© Callaway Golf

Ball tested: Callaway HEX Hot Pro

Category: Premium

Specs: Construction – Three-piece; Cover – Trionomer; Core – Trionomer; Dimples / Pattern – 332 in HEX (hexagonal) design

Compression: High

Price as tested (new): $26.99 per dozen

Ball notes: Launched in tandem with Callaway’s HEX Hot golf ball, the HEX Hot Pro is positioned as the softer, higher-spin version of the two. Interestingly, Callaway achieves this not with a thinner cover. In fact, the Pro’s trionomer skin is slightly thicker than its sibling’s. The secret lies in the mantle, where Callaway added a tad more material to the Pro version. Note that HEX Control is just the HEX Hot Pro re-branded for exclusive sale by Costco. Identical ball.

© Callaway Golf

The HEX Hot has been well received by consumers and the media. Golf Digest handed it a gold medal in the magazine’s 2013 Hot List issue.

Sound and feel: We didn’t notice a world of difference between the HEX Hot and Hot Pro. Both are quite firm, though the Pro generates a slightly softer sensation throughout the bag.

Off the tee: Once again, we observed similar performance between the two balls when hitting the driver. The HEX Hot Pro mimics its mate’s long, stable flight, rarely veering far off line. An excellent choice for those seeking additional yards and/or accuracy.

From the fairway / rough: We noted the HEX Hot ball’s above-average maneuverability and if anything, the Pro model is even more workable with the irons. That’s a distinct advantage for above-average golfers who like to shape their shots. If you prefer a ball that flies straight, no worries – the HEX Hot Pro doesn’t produce out-of-control sidespin.

Around the green: It’s a step up from the HEX Hot in feel and action, but the Pro isn’t a world-beater in this category. Then again, finding a “premium” ball that behaves like a “tour” model is the amateur golfer’s holy grail. The HEX Hot Pro performs well enough here to suit the needs of most players; let’s face it, the majority of us lack the skill to pull off delicate, high-spin shots.

Bottom line: Performance-wise, the HEX Hot Pro is all but identical to its twin from tee to green. It’s long, straight and provides just enough curve control to please better players. This model does benefit from the extra touch of softness and spin, which puts it a small notch above the HEX Hot in our book.