Srixon Z-Star balls review

Golf Monthly Verdict

The previous version of the Srixon Z-Star was one of the softest-feeling premium balls on the market, so to enhance that feature further without affecting long game performance is a big step forward.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    To offer an even softer feel around the green without sacrificing long game performance is something all golfers will enjoy

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Fast swingers may experience excessive long game spin and need to switch to the XV version, offering a slightly firmer feel

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The Golf Monthly test team's Srixon Z-Star ball review, which features an updated cover and Spin Skin coating to offer an even softer feel and more spin around the green

Srixon Z-Star balls review

Key technology The latest Z-Star balls feature a new ‘energetic gradient growth’ core with varying levels of softness. The core’s centre is softer than the outer region, which creates even greater spin separation between long-game and short-game shots. The new ball is also softer overall, thanks to an updated ‘Spin Skin’ coating, which is 21 per cent softer than it was previously, as well as a 7 per cent softer urethane cover. A new 324 ‘Speed Dimple’ pattern features a more uniform surface coverage for a stronger trajectory.

Will suit Medium-to-fast swinging golfers after a combination of long game performance with an extremely soft feel around the green.

GM verdict Where you notice the differences between old and new models is predominantly around the green. With the new Srixon Z-Star, you get noticeably more grip on the second bounce, which allows you to be more aggressive on finesse shots and carry the ball further. It also offers reassurance from poor lies that you’ll still get an element of control. The feel remains incredibly soft while maintaining ample long game performance. The ball flight was generally stable on well-struck shots, even in slight crosswinds.

 

Joel Tadman
Technical Editor

Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 12 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all product content here at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader find exactly what they are looking for. So whether it's the latest driver, irons, putter or laser rangefinder, Joel has his finger on the pulse keeping up to date with the latest releases in golf. He is also responsible for all content on irons and golf tech, including distance measuring devices and launch monitors.


One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 3.2.


Joel's current What's In The Bag? 

Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9° 

Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15° 

Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18° 

Irons: Ping i230 4-UW

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 54°. Titleist Vokey SM9 60° lob wedge, K Grind

Putter: Evnroll ER2V 

Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x