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)
In other words…..ready to move on?!
I just stopped to see if I could grab some ProV1x, but they were out. I think I have a couple of the new Chromesoft X kicking around here that I’ve been putting with, so IF I do, and IF the rain holds off long enough in the morning, ?, I’m going to take them out one more time with that ball before I hang them up for a bit and wait on you all to get to hit them.
Big fan overall. Seem like more of improvement to me than some reviews are saying. The feel especially seems better than the 785’s. I didn’t hit them a ton before now, but I’ve compared them shot to shot indoors a few times recently and they feel different to me. I’ve really taken to the shape at address, but I wish the shorter irons got just a little bit smaller. Tiny gripe, and totally individual.
Hoping the rain holds off so I can hit them with the chromesoft a bit.
Oh, and I DID buy and put some iron covers on them. So if you’re not a fan of anything I’ve said in here, just add that to your bag and beat me with it like Homie D. Clown. I have never used iron covers until now, and have bashed them mercilessly, so have at it.
sidenote – iron covers are a pain in the *SS. How do you crazies put up with that nonsense?! I honestly feel like they affect pace of play. I have a whole new level of hate for them.
Just for now. Finally put another set back together I want to play, and will be traveling so going to let someone else give them a shot for a bit. I’m ready to hear some feedback from all you guys on them. The whole not for North America yet things is crap. I’m excited to hear what more of you think when they hit stores.
TP5. I play TP5x some too. Tour B X is option C usually.
It’s like playing with irons covers, really.
Opening the box and just the looks alone these are better than the 765’s where. I took a few yard swings (Modus 120S) and they feel great, a little head heavy compared to my EF irons.
Can’t wait to get these on the course Thursday and see how they play.
Cant wait to hear more on these! I loved my 565/765, so I’m excited for the comparisons.
Better.
???
Oh I gathered that from your comments, and what Noelle said on OffCourse! Just love hearing more and more. This ZX set is so pleasing to the eye, and add in the Mainframe in the 5 series, I can only imagine how good they are!
I have 4-PW so should be interesting for sure. I haven’t hit a 4 iron in a couple years would only be a tee option for me but even that is unlikely. Probably just take 5-PW to the course.
I feel like just getting the lefty thing fixed might be easier. It’s hard to be lefty ho, and we want you out there, ho’ing it up.
This is just a dalliance…those 19 apex pros will be the bees knees when put together…
I have only seen the ZX irons in person briefly, so I don’t have a lot of input. However, for me personally, the blade length and where the top-line enters the hosel can sometimes make offset look "different", for lack of a better word. The 785s were too long heel to toe for my liking. I even thought the Z Forged offset looked to be more present than I imagined it would.
Yeah, the perceived offset is what matters. Visually at least. And it can be really different for 2 irons with the same number on the spec sheet. I was just surprised by that earlier reference to it, because I’m really picky about how offset looks, and I had tiny gripes about these intially, but that wasn’t one of them.
If you have some, can you snap a couple comparisons?
I did think about them though.
We played in what was about 30% casual water conditions. CPO, choose a path and tip toe, everything is wet by hole 3 including your ‘dry’ towel type stuff. And throughout the day I and my swing drug some serious mud. And ate some too. It was heavy work.
And I thought about those soles, and how slicey they are. And it was nice.
That’s all.
I call conspiracy!!!
I can sort of see what both you and @JB are getting at. Certainly, both fit within the category of a player’s iron, an iron designed for a skilled ball striker, usually with decent ball speed and having a repeatable swing. Isn’t that what you, @JB, are getting at?
Within that set of golfer, there is a subset of are those who notice minute differences in golf clubs. Tiger is notorious for this. From what I have read, when testing out a new driver, he can be handed dozens of the same head and reject almost all of them. He can feel even the tiniest of differences in weighting within a head. This is where I see you, @OldandStiff. You are an extremely skilled ball striker, who can detect very small differences in head design. This goes to comments you made in my personal thread about trying to get to scratch with respect to the need to change equipment as one’s swing changes.
Also within that set is a subset of golfers who are extremely skilled players with great swings, but they do not hone in on such minute details. I don’t want to speak for him, but maybe, for this discussion, @Canadan fits within this subset. He sometimes will be seen even a more forgiving profile, even though he clearly can play anything he would choose, including an unforgiving mb.
This may be where you are saying that the two profiles are different and others would say that they are basically the same type of head, targeted to the same player (which they are, when looking at the entire set, not just the subsets).
I think we’re a pretty discerning group in general around here and just all see the world and gear through slightly different eyes and swings. You’re included in that. I know I learn plenty from more than just those guys, and you, about clubs and other gear and such all the time. @M2Giles has been rocketing me into another dimension on something just about every day lately, when I least expect it. It’s awesome. Takes different takes to make it all go round, right?
Thank you for putting me in a Tiger comparison-ish statement btw. I could almost feel my life getting easier as I read that.
Also, @Canadan is playing MB’s next year. I read that on THP today, so it’s truth.
The ZX7 are pretty hot.
These heads are relatively similar in what they are, yet look so different in size, I’m sure it’s the photo and how their angled but where the hosel meets the head on the zx7 I’m wondering what that is.
I think I read you’re allowed a non-bladey 5i. 1 club combo.
Let me be the judge of that the next time we play.
I very much enjoy hitting them, as well as profiles like the zx7.
But they scary.
I had a brief fling with the King Black mb/cbs. I shot a good score with them in July of ‘19. It was a perfect golf day. I thought, “Wow, these are awesome.” Then I went out when there was a 20 mph wind and the spin just made me feel totally incompetent. I went home crying to my mommy. After months of counseling, the nightmares finally ended. I knew that I could never again be tricked by such a wicked woman.
Initial impressions they feel even better than I remember when I tested them they are the closest feeling when struck well I can remember to a Mizuno TP9 hit out of the middle (for those of us who can remember them!)
Little bit of context I’m in the west of Scotland and we have to play off mats in the winter from the fairway and oddly this weekend hit the fairway quite a bit.
However, the shots out of the rough were the highlight as the v sole is amazing and I felt a much stronger/powerful strike from there rather than off the mat.
Distance wise I suspect they are slightly longer than the p790s they are replacing but I haven’t had enough game time to confirm.
So far so good and I can’t wait to hit them again at the weekend.
Oh and they are still very pretty
I would gravitate to the 5’s game wise, but my eye wants the 7’s.
Not the 15’s, but the J40’s which are still legendary irons. I’ll snap some after kiddo drop off.
Yeah, these things can get confusing. I always defer to the manufacturer of the shaft for info.
the other thing i wonder is when a shaft is labeled such and such is it for that specific head, meaning the shaft can play differently for a different head and then that makes it confusing……
True but the shaft profile should be the shaft profile no matter which head it is in. Now, individual swing characteristics will always override any shaft profile. Meaning, a shaft can say it is low launch, but if you deliver a club in a certain way it may not launch low for you. It does not matter what the shaft, head combo says it should do. There is just what it will do for the individual..
In other words.. Get fit..
Different heads have different launch profiles, loft angle, center of gravity, etc. So understanding the heads launch characteristics and matching that with the correct shaft is key. But shaft profile should be consistent in terms of its specs on the sheet.
True. However keep in mind that testing is done differently, compounded with what shafts are available to golfers from said company. Meaning a shaft could fall in the middle for company A, as they have 3-4 higher launching options and for company B, could be the highest launching option available.
Good thought.
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Oh yeah, it is SO good.
Wow.
Love seeing clubs taken care of like that.
Every iron should be using this design.
As Srixon now owns Cleveland, I would think that this V sole would be incorporated throughout their wedge availability & design stateside? Cleveland doesn’t get it yet.
Am currently playing the Z 545, got em when they 1st came out, so 5 years now, they actually went to far if you can believe that
So I had them bent 2° weaker, (Had to get the gap wedge from Japan).
Still hit them great, 2 club championships
And a dozen rounds in the 60’s but am looking forward to trying the ZX 7’s next month at the PGAss.
Srixon is a monster iron maker.
Awesome!!!!
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The shaft is not something I would normally choose, especially in S flex but it felt really smooth. I could feel the clubhead all the way thru the swing.
The V sole is just the best sole out there unquestionably IMO. Goes thru the turf easily and doesn’t ever seem to hang up.
I was a full club shorter 10-12 yards distance wise compared to my Epic Forged. So with the EF I would hit a 7 155, with this 7 iron i was 145 consistently. That seemed to hold true throughout the set. Which does make it easy to know that I just needed to get the yardage and then compute and grab one more club.
I hit a lot of shots with the 6/7/8 today and it was fun!!!
You can tell when you are hitting center mass on these as the feeling is just really soft. Playing a 2020 CS there was not loud clicks, just a soft click of the ball sailing away. I was getting enough height to have a good decent angle to hold green. I never had one ball today that was farther than 6 feet from the ball mark. I think the CS was helping on that part a bit, and seems like a great combo.
I had a couple that I caught low (almost bladed shots) but they still got up in the air and didn’t lose drastic distance.
I didn’t really have any shot way out on the toe so can’t really say how that shot would play out.
For the first time out with these I was very impressed and compared to the 765’s I used to play these are better by 10X. I would buy these right now without hesitation.
I will be able to get them out at least 2 more times this weekend if the weather holds and try to have some better thoughts on them.