The Titleist NXT Tour golf ball for 2012 is an upgraded version of the previous model that has a 12.9% smaller soft centre to keep the spin rate down. This combines with a 4.3% larger, high energy outer layer that gives the ball greater speed.

It feels a little firmer than the NXT Tour S and the compression is in the 91-96 range, but it also spins a little more so you will actually get a few more yards and a bit more control than the S version. In full swing iron approach shot impacts of 500 to 800 rpm it actually spins more than a Pro V1x, but less off the tee or around the green

Titleist say that the NXT Tour is only surpassed in performance by the Pro V1 and we would have to agree as we have long been a fan of the NXT Tour model and the 2012 model keeps that blend of performance, firmer feel and lower price point. The NXT Tour also uses the same 302 dimple octahedron dimple pattern as the Pro V1 used to have, so this is a quality ball.

We think this is an ideal all round ball for a mid handicapper or a good alternative as a winter ball for those who use Pro V1s the rest of the year as the extra firmness makes the performance on and around the greens in winter similar to a Pro V1 in the summer.