RECAP: Big Bertha Alpha 815 chat with Callaway Golf

[BB815]

I've heard that putting the Heavy part of the Gravity Core UP increases Spin? This seems counter intuitive. Please advise what the 2 positions of the Core will do to the ball flight numbers. Thanks!

[cliffhanger]

So there is a discussion in the "war room" regarding the design of a product... A decision has to be made to go one way or another... Do you guys vote on it or does one person make that call?

[Callaway Golf Official]

[quote name='DavePelz4' timestamp='1415579964' post='10421639']
What do you see as the next technological improvement with the Callaway golf ball line?
[/quote]

We are launching a ball in January that we believe will change the direction of golf ball construction. We aren’t quite ready to talk about it today, unfortunately, but much the same way Rule 35 introduced solid core technology in the urethane category a decade ago, which is now the industry standard in Tour ball construction, this new approach will no doubt do the same. It’s the first time arguably since the Rule 35 that we have an approach in the category that can be truly identified and appreciated by golfers as being demonstrably superior and pleasingly different. - HA

[Callaway Golf Official]

[quote name='ladahl' timestamp='1415813474' post='10435201']
Lots on buzz surrounding your new ball... What's NEXT on that front?
[/quote]

We are very excited about our new ball technology coming to market. Lot's of excitement to come on that shortly. We are very excited about what we are learning in the golf ball space and can't wait to tell you all about it.

Jason Finley @jasonfinleycg

[Callaway Golf Official]

[quote name='krzepickidj' timestamp='1415812836' post='10435061']
What DOES the 815 mean?
[/quote]

We were interested in simplifying our naming architecture for the Big Bertha lines for the future and went back to a naming convention that has been around for decades—the “8” is in reference to August, which is when we introduced the drivers to our internal sales teams. The “15” is actually the year of the driver. We are obviously launching this one in 2014, so it’s kind of an “early release” if you will, as we are trying to separate our two big sub brands, Big Bertha and X-Series. - HA

[Callaway Golf Official]

[quote name='Callaway Golf Official' timestamp='1415812307' post='10434975'] [quote name='pdaero' timestamp='1415490783' post='10417395'] Tell me about the R Moto face technology. How does this affect playability and relate to ball speed for forgiveness? Thanks so much - the 815 Alpha and DBD look like incredible clubs and can't wait to try them. [/quote] The RMOTO face technology features a serious of ribs along the crown and sole face boundary that are optimized with our Hyper Speed Face to reduce weight and improve the energy transfer at impact. This provides added discretionary mass to help increase the club’s MOI and reposition the center of gravity while also giving higher average ball speeds - both critical parts of gaining distance. - EG [/quote]

Here's Doc Hock to elaborate on that for you, pdaero:

[url="http://youtu.be/qnRN6litsa0"]http://youtu.be/qnRN6litsa0[/url]

[ladahl]

For the R&D folks: Please explain how having leadership at Callaway that is passionate about the game of golf, shafts, and equipment performance vs. JUST the $bottom line$?

We've all noticed how far gone the uniflex irons, plain-old tour velvets stock grips and generic shafts days are

[joey2aces]

Please tell us you are keeping Patrick Reed on board.

[golfware]

Back in the day, the FT-3 Tour was an overwhelming favorite of Tour players and amateurs alike. Then along came the FT Tour that took the Tour by storm, with numerous non-Callaway staffers gaming that drivers. It is still extremely popular to this day.

How would you compare the DBD and the 815 to these two iconic drivers of the past?

[Callaway Golf Official]

[quote name='Rozo22' timestamp='1415813099' post='10435131']
I currently play and love the Apex irons. Do you see that line of irons to continue and evolve? If so, anything you can tease us with?
[/quote]

Yes, we plan to continue this line. We have some prototypes that are extremely close to being worthy.

[Callaway Golf Official]

[quote name='Pure745' timestamp='1415813750' post='10435241'] Have a few comments and a question.. First, I participated in the SCGA "Youth on Course" tournament this past Monday at El Caballero CC.. Callaway was a huge sponsor and donated a lot to the auction piece and the attendees. I think besides broadening my outlook on the game, it also really hit home with Callaway being so involved in growing the game by keeping young golfers interested in the game. Our group won the Gross flight, so now I have some Callaway scrip to buy a DBD So thank you for that as well! Second - is what is the main difference/effect that having the Gravity Core positioned vertically vs. Nike's new Flex Flight which is positioned horizontally? Did you originally consider horizontal and rule it out in favor of the vertical orientation? Any major differences between the new version of the Gravity Core? Third - are product cycles going to remain as "active" as they are currently? Or was it because you had so much good innovation you had compelling product to bring to market right now and are planning on slowing it down a bit going forward? Fourth - there are a lot of exciting products in the newer lines, is there a specific product that Callaway tour players are the most excited about? Thank you again for participation in growing the game and also for answering our questions here on GolfWRX! [/quote]

The Gravity Core differs from all other weight systems on the market because it decouples the relationship between launch and spin and allows golfers an opportunity to get launch conditions they haven't ever seen before. Whenever weight is moved from front to back, you effectively do two things: (1) increase the dynamic loft by moving the CG deeper, and (2) raise the CG to some degree. Together, these will increase launch and spin together, which is effectively the same thing you do when you change loft! - EG

[Callaway Golf Official]

[quote name='golfware' timestamp='1415813583' post='10435217']
With the 2014 drivers... there appeared to be an overwhelming popularity of Tour players toward the std Big Bertha compared to the Alpha. During your recent launch, what has been Tour feedback on the DBD? Just wondering....
[/quote]

This is the last question you get Ramon! We have only had a few guys test the final version of DBD and last week on Tour we only had the standard Alpha 815 for players to work with and we had nearly 50% of our Drivers in play in the new BB Alpha 815. Look forward to players getting DBD in the mix over the coming weeks and months. The reaction to the Driver in general has been very positive so far from Tour players.

Jason Finley @jasonfinleyCG

[Callaway Golf Official]

[quote name='ladahl' timestamp='1415814313' post='10435319']
For the R&D folks: Please explain how having leadership at Callaway that is passionate about the game of golf, shafts, and equipment performance vs. JUST the $bottom line$?

We've all noticed how far gone the uniflex irons, plain-old tour velvets stock grips and generic shafts days are
[/quote]

To be honest, we are having the time of our lives! It is equal parts thrilling and challenging to have premium product performance at the center of the overall business strategy. The products are definitely better for Chip's leadership. He has allowed us to invest in the product and make things we, R&D, are genuinely proud of. Plus Chip is dragging us the the back tees at Torrey this weekend. Talk about competitive... AH

[Jimmy Mac]

Is there another CallaWRX on the horizon? I'd happily volunteer my lack of golfing ability as a true test of your club's forgiveness.

[TNTlefty]

how successful have the limited/special edition releases been (run of 82 pt82 putters in 2010 comes to mind, but also bags for the majors this year)? will we see this continued into the future with clubs to commemorate major victories for brand ambassadors?

#10/82 LH PT82 is framed above my mantle celebrating Phil's Masters victory in 2010!

[Callaway Golf Official]

[quote name='burniemac' timestamp='1415813165' post='10435149'] What are the most important factors that go in to fitting for wedges in your opinion? [/quote]

We really feel that wedge fitting is critical because every player hits so many different kinds of shot around the green. Bounce is obviously critical, it’s probably one of the most misunderstood concepts. You need to have the right bounce for your swing type and also the conditions you play. Are you more steep on shots around the green? You could probably use more bounce. A little shallower, probably mid bounce will work.

Grind is also an important concept. The shape of the sole is an important aspect, especially on partial shots. Between the Mack Daddy 2 line and the Tour Grind series, we have 23 models, 5 different grinds and numerous bounce options. So we really feel like we have a wedge for everyone. It’s a very complete line.

- Dave Neville (@DavidWNeville)

[double or triple?]

[quote name='layingfive' timestamp='1415814067' post='10435273']
[quote name='Callaway Golf Official' timestamp='1415813938' post='10435261']
[quote name='ThunderBuzzworth' timestamp='1415499419' post='10418069']
It seemed like the original Alpha was not the prominent driver in tour players bags and that the Xhot and x2 were in more bags. Why do you think that was? Do you think these new alphas will have a larger tour presence?
[/quote]

Judging by the Tour player adoption in the first couple of weeks[b] I expect a large percentage of our Tour players to be in Alpha 815 and Alpha 815 DD over the coming season.[/b] We are hearing great feedback from Tour on ball speed, lower spin rates and soft shot shaping. Woodland came second with the DD in his first week with the driver. AH.
[/quote]

That's not answering the question, is it?
[/quote]

He answered it and even gave reason for his answer.

[radiman]

[quote name='Callaway Golf Official' timestamp='1415812628' post='10435033']
[quote name='radiman' timestamp='1415812285' post='10434971']
More of a statement than a question. With the ever increasing degree of adjustability in golf clubs, us golfers have more options than ever. While we have a greater chance of finding a weight/distribution, shaft, and loft that works for us, the process of getting to that point can be a tedious one. For myself, I live in a climate where I get a limited chance to actually get out and play. That being said, there isn't a lot of options to get fit for equipment since the market for it is relatively small. I see some OEM's giving multiple shaft options to give us an even better chance of being optimized with paying retail prices for a driver. While it is nice having the options, it can be lost on some. A certain OEM has made it their business to lead in iron fitting. They make a concerted effort to make sure the retailers that sell their product are equipped to get the customer in the best specs possible for them. While not a full fledged fitting for most, it is better than nothing.

Time for the question. Is there any plan from Callaway to put more emphasis on fitting to better position themselves? We already have the options. They can keep tweaking drivers weight distribution to get the best performing head, but unless they are putting golfers in the best combo for them, they may just blend in with every other OEM, or end up with golfers disliking the product because it doesn't perform at its best (like the SLDR was for some). I'd personally like to be able to go to the golf shop, get put in a hitting bay and have an employee who has been trained to fit me with Callaway's equipment get me in the best club possible. In my opinion, if golfers had more direction from one OEM vs. another, they'd be more inclined to make the purchase.

BTW, thanks for taking the time to come talk with us!
[/quote]

Thanks for the question and comment. Fitting is a major initiative we are very focused on and believe it is very important for golfers to get the best equipment. We continue to evolve and improve the tools we offer for fitting tools. Additionally, we are also putting significantly more resources behind training tools for fitters and our customers in general. Further, we are offering selector tools on our website as well across all product categories to help golfers get a better understanding of where to start the process.

Jason Finley - @jasonfinleyCG
[/quote]

Thanks Jason. Good to know Callaway is serious about helping customers utilize all this tech that's getting packed into these drivers.

[bigharge]

How much does the new advancements and availability of premium shafts play in the design of the driver head? Do certain shafts agree with certain more so than others?

[3 piece]

What ? No Doughnuts? How can you be expected to maintain focus? Totally of subject her.e Any recommendations for a PGM program. My oldest is graduating high school this year and is looking to go the PGM route.

[Dscvrr St Louis]

[quote name='Callaway Golf Official' timestamp='1415814715' post='10435373']
[quote name='ladahl' timestamp='1415814313' post='10435319']
For the R&D folks: Please explain how having leadership at Callaway that is passionate about the game of golf, shafts, and equipment performance vs. JUST the $bottom line$?

We've all noticed how far gone the uniflex irons, plain-old tour velvets stock grips and generic shafts days are
[/quote]

To be honest, we are having the time of our lives! It is equal parts thrilling and challenging to have premium product performance at the center of the overall business strategy. The products are definitely better for Chip's leadership. He has allowed us to invest in the product and make things we, R&D, are genuinely proud of. Plus Chip is dragging us the the back tees at Torrey this weekend. Talk about competitive... AH
[/quote]

My money is on you Doc!

[golfware]

[quote name='Callaway Golf Official' timestamp='1415814701' post='10435371']
[quote name='golfware' timestamp='1415813583' post='10435217']
With the 2014 drivers... there appeared to be an overwhelming popularity of Tour players toward the std Big Bertha compared to the Alpha. During your recent launch, what has been Tour feedback on the DBD? Just wondering....
[/quote]

This is the last question you get Ramon! We have only had a few guys test the final version of DBD and last week on Tour we only had the standard Alpha 815 for players to work with and we had nearly 50% of our Drivers in play in the new BB Alpha 815. Look forward to players getting DBD in the mix over the coming weeks and months. The reaction to the Driver in general has been very positive so far from Tour players.

Jason Finley @jasonfinleyCG
[/quote]

Hahahahahahaha!! You. Are. Awesome Jason! LOL... I know you guys are laughing at me.. or with me maybe... LOL!!

[ram01002]

Apple has commented that iPad sales are down because consumers keep them longer than anticipated. When you release fairway woods as good as the x hot line, are you concerned about getting golfers to upgrade to a newer model?

[joey2aces]

Will we, in our lifetime, ever see OEM's agree to ONE universal adapter????

[Callaway Golf Official]

[quote name='getair23' timestamp='1415813182' post='10435153'] Will we see a 64* wedge this "year"? [/quote]

[size="2"][color="black"][size=4]We're working on something very, very cool. Stay tuned! [/size][/color][/size]

- Dave Neville (@DavidWNeville)

[TNTlefty]

in what areas do the "Icons" remain involved with the Callaway brand? (Palmer/Player/Sorenstam)

[cliffhanger]

Why the move to add remove-able weights to fairway woods and hybrids where you guys have stayed away from this in the past?

[Callaway Golf Official]

[quote name='BB815' timestamp='1415814199' post='10435293']
I've heard that putting the Heavy part of the Gravity Core UP increases Spin? This seems counter intuitive. Please advise what the 2 positions of the Core will do to the ball flight numbers. Thanks!
[/quote]

The Gravity Core in the lower position will lead to less spin and the Gravity Core in the up position will lead to increased spin. Also keep in mind that your impact location can have an influence on where you will see the best results as well.

Jason Finley @jasonfinleycg

[golferoz]

Is there a standard golf ball that you use for your Driver testing? Is it SR2, SR3, etc.? Do you feel there is a correlation between Callaway balls and Callaway clubs?

[hayzooos]

[quote name='Callaway Golf Official' timestamp='1415814226' post='10435301']
[quote name='DavePelz4' timestamp='1415579964' post='10421639']
What do you see as the next technological improvement with the Callaway golf ball line?
[/quote]

We are launching a ball in January that we believe will change the direction of golf ball construction. We aren’t quite ready to talk about it today, unfortunately, but much the same way Rule 35 introduced solid core technology in the urethane category a decade ago, which is now the industry standard in Tour ball construction, this new approach will no doubt do the same. It’s the first time arguably since the Rule 35 that we have an approach in the category that can be truly identified and appreciated by golfers as being demonstrably superior and pleasingly different. - HA
[/quote]

Rule 35 was cat's pajamas, bees knees, whatever you want to use. Loved that ball. So this new construction...will this be done in the Chrome series of balls, or something else? I LOVED. LOVED. Chrome+ and was sad it went away.