SRI Sports, parent company of Srixon, is the largest manufacturer of golf clubs in Japan, and holds the most patents for golf ball technology of any company in the world.

In Srixon, they have a U.S.-based company with a name that is practically unpronounceable to Americans and Japanese alike.

But what’s in a name?

More important is what’s in a golf ball. Srixon’s new Trispeed ball (MSRP $40/doz.) is a tough-but-soft three-piece premium ball that absolutely launches off the tee, with low spin and extreme height.

Around the green, the Trispeed is rather surprisingly soft, given that its outer cover is not as “rubbery” or “sticky” to the touch as many other high-end balls (e.g., Titleist ProV1 or Nike Platinum One).

Srixon has around a half-dozen other golf balls, many of which with somewhat cryptic monikers like AD333 or Z-URC. I’m not sure which speeds the Trispeed name refers to, but at least I can remember it.

Frankly, though, I wish I could forget the Srixon mascot, an eyeless, dagger-toothed, loud-mouthed golf ball with a voice a few notches more irritating than movie “star” Chris Tucker.

And the catch-phrase – “Get your Sriks-on!” – what in the name of Old Tom does that mean? It’s not even spelled like the company name.

Does one need a Sriks to enjoy “safe golf?”

If anyone can offer insight as to what that demonic dimpled thing means, or why it would be at all appealing to golfers, please feel free to share.

A great golf ball should not be sullied, after all, by an annoying cartoon.

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