What is the origin of the Titleist process?
The word process is deeply embedded in our DNA. Our founder, Phil Young owned a business he called the Acushnet Process Company. One Sunday back in 1932 he missed a well-stroked putt in a match with his friend. After determining it was the ball that was at fault he went to work. As an engineer he knew he could build a better more consistent golf ball, and the Titleist process was born.
How does the Titleist process make for a better golf ball?
One of the reasons why Titleist golf balls are the best performing, most trusted in the world is the unwavering commitment to our process. It’s a process that combines art and science, starting with the player, actually thousands of players from around the world, across every level of the game. We ask the question, “How can we make your golf ball better?” Fueled by these player insights, the Titleist R&D team embarks on a journey of continuous improvement. Experts are dedicated to every aspect of the ball, from the core to the cover, ensuring no detail is overlooked. It’s a meticulous and iterative cycle of experimentation, including exploring new materials, constructions, and technologies. Of iteration, which is our refining of the designs based on the rigorous testing and player feedback. And of repetition, the repeating of the process to ensure consistency and to optimize performance. Literally thousands of prototypes are produced eventually to be narrowed down to the one that satisfies the performance attributes we set out to achieve, or what we call our North Star.
Does the Titleist process change over the years?
The Titleist process is more than just a series of steps that must be followed; it's a deeply held philosophy rooted in a commitment to quality and superior performance. We’ve proven that small improvements accumulate over time, and as the game evolves, players evolve, equipment evolves, so do aspects of our process. That’s why we like to say the process is never-ending. Even after a new Titleist golf ball is released to the public, our R&D team is already working on the next iteration. For example, before the 25 version of Pro V1 even launched, tests for 27 Pro V1 are already in the queue.
How does having a disciplined process impact me, out on the course?
Golf is a game where consistency and preciseness of shot are rewarded. The Titleist process is in place so you can trust that the first ball out of your dozen will perform exactly like the 12th ball. To ensure that every Titleist golf ball perform to these exacting standards among other things, we employ strict process control measures, with over 90 checks on the Pro V1 and over 120 on the Pro V1x. It’s all so that when you hit a shot exactly the way you intended to, your golf ball will perform exactly the way you expect it to. We’ve found like so many of the world’s best players and really every player looking to improve, that when you focus on your process, the results take care of themselves.