chris-m, as I'm sure you know, the Blast was a Hybrid of the original Activator coverstock in Pearl and Solid (Inferno & Ultimate). The new Ultra is, as you also know by now, a Hybrid of pearl & solid EnMotion coverstock. Quite a bit of difference in how they will read the lane. Also, the Blast did well with some, I just think a few too many got out there that weren't as good looking as others. Honestly, colors have become more important to consumers over the past couple of years in the high-end lines. We used to concentrate on making sure the lower cost balls had great shelf appeal, combined with good performance. Now, it seems as if even the high-end balls sell better when they look cool. Not to say that there aren't still those folks out there that want a one-color, plain coverstock, but more and more are leaning towards brighter looks, and this ULTRA ZONE has what it takes.
And, we do extensive testing of all new product to see what surface gives the best possible reaction for what we were aiming for. The Brunswick surfaces are always very tweakable based on how you need to adapt to what you are attempting to use the ball on. It is impossible to send a ball out of the factory that is going to automatically match up with everyone on every condition, we just give it the best opportunity to perform at its peak for "standard" league type conditions. I highlight "standard" only because we all know there is no real standard condition, only "typical" house shots. As with any ball, you can always make one ball overlap another with layouts and surface alterations, even know they may be charted as being different (in their box condition).
I hope, if you like your Twisted, that you'll at least consider the Ultra Zone as a great compliment. The only complaints we've had from some about the Twisted is that it doesn't hook enough on oil, so here comes the Ultra.
Regards,
RoB LaW
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I'm gettin' old, I'm hurtin', but I've got Brunswick balls.......Color me competitive.
