When we reviewed the original Mizuno JPX golf ball we thought the 512 dimples, complete with distinctive micro-dimples, was the most we had seen on a golf ball.
As the next-generation of the ball is released it is interesting to note that this hasn't changed, with Mizuno happy with the mid-to-high trajectory that the unique micro-dimple pattern delivers by sustaining hang-time long into the ball’s descent for longer, more stable tee shots.
If you look under the cover, however, Mizuno has made some changes to the JPX with a larger soft-compression core that is its softest to date in a two-piece golf ball.
The switch to a low-compression core design has been made to ensure that there's no compromise between greenside feel and explosive tee-shot distance, with a durable multi-blend polymer cover working with the core to provide the soft feel required on those delicate touch shots around the green. This combination ensures that players with low-to-mid swing speeds get the elevated ball speeds required for longer shots.
Tomo Alki, Mizuno Product Development, explains:
The low compression core in combination with our micro-dimples means that you've got an excellent combination of feel, ball speed and aerodynamics. Our two-piece ball has evolved to the point that the majority of players now couldn't tell the difference between this and a tour type ball.
Although the JPX 2018 is geared towards optimum performance for mid-to-lower swing speeds in dry conditions the, Mizuno says the ball will still deliver perfect all-round performance for all swing speeds in cold or wet conditions.