First Impressions
The Storm Code Blue SP stands out as a premium release for the international market with its deep blue solid and pearl hybrid design. The heart of this model is the asymmetric RAD4 core, which features a 2.500 RG, a strong 0.058 differential and a considerable 0.020 intermediate differential. The cover is a modified R2S surface that comes lightly polished out of the box. The moderate RG lets the core rev up reliably, and the extremely proven R2S surface should let the ball glide cleanly through the front part of the lane before turning over very sharply at the breakpoint.
Comparison
Compared to the Storm Code Black, the Code Blue SP grabs slightly more steadily due to small differences in the cover, but keeps the brutal asymmetry on the backend. Against a reactive ball like the Storm Phaze II, the Code Blue SP's surface delivers a very different line with far more length and a much more angular hook. Once transition sets in, the Code Blue SP makes optimal use of dry boards to build an angular entry without wasting energy in the midlane.
On the Lanes
The Storm Code Blue SP was designed specifically for medium to heavily oiled lane conditions. It lets you play deep on the boards and trust the ball to jump off the backend with enormous aggression. The steady drive toward the pocket should produce brutal carry. On extremely short patterns, however, the asymmetric dynamics sometimes make the Code Blue SP burn its energy too angularly, which can lead to splits. It shines on well-maintained house shots.