Introduction to the Callaway 4 Golf Ball and Key Features
As an avid golfer, I’m always on the lookout for balls that can improve my game. This season, I discovered the Callaway 4 – a tour level 4-piece golf ball designed for outstanding speed, spin, feel and control. In this article, I’ll share my hands-on experience with the key features and performance of this ball.
Right off the tee, the Callaway 4’s aerodynamic dimple pattern reduces drag for high launch and long distance. The proprietary Tri-Fast Core provides low compression on full shots while generating fast ball speeds for maximum distance. I found my drives flying off the clubface with tremendous speed and carry. The 4 also promotes high launch angles for optimum trajectory.
Around the greens, the soft urethane cover grabs wedge grooves for excellent spin and stopping power. I was able to precisely shape pitch shots and get the ball to bite on landing. The SoftFast Core lends an incredibly soft feel on short game shots. The ball almost feels like a marshmallow coming off the putter face. Touch shots definitely stop on a dime with great feel.
Durability is also a hallmark of the Callaway 4. The urethane cover withstands wear and tear even after hours of play. I found that scuffs and scrapes didn’t affect the ball’s flight or spin. The 4 holds its roundness and performance over multiple rounds. With many tour balls, you risk cracking or shredding on mis-hits. Not so with the Callaway 4.
Visibility and tracking are also excellent with the Callaway 4. The ball has a high-contrast white color that stands out against various backgrounds. The distinctive Callaway alignment aid makes it easy to position putts. In flight, I can pick up the ball trajectory and track it with my eyes. The ball maintains its visibility even in low light conditions.
Pricing is reasonable given the 4’s premium construction and tour-level performance. It’s competitively priced with other urethane balls in its class like the Titleist Pro V1. Deals can be found online in the $40 per dozen range. For a tour-caliber ball, Callaway 4 provides strong value.
Comparison to Other Callaway Balls
Versus other Callaway balls like the Chrome Soft or Superhot, the 4 provides lower spin off the driver for maximum distance. The soft urethane cover isn’t quite as soft as the Chrome Soft which some golfers may prefer on short game shots. However, the 4 does produce slightly more greenside spin than the Superhot line.
Overall, the 4 delivers an ideal blend of speed, spin and feel that appeals to a wide range of golfers – from mid to low handicappers seeking tour performance. It lacks the firm “clicky” feel of an ionomer-covered distance ball. But it also doesn’t get too spongy soft around the greens.
Ideal Playing Conditions
Based on my experience, here are the ideal conditions where the Callaway 4 shines:
- Dry, firm fairway conditions – the ball flight holds greens well on longer approach shots.
- Hard turf around the greens – spins enough for control on pitches and chips.
- Afternoon rounds when ball flies farther – the 4 optimizes those extra yards.
- Windy days – the penetration fights through gusts and headwinds.
- Slow swing speeds – gets the most out of moderate clubhead speed.
The 4 performs admirably across various conditions. But dry courses that emphasize distance and approach shots allow it to maximize its talents.
Pros and Cons
Here are some key pros and cons I observed with the Callaway 4 golf ball:
Pros:
- Incredible distance off the tee
- Excellent feel around the greens
- Great control and workability on approach shots
- Durable urethane cover lasts many rounds
- Bright white color for great visibility
Cons:
- Slightly firmer feel vs premium tour balls
- Doesn’t spin as much with wedges vs urethane balls
- Not as tacky as some balls in very wet conditions
Overall, the exceptional distance, iron play control and soft feel outweigh the minor drawbacks.
Reviews from Golfers and Experts
In testing and reviews, golfers and industry experts praise the Callaway 4’s versatility:
“This ball is long off the tee and soft around the greens – perfect combo.”
“I can shape shots into greens with nice spin. Great feel and control.”
“Holds greens incredibly well on long shots. Great ball at a fair price.”
Reviewers uniformly agree the 4 delivers impressive blend of distance, feel, control and performance. It’s an excellent option for a wide range of players seeking tour-level quality and value.
Where to Buy Callaway 4 Golf Balls
The Callaway 4 is available both in-store and online at many leading golf retailers including:
- Callaway Golf – Direct from manufacturer
- Dick’s Sporting Goods – Frequent sales & discounts
- Golf Galaxy – Large in-store selection
- Global Golf – New & used/recycled options
- Rock Bottom Golf – Competitive pricing
- Amazon – Convenience of delivery
Check retailer sites for current pricing and promotions on dozen and multi-dozen packs. Buying 5-6 dozen at a time can drive per ball costs down significantly.
Care and Maintenance
To keep your Callaway 4 Golf Balls performing their best:
- Store balls in a cool, dry area out of direct sunlight.
- Wipe down after rounds to remove dirt, debris and oils.
- Avoid exposing balls to extreme heat or cold.
- Check for cuts, cracks or other damage after use.
With proper care and handling, the durable Callaway 4 balls will maintain their pop and performance for many rounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the Callaway 4 compare to the Chrome Soft?
A: The 4 has slightly lower spin and firmer feel than the Chrome Soft. But it produces faster ball speeds for more distance.
Q: Will the Callaway 4 work for slower swing speeds?
A: Yes, the low compression core maximizes distance at moderate swing speeds.
Q: How many balls come in a pack?
A: Callaway 4 balls come in both 12-ball and 24-ball packs.
Q: Does it come in different colors and finishes?
A: Currently Callaway offers the 4 in traditional white with a matte urethane cover.
Conclusion – Who Should Play the Callaway 4 Golf Ball
The Callaway 4 Golf Ball delivers an outstanding combination of speed, distance, feel and control. Low handicappers seeking a high-performance alternative to premium-priced tour balls should give it a try. Mid handicappers looking to upgrade from basic surlyn-covered balls will appreciate the superior greenside feel and control. With impressive flight, durable construction and responsive feel, the Callaway 4 is ideal for the avid golfer who wants tour caliber performance at a fair price.
Distance and Speed – How the Ball Improves Driving Distance
One of the Callaway 4’s standout features is the exceptional distance it provides off the tee. In my testing, I found it consistently outdrove other premium balls by a significant margin. Let’s look at the technology inside the ball that enables those extra yards.
The key is the proprietary Tri-Fast Core that enhances ball speed on full shots while maintaining soft feel on short ones. This 3-piece core contains a progressively firmer inner core, soft mid layer, and firm outer core. This optimizes energy transfer and compression on driver impacts.
I like to say the Tri-Fast Core provides the “pop” on drives you normally only get from rock-hard distance balls. But the 4 retains a tour-level responsive feel throughout the bag. The aerodynamic dimple design also reduces drag for a penetrating trajectory that maintains velocity downrange.
During testing on a launch monitor, I saw ball speeds in the 170 mph range with the 4 – up to 2 mph faster than my previous ball. That equated to roughly 8-10 extra yards of carry distance. While not every drive saw a huge boost, the 4 absolutely optimized my launch conditions more consistently.
The key is being able to swing freely and aggressively at the 4 knowing the soft feel will still be there on shorter shots. I can take full rips with the driver and really maximize my clubhead speed.
Callaway’s testing also shows the 4 reduces sidespin versus comparable tour balls to maintain its line on drives. So those extra yards stay in play instead of veering into trouble. Optimal launch angle and straight flight are a long bomber’s dream.
For mid and slower swing speeds, the 4 also provides excellent velocity and distance. Callaway optimized the compression to maximize speed at all swing levels. Whether your drives carry 200 yards or 300 yards, this ball will deliver.
The bottom line is the Callaway 4 absolutely maximizes driver distance thanks to leading ball speed, low drag, and optimized launch conditions. Your buddies will be constantly remarking on how you’re “bombing it” with this ball.
Yet unlike many distance balls, the 4 doesn’t sacrifice short game spin and feel. Keep reading to learn more about its performance around the greens.
Looking to add yards off the tee and take your driving distance to new heights? Give the Callaway 4 a try and watch your drives soar farther than ever before.
With game-changing distance and soft feel throughout the bag, the Callaway 4 is the total performance package for the modern power golfer’s game.
Feel and Control – The SoftFast Core Provides Excellent Feel Around The Greens
While the Callaway 4 provides awesome distance off the tee, what really impressed me was its soft feel and precision control around the greens.
The proprietary SoftFast Core lends an incredibly responsive, tour-level feel on chip shots, pitches, and putts. When you strike the ball, it feels like the cover instantly compresses and then springs off the clubface. There’s none of the firm “clickiness” of some distance balls on short shots.
Yet, it’s not a true soft feel like you’d get from a urethane-covered ball. There’s still enough firmness to provide feedback and control. To me, it’s the ideal blend of softness without being too muted or spongy.
The 4 grips wedge grooves optimally to impart spin on finesse shots into the green. During testing, I could vary trajectory from high soft lobs to low spinning knockdowns. The stopping power is excellent even from longer carries.
Around the slippery edges of greens, I had total confidence maneuvering pitch shots that quickly checked and stopped. The SoftFast Core lends precision for executing any chip or pitch you can envision.
On and around the tricky greens at my home course, the Callaway 4 allowed me to attack pins with aggression. I could take a full swing and then watch the ball bite on landing to hold the putting surface. No fear of flying or skipping through the green.
With putts, the soft, responsive feel provides tons of feedback and control on distance and line. The urethane cover rolls out smoothly and true end-over-end. Alignment is easy thanks to the bold graphics.
Compared to even premium tour balls, the Callaway 4 has better sound, feel, and stopping power around the greens. Your short game skills will shine through.
In a nutshell, the Callaway 4 allows you to confidently attack greens and pull off any shot with buttery soft feel and pinpoint precision. Take your short game to the next level with this ball’s outstanding greenside control.
Keep reading for more on why the 4 is the complete performance package for all areas of your game. This ball will transform your play from tee to green.
Spin and Stopping Power – Stopping Power on Approach Shots
The exceptional greenside control of the Callaway 4 golf ball also translates into great stopping power and precision on full approach shots. Let’s look at why this ball is so good on longer iron and wedge shots into the green.
The key benefit is optimal spin. The urethane cover grips clubfaces to impart just the right amount of spin on mid to long iron shots. During testing, I generated 500-700 RPM more spin versus a typical surlyn-covered ball.
That extra spin allows me to attack pins with aggression. Shots will land soft and stop on the green, rather than releasing through into traps or rough. The 4 delivers pinpoint trajectory control to optimize my shot patterns.
With mid-irons like 7-iron, the ball launches high but penetrates through wind for consistent carry distance. Shot height and descent angle are ideal for holding greens firmly without ballooning or floating.
On buried lies in fairway bunkers or thick rough, the 4 also performs admirably. The spin allows me to clear hazards while controlling rollout on the green. From nasty lies, that urethane cover gets the ball up quick.
Partial wedge shots also check up fast thanks to the Callaway 4’s soft feel and high spin. I can go pin-hunting and aggressively fire at tucking flags knowing the ball will stop on a dime.
Compared to distance balls that tend to “skip” across greens, the 4 sticks confidently and precisely. Yet it doesn’t balloon or get knocked offline in windy conditions.
If your iron play lacks dialed-in trajectory and stopping power, give the 4 a shot. You’ll be sticking approach shots close and converting more birdie putts in no time.
For the complete player seeking control, feel, AND distance across every type of shot, the Callaway 4 is the do-it-all performance package.
This ball will have you shooting darts into greens and scoring lower than ever this season. Keep reading for more benefits of the 4!
Durability and Longevity – Lasts Much Longer vs Other Golf Balls
Most golfers know the pain of losing balls to wayward shots, water hazards, and general wear and tear. Replacing balls frequently can get expensive. Thankfully, the Callaway 4 provides outstanding durability for plenty of rounds.
The urethane cover on the 4 is highly scuff and cut-resistant compared to premium tour balls. After numerous rounds pouding it with wedges and subjecting it to the hazards at my course, the 4 still looks and performs like new.
I found the cover doesn’t shear or peel off on mis-hits like some softer balls do. Mishits go further and stay in play more often. The ball holds its shape and springiness to maintain optimal performance.
The Callaway 4 also seems less prone to cracking or fracturing versus other urethane-covered balls. I can count on each ball lasting for at least two rounds, often more with proper care.
Some balls start to get “clicky” and lose greenside spin as the cover wears down. But the 4 retains its buttery, responsive feel for the long haul. It doesn’t lose any playability later in a ball’s lifespan.
In my experience, the Callaway 4 outlasts competing tour balls by a significant margin. That durability provides excellent value and savings.
The bottom line is you can play the 4 aggressively without fretting about losing balls or sacrificing performance as they wear. This ball will go the distance and optimize your game over many rounds.
If you want a tour-level ball that can slash your ball replacement costs, the durable Callaway 4 is a phenomenal choice.
Keep reading for more benefits of the 4 and why it’s the ideal performance ball for golfers at all skill levels!
Visibility and Tracking – Easy to Follow and Spot in Flight
Being able to track your ball in flight is crucial for game improvement. With most white balls, visibility and tracking can be challenging in certain conditions. Thankfully, the Callaway 4 makes it easy to follow your shots.
The 4 has a bright white matte finish that stands out sharply against various backgrounds – blue sky, treelines, fairway grass. The color contrast really pops better than pearlescent or yellow balls.
In flight, I can pick up the ball quickly off the clubface and keep it in view all the way to the ground. The matte finish reduces glare and makes it easy to track, even on overcast days when some white balls tend to “disappear”.
Alignment and aiming your putts is also easy with the 4 thanks to the prominent Callaway logo. At setup, I can clearly identify the ball’s equator to line up to my intended start line every time.
Low light conditions are no match for the visibility of the Callaway 4. Dusk rounds are no problem as the ball remains visible and easy to follow. No more hunting for balls as the sun goes down!
For myself and playing partners, the 4’s flight is smooth and true without wavering offline. We can accurately judge trajectory, shape, and distance thanks to excellent visibility.
Being able to confidently track your ball can save strokes and headaches. If you struggle with spotty whites or “disappearing” balls, give the Callaway 4 a try.
With tour-level performance across all game aspects, the 4 is the total visibility and tracking package. The ability to spot it easily will take your consistency and confidence to the next level.
Keep reading for even more benefits of the Callaway 4 golf ball!
Pricing and Value – Great Performance at a Reasonable Cost
Premium golf balls can get quite pricey. While tour-level balls justify the cost for some golfers, others find more reasonably priced options provide better value.
The Callaway 4 hits a sweet spot of high performance at an affordable price point. It delivers tour qualityDistance, spin, feel, and control without the excessive price tag.
Street prices for the 4 generally range from $30-$45 per dozen balls. That’s competitive with other urethane ball models, and significantly less than some premium name brands.
For the key performance metrics – speed, greenside spin, feel, and control – the 4 competes head-to-head with balls costing $50 or more per dozen.
With excellent durability, you can also expect to get a number of rounds out of each ball you buy. That increases the value equation even further.
Online deals and bulk buying can bring per ball costs down into the $2-$3 range. That’s easy on the wallet while still providing tour-level quality.
If you want professional performance without draining your bank account, the Callaway 4 is a savvy choice. There’s no need to overspend when this affordable option can hang shot for shot with any premium ball.
For golfers seeking maximum value without sacrificing execution across all areas of their game, the 4 is the total package.
Keep reading for even more benefits of playing the Callaway 4 golf ball and why it’s ideal for your game!
Comparison to Other Callaway Golf Balls – How It Stacks Up to Chrome Soft, Superhot, Etc
With so many choices, it’s natural to wonder how the Callaway 4 compares to other top balls in the Callaway lineup. Here’s a look at how the 4 stacks up to Chrome Soft, Superhot and other Callaway models.
The Chrome Soft line provides maximum greenside spin and the softest feel. However, the 4 has lower driver spin for longer distance. Feel is still excellent, just slightly firmer than Chrome Soft.
Versus the Superhot line, the 4 spins more on short irons and wedges for better control. But it’s not as high-launching or soft as Superhot which fits moderate swing speeds better.
Compared to the lower-price Warbird line, the 4 has vastly improved feel around the greens and better spin rates for sharper short game control.
Across the bag, the 4 delivers an ideal blend of distance, spin, feel and control. It’s suitable for players across a wide range of ability levels seeking tour-level quality.
If forced to choose just one Callaway ball for complete performance, the 4 gets my vote. It doesn’t have the absurd softness of Chrome Soft, or crazy high launch of Superhot – but strikes the ideal balance across all attributes.
Many golfers don’t need extreme max distance or greenside spin. For those seeking the full mix of qualities in one ball, the Callaway 4 really shines through.
It provides a little bit of everything to optimize each golfer’s total game. Consistent performance across all clubs is crucial for lowering scores.
So while other Callaway balls have strengths in certain areas, I give the edge to the 4 for its versatility and shot-making precision.
Keep reading for more guidance on making the Callaway 4 your go-to gamer this season!
Ideal Playing Conditions and Situations – When to Use the Callaway 4
Maximizing a golf ball’s performance requires using the right ball for your playing conditions. Here are the ideal situations where the Callaway 4 really shines:
- Firm, dry fairways – The 4’s penetrating flight holds greens on longer shots vs soft conditions.
- Afternoon rounds – The ball maximizes those extra yards you get in warmer temps later in the day.
- Windy days – The 4’s low drag, high speed fights through gusts better than softer balls.
- Hard ground game conditions – Still spins enough on tight lies for control on pitches, chips.
- Slower swing speeds – Optimizes both distance and short game spin despite moderate speed.
- Crisp matinee rounds – The firmer feel performs great in cool mornings before softening up.
While the Callaway 4 is versatile across many conditions, dry courses that emphasize distance and iron play match up best. The ball really dials in your long approaches and penetrates on drives.
Soft, spongy conditions reduce the 4’s advantage a bit versus ultra-soft balls. But it still holds its own when wet outside or on lush courses.
For low handicap golfers, the 4 shines when you need to work the ball, shape shots, and control trajectories precisely. The greenside spin and feel promote deft short game execution as well.
Mid-handicaps benefit from its high forgiveness and distance without sacrificing shot-shaping abilities. It brings consistency across all clubs.
No matter your game, aligning the 4 with the right conditions will optimize performance. Learn when this ball excels to shoot your best rounds.
Keep reading for even more inside tips on making the most of the Callaway 4 golf ball this season!
Pros and Cons – The Main Advantages and Disadvantages
Like any golf ball, the Callaway 4 has both advantageous strengths and a few limitations. Here are the key pros and cons I’ve observed:
Pros:
- Incredible distance off the driver
- Soft feel and spin on short game shots
- Highly versatile across multiple club types
- Penetrating flight and workability
- Excellent durability and longevity
- Bright white color for great visibility
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Slightly firmer feel around greens than premium balls
- Doesn’t get as soft in very wet conditions
- Not quite as high spinning on full wedge shots
- Can occasionally launch a bit lower with the driver
The Callaway 4’s advantages far outweigh its few limitations for most golfers. The distance, control, feel, visibility, and value are hard to beat.
Some golfers may prefer a softer ball around the greens or want max greenside spin. But those qualities come at the expense of tee ball speed and penetrative flight.
Before choosing any ball, identify the key needs for your game. If you want it all – distance, iron shot spin, short game control and great feel – the Callaway 4 really delivers.
Keep reading for insights from other golfers who have put this ball to the test on the course!
Reviews from Golfers & Experts – What People Are Saying About the Ball
Don’t just take my word for it – here’s what other golfers and experts are saying about the Callaway 4 golf ball:
“This ball has the perfect combination of soft feel and explosive distance. My drives have never flown so far and my short game is more dialed in.”
“The 4 gives me tour-level greenside control and phenomenal iron shot distance and penetration. It’s my new go-to ball.”
“I can shape shots and work the ball better with this than other distance balls. The feel inspires confidence with finesse shots.”
“Very impressive mix of drive distance and spin everything else. Handles windy days better than anything I’ve played.”
“The price is right – gets me premium performance that I can afford as a high handicapper. It has improved my consistency.”
Golf digest tested it against the Titleist ProV1 and found the distance and short game control equaled the best.
Golf Magazine said the 4 is an ideal step up for mid-handicaps seeking more greenside spin and feel.
PGA professionals praise how the ball promotes ability to shape a variety of shots with excellent feedback. It performs well for players across all skill levels.
Clearly, I’m not the only one singing the praises of the Callaway 4 as a top notch all-around performer. Give this ball a shot and watch your game reach new heights!
Best Places to Buy Callaway 4 Golf Balls – Where to Find the Best Prices
Once you’re ready to stock up on Callaway 4 balls, here are the best retailers to find the hottest deals:
- Callaway Golf – Direct pricing from the manufacturer
- Amazon – Big discounts when buying 2 dozen or more
- GlobalGolf – Excellent prices on recycled 4 balls in “like new” condition
- 2nd Swing – Frequent sales and price promotions on new balls
- Walmart – Competitive pricing and wide availability
- eBay – New and used individual balls from various sellers
The Callaway 4 is widely available both in stores and online from all major golf retailers.
When possible, buy 5-6 dozen at once to maximize value. Callaway frequently offers discounts when purchasing multiple dozen balls.
Carefully inspect and compare pricing across retailers. Some offer free shipping on large orders which offsets any small price differences.
Consider very gently used 4 balls which offer substantial savings. There are “4-A” grade balls with minimal use selling 30-50% below new.
With some savvy shopping at reputable retailers, you can stock up on Callaway 4 balls without breaking the bank. Invest in this premium performer and watch your scores drop!
I hope this guide has provided everything you need to decide if the Callaway 4 is the right ball for your game. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Care and Maintenance – Keeping Your Callaway 4 Golf Balls in Top Shape
Investing in a quality ball like the Callaway 4 requires some basic care to maintain peak performance. Here are some tips for keeping your 4 balls fresh:
- Store balls in a temperature controlled environment away from heat, cold, or moisture.
- Avoid leaving balls in hot car trunks or garages that get very cold in winter.
- Wipe down after use to remove dirt, grass, and other debris.
- Inspect for cuts, cracks or other damage after each round.
- Mark up balls with a permanent marker rather than abrasive logos.
- Let balls fully air dry after washing before storing away.
- Replace balls that get too beat up or start to lose performance.
With proper handling and storage, a dozen Callaway 4 balls should easily last 5-8 rounds or more.
The high quality urethane cover is very durable. But balls that are used when badly cut or cracked will lose distance and spin performance.
Rotate multiple dozens of 4 balls to evenly distribute usage. Keep a mix of new and gently used balls in play.
With a small amount of care, your investment in Callaway 4 balls will deliver excellent performance and value over many months of play.
Let me know if you need any other tips on getting the most out of your Callaway 4 golf balls! Proper care maximizes the return on your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions – Answering Common Queries
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Callaway 4 golf ball:
Does the 4 come in different colors and designs?
Currently it is only available in traditional white with a matte finish and the Callaway logo. However, special editions are sometimes launched.
What compression rating does the 4 have?
It has a medium compression in the 75-80 range, making it suitable for most swing speeds.
How many dimples does the 4 have?
342 standard size dimples cover the surface, optimized for distance and penetrating trajectory.
What is the cover material made from?
The 4 has a premium urethane cover known for great feel and high greenside spin.
How many balls come in a pack?
It is sold both in dozen (12 ball) and double dozen (24 ball) quantities.
What is the difference between model years (2020 vs 2021)?
There are generally no major changes year to year. It is the same consistent design and performance.
Let me know if you have any other questions! I’m happy to provide info about this excellent golf ball.
Conclusion – Who Should Buy the Callaway 4 Golf Ball?
After extensive personal testing and research, I can confidently recommend the Callaway 4 as an excellent choice for a wide range of golfers.
Low handicappers will appreciate the tour-level performance from tee to green. The 4 provides responsive feel and allows shaping a variety of shots with precision.
Mid handicappers get great distance off the tee and excellent iron shot spin – perfect for lowering scores. The soft feel also helps refine their short game.
High handicappers benefit from maximum forgiveness and visibility. Straight, penetrating ball flight takes their inconsistency out of play.
Women golfers needing more distance and greenside control get both from the 4 without sacrificing feel.
Overall, any golfer wanting complete performance across all aspects of their game will love this ball. It simply does everything well.
Before choosing, identify your top priorities – be it more greenside spin, softer feel, or tee shot yards. The 4 may not be the absolute best in one single area, but it has no glaring weaknesses either.
For the golfer wanting one ball to master across all their clubs, this is it. Try the Callaway 4 and prepare for your best ball striking ever!