- Phaze EX

First Impressions
Released in July 2022 (or June for the international market), the Storm Phaze EX expands the legendary Phaze line with an exciting option that was originally conceived primarily for the Asian market (OEM). Visually, the ball shows up in a striking mix of blue, red and silver and gives off the "Green Apple" fragrance. Inside works the proven Velocity Core, a symmetrical weight block with a low RG of 2.48 and a high differential of 0.051 (at 15 lbs). This core is known for revving up quickly and for its predictability. What makes the Phaze EX special is the combination of this core with the NRG-2 Pearl Reactive coverstock. This shell is based on Storm's nanotechnology. Unlike classic pearls, which are often laid out purely for length, the NRG-2 compound offers more bite in oil thanks to its microscopic peaks. Out of the box, the ball comes with a 1500-grit polished finish, which gives it an attractive shine and helps it get through the heads cleanly.
Comparison
Drawing the comparison to the ultimate benchmark ball, the Storm Phaze II, the Phaze EX shows noticeably more length and a sharper move at the breakpoint. While the Phaze II reads the lane very early with its massive solid surface and throws a rounded arc, the Phaze EX stores its energy longer. The comparison to the Storm Phaze V or Phaze 4 gets interesting, since both use the R2S Pearl coverstock. Here the strength of the Phaze EX's NRG-2 shell shows: it has more traction than the R2S balls. That means it doesn't slide over oil in the pocket as easily (over/under effect), but instead reads the midlane a bit earlier and more stably than a Phaze V. In terms of performance it sits exactly between a strong solid (like the Phaze II) and a very clean pearl (like the Hy-Road or Phaze V).
On the Lanes
The Storm Phaze EX is an excellent choice for medium oil and for conditions where the lane has already gone through some transition. When a strong solid ball revs up too early and loses energy before it reaches the pins, the Phaze EX provides the necessary length without sacrificing control. Thanks to the nano particles in the pearl surface, it is better suited than purely polished balls to still hook reliably on somewhat more oil in the midlane. It lets you move your launch zone inside and play bigger angles across the boards, with the Velocity Core making sure the ball doesn't snap away uncontrollably at the breakpoint but instead makes a strong yet readable move to the pocket. Carry is often excellent thanks to the steep entry angle, especially when you play deeper lines.