Layout: 5 x 3 1/2 x 2 1/4
Surface: 4000 Abralon
Rev Rate: 460

The new Ion Pro brings new technology in terms of core shape, dynamics and ball motion that hasn't been seen in the Storm lineup.  The low rg of 2.47 and medium differential of .035 and PSA of 0.014 gives a new meaning to the word benchmark.  Typically, we don't see asymmetrical balls considered "benchmarks" as they tend to be more responsive to friction making them not as readable as a symmetrical version.  The Ion Pro changes that entirely.  The Ion Pro at 4000 abralon finish gives easy length through the front part of the line but the core allows the ball to read the midlane well and have a nice continuation in the backend through the pins.  I found this ball to be very predictable while still giving me enough shape to actually play the lanes both straight and left to right as the lanes broke down which isn't typical for a benchmark type ball. 

I was able to try this ball out on a 37ft sport pattern with medium volume.  What I saw from the Ion Pro was the ability to attack the lanes several ways.  The lower differential gave me that ability to play the lanes straighter on the fresh without giving up the continuation but also gave me the ability to play left to right if I saw a better option because of the hybrid coverstock.  I found a ton of versatility that this ball can provide. At the factory 4000 finish, I found a little too much length for my style to be most effective for me.  A quick surface change to 2000 abralon gave me a stronger and earlier motion that I like to see for my style.  The 2000 finish allowed me to still play straighter while not having to be as close to the friction spot.  The extra surface also allowed me to play left to right with ease as the pattern started to breakdown.  Being in the Northeast, I see a lot of older lane surfaces with a lot of built in friction.  The Ion Pro is clean enough to handle the extra friction while maintaining the control you look for in a benchmark ball. I can honestly see myself having this ball in the arsenal quite often especially on sport patterns.  Compared to the Phaze 2, I saw a lot more length but a slightly stronger backend and compared to an IQ Tour, I saw stronger overall ball motion that read the lane a few feet sooner overall.  I can see myself bringing both the Phaze 2 and the Ion Pro within the same arsenal as they can play off each other well.  This ball will be able to fit most styles and lane conditions of all sorts.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff