Wilson Unveils New Staff Model and Staff Model X Golf Balls for 2026
Wilson has announced the latest iterations of its Staff Model and Staff Model X golf balls, set to hit the market in 2026. These golf balls are designed for skilled players and serious amateurs who are looking for professional-level performance, combining speed off the tee with control and spin around the greens.
Both the Staff Model and Staff Model X have been updated with new core designs and refined layering, all aimed at improving ball speed, increasing spin separation, and enhancing the overall feel. While both balls share similarities, they are designed with distinct compressions, launch angles, and profiles to cater to different player preferences.
Key Features and Technologies
Both the Staff Model and Staff Model X golf balls are constructed as four-piece designs, featuring thin covers made of cast urethane. However, the internal build has been modified to optimize performance in different areas of the game.
A significant update for 2026 is the introduction of what Wilson calls V-COR technology in the core of both balls. This technology enhances energy transfer upon impact, resulting in higher ball speeds, particularly when using the driver and long irons.
Staff Model: Designed for Softer Feel and Controlled Spin
The standard Staff Model is the softer of the two options, with a compression rating of 90. It features a soft rubber core surrounded by a mantle layer that helps manage spin when using the driver. An additional, firmer outer mantle made of ionomer is added to maintain ball speed. The ball is finished with a thin urethane cover, which provides the necessary grip for wedges and short irons.
Wilson says the Staff Model produces less spin off the tee and with irons compared to firmer tour balls. This feature is ideal for players who prefer a penetrating ball flight and a slightly softer feel upon impact.
Staff Model X: Firmer Feel for Enhanced Speed
The Staff Model X has a higher compression rating of 100, making it the firmer and faster of the two balls. However, Wilson has taken player feedback into account and softened the feel and sound compared to previous versions.
The updated Staff Model X features a smaller, mid-compression core, a soft inner mantle for improved feel, and an extra-stiff outer mantle made of ionomer to maximize ball speed. The thin urethane cover ensures that players maintain the greenside spin they expect. While the Staff Model X remains the higher-speed option, the 2026 version is engineered to produce slightly less spin off the driver compared to the 2024 version, without compromising control around the greens.
Aerodynamics and Alignment
Both the Staff Model and Staff Model X utilize a 362-dimple pattern designed to optimize ball flight and distance. The balls are available in both white and yellow, and can also be purchased with Wilson’s TRK360 alignment system. This system adds visual lines around the entire ball, helping players with aiming and providing feedback during putting practice. The alignment graphic can also be used as a training aid, as a clean, end-over-end roll indicates solid contact, while any wobble reveals a mis-hit.
Availability
The Wilson Staff Model and Staff Model X golf balls are priced at $49.99 per dozen and will be available in 2026.
