Layout: 4 1/2 x 3 x 2
Surface: Power Edge
Rev Rate: 470
Rotation: 60*
Tilt: 13*
The Zen 25 is the newest rendition of the original popular Zen series this time with AI technology. The Zen 25 uses the Meditate AI core paired with the new RB 83 Pearl coverstock and finished with Power Edge polish. This combination gives a slightly earlier read and more down lane motion than the original Zen. The Zen 25 is unmistakable in terms of its great presence on the lane and on the shelf. The red, black and silver color scheme really makes this ball pop. I was able to test this on my 44ft typical house shot.
On my house pattern, I saw ample mid lane roll and strong continuous and angular backend. From this ball reaction, it is best used during the transition game 2 and/or game 3 when there is more overall friction. This ball reaction tends to be too responsive for the fresh but can work in the right environment. One week, I tested the ball in league on the fresh, the ball reaction was close to being right but was slightly too angular for what I needed. Ended up working great for games 2 and 3 opening up the lane more left to right. The following week, I was on a pair with more overall friction and the ball was fantastic on the fresh. The lanes started as if it were game 2 essentially so was able to blend the lane more consistently. I think the best place to use the Zen 25 on the fresh is for more medium length or medium oil volume environments. Long patterns and high volume make the ball have trouble slowing down in the right spot. Adding surface to the coverstock can of course make the ball read the lane earlier for those conditions. I recommend this ball to anyone who loved the original Zen and wants a replacement, those looking for a first transition angular ball or those who just like to see more of that angular backend motion. Comparing this to the Storm Phaze AI, I saw the Phaze a little cleaner overall with more angular motion. The coverstock strength of the Zen 25 makes the ball read the midlane stronger with more of a continuous backend. I can see the ability of having both balls in the bag on lane conditions that require more angular motions overall. The Zen 25 would be first out of the bag followed by the Phaze AI.
Adam Chase
Storm Staff
