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’ve only played them once, and I wrote about it on the previous page. If it warms up a little I might take them out for 9 when I run across town. I want to get some 9-PW shots in with them. Got to play most of the rest yesterday.
Could be. It makes all the difference when the topline is slightly rounded vs a more squarish look. These look great.
out of that lineup what do you hit the best? what look do you like the best?
The previous page, eh? I suppose can wander all the way over there. Given your feedback on the p770’s in the shorter irons, your take on these in scoring irons will be interesting.
Uhhh… Boy.. I hit/play the P7MC the best. Aggravatingly so, because I’ve tried not to love them. Apex Pro a real close second and my favorite overall, easily. LOVE the P770 long irons, and the look of the T100S. Not the feel though. The ZX7 have them on that for me.
You have an impressive line-up of irons. Do you have the same shafts in all of them? How long do you hang on to them before deciding to move them?
the srixon are the best feeling?!
i would have no idea as i havent hit any of them but if i had to guess those srixon have gotta feel great.
I had a credit with an overseas seller and picked them up shortly after they came out. I know others who have have bought them from non-North American places. A friend has been playing the 5’s, another said he just bought some, etc. They’re not that hard to get I don’t think. Just can’t be sold here? I don’t know. I didn’t know it would be a thing until recently. They’re in bags, and they barely even sell Srixon here so :confused2: I messaged THP-in-charge to make sure I could even show them or talk about them when people started messaging me about it.
I didn’t say that! lol Feel is so subjective and dependent on preferences.. They feel good. You should try them if you get the chance, but I know it’s tough where you are. I swear Nebraska has never heard of Cobra or Srixon, other than Srixon balls.
Absolutely do not have the same shafts in all of them. Quite the opposite. As far as moving them, it depends. My wife would say ‘not soon enough’. Some I like better than others, some I’m stubborn to try to like (talking to you T100S), and some are hard to ever want to part with (Apex Pro). I’ve sold a few sets recently, and I won’t go into next spring with all these. They’d be wasted. Plus, there are new ones still coming.
i need to learn to play as one of the many…
FOR SURE, its really strange here where im at, with everything bought online really, no where to try anything other than maybe a demo club at a course. my local muni is titleist and callaway only really. the country club is ping and mizuno. there are a bunch of other local muni courses here but they dont really stock clubs. but a lot of oem name brands are just non existent. side note, when the srixons got hot a few years ago a couple of low low handicappers at the country club were talking about them one day and i was literally sold by their word, ordered them and been playing the 565s since.
Really appreciate the kind words!
These irons look awesome. Thanks everyone for the comparison pics. My heart wants to hit the ZX7s, but my brain is leaning towards the 5s. Can’t wait for these to be available to hit.
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Awesome pics. The ZX7 soles look 100% playable and not thin. I was worried they be on the thinner side.
They’re definitely more towards the players end in the long irons, and stay pretty consistent from the longs instead of getting bigger in both directions from the 7 like some with forgiveness built in. I like that so far, especially in the short irons. Big difference between them and an Apex Pro in the 4 but not much but the 7/8.
Is that a bad knick in the 4i already? ?
Yeah, they took some noticeable hits the first time out. After 2 rounds every single iron has one, usually 2 or more. @Jman said his were holding up well, so it kind of surprised me. When you bend them though, it’s impossible not to notice how soft they are. That doesn’t exactly equate to durability, but isn’t unrelated either.
I know some will chime in and say well they are work horses and should get dinged a bit but that is really soft metal to have that happen so quickly. I would think they would take a bit more beating then that. Makes me wonder how bad the bag chatter will be?
Yeah, I don’t know. It makes me curious too. I really didn’t expect it, but I don’t want to overreact to it. I use 14 way bags, and they’ve taken two truck and cart rides, and played 2 rounds. We’re headed home right now. I’ll clean them up and grab a few snaps. Maybe compare them to the P7MCs. Those have had way more action, but are still pretty new, so it might be a decent comparison.
Is there a set of players irons you haven’t purchased yet?
They look great.
For those concerned about low spin, I think low spin is currently a bit overblown. I haven’t seen an iron recently that was low spin that actually had playability issues. Descent Angle is an important metric for green stopping and I’ve never had issues stopping a Srixon 7 series iron on a green. The only irons that were legit too low spin for me were the Apex CF16 and I mean those were insanely popular here in THP.
Well, if you’re already expecting it, then I won’t disappoint ??
It’s not a beauty pageant. They’re going to be hitting a mixture of different soil conditions at upwards of 80-90mph. A mark on the sole won’t make them feel any worse or make the ball go wayward at impact.
But, that’s me. I understand how others may expect them to be pristine longer for the money that you invested. But, for me, if a softer feel means more marks, it’s worth the trade off.
Yes! lol
I think spin is and isn’t overblown. I don’t think it’s as big a concern for some as much as others. All relative to swing and personal spin levels, skill, expectations, blah blah blah. For MY game, the whole descent angle conversation is overblown. I give 2 s***s about descent angle the way it generally seems to be used.. I mostly want no part of flying things high enough to depend on descent angle to save my lack of spin. Should the average player go for more launch and less spin coming in at a higher angle? Maybe more so? I don’t know, but there are low spin players of various levels too, and they might notice a few hundred less revs. I noticed a few shots first round, and last round, having less spin and hold than I’m used to, but again, that’s relative to what I’ve been playing. I think it gets a little muddled with club number and lift though, so I try to think about it in terms of distance. I want a certain spin at a certain window for a certain distance. In the end I don’t care what number or loft club does that as long as it’s consistent and the whole club range is covered. That’s probably the gist of my ‘it is and isn’t’ for me. Hope that makes sense and didn’t sound argumentative. Wasn’t meant that way.
I did change balls the last 9 yesterday to try to add more hold power, even though it was wet and windy.
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The MC’s are pretty pristine compared. More of the little bitty ones because they’ve been out a lot more, but not a single big ding like these have. Look like they might be top against bottom marks.
Did you have the lie angles on these adjusted? The mark on them seems to be on every iron and in almost the exact same place. Just a curious observation.
Yeah, but some were definitely there before that. I played them once before we bent them all, and they had already acquired some marks. I think they’re from the top of a club tapping the bottom of a sister club. There are more like those near the heel, but it’s hard to catch them in the light.
Is kind of weird how those marks are in almost the exact same spots. The knick on the 8 irons in the top pic is minor.
But hey, I bet they feel really soft
Yeah, they’re how they line up in the bag. I noticed the mark on the P was way out towards the edge and a slightly different texture. It’s from the putter. Then I spun the wedge and dropped it onto the 9, perpendicularly, like tossing it into the bag, and that’s the mark on it now.
They’re just soft. Only as big of a deal as it is to any one person. I’m not a lunatic about gear (vain though, probably), but I’d wager at this rate they’re going to look pretty beat, pretty fast for me. I won’t baby them.
This maybe doing it? I could be from bending, maybe. I’m trying to picture their plate. If it would press there on the toe. I bent half of them myself though, and we went flat, not up…
Regardless, it is what it is, and some will care, and some won’t.
I’m realizing it might, probably, definitely, make me make a decision on them a lot faster though. They’re either hanging around a long time, or they’re headed out soon, ’cause that’s gonna add up.
Edit: no, I definitely didn’t go past and have to bend back up on some of the ones that have it..
They do feel good. Decent forgiveness so far too. Shot of the day yesterday was a slight mishit.
yep those would be in iron covers for me. Beautiful irons that don’t need the unnecessary beating of bag chatter.
Boo iron covers.
Let those beauties breathe! Scars and all!
I would have to let everyone see how pretty they are.
Honestly, I was thinking that as I was cleaning them. They really are pretty. Strong section lines and angles, but transitions are good and ever so slightly rounded, so they flow really well. And clean up like a dream. Nowhere for anything to get stuck. I noticed that on course. They wipe clean in the moment really well. Pleasantly surprised by that in the messy conditions last round.
They feel really good. And V soles are so easy to like. I’ve only played a couple rounds with them so not totally fair to compare them. I think they seem more friendly/forgiving than the P7MC, but the size difference alone could account for that. And that’s part of why it’s hard to compare them. The MC fit my eye better, because I like a compact head. Same with them next to the 921 tours. Just preference. These definitely aren’t long or anything, though. I think they have a really nice shape. Early to compare them on actual performance. Two very different rounds in terms of conditions.
Those MB’s look amazing!!
I should have thought to share one of that. Yes, the grooves change between 7 and 8.
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8 is on top.
I’m not sure how it directly compares to the MC, and have a limited number of on course shots, but my instinct is that it spins less by a fair margin. They are different lofts though, too. First round on firm greens I saw some results with the short irons I’ve definitely never seen there with the MC’s, and same thing yesterday. All swings and needs are different though. It sounds like you’d prefer lower spin with your ball flight. I try to not go too much over 100′ and with a lower launch even when it isn’t blowing for better control, so I prefer some.
I definitely wouldn’t argue against that idea from what I’ve seen. Some monitor numbers weren’t all that different for me vs the Forged, but size and feel more similar to the tours (but better, imo)… I think that’s pretty fair to put it in the middle. Others would surely disagree though.
Those are some damn fine looking irons seeing the set lined up like that. Thanks for posting these. ?
Well not necessarily below 100 as a rule, but anything over 110 is likely a miss for me, or I’m playing a shaft that doesn’t suit. There’s no rules on ball flight, just what I prefer. Little more control over things, and cuts that air time by a couple seconds. A lot can happen in the wind in 7+ seconds, and I’m a bit of a control freak! . You’re getting about all you can get for distance with your flight though, and there’s value in that if it plays that way.
I’ve got 8 rounds on the 7i and Pw of both sets as well as range sessions and have seen nothing like that, even with 16+ clubs in the bag while testing/reviewing.
That said, they’re soft. The Srixon irons have always been some of the softest forging out there, and when you play a true forged players iron chatter and marks will happen, and often. The only ones I’ve see that it’s not the case are the MIM and any PING (cast) players iron.
Irons are workhorses. Not trailer queens, that’s the putter and driver.
The MIM jump out in my mind on that. They seem like they’re built to hold up to that kind of wear. You’ve mentioned it and I don’t even want to say what my buddy did to his bag of them in the parking lot recently, but they brushed off with nary a scratch.