Every year, it seems like the equipment Srixon brings to market just gets better and better. I can remember the days when they were a little-known brand with only a handful of guys on Tour wearing their logo. My how times have changed. Now the likes of Shane Lowery, Keegan Bradley, and Hideki Matsuyama (all Major Champions) employ their clubs. There are countless others too.
This year’s gear is no exception. But in keeping with the recent trend we’ve noticed at Golfer’s Authority, we’re going to review some irons that are a few years old in this article.
The Srixon Z785s were first introduced in 2018. While the brand has churned out new top-of-the-line equipment since then, these irons remain one of the most sought after sets they’ve ever concocted.
Let’s have a closer look at why.
Key Features
Tour VT Sole improves turf interaction and offers relief on mishits.
Tour Cavity has extra mass behind the sweet spot which increases both distance and playability.
Laser-milled grooves increase spin and control while alleviating fliers out of the rough.
Design and Technology
The nuts and bolts conversation starts with the design of the Srixon Z785s. As stated above, they’re profile is sleek and simple. The blade length is small and compact. A top line sits thin behind the ball and inspires confidence for good ball strikers. Minimal offset rounds out what remains one of the cleanest looking irons on the market to date.
With the aesthetics out of the way, we can start talking about the tech. For some time, Srixon has led the way in designing irons that provide excellent turf interaction. That’s all thanks to their VT Sole whose leading edge isn’t as sharp as other irons. This means less digging and more forgiveness on those shots you catch a little chunky.
The cavity in the Z785s is enhanced compared to previous models too. It has extra mass spread throughout the equator of the face. This increases ball speed and forgiveness on both solid shots and mishits. Who doesn’t like more distance and forgiveness?
The Z785s are also forged. This is a big deal for a lot of players as they covet feel and responsiveness in their irons. Unlike cast clubs that can sound and feel hard at impact, the Z785s afford are soft and solid in the same breath. That aids in both control and playability.
Lastly, the faces of the Z785s feature grooves that are laser-milled. Not only does this increase contact points with the golf ball for added spin, it helps limit the dreaded flier out of the rough that we all hate. You know that shot that comes out like a rocket with no spin and flies over the green? You won’t catch nearly as many of those with the Z785s.
Our Experience
Whenever anyone asks me about Srixon’s equipment, I almost always have nothing but glowing things to say. And that’s with good reason. While their equipment continues to get better and better, their older stuff never really goes out of style.
The Z785s are no exception.
What I particularly like about these irons are their playability from virtually any lie. There’s no question that the VT Soles interact with the turf (or sand, dirt, rough, etc.) better than anything I’ve yet to come across. As someone that spends more time in the rough than I’d like, I can say that I don’t hit nearly as many fliers with these clubs.
The feel and control the Z785s provide is unsurpassed too. Their forged construction and laser-milled grooves give you the best of both worlds.
Lastly, I found these irons exceptionally forgiving too. For a player’s club that you’d think is meant for only world-class ball strikers, I was blown away with how the Z785s performed on off-center strikes.
Are the Srixon Z785 Irons Worth It?
Absolutely, while the Srixon Z785 Irons are a great product, there are a few pros and cons that you need to be aware of:
Pros:
Exceptional Feel and Control : Forged construction from 1020 carbon steel provides a soft, responsive feel and solid impact sensation.
Versatile Turf Interaction : The Tour VT Sole design ensures smooth playability from various lies, reducing mishits.
Compact Design for Skilled Players : Sleek blade length and minimal offset inspire confidence for good ball strikers.
Cons:
Limited Forgiveness : While forgiving for a player's iron, it may not suit higher handicappers who need more assistance on off-center strikes.
Lower MOI : Slightly lower moment of inertia compared to previous models may affect stability on mishits.
Premium Price : Positioned at the higher end of the market, making it less accessible for budget-conscious golfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of golfer are the Srixon Z785 irons designed for?
The Srixon Z785 irons are tailored for professionals and low-handicap amateurs seeking exceptional feel, precision, and shot-shaping capabilities. They offer a compact design with forgiveness suitable for skilled players.
What makes the Tour V.T. Sole unique in the Z785 irons?
The redesigned Tour V.T. Sole enhances turf interaction, providing smoother entry through the ground and consistent ball striking. It is especially effective in reducing digging on chunky shots.
How does the forged construction improve performance?
Forged from soft 1020 carbon steel, the Z785 irons deliver a solid yet soft feel, minimizing vibration at impact. This construction enhances control, responsiveness, and overall playability.
Are the Z785 irons forgiving on mishits?
Yes, despite being players' irons, the Z785s offer surprising forgiveness. Off-center hits maintain relatively straight flight paths and only slightly lose distance, making them more forgiving than traditional musclebacks.
What are the benefits of the laser-milled grooves in these irons?
The laser-milled grooves increase spin consistency and reduce fliers from rough lies. This feature ensures better control and precision during play.
Conclusion
If it sounds like I’m signing Srixon’s praises with the Z785 Irons, it’s because I am. Having hit basically every iron under the sun, these are some of the best in the their class in my opinion. And I’m not alone. A lot of our readers have chimed in with their own positive feedback.
Maybe you’re a seasoned player or mid-level handicap that isn’t satisfied with your current irons. But the thought of spending thousands of dollars on a new set that’s going to depreciate the moment you walk out the door is appealing either. If this sounds like you, give the Srixon Z785s a go. My guess is that you’ll like what you find.
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.
