First Impressions
The Brunswick Vaporize S.E., released in May 2025, is a special edition evolution of the successful high-performance ball, developed primarily for the international market and specific lane conditions. Technically it builds on the foundation of the original Vaporize, but brings some decisive upgrades with it. At the core, the proven Zone Asymmetric Core (RG 2.478, diff 0.048 at 15 lbs) is still at work, known for its low RG and strong flare potential. The big change is the coverstock: Brunswick uses the HK22C - EVO Pearl Plus+ Reactive shell here. The "Plus+" designation signals a chemical adjustment that should create more friction in oil than the standard version. Out of the box the ball comes with a 500/1000/1500 Siaair and Crown Factory Compound finish, which gives it a shiny appearance but keeps more teeth for the midlane under the polish than conventional pearls. DynamiCore2 technology additionally optimizes durability and pin impact.
Comparison
Compared directly to the standard Vaporize (Carbon), the Vaporize S.E. shows a noticeably earlier response to friction thanks to the "Plus+" additive, along with a more stable phase through the midlane. Where the regular Vaporize sometimes tends to slide through too much oil (skid/flip), the S.E. version offers more security and traction without sacrificing the aggressive backend motion. A fitting comparison ball is the Storm Attention Star: both are asymmetric pearls capable of creating a lot of angle, though the Vaporize S.E. often reads a touch earlier and feels somewhat rounder than the extremely angular Attention Star. Next to the Brunswick Mesmerize, the Vaporize S.E. serves as the ideal step-down ball: when the Mesmerize revs up too early and loses energy, the Vaporize S.E. provides the length needed through the heads while generating a similarly powerful move at the breakpoint.
On the Lanes
The Brunswick Vaporize S.E. is an excellent choice for lanes with medium to high oil volume that have already gone through some transition. It is perfect for opening up the pocket when you are forced to move further left (for right-handers) and play more angle. Thanks to the HK22C base, the ball reacts extremely quickly to dry boards, but the asymmetric core keeps it controllable enough that it does not jump unpredictably. If you have a lower rev rate, you'll benefit from the strong core that forces the ball to hook, while power players will appreciate the energy retention into the pins. It is less suited to extremely fresh, long sport patterns with a lot of oil in the heads (a solid like the Mesmerize would be better there), but unbeatable once the pattern breaks down and you have to play "around the corner."