Under the premise of marrying a tour-level ball with the lower compression and softer feel preferred by golfers with not quite pro-level swing speeds, Chrome Soft balls have been a runaway hit for Callaway since its introduction. And to the company’s credit, they’ve acknowledged controversy surrounding the ball and quickly addressed the questions raised, investing heavily in new machinery and engineering that’s resulted in the 2020 edition of the Chrome Soft and Chrome Soft X, now fully re-engineered to promote more speed and distance with a targeted differentiation between both performance-wise.

“We’ve reinvented Tour ball performance again with our new Chrome Soft and Chrome Soft X. Redesigning both models from the inside out allows us to give golfers more of what they want in a Tour ball – long distance, great feel and a spin profile that promotes low spin on full shots and high spin around the green.”

– Dr. Alan Hocknell, Callaway SVP of R&D

What’s New About Chrome Soft

The four-piece Chrome Soft sees gains from a larger graphene infused dual core, single mantle, and 10% thinner cover. New aerodynamics promote a higher launch and flight. It’s up to five yards longer than previously and works best for slow to mid-swing speeds below 100mph.

What’s New About Chrome Soft X

Addressing the notion that softer balls don’t work well for fast swings, the firmer Chrome Soft X is all about chasing speed through its four-piece construction of a larger single core, dual mantle system, and 15% thinner cover. A new dimple pattern is optimised for a lower, tour-preferred flight and driver distance up to 7 yards longer, while the firm outer mantle works with the 15% thinner cover to promote increased greenside spin and control.

Chrome Soft vs. Chrome Soft X Performance Comparison

                             Feel       Forgiveness        Flight                Long-game Spin        Short-game Spin

Chrome Soft        softer     best                     straight            low                               high

Chrome Soft X     soft        high                     workable         low                               high

Both Chrome Softs are, for the first time, available with Callaway’s Triple Track technology, complementing the same tech also found on the company’s Odyssey putters. The design helps the brain process alignment and research says 86% of golfers who use it improve, and the more you use it the better you get. Other options include the Truvis football pattern and a choice of white and optic yellow.