TaylorMade revolutionized the way golfers think about Tour performance golf balls with the TP5 and TP5x models, the unique 5-layer golf ball. That innovation continues with the 2021 version of the TP5 and TP5x golf balls. Now in their third generation, TaylorMade utilizes unique features in each golf ball to set them apart from the pack. TGW’s review team takes you inside the latest technology and shows you just how they perform in our exclusive video.
TaylorMade 2021 TP5 & TP5x Golf Ball Review
Technology
The TaylorMade 2021 TP5 golf balls start with a larger, more reactive Tri-fast core. This core design lowers the compression of the TP5 model to produce a higher launch angle and less drag. TaylorMade then includes their Dual-Spin cover designed to increase interaction with the grooves on irons and wedges for more spin and control around the greens. The TP5 golf ball is designed to be more workable with a mid trajectory. It also boasts a softer feel and higher wedge spin.
The TaylorMade 2021 TP5X golf balls feature a smaller Tri-fast core as well as the Dual-Spin cover. However, the cover on the TP5x is made with a new softer cast urethane material. The TP5x golf ball is also different in that it includes four layers of increasingly stiff High Flex Material, This High Flex Material, or HFM as TaylorMade calls it, increases ball speed with greater rebound and spring-like effect at impact. HFM improves energy transfer through the ball for more speed by acting as a stiff spring when compressed. The TP5x model is designed to produce a higher ball flight with a soft feel and high wedge spin.
Both the TP5 and TP5x golf balls feature TaylorMade’s new 322 seamless Tour Flight dimple pattern. Designed to improve aerodynamics and maximize carry distance, this dimple pattern features two series of dimples of different depths. The shallower dimples reduce drag as the ball rises in the air while the steeper dimples maintain lift as the ball descends. Also, an improved cast urethane compound cover and paint formula increase durability to show less wear and maintain performance shot after shot.
Performance
We tested the performance of the TaylorMade 2021 TP5 and TP5x golf balls with the help of Rick Hatfield. Rick is TGW’s resident golf pro and product expert. Rick hit shots with each golf ball using a driver, a 7-iron, and a wedge from about 65 yards from the green.
Starting with the wedge, Rick hit what he described as a three-quarter shot from about 65 yards. The reason for this was to determine the spin in close to the green where the numbers may vary, instead of a full wedge shot where a ball will offer plenty of spin. Rick noticed an increase in spin of 400 rpm for the TP5 versus the TP5x. While the TP5 did produce a little bit higher spin rate, Rick also noted it felt softer on the wedge shots as well.
Next was the 7-iron test. Rick noticed an increase in ball speed of 2-3 mph over his traditional golf ball with both the TP5 and TP5x. That equated to about 3 yards more distance. As with the wedge, when compared next to each other, the TP5 did produce about 150 rpm more in spin than the TP5x.
In the driver test, Rick described both the TP5 and TP5x golf balls as very fast. He did note the TP5x was about 1 mph faster than the TP5. The spin rates were also consistent with the rest of our testing. The TP5x produced an average spin rate that was 500 rpm less than the TP5.
Who It’s For
The TaylorMade 2021 TP5 and TP5x golf balls both fit into the Tour performance golf ball category. They are the only Tour performance golf balls with a 5-layer construction. The TaylorMade TP5 is a good fit for a golfer who prefers a softer golf ball and wants more spin and control in the short game. The TaylorMade TP5x is a better fit for a player who wants more speed and distance with higher ball flight but still wants plenty of soft feel and spin in the short game.
TaylorMade 2021 TP5 Golf Balls
TaylorMade 2021 TP5x Golf Balls
