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)
What shaft did you go with? I’ll be bringing my ZX5/7 combo set.
I got a set with modus 120’s, I do wish I could have found a combo set for the right price but these will do. A quick grip change once I land in Houston and 1 practice round before we drive to Austin. Really looking forward to meeting everyone and hopefully these irons agree with me. What shaft do you have in yours?
Right now I don’t think there is a right price for any set of used clubs out there, pricing is outrageous for used clubs.
Yes! Used club prices are quickly becoming like used vehicle prices right now! I’m contemplating wether or not I should offload a set right now.
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Recoil 110 Protos. And they are ?.
I wish I had several sets like some of you guys… i would be letting em go at these prices, then buy more when the prices came back to reality
Now that’s got to be hard every time you go out on a golf course, pay all those sheckles and you still don’t have the irons to play
What is in the bag above 7i?
I actually am sticking with my 2-6 hybrid set up along with my G400 Max Driver. I was using the G410’s and getting inconsistent flyers. I missed the feel (and consistency) of forged clubs, thus the change.
It’s eating at me…..?
?
Love my G Max. You know its good when Tour players are still using it during Ryder Cup
Save yourself some money in the long run from buying different shafts, just get an iron fitting with those ZX7, I’m sure the info on the screen will give you the best idea of what shaft to use
1. Turns out I really picked the right weekend to skip playing in a tournament
and
2. My favorite crap weather clubs, the do everything well ZeXie7s, are already in the bag and ready to go if the wife and I can actually get out tomorrow. And I’m pretty excited to slice those beauties through the muck.
My 2 cents. In August I went with new Srixon Z585 irons. These were the ones I liked best. I ordered the 585 #7 – W and purchased new ZU 585 #5 and #6 iron heads only. The 7-W were ordered new thru a local pro who is a Srizon rep. All have KBS Tour 90 soft stepped steel R flex. I assembled The ZU 585 5 and 6 irons to my specs and needs. #5 iron used a KBS Tour 90 TAPER tip #3 iron shaft ( double soft step) and I installed a TAPER tip KBS Tour 90 #5 iron shaft in the ZU 585. #6 iron (single soft step). Srizon single soft stepped the Z585 #7 thru W . All but trimmed to play +.50 and The R flex. The distances, feel and high ball flight with my irons have been more than significantly amazing. The shafts feel smooth. and stable. I am 76 and why did I not go this route sooner. I am hitting these irons close to the same places as 25 years ago and I have permanent physical set backs to deal with. For years I have been playing graphite in newer pings, Callaway and Taylor Made. Nice irons but in no way did the graphite shafts compare with what I am getting from the KBS 90 set up. Major increase in performance. They have all been sold. I should have realized that graphite iron shafts were holding me back years ago. He’ll younger and healthier golfers than I are all smiles when they hit my Srixon irons. My experience may be of interest to some of your equipment ideas. I do not know if the new Srixon 2021 releases are any better . Confident that my set works as well. If not little better for me.
That is the setup I’m looking at all though the shafts will probably be the modus 105. I was able to take a complete set of zx5 out for two days of course use and love them, but did not love the price with two boys in college . Have you tried a zx5 I’m curious about the comparison between the two
I made a mistake. I do have the new 2021 ZX 5’s. They are not the older 585’s. . Now my 5 and 6 are the prior ZU 85 generation. I did not alter the lofts on either. The gapping between. 6 ZU85 and 7 ZX5 is not a problem. These irons are explosive.. I just talked to my body who went to demo days. He told me that the new utility irons started at 2 thru 4. He said they are super. He has the ZU 85 5 and 6 and he believed the 4 iron loft spec was not a strong loft and could be ordered 2 or 3 degrees weak in loft to play as a 5 iron.. He really liked the new utilities (think they are called ZXU) but ultimately decided to stay put. I have not checked the loft on the new ZXU 4 utility to verify that it could be easily bent to fit in as a five. Sorry for the confusion. I am new to Srixon. and.erroneoudly thought I had 585 short irons in my set.
Yep, the ZX5s are fantastic. As for the new U85 there just called the ZX.
At times Budget golf has a sale on the ZX 5"s. For the #7 – W part of my set paid 149 per club. Your trackman data is looking good.
Track man data looks good. I hear you. I paid $149 per club for 7-W part of my set. Sometimes Budget Golf has Srizon sale. You will enjoy them
Interesting to see how much more consistent and better your ballstriking was with the ZX5s. Even AoA moved considerably into the right direction. Fitting and adapting a club to one’s individual swing and requirements to perform your best swing is such an underrated part of the Golf game
Question for those that have been fitted. My fitter walked away several times for several minutes during our sessions and I didnt think much of it until I got home, was wondering if he was no longer interested due to me telling him before the session started I was not going to be buying new clubs after the session was over, and to try and fit me into stock shafts but would still be interested in knowing the best shaft for me. Did your fitter do the same?
When I think I need some more forgiveness these turn it on and show me what can be done with them. Hitting small 3-5 yard draws with irons is a lot of fun.
Awesome! Nice playing, pal! ?
Stud!
Dialed in, the only thing I’ve dialed in lately is my radio station glad to hear you’re at least doing well on the golf course
2372 posts is good convo about them. Not a ton of us playing them but you are correct, they are excellent irons and love mine.
I’m playing a set that I built to my specs with MMT 95 and they are the first set of irons over the past 3 years that I really can’t see being beat out of the bag without spending a fortune
I currently game the Zx5s, but am going to order the zx7s in 8-PW.
I hit my zx5 8i ~150
Do I need to bend the Zx7 a degree stronger to hit that 150 mark?
Just curious what most people do when they blend (or what srixon recommends).
Sorry I did not respond sooner to this. Trying to get the house ready for sale. It’s been many years since I’ve had to do this. As for more consistency ,yes as noted they’re all left but that is my instructor modifying my swing and I know she’s creating more a in to out with a strong grip for right now to compensate for my over the top. I’m easily able to modify my swing or my grip to go straight or to have a nice fade to it. But to be able to do this without thinking will take time. Honestly it’s nice to see the Ping Zing hold hold its own even with its age, but the zx5 feel so good during ball contact.
When I was on the Trackman last winter ZX5 short iron carry distances were only 3-4 yards farther for me than a ZX7. In the long irons it was a bit more. My sig shows my mixed set.
Check out Global Golf. They have a program called U Try. You can try a complete set of irons or driver or putter, a complete set of irons will cost you $50. That includes shipping both ways and you get it for 2 weeks. I borrowed a set of ZX-5 and played two weeks worth while on vacation. And yes they feel fantastic in the turf, I also brought my original clubs with me and compare them in deep rough. These Srixons just cut right through the rough and were only about 7 yards short of my normal distance.
I thought about doing this to accept at 63 years of age my swing is starting to slow down so the 7s just would not last for me. There are several members on this forum that had the combination you were talking about. Depending on the shaft you play I might be interested in purchasing your 8, 9 and pitching wedge5
After 20 years of playing my Zing’s I had decided to start looking for new clubs and as it turned out the zx5 were a perfect fit for me using the motus 105 stiff shaft. I thought about doing what you’re doing using the fives and the seven combination but I just feel at age 63 years I just won’t be able to keep the swing much longer looks like you and I have about the same yardage with the 8-iron I’m right around 155. If you decide to sell the 8 9 and pitching wedge if you have the motifs stiff I might be interested in buying them. I am a bit jealous that you’re going to be going the five and seven route
My Zx5s have the recoil 95 stiff shafts. I tested Modus 105 against them and found no real difference.
So what made you decide on one Shaft or another? I believe I’ve heard the recoils r a little more forgiving for wrist problems
That’s exactly why I chose the recoils.
At the time I was having wrist issues, and just wanted to be safe.
Turns out it wan’t a wrist issue, but instead knots in my thoracic muscles (can lead to wrist pain). Foam rolled it out using a tennis ball and haven’t had problems since.
Fwiw a fitter/instructor told me that wrist issues have less to do with graphite vs steel and more to do with shaft weight. Heavier it is, harder it is on joints etc.