Nike product test prototype balls

Nike has conducted extensive product tests with retailers across the US with a view to launching four types of golf ball at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando next January.

The Nike line of balls looks set to feature the Precision Tour Control, Precision Spin Control, Precision Distance Control and Precision Distance.

However, in an already crowded market headed by Titleist, Top-Flite and Maxfli, it seems that Nike are not destined to be the only heavyweight newcomers. Callaway and Taylor-Made are also expected to introduce golf balls in 1999, which could put an even tighter squeeze on existing brands.

"They're all going for shelf space, just like Pepsi and Coke," said Rick Powell, buyer for a Californian chain stores.