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What’s new? How much does it cost? And how does it perform? Jack Backhouse brings you the low down on the Bridgestone E12 High Launch golf ball.
Bridgestone’s latest addition to its ball-fitting revolution comes in the form of the e12 High Launch. It is purpose-built for golfers chasing higher trajectory and more carry.
Bridgestone claims 85% of amateur players are using the wrong ball and with the e12 line, they’ve tailored three distinct models to match different flight tendencies. For those in need of extra height and distance, the High Launch might just be a game-changer.
So, let’s see how it performed? Read our full Bridgestone E12 high launch golf ball review to find out…
The Bridgestone e12 High Launch delivers exactly what its name promises, a towering ball flight and more carry. It may not be tour-level in feel, but its performance in key areas like iron spin and height off the deck makes it a fantastic choice for the average golfer. If you’re fighting to get the ball airborne or need more stopping power on approach shots, this ball deserves a place in your bag.
PROS
Excellent spin numbers for a two-piece ball, particularly with wedges
Forgiving and suited to the majority of amateur swing speeds
Strong value offering for high-handicap or mid-handicap players
Bridgestone E12 High Launch Golf Ball Review: First Impressions
One nice touch is the inclusion of Bridgestone’s Mindset logo, designed to assist with pre-shot routine focus and consistency.
NCG Verdict
The Bridgestone e12 High Launch is part of a trio that includes the e12 Speed, which promotes a lower ball flight, and the e12 Straight, which has a reduced side spin rate. This version stands out thanks to a super low compression core, which enhances launch and carry for players with slower swing speeds.
Notably, it doesn’t feature a urethane cover, opting instead for a surlyn construction. This does restrict the short game performance and feel around the greens. However, the emphasis is clearly on distance and forgiveness, making it ideal for the everyday golfer looking to add yardage.
However, despite lacking a urethane cover, I found the High Launch ball performed surprisingly well in the short game department. Off a 58-degree wedge, I was able to record around 6,300 rpm. This is strong for a two-piece design and noticeably better than the other e12 siblings that I have tested.
Using a 7-iron, I saw ball speeds of 115 mph, carry distance around 160 yards, and spin rates up to 5,800 rpm. These numbers were reflective of a high, soft-landing flight that would help players to hold greens with confidence.
Although, when it came to off the tee performance, this is where the ball’s softer compression showed its limitations. I experienced some struggle off the tee, especially considering I have a faster swing speed.
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My ball speed was around 154 mph, with a spin rate of 2,300 rpm, and carry of 267 yards for a total of 286 yards. I struggled to get any sort of carry distance with the driver in hand which was disappointing. Although, the peak height reached 110 feet, which reinforced its high-launch credentials.
Final Verdict
Overall, the Bridgestone e12 High Launch isn’t built for the low-handicapper with high clubhead speed. But for the vast majority of amateur golfers I think this is a compelling option.
While I do believe it lacks some finesse around the greens, it compensates with impressive launch characteristics, added carry yardage, and surprisingly solid spin performance with both irons and wedges. If you’re looking to hit it higher without sacrificing too much control, this ball is definitely worth a test run.
Bridgestone E12 High Launch Golf Ball Review: The Details
