The ZX iron family from Srixon has been a roaring success over the years, and in this review, I am going to be presenting my findings on the new ‘mid-cavity’ style iron of the family, the ZXi5. Following on from the ZX5 and ZX5 MK II irons, this has a lot to live up to if it wants to be considered one of the best golf irons in the game.
From a tech point of view, Srixon has mainly focussed on the enhancement of feel this time around and has done so by introducing its i-FORGED, or impact forged process which has allowed it to select specific steel densities to best suit the performance of each iron within the family. For example, the body material of the ZXi5 is S20C steel, whereas the face is SUP10 steel.
To provide strength and durability, Srixon used what it calls ‘Condensed Forging’ in its ZXi7, ZXi5, and ZXiU Irons. This proprietary technique strengthens specially chosen sections of each iron to fine-tune performance. By doing this, the added support created allowed engineers to utilize softer materials in the construction without compromising durability. So much so that the ZXi5 face material is actually 14 per cent softer than the prior generation of ZX5 Mk II Irons.
Visually the ZXi5 is excellent. From a shelf appeal point of view, the Mainframe tech that sits in the cavity is executed well and the overall aesthetic feels very premium. A monochrome approach to color and the combination of brushed steel and high chrome look very strong yet understated.
In the playing position, Srixon has committed to a high level of cohesion within the ZX family. Like in past generations, each ZXi iron was designed with a holistic, family-oriented approach, so models can be blended easily with similar shaping and nearly identical topline thickness to create similar looks at address. While I like this concept, I think some golfers shopping in this market may be hoping for a more user-friendly, confidence-inspiring look in terms of the top line, however, while this may alienate some higher handicap players, it could also put these in the hands of some lower handicap players after more forgiveness from a traditional look.
Whilst well executed, there is notably more offset than in the ZXi7 irons as you may expect, but it has been blended into the hosel transition well with some sleek shaping.
From a performance perspective, I found the ZXi5 very impressive. Most of my testing was conducted at Saunton Golf Club, using TaylorMade TP5 golf balls and data was gathered using my FullSwing KIT launch monitor.
Aside from the impressive ball speed and distance output, the main thing that struck me about these irons was the sheer quality of their feel. Often when testing irons, as the distance output goes up, you will find yourself compromising on softness and feedback, but that is absolutely not the case here. The sensation at strike is one of controlled power, with a real smoothness to the hit offering minimal vibration. When you couple this with the very impressive turf interaction the Tour V.T. Sole provides, you have a seriously impressive feeling iron.
As mentioned, due to the cohesive looks, these will combo very well with the ZXi4 irons in particular if you are looking for some additional playability and forgiveness in the longer irons. Despite Srixon suggesting that the ZXi7 would perhaps better combo with the ZXiU, I also feel that the ZXi5 could provide a useful alternative in the long irons for ZXi7 users, although you will need to be careful to account for the slight loft differences (ZXi7 7-iron is 32° and ZXi5 7-iron is 31°) in gapping selections.
Overall the ZXi5 irons are a really strong offering for the mid-handicap player still seeking a more traditional ‘player’ style look in terms of their top line and offset, and they very much pack a punch in the distance department.
The Srixon ZXi5 irons will retail from £999 for a 6-piece steel set, while the same in graphite shafts will set you back £1,099.
