Mizuno isn’t typically a name you associate with premium drivers. They’re better known for their expertly crafted irons.
That changed quickly in 2024 when they released their line of ST 230 drivers. The entire line is designed to deliver ultra-straight ball flights and incredible stability.
The ST-Max 230 driver does just that, and it’s the subject of today’s review.
Table of Contents
Key Features
Wide clubhead profile, 54-gram backweight, and 40% larger graphite composite reduce torque and face rotation for tighter shot dispersion.
CORETECH Chamber reduces stress on the clubface while also increasing ball speed.
Beta Rich titanium clubface measures 9% higher in tensile strength and produces explosive ball speeds.
Design and Technology
The most notable feature of the ST-Max 230 driver is its CORETECH Chamber. This stainless steel chamber sits behind the clubface and reduces stress when the club makes contact with the ball, while also acting as an extra energy source for faster ball speeds.
Next on the list is the ST-Max 230’s wide profile, 54-gram backweight and large graphite composite that tremendously reduce torque and face rotation, especially on mishits. These design features result in arrow-straight ball flights and minimal distance loss on off-center strikes.
The clubface is made of lighter, faster beta rich titanium that’s 9% higher in tensile strength than the material used in previous drivers. Combined with multi-thickness face geometry and you’ve got one of the hottest driver faces Mizuno has ever made.
Standard driver shafts measure 45” in length. However, the 45.75” shaft in the ST-Max 230 allows golfers to achieve faster clubhead speeds and ultimately more distance.
Lastly, the Quick Switch hosel allows for up to four degrees of adjustability.
Mizuno ST-Z 230 Driver
This driver is perfect for any golfer looking for maximum forgiveness, especially on off-center strikes without sacrificing distance. That means it’s perfect for any mid to high-handicapper who struggles to hit their driver consistently in the middle of the clubface. This driver is perfect for any golfer looking for maximum forgiveness, especially on off-center strikes without sacrificing distance.
PROS
- May not be the best driver for golfers seeking control and playability.
- Beta rich titanium clubface is extremely hot.
- Plenty of shaft options make fitting and customization easy.
CONS
- Price point is higher than other drivers.
- Only one loft option for left-handed players could be a deterrent.
- Shipping times may vary, especially if a shaft upgrade is requested.
Our Experience
Having already tested the Mizuno ST-Z 230, I expected the ST-Max 230 to be extremely straight, stable, and solid. I was right. It more than met my expectations on all three of those fronts.
I was also impressed by the solid sound and feel of the ST-Max 230. It was pleasing to my ear and felt great at impact.
My shot dispersion was incredibly tight as well. Most of my mishits still managed to stay in the fairway.
It might not get much better than the Mizuno ST-Max 230 for forgiveness, stability, and accuracy in 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Mizuno ST-Z 230 driver unique?
The Mizuno ST-Z 230 driver features the innovative CORTECH Chamber technology, which encases a 3-gram stainless steel weight with elastomeric TPU. This design takes stress off the clubface and creates an additional energy source, resulting in faster ball speeds, reduced spin rates, and a more solid feel at impact.
How does the ST-Z 230 driver perform in terms of forgiveness and consistency?
The ST-Z 230 driver offers impressive forgiveness and consistent playability across the face. Its high MOI design and balanced weighting contribute to a stable, straight ball flight, even on off-center hits. Golfers can expect reliable performance and a good blend of distance and forgiveness from this driver.
Is the Mizuno ST-Z 230 driver suitable for all skill levels?
While the Mizuno ST-Z 230 driver is marketed as a straight, stable, and low-spinning option that may appeal to better players, its forgiving nature and consistent performance make it suitable for a wide range of golfers. Beginners and high-handicappers can benefit from the driver's stability and forgiveness, while skilled players can appreciate its workability and optimized launch conditions. As with any club, a professional fitting is recommended to ensure the best possible results for each individual golfer.
What are the stock shaft options for the Mizuno ST-Z 230 driver?
Mizuno offers a diverse array of stock shaft options for the ST-Z 230 driver, catering to different player preferences and swing characteristics. Options include the Mitsubishi Kai'li Blue, HZRDUS Smoke Green, and various offerings from Aldila and UST. These shafts provide a range of launch, spin, and feel profiles to suit individual golfers.
How does the ST-Z 230 driver compare to its predecessor, the ST-Z?
The Mizuno ST-Z 230 driver is designed to be similar in look and character to the previous ST-Z model, with some key improvements. The addition of the CORTECH Chamber technology makes the ST-Z 230 faster off the face, lower spinning, and delivers a more solid feel at impact. The overall performance and aesthetics have been refined while maintaining the popular characteristics of the original ST-Z.
Conclusion
It’s not often we hear much from Mizuno in the way of drivers, but the ST-Max 230 driver for 2024 is a welcomed surprise that more than lives up to its hype.
If forgiveness, stability, and accuracy are your goals off the tee this year, the ST-Max 230 driver might not be a bad option.
Paul Liberatore
As the Founder of Golfers Authority Paul Liberatore Esq. has spent the last 7+ years writing about the best golf equipment or instruction from the top golf instructors in the world. He has been a contributing writer for Sports Illustrated Golf and GolfWRX. After graduating with honors from Purdue University, he realized that he had a passion for the golf business and the law. When he's not practicing law, or creating golf content on YouTube, he can be found on his syndicated Behind the Golf Brand podcast talking with the most prolific leaders in the golf industry.
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