allowed for greater control and consistency.
The change led to the development of the modern variant we all know and love today. Quite a long and interesting history for something that familiar and common, right?
Different Variants
There are several types of golf balls worth knowing about. Of course, each of them is designed for a different purpose in the sport, and not all are mutually interchangeable.
- Distance are designed for maximum distance, obviously, and are typically made with a hard outer layer and a large, high-compression core. This allows them to travel further and to survive being hit stronger.
- Multi-layer combine the features of distance and spin balls into a hybrid that takes the best of both worlds. These are designed for players who want both distance and control, but not too much of either.
They are an essential part of the game of golf, and have come a long way since their earliest days. Today, in the modern iteration of the game, they are made with advanced materials and technologies in order to give golfers a better playing performance.
On the other side, they are designed to suit the needs and preferences of all types of players regardless of what they enjoy, want, or need. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, choosing the right one can make a big difference in your game. Luckily, the choice is quite diverse.
The TaylorMade Golfing Brand
TaylorMade is a very well-known golf brand that has been producing high-quality golf equipment for almost half a century, since 1979. The company was founded by Gary Adams who created the first metal wood club. Before that, they were exclusively made from, well, wood.
Metal woods quickly became popular among golfers due to their increased distance and durability so naturally, Adams went further. He changed the sport once so of course his company could do it again.
TaylorMade’s golf balls are widely recognized and well-known for their superb performance and innovation. The company offers a wide range to suit very different player preferences and skill levels.
For example, their most popular products, the TP5, and the TP5x are designed for players who want maximum distance and control. On the other hand, their Tour Response golf ball is designed for players who want a softer feel and better spin control around the greens.
TaylorMade and its balls are also known for their use of advanced technologies. They have made some of them their staples, like the “Speed Layer System” that maximizes ball speed and distance, or the “High-Flex Material” that provides better control and spin.
In addition to these advancements, the company’s products are a favorite of many professional golfers on the PGA Tour, a testament to their quality and performance.
Overall, the brand is a very respected and trusted name in the business that offers a wide range of high-quality, but also other equipment. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, TaylorMade has a golf ball that can help you take your game to the next level. You are in good hands whenever you choose to pick one of their products.
The TP5 VS TP5X
The TP5 and TP5x are two of TaylorMade’s most popular and advanced ones. The fact that they are so similarly named only adds to their fame and widespread success, so let us talk in-depth about their differences. Following is an overview of their features, uses, and main differences.
Features and Differences
Both the TP5 and TP5x are designed with 5 layers. The 5-layer construction is what the “5” in their names stands for. Such a design allows for different materials and technologies to be used in each layer maximizing the performance across a range of different shots. This already makes them a great option for any golfer.
The outer layer of both balls is made from a soft cast urethane cover that provides a great feel and control around the greens and all the way into the holes. The inner layers are made from high-flex modulus and tri-fast core, materials that provide increased speed, reduced spin, and better distance.
Again, all top-of-the-line features that a high-quality one should have.
The main difference between the TP5 and TP5x is their compression. The TP5 has a lower compression than the TP5x, which means it is softer and provides more spin.
The TP5x has a higher compression, which means it is firmer and provides more distance. So if you want increased spin and do not need distance, pick the one without the X in the name. For firmness and more distance, go with the X.
In addition to their different compressions, the TP5 and TP5x also have different dimple patterns. The TP5x has a more aerodynamic dimple pattern that helps it to reduce drag and increase distance.
It is all about distance after all so the extra aerodynamics make sense. On the other hand, the TP5 has a softer and more responsive feel that the TP5x lacks since it aims to provide increased speeds and longer shots.
The Pros and Cons
It is often customary to give the positives and negatives whenever there is a debate to be settled and when differences need to be explained in detail. The rundown of the benefits and drawbacks is also a great way to quickly and effectively choose between the two options and realize what it is you truly need.
First, let us take a look at TP5.
- Soft and responsive feel
- Lower compression
- Tri-Fast core technology
- More affordable
- Does not provide as much distance
- Not so suitable for players with high swing speeds
- Now that we know these, we should take a look at TP5x
- Firmer feel and higher compression
- The aerodynamic dimple pattern
- More distance and improved performance
- Suitable for players with high swing speeds
- Not suitable for players who want extra spin
- These might be expensive
- Does not offer as much control and spin
It is very important to point out that the choice ultimately depends on the player’s individual preferences and needs, as well as what they want to achieve on the course. Golfers who prioritize feel and spin will definitely want the TP5 while those who want distance should pick the TP5x.
Testing both balls is highly recommended in order to see which one works best for your game. Players who do not want spin/feel not distance should not stress about picking a specific one. Either will do because they are both high-quality.
Is Using Both a Viable Option?
Of course, you can also use both during the same round of 18 holes. But is it a good idea? Yes, it is possible to use both the TP5 and TP5x and many players do it? Some golfers choose to switch between the two balls depending on the specific shot or situation they are facing on the course.
For example, a golfer might choose the TP5 for approach shots and chips around the green where they need more spin and control in order to get near the hole easier. Then, they could switch to the TP5x for tee shots and long approaches with the next hole where they need more distance at first.
The key is understanding the differences between the two balls and how they perform for your game. Just like you use different clubs at different stages, having those that specialize in certain moments is always a benefit.
Test it out yourself by bringing both balls and using them accordingly, in different situations on the course, and see the results. You can then make a decision on which one to use in different situations and whether or not you even need to pick between the two.
Ultimately, the goal is to use the one that helps you play your best golf and gives you the best chance to score well and win. If that means using a combination of the TP5 and TP5x, then go for it. If it means always sticking with one, that is perfectly fine too!
Stars Who Use Them
Many professional golfers use the TP5 and TP5x golf balls on the PGA Tour. The TP5 is used by none other than Rory McIlroy, a four-time major champion and a TaylorMade staff player since 2017. He still uses it today. Dustin Johnson is the former world number one and another TaylorMade staff player.
He has been involved with the brand since 2016 and currently uses the TP5 ball. Five-time European Tour winner Tommy Fleetwood has been a TaylorMade staff player since 2018 and he also currently uses the TP5 ball.
When it comes to the TP5x, it is the favorite of Jon Rahm, the current world number one. He has been a TaylorMade staff player since 2017. Collin Morikawa, two-time major champ, uses it too.
He has been involved with the brand since 2019. Matthew Wolff is another star whose preference is the TP5x. The rising star of the PGA Tour has been with the brand ever since he went pro in 2019.
FAQ
Can I customize my TP5 or TP5x golf balls?
Yes, TaylorMade offers customization options for both balls, allowing players to add logos, text, or other personal touches.
Where can I purchase the TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x golf balls?
Both balls are available at major sporting goods stores, golf specialty shops, and online retailers.
How do the TP5 and TP5x perform in windy conditions?
Both balls perform well in windy conditions, but the TP5x, with its reduced spin on long shots, might be slightly more stable in strong winds.
How do these perform in wet conditions?
Both balls are designed to maintain performance in wet conditions, but the softer cover of the TP5 might offer a slight advantage in terms of grip on wet greens.
Is there a significant difference in the sound or feel off the clubface between the two balls?
The TP5 tends to produce a softer sound and feel due to its lower compression, while the TP5x has a firmer feedback, especially on well-struck shots.
The Bottom Line
As I stand on the tee, reflecting on my journey comparing the TaylorMade TP5 and TP5x, I realize that golf, much like life, is all about finding what works best for you. Both balls have their merits, with the TP5 offering a certain feel and control, while the TP5x boasts of its distance and resilience.
But at the end of the day, it’s not just about the specifications or the accolades; it’s about how it complements your unique swing and style. For some, the TP5 might be the key to those precise short games, while others might find the TP5x to be their trusted ally on long drives.
My advice? Give both a shot. Feel them, play with them, and let your experience guide your choice. Because in golf, as in life, it’s the personal touches and preferences that make all the difference.
Sumayya Parrish, a golf aficionado and wordsmith extraordinaire, brings her wit and wisdom to the fairways of FloridaEliteGolfTour.com. Known for her uncanny ability to turn a bogey into a birdie with her humor, she serves up engaging content that keeps readers chuckling even when their golf game has them crying.
