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June 12, 2025

The Ball That Spins Like a Pro V1 (But Costs Less)

Want Pro V1-level spin without the $55 price tag? We tested some surprising alternatives that deliver serious short game control — for half the cost.

J

John Williams

Golf Equipment Expert

We all know the Titleist Pro V1 is the gold standard in golf balls — soft feel, consistent flight, and elite short game spin. But it also costs around $55 a dozen, which adds up fast, especially if you're not sponsored by Titleist.

So… what if you could get Pro V1-level spin and short game control for $20–$35 less per box?

I’ve tested dozens of golf balls, both on-course and with a launch monitor, and there are a few that come shockingly close in feel, spin, and consistency, without blowing your budget.

If you want a ball that checks most of the same boxes as the Pro V1, here are the top contenders worth switching to.


🛑 What Makes the Pro V1 Spin So Well?

Before comparing alternatives, here’s what gives the Pro V1 its legendary short game performance:

  • Cast urethane cover – softer and grippier than ionomer

  • 3-piece construction – optimized for greenside control + distance balance

  • High friction on wedges – helps grab grooves for more check

So to match it, you’re looking for a urethane-covered ball with solid short-game data, not just claims.


🥇 Best Pro V1 Alternatives for Spin (And Why)

🔵 1. Maxfli Tour / Maxfli Tour X

Price: ~$35/dozen Spin Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

These balls have been absolutely crushing it in independent testing. According to MyGolfSpy’s ball test, the Maxfli Tour family actually beats the Pro V1 in greenside spin in some scenarios, especially the Tour X model.

  • Cast urethane cover

  • Nearly identical short-game spin numbers to Pro V1

  • Slightly firmer feel, but still responsive

  • Bonus: available at Dick’s/Golf Galaxy, often on sale

Buy Maxfli Tour X on Amazon


🔵 2. Vice Pro

Price: ~$35/dozen (cheaper in bulk) Spin Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

The Vice Pro feels eerily similar to the Pro V1. Urethane cover, 3-piece build, and a soft-but-snappy short game feel.

  • Good wedge spin numbers

  • Stylish branding and packaging

  • You can buy directly from their site in 5-dozen bulk packs for ~$29/dozen

Buy Vice Pro on Amazon


🔵 3. Kirkland Signature V3

Price: ~$24/dozen Spin Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Costco’s 3-piece V3 urethane ball has one of the best price-to-performance ratios out there. While it may not match the Pro V1 in consistency, it’s shockingly spinny on chip shots and pitches.

  • Tour-level spin for 50% of the price

  • Slight durability concerns, but great for casual players

  • You can’t beat it for the price

Buy Kirkland Signature V3 on Amazon


🎯 Who Should Still Stick with the Pro V1?

There are a few reasons to stick with the original:

  • You want the tightest dispersion and consistency

  • You play in the wind and need that penetrating flight

  • You’re a low handicap or competitive player who depends on touch

But if you’re looking to save money without giving up feel or greenside spin, the alternatives above offer 80–95% of the performance for 60% of the price.


If you're still unsure, take our What’s My Golf Ball? Quiz — we built it specifically to match golfers to balls based on their game, not just hype.

What's My Golf Ball is an Amazon Associate and earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Product recommendations are based on our testing and research.