If you aren’t evolving, you are falling behind. Srixon Golf has always seemed to take this to heart, especially when it comes to their flagship irons the 5-Series and 7-Series. Well, after much anticipation, they are ready to formally introduce the next generation and here is our Srixon ZX5 and ZX7 irons review.
Not only does THP have a rundown of the design features of each in this article, but we were also able to spend time with the 7i and PW from each set as well.
Are you ready?
Quick Take
Put any worries to rest when it comes to Srixon altering the formula of their Z-Series irons. There may be some impressive technology changes on board as well as a naming change, but the looks, feel, and flat out filthy performance still stands tall in both the ZX5 and ZX7 irons.
Change is Good
Srixon has hit homerun after homerun with their Z-Series irons the past three releases, the 45, 65, and 85 models have been nothing short of stellar and cemented them as an iron company. This year, the name is changing by shortening the naming mechanism to simply ZX5 and ZX7, but the amount of design that has gone into these is greater than any iron Srixon has ever produced.
The basis around the ZX5 and ZX7 this year is best explained by the tag line that Srixon has used in their release, “Created with human intelligence but perfected by the artificial kind.” Now, yes, “Artificial Intelligence” is without any doubt a “hot” discussion point across the industry, but while others are making it all about the computer, Srixon is making sure to let it be known that the craftsmanship is where it all starts with the new ZX irons, and it’s the A.I. that is working with it to take both series of irons to a whole new level.
While each of the iron series have always been differentiated by most based on size and profile, this year they are also each touting some design traits that are unique to each set. As I was fortunate enough to get the 7i and PW in hand for the ZX5 and ZX7 irons and work with them, it makes sense to dive into each individually.
Srixon ZX5
Getting it out of the way, yes, the ZX5 remains the “bigger” of the two iron sets just as has been the case in previous iterations, it’s a club that walks a blended line between a players design and a more game improvement setup.
The ZX5 is still a forged iron and offers a sound/feel that is soft yet quick, at impact it is a crisp feedback that isn’t quite as plush as a pure one-piece cavity back, but it is closer than ever. The look at address is so surprising as both the offset and topline are very tame and it keeps that same heel to toe length that even some of the pickiest out there will get along with.
The sole does have much more width to it than the ZX7, but the previously mentioned heel to toe length of the blade makes it less of a concern. Not to mention, the ZX5 does feature Srixon’s Tour V.T. Sole that I continue to believe is the greatest iron sole grind of all time. In my workout of the 7i and PW on the course that opinion was nothing but solidified as it just responds so well from any lie I could throw at it, and honestly, it makes the wider sole insanely effective. But, this year something special is happening when it comes to the V.T. Sole and it is the return of the sole notches last seen on the 545/745 irons and arguably a big reason that so many of those sets remain in bags, the notches offer relief and thus more versatility which is never a bad thing.
The ZX5 also feature progressive grooves through the set which applies to a SUP10 face that is joined to the 1020 carbon steel frame along with tungsten in the toe of the longer irons. All of these things seek to improve flight, forgiveness, and consistency, but the real story is something called “Mainframe”. This name represents Srixon designers setting the parameters to create their fastest irons on every shot and ran thousands upon thousands of simulations to come up with the pattern that is milled onto the back of each ZX5 face. The variable thickness pattern also features grooves and shapes to make what Srixon believes is an iron that is faster on every single strike, misses included.
Is it though? Without a doubt.
I worked out the 7i and PW of the ZX5 head to head with their sibling the ZX7 and the data recorded on the Foresight GC2 following this section tells the story, these are fast. For me, they were noticeably faster than the ZX7 and misses were at times laughable with how they kept speed comparably.
While you will see in the numbers the spin is also a bit on the low side, this is in part to having to record my data indoors as well as the fact that it has always been the case for me with the 5-Series of irons from Srixon. What stood out in the data and on the course though was the height and descent angle I was able to hit these, both more significant for me than with the 585’s, making my personal spin numbers a non-issue.
Bottom line, there is some serious firepower here. Paired with the Nippon MODUS3 Tour105 shafts is a setup that is smooth and forgiving while also being shockingly long.
Srixon ZX7
The 7-Series has constantly been one of the most gorgeous players cavity designs on the market with each release, and though the new ZX7 is a bit more modern looking with the angles and cavity, it holds true to its lineage and makes for a jaw dropping look in hand and in bag. A thin topline, minimal offset, and a sole that even the most demanding ball striker would be impressed with, the ZX7 is a stunner.
Fully forged out of 1020 Carbon Steel, these are true players irons. Though some might initially think that the cavity is a bit too busy, there is a rhyme and a reason for the added angles and mass placement this time around. The goal with an iron like this is always to add playability while maintaining the look/profile that so many demand, the different angles on the back of the club allowed Srixon to not only move some mass to the perimeter, but also place some directly behind the sweet spot in order to increase MOI while creating more feel.
Through impact, these offered me the feedback in sound/feel that I expected having spent time with every single 7-Series iron from Srixon. The sensation through contact on decent to well struck shots is one that walks the line between sharp and dull, it’s a blend that will be nearly impossible for golfers to find a detraction about. The overall playability for those who enjoy players irons is what stood out most in my time with the ZX7. With the progressive grooves and Tour V.T. Sole with the return of the sole notches, the golfer who demands versatility and precision in anylie will have all they can handle with these. There was no shot that I threw at them on the course that they couldn’t handle, it’s all about if it is a profile you are comfortable and confident in.
Like the ZX5, I also put the two clubs to work on the Foresight GC2 launch monitor and that data is shown. As you will see, the launch, peak, and speed were particularly good for me in both. While the spin dipped a bit recording data indoors, the Nippon MODUS3 Tour120 made for a pairing that just added to the feel and consistency of the heads.
Where the ZX5 offers firepower, the ZX7 rests on precision, but that doesn’t mean they each don’t also have some that the other does. In fact, they blend so well that Srixon is all in on the combo set trend offering any combination you could possibly want, including adding in the new ZX Utility to the mix.
Worth the Wait
Much anticipation has surrounded the release of the Srixon ZX5 and ZX7 irons review, and Srixon is not letting anyone down with what they have created. It’s easy to sit here and write that they impressed me, but they went well beyond that at times with how well they each hit their specific segment while also complimenting one another. This is without a doubt going to be yet another big release for Srixon.
The Details
Available: January 15, 2021
ZX5: 8-Piece $1299.99 Steel/$1399.99 Graphite (Nippon MODUS3 Tour105, UST Mamiya Recoil 95)
ZX7: 8-Piece $1299.99 Steel (Nippon MODUS3 Tour120)
I was fortunate to hit the short irons from a demo set of ZX7s at a Golf Galaxy a few weeks ago and was completely blown away. First time I’d ever held a Srixon iron in my hand. The feel of the 8-PW shots rivaled that of my MP-33s. I simply could not believe how solid and soft the ZX7 heads felt — swing after swing after swing.
Due to some shoulder problems, cortisone shots, ortho advice, getting older, etc., I had decided it was time to hang up the S300s and find an iron head/graphite shaft combination that would allow me to play more golf with less pain/wear and tear on the body and joints. I was 100% set to order JPX 921 Forged with i95 Steelfibers — until I hit about 30 shots with those ZX7s at GG (with stock Modus 120 S shaft). That experience was an eye-opener.
So … I’ve spent the past three weeks scouring web sites and YouTube channels, researching reviews, players testimonials, technical specs and everything possible about the ZX5/ZX7 irons. Then, lol, I found this 70+ page thread on THP! I’ve read every page of it two or three times and feel like I already know about half the posters in this thread. The result has been maddening debates with myself on all ZX7, no … all ZX5, no … a combo set … for three or four days and nights. Whew, you guys had me going back and forth like a ping pong ball before, finally, pulling the trigger last night on an order on the Srixon site.
There is now a ZX5 4-7/ZX7 8-AW combo set (Recoils) being processed with my name on it. The Srixon site showed that set and AW as "In Stock." We shall see if that’s true and how long they take to ship. Can’t wait to get them to the course and begin the transition work from heavy steel shaft to a more body-friendly graphite shaft and those exceptional feeling club heads with V-soles.
Thanks to all for sharing your thoughts and experiences in this thread.
Way to go Dad!! It’s a ZX family! Lol
That set my buddy put together has a Miazaki in the ZX5 4i, and then I can’t remember what the rest are. People love those shafts.
Yeah I’m stoked for him. The last graphite shafts he played was in a set of Daiwa’s in the 90s.
And a smaller pocket book.
Welcome to THP! Great first post. I think you nailed to combo set makeup, and Recoil is a wonderful shaft. Thanks for posting and I look forward to hearing how you like them.
I did not know Miyazaki produces irons shafts. My guess is that your dad will really enjoy his new set.
It’s like I know things about fitting people and golf equipment and stuff
nah, high schoolers know everything.
Haha, boy they definitely think they do. But as I’m about to make them go rank for 36 holes in the mud, I think they’re going to come back to earth a little
If it wasn’t for these irons I would have never discovered that shop, really great set up with loads of stock just 25 minutes from my house!
So I turned up with my 5, 6 and 7 iron as I wasn’t quite sure what they would want me to hit. In the end I hit all 3 to warm up and give the fitter some idea of my problems and why I’m changing irons.
Basically I don’t play enough and am not good enough right now to justify playing blades. I know it’s hurting me and it’s time to change out.
After warming up I saw the Mizuno shaft analyser against the wall and asked if we could use that to save time on trying loads of shafts. As I was hitting the Forged 921s as well he said it would be OK.
Analyser suggested KBS Tour 120 S, KBS $-Taper 120 S and then there was another in X but tbh I cannot remember. 8 think it was Modus 120 but not too certain as they seem like an odd combination of offerings.
Anyway he set up the ZX7 with the $-Taper and it was like magic. What a beautiful combination for me, really nice penetrating flight and a real tightening of the dispersion for me.
I could really feel the lighter shaft as opposed to my DG S300; the weight was more in the head during my swing so it was much easier to feel the clubhead through the swing.
I was really enjoying it, distance was great and consistent on miss-hits and thins. I had some bad strikes mixed in there for sure! It was strange because I’d have a poor strike and instantly know and then look up to see it penetrating straight and true to end up as a really good shot in terms of stats and flight.
We then transitioned over to the Modus 120 X and I instantly knew this wasn’t for me. The ball flight can best be described as ballooning and I was struggling a bit with dispersion. I couldn’t seem to get the club to square up in the strike. I kept coming in open and then trying to fix it and coming in closed. I also had a drop in distance. It just wasn’t for me.
We put the $-Taper back in and it was night and day. Did some lie testing and went to 2° upright and suddenly everything was perfect. I was hitting beautiful shots and laughing after each one with excitement.
I was so happy, placed my order for 5 through pw so now it’s a waiting game!
Can’t wait though, I really think I’ll see some big improvement in my game.
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I continue to hit the ZX7 better than ZX5, once the rest of my ZX7s show up I think the ZX5s will be up for sale. Life is an experiment…
I just need to do a little recalibration on my distances. I don’t think they are fliers as much as the ball carrying more on a 83* day today than in the February/March morning rounds that were in the 40s/50s.
Haven’t gotten to play these in any temps above 60 yet, looking forward to some warm weather golf.
I LOVE my $-taper. It helped me play much better in the wind as well. I usually can’t score for anything in the wind. We had 15-25mph wind on Sunday and after an abysmal front 9 coming in at 41, finished the back 9 in 37. The wind picked up on the back 9, and if I can flight these irons down, ANYONE can!
Good choice!
Ability to play in the wind is super important here in the UK so hopefully I’ll be OK! [emoji4]
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hand today!
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Enjoy them!!! Great irons.
Great side-by-side visuals. . Congrats on the clubs!
You too, @Puttmaster ! Those look great, and man, having them in hand instead of on order is really worth something right now.
Thanks – took them right out to the range. My swing is slowly coming back after a long injury layoff, and up to today have been hitting the ZX7 8i as that’s the only ZX7 I had, and occasionally hitting the ZX5s. I had much more luck with the ZX7 8i, hence filling out the fleet. Took the 7, 9 and PW to the range and validated that in fact I find it easier to hit the ZX7 over the ZX5. At this point I’m a bit steep and am taking divots and the narrower sole is working better for me. And finally the bucket had more good contacts than bad and everything would have been playable (though not on the green). Progress.
I also find the ZX7 PW to have a great feel for around the green (better than ZX5 in my hands). I didn’t order the AW as it looked a bit out of place, will be testing a CBX2 to see how that goes for a gap wedge.
After unwrapping the ZX7s late this afternoon, walked on to the course and played six holes. Quickly discovered there was no reason for me to fear the ZX7 long irons. Hit my best 4- and 5-iron shots of this early season. First swing was a flushed 4-iron tee shot on a long par 3 that left me grinning ear to ear. This could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship!
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I’m on it!!
Wait are all those heads on the floor? WTH?!!! No reason to dishonor them like that.
They cooling. And I only dropped hot materials and had to clean off a couple of them.
Glad you said it so I didn’ t have to
Distances are slightly longer with the ZX5s because of the lofts. Dispersion will also probably be a little tighter with the ZX5s but less workable. I don’t remember the flight when I hit the ZX7s but the ZX5s had a very piercing flight. A fitting will make all the difference though.
Caveat is I’m rebuilding my swing after a long injury layoff. I found that I actually hit the ZX7 8i as long as the ZX5 7i. Yes, that makes no logical sense, but now after having hit ZX5 6-PW and ZX7 7-PW (same shaft, etc, off grass), I can say that my consistency of contact is better with the ZX7. I do hit the ZX5 6i quite well though, curious if I’d hit the ZX7 6i as well – that might be my breaking point.
I think it is pretty much due to the narrower sole getting through the turf better for my current swing, which is a tad steep and taking decent divots. I think most people would find a bit more distance with ZX5 and maybe better dispersion. But in my hands at the moment, ZX7 wins.
Just have to wait but man that is a long wait.
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That is beyond depressing. I know a guy here who’s in the same boat. There better be some seriously cool clubs coming in the future because people are getting pretty bitter about all this waiting and aren’t looking to repeat it anytime soon. Plus, if anyone does sell their stuff at the end of the year, there’s going to be some pretty fresh faces/grooves on the secondary market if people only get to play half a season with them.
I’m a bit annoyed because we’ve been in lockdown from December until late March and I called the shop twice a week to check if these had come in.
I was the first to hit them, hell I unwrapped the plastic from them! Yet still there’s such a massive wait.
I’ve bought them to keep so I’m not too fussed about resale but that’s a good chunk of the summer I’m missing out on.
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Last year got good deal on new cobra forged tecs so bought them. They weren’t better. Maybe my custom order was wrong as went .25 short ( am 5’8) and 1 flat with stiff $tsper lite shafts. Missed right a lot as if ball wouldn’t turn over for a draw.
Fast forward this year and was thinking of replacing the forged tecs.
Went to demo the zx5,7 against the forged tecs as I have good trade in deal.
Looks wise Srixon are nicer at address less offset and better topline.
Was hitting zx5 with modus tour 105s and zx7 with the 120s
And was using the stock forged tecs off the demo cart so std loft lie and length.
First thing I noticed was feel. The hollow forged tecs felt the best. Was a dense yet solid and soft feel. The zx5 was a bit clicky and the zx7 was solid but also not as dense feeling as the Cobra.
Next thing I noticed was the spin difference.
The zx5 7 iron using a prov1 was getting sounding the mid to high 4000 range.
Zx7 was hitting the mid to high 5000 range
Cobra hit 6000 to 6500.
Launch angles were all within 1 degree.
Ball speed was highest zx5 at 115 to 120
Cobra was 114 to 119
Zx7 112 to 118
Dispersion was best by far with Cobra.
No matter how hard I swung every thing was straight to a 3 yard draw.
The zx5 wanted to go left.
Zx7 was close to cobra but not as good.
So the cobra’s despite less loft were the highest spinning straightest and best feeling.
They were in between the 5 and the 7 distance wise but thing that was mostly about spin.
So I think I won’t rush to replace them with the Srixon as I joined a new course this year and the greens are firmer and faster so approach soon will be key to holding greens.
It is too bad as I love the looks and my old 565 were long soaring clubs.
Now the question I have is could 1/4 inch and 1 degree flat have such an effect on my results? I can’t believe how good I hit the Cobra in store and have not seen that often on course last year.
In fairness am working on a swing adjustment after long layoff over winter due to Covid restrictions and maybe I am finally getting swing grooved in (started to see ball striking improvement after last range session last week).
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Just shooting from the hip and .02…
With the cobras adjusted the way you had them, they match up really close to stock of the ZX’s with loft being the strongest of the three by 1*-2* at 29.5 in the 7I slot. The offset difference is .1 – .2 with cobra right in the middle.
You’ve got a pretty close race between them really as far as the head spec. The SW (D2) is close with the Cobra maybe leaning a tiny touch lighter with the 1/4" short…maybe D1.
The shaft is the variable and I imagine and with working through some things could be the major one. Some people get along better with the feel of one vs. another oem.
Sounds like you’ve got a great setup now and get along with the KBS shaft better with your swing right now compared to when you got them? The M105 vs 120 is a something to consider as well.
My son has been coming over as he is starting to paint again. He saw them and wanted to know if we could go to the range and maybe play a round. Didn’t want to distract him from getting back into the painting as he enjoys it and is a stress reliever for him.
Man…did that ever excite me and another reason to get the ZX7’s out and about for review!!!
He paints with spray paint and completely blows me away with how he does it. Will have to get a pic of the setup I’ve put together for him the next time he comes over. He has probably got 10-15 completed trying to get back at it.
Here is a pic of one of them.
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The clubs I demoed were all off the fitting cart cobra to srixon length and swing weight should be same.
The concern with the Srixons is the spin or lack thereof.
With a 7 iron there was more than 1500rpm increase in spin with Cobra vs the Zx5 and 600 or so for the Zx7.
Cobras were spinning in the low 6000 range which seems right for a 7 iron
Hitting off mats or grass? Depending on your swing, mats can give some questionable data and feedback.
Can’t decide between zx5 or 7.
On simulator the zx7 was more consistent in the 7 iron. But the zx5 was about 7 yards longer. Soin much higher on zx7.
I think I prefer the modus 120 to the 105.
Unfortunately right now custom orders will be backordered 2 months so might just go with the stock offering.
I don’t usually play the 4 iron.
So question is do I go zx7 or 5. Are the 5 that much more forgiving.
I care about launch and soon as my new golf club has smaller firm greens.
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