When it comes to balls, it's not one size fits all

When it comes to golf balls, price does not necessarily relate to performance. In other words, you don't always have to buy the most expensive ball on the shelf.

For many golfers, lower- to medium-priced balls would satisfactorily provide the features and performance characteristics to match up well with their games.

This fall, and looking forward to 2008, both Pinnacle and Wilson have introduced new balls that many players may wish to consider.

Pinnacle's Platinum series

Five new models are featured in the Pinnacle '08 lineup, including two models in the flagship Platinum series and two models in the more recreational Gold FX series.

Wilson, meanwhile, has launched a unique and groundbreaking three-piece ball called the Zip, which boasts a responsive core with "zero" compression. The construction, matched with a speed mantle layer and soft outer cover, is designed to provide an ultrasoft feel with tour-quality performance.

"It's confusing for many golfers, but compression ratings don't necessarily translate to distance," said Bob Thurman, Wilson Golf's director of research. "Compression is simply a measure of how soft a ball is."

Here's a closer look at the latest products from Pinnacle and Wilson.

Pinnacle

A division of Acushnet, which also produces Titleist, FootJoy and Cobra golf products, Pinnacle prides itself in making quality two-piece balls at a value-level price.

"Inherent in the Pinnacle strategy is ensuring that its 'Distance Doesn't Have to Be Hard' positioning is uppercase and its reputation for providing golfers with distance and performance at a value is enhanced," said George Sione, Acushnet's vice president of golf ball marketing and strategic planning.

All the new Pinnacle balls have an enhanced sidestamp to aid in alignment on the green.

The new Platinum models, geared for avid players in the lower- to mid-skill range, replace the Exception ball at the top of the Pinnacle structure. The balls are designed to provide performance and control with a very soft feel.

The Platinum Feel ball utilizes a soft, thin cover formulation with a large core that contributes to a softer feel with a high initial velocity. The Platinum Distance ball has a slightly smaller core and resilient lower spin cover to help deliver long, straight shots. Suggested retail price for either model is $22 per dozen.