Srixon ZX5 MkII Driver Review

How did I test the Srixon ZX5 MkII?

I tested the ZX5 MkII indoors with Trackman using Titleist Pro V1 RCT golf balls.

Specs of the ZX5 MkII Driver I tested: 9.5 Loft, Standard Lie, Standard Length, 6.0 Flex, Project X HZRDUS Smoke Red RDX 60 Gram Graphite Shaft

Over one testing session, I hit a total of 26 golf balls with it, essentially 2.5 rounds worth of drives. 

It took me a more time than usual to get a better comfort level swinging this club. 

Check out some of the drives from testing here:

Here is the data from my testing session:

Bottom Line

The ZX5 MkII is a nice looking driver that should aid you in hitting the ball straighter, helping you hit more fairways.

The forgiveness is as decent, and although it took me a few shots to get into a groove, overall it was a comfortable driver to hit with. 

It was not anything spectacular though, and for what the original price was upon release, there were much better drivers to spend your money on.

Pros

• Straight shooting club.

• The swing feel is good.

• High forgiveness on mishits.

Cons

• Workability is lower compared to other drivers.

• Much better value for other drivers given the price range

Verdict on the Srixon ZX5 MkII Driver

When thinking about drivers, Srixon may not be one of the first brands that comes to the average golfer’s mind. I am guilty of this being my first thought upon deciding to test this driver, but Srixon has done a nice job with this design. 

The alignment aid and matte black top of the driver's head are a nice touch, and the overall driver head shape and features are good. 

Impact sound is moderate and less pronounced, nothing to write home about. Still, if you are consistently hitting balls into the fairway with it, the sound will be sweeter. 

The appreciation for this driver is in its forgiveness and performance for those who consistently struggle to hit drives straight off the tee. 

The performance compared to some other drivers on the market I have tested isn't going to blow your mind, in my opinion.

The best way to describe it would be like a Toyota or Honda, reliable and will get you from A to B.  

Try out the Srixon ZX5 MkII driver; you will be surprised, especially if your golf shoes get grass stains from standing in too much rough on your second shots and desire more consistent fairways hit. 

However, I wouldn't say it would be my first pick in its price range. 

Key Technologies and Innovations

Rebound Frame Technology

The Rebound Frame Technology is a significant cornerstone of the Srixon ZX5 Mk II driver's design. It introduces a multi-step structure that increases ball speed, especially on center-face impacts. 

It consists of alternating layers of rigid and flexible zones to create a "spring within a spring" effect, which improves energy transfer to the ball.

This idea is to enhance the rebound effect and create longer drives.

Adjustability Features

The driver includes adjustable hosel settings that allow more loft, lie, and face angle personalization. 

This level of adjustability is excellent for fine-tuning individual swing characteristics and preferences, which can lead to more accurate and optimal ball flight based on your swing.

The configuration includes:

• Loft: Ability to increase or decrease in increments (0.5 degrees typically)

• Lie: Adjustable to alter the vertical orientation of the club head

• Face Angle: Adjust to be opened or closed to influence directional control

With an 8g sole weight strategically placed, there is the capability to adjust the driver’s swing weight and the center of gravity, which directly impacts spin rates and launch characteristics.

A variety of additional weights are also offered by Srixon for purchase. 

Carbon Crown and Star Frame Crown

In constructing the ZX5 MkII, Srixon uses a carbon crown, which serves the important purpose of reducing overall weight. 

Integrating the carbon material allows for redistributed mass within the clubhead, enhancing forgiveness and stability. 

Alongside the carbon crown, a Star Frame Crown has been employed to further optimize rigidity and weight distribution, which are pertinent for speed and forgiveness.

Face Materials

The face of the ZX5 Mk II is notable for its use of titanium and an intricate variable thickness face design. This strategic construction results in more efficient energy transfer and improved mishit performance. 

The face is engineered to maximize speed across a larger area, holding the potential for greater distance even when the ball isn't struck perfectly.

Design and Aesthetics

Looking at the ZX5 MkII, my focus is on the color finishes, the shape when addressing the ball, the dimensions of the clubhead, and the distinct sole design.

Color and Finish Options

Matte Black: The Srixon ZX5 MkII sports a matte black crown, shifting away from the gloss black of earlier versions. This finish reduces glare and offers a sleek, modern look that many appreciate.

Shape and Look at Address

Sleek Design: The driver maintains the classic Srixon shape with a refined look at address. 

The profile sits comfortably behind the ball, giving the confidence of a large hitting area without appearing too bulky.

Clubhead Dimensions and Volume

• 460cc Head Size: Consistent with the maximum legal limit for driver head volume, the ZX5 MkII prioritizes forgiveness and stability with its full 460 cubic centimeter size.

Alignment Aid and Sole Design

Discreet Aids: At address, I noted the small and discreet alignment aid shaded toward the heel, which aids in targeting without distraction. 

While not overtly revolutionary, the sole design contributes to the club's overall aerodynamics and clean contact with the golf ball.

Overall, the design is thoughtfully executed, balancing subtlety with functionality.

Srixon Comparative Look

Original ZX5 Model Comparison

Putting the latest ZX5 MkII alongside the original ZX5 illuminates an evolution in technology and performance.

The newest iteration boasts a better sound (although nothing amazing) with its all-titanium head. It carries the torch of its predecessor's forgiving nature, adding subtle improvements. 

The look of the ZX5 MkII is much improved over the ZX5. 

Srixon ZX5 MkII vs. ZX7 MkII

The Srixon ZX5 MkII and ZX7 MkII are siblings catered to different golfer profiles. While the ZX5 MkII emphasizes forgiveness and ease of hitting straight, the ZX7 MkII offers greater workability and control for players with more consistent swings. 

The ZX5 MkII is particularly well-suited for mid to high handicappers since hitting a straighter ball off the tee is an enhanced need for those skill levels.

The ZX7 MkII caters more to the low handicappers and skilled players who demand precision and higher workability. 

Srixon ZX5 MK II vs. ZX5 LS MK II

Comparing the ZX5 MkII to the ZX5 LS (Low Spin) MkII, the primary difference lies in their spin profiles (surprise!). 

The ZX5 LS MkII is engineered to reduce spin, benefiting players with higher swing speeds looking to maximize distance.

Both models utilize the Rebound Frame technology.

Back to Club Reviews

Related Posts:

1. Callaway Paradym Driver Review: Worth the Price Tag?

2. Titleist TSR2 Driver Review: Distance Unleashed

3. TaylorMade Stealth 2 Driver Review: Truly Fargiving?

4. Cobra Aerojet Driver Review

5. TP5 vs TP5x Golf Ball Comparison: A TaylorMade Choice

6. Callaway Chrome Soft vs Chrome Soft X: Which Is for You?

7. Callaway Paradym X Driver Review