The Srixon ZXi Driver is our choice as the best-looking driver in Golf Monthly's best golf drivers buyers guide. However, it's not just the stunning aesthetic that makes the Srixon a serious contender; it's backed up with impressive performance numbers that seriously impressed our golf driver expert tester Joe Ferguson, who scored the ZXi with an equally impressive 4.5 out of 5-star review.

With Black Friday and Cyber Monday just around the corner, running from 28th November to 1st of December, the early golf deals are dropping already, and we've spotted this brilliant golf driver deal on the Srixon ZXi Driver. It's currently got $80 off, taking it down to just $470, the cheapest price it's been on Amazon this year.

Get the Srixon ZXi Driver for just $497.59 at Amazon.

It's very rare we see a new model of driver on sale this early, and although Black Friday is approaching, it's unlikely it'll go any cheaper, considering other golf retailers like Carl's Golfland are still selling it for $549.99. So if you want to try one for yourself, then we'd suggest grabbing this deal while you can.

The Srixon ZXi Max Driver is also discounted to $467.50, from $549.99, and scored a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from Joe in his ZXi Max review, with its playability and forgiveness being some of its key highlights. So if you're after an equally great-looking, but more user-friendly driver, then the ZXi Max is well worth a look.

The Srixion ZXi Driver and its Max sibling both feature what the brand calls the ‘i-FLEX’ face, making its debut in these 2025 models. Srixon claims redesigned face features a variable thickness pattern, with the aim of creating a more efficient energy transfer at strike. Srixon says that the added strength of this face structure allows the center to be engineered thinner than ever before to boost ball speed.

In his launch monitor testing of both drivers, Joe was happy to confirm improved spin and launch profile, which produced some excellent distance numbers. The forgiveness on both was also impressive, especially on the Max, which is designed to improve playability and enjoyment of the game for the amateur golfer.

Elsewhere, both drivers feature two adjustable weights on the sole that allow you to adjust swing weight and fine-tune your ball flight requirements. And an all-new, 1.5-degree hosel sleeve lets you fine-tune the loft, lie, and face angle, for a fully customizable club.

Shaft flex options come in Regular, Stiff, Extra-Stiff and Senior with loft choices from 9, 10.5 on the ZXi, and 9, 10.5 and 12 degrees on the Max.

This deal is US-based, but below our handy price checker will give you the best up-to-date pricing on the Srixon ZXi Driver and the ZXi Max in your territory. It is worth noting below that some of the prices are reflecting ex-demo clubs, hence why we have only discussed the brand new club deal above.

Be sure to check in on our Black Friday Golf Deals page for all the best golf discounts as they appear on the run-up to the big shopping weekend.

Srixon has introduced the tenth generation of its AD333 to the market for 2021 with a raft of changes said to improve feel and performance

Srixon Launches 2021 AD333 Golf Ball 

Srixon has announced the tenth generation of its AD333 golf ball for 2021, a generation that aims to add even more improvements to the popular golf ball model.

The latest AD333 golf ball shares much of the same technology found in the tour-validated Z-Star series - one of the best Srixon balls -  but it's packaged into a two-piece ionomer construction that provides value and performance to a wide range of golfers.

Srixon claims the next generation AD333 will bring golfers more distance and forgiveness than previous generations by dropping the compression of the ball slightly as well as adding a new FastLayer Core.

Related: Best Mid-Price Golf Balls

By dropping the compression from 77 to 72 on the new ball, the new AD333 promotes more deformation of the ball at impact for players with moderate swing speeds.

Related: Best Golf Balls 

In plain English, this should mean a straighter and longer ball flight. The new compression also makes for a softer feel than the previous AD333 with prolonged contact between the ball and clubface also providing more control with short irons and wedges.

The new FastLayer Core - which also features in Srixon's Z-Star family - provides distance and ball speed on the longer irons and woods with the soft centre of the ball becoming progressively firmer around its outer edge.

While the FastLayer Core generates lower spin on impact, the unique 338 Speed Dimple Patterns takes over to reduce drag for a more penetrating ball flight.

These two technologies working in tandem to aid a distance improvement versus the 2019 Srixon AD333 ball.

Finally, the tenth generation AD333 also features Srixon's new Spin Skin with Slide-Ring Material (SeRM), which should offer golfers a little more spin around the green.

Spin Skin with SeRM digs deep into the grooves of wedge and iron grooves to increase friction and maximise spin for more stopping power.

It's a multitude of evolutions for a golf ball now into its tenth iteration, but the new AD333 promises to build on the strong reputation it has with amateur golfers with a moderate swing speed looking for a less-expensive option in their bag that performs from tee to green.

The new Srixon AD333 golf ball will be available from September 10th in Pure White or Tour Yellow with a RRP of £27 per dozen.

The Srixon ZX utility iron is one of the products featured in our Editor's Choice product list.

Srixon ZX Forged Utility Iron

When clubs look and perform as well as this, then we might be seeing more longer irons in club golfers’ bags in the near future.

The Srixon ZX utility club is also one of the best driving irons out there right now and we loved it during our testing.

Srixon ZX Forged Utility Iron

Visually this fully forged iron is hard to beat, with a more compact and blade-like appearance than the previous Z85 utility. But it also offers plenty of forgiveness so you have the best of both worlds – which is why this beauty can be found in the bags of Hideki Matsuyama, Keegan Bradley and Shane Lowry.

It is fast with increased ball speeds both off the tee or fairway. This is done though Srixon’s very clever MainFrame technology, which is a variable thickness pattern made up of grooves, channels and cavities, and then milled into the back of the face.

Major-winning performance

The concept is to optimise the pattern to produce the best ball speeds – computers threw out thousands of designs before settling on the fastest – no matter where you hit it on the face. So, if you hit it towards the toe, you won’t suffer.

It comes in three lofts; 2 (18˚), 3 (20˚) and 4 (23˚) and another benefit is that it won’t look out of place in the bag. In fact, they look so good you could easily imagine a whole set of them all the way to the wedges.

And it launches easily, though more penetrating than the hybrid of the same loft, and is far more playable than you might imagine. If you like to work the ball, it delivers on that front too.

If your previous experience of utility irons is of a big, clunky draw machine then this couldn’t be further away from that – it ticks every box, looking stunning and offering both plenty of help and distance via a penetrating, stable ball flight.

Srixon ZX Forged Utility Iron

The Srixon Z-Star ball has been chosen for our Editor's Choice List in 2021

Srixon Z-Star Ball

Z Star might not be quite as old a franchise for Srixon as Pro V1 is for Titleist, but this year’s upgraded model is the seventh-generation of a product long held in high regard as one of the best premium golf balls on the market.

Srixon Z-Star Golf Balls

This latest evolution isn’t so much about wholesale change as gradual refinement, as the brand seeks to optimise performance across the board.

One of the biggest – yet also smallest – tweaks has been a 0.1mm increase in cover thickness compared to its predecessor. The reason for this is to bring just a fraction more spin with irons and wedges, without sacrificing too much in the way of ball speed and distance.

It can be a real balancing act in the heady world of premium balls and this latest edition does offer a fraction more controllability where it really counts. Srixon’s Spin Skin technology helps further on this front, with the urethane cover’s Slide-Ring Material (SeRM) coating helping the ball burrow down into those grooves for more friction, and therefore more control.

Distance Aplenty

If that makes it sound as though something must have given in the distance stakes, then fear not, for there is still plenty underneath the bonnet to help you really get this ball out there. That slightly thicker cover has been paired with a FastLayer Core that’s soft in the centre and firmer around the edge to boost ball speed and distance while keeping spin low.

Srixon has also introduced a new 338 Speed Dimple Pattern to the cover, in which fractionally deeper dimples help reduce drag for better flight performance with every club in the bag, even when the wind picks up.

Enhanced short-game performance and a stable ball flight in windy conditions are the stuff of dreams for many UK golfers. We really like the subtle performance gains of the latest Z Star.

Srixon Z-Star Golf Balls

The stunning ZX7 Iron from Srixon has made our 2021 Editor's Choice List.

Srixon ZX7 Iron

Aimed at more accomplished golfers, the Srixon ZX7 iron is designed to offer a high degree of control and workability in a compact head.

Lower handicappers will enjoy the looks, feel and control offered by this excellent players’ iron.

Srixon ZX7 Irons

Stunning Looks

The iron looks superb from every angle. It has a neat compact head with a pleasing topline that will appeal to the eye of a more accomplished golfer who wants to see a smaller head at address with a narrow sole.

The new Tour VT sole is very pronounced on the bottom of the ZX7, with a significant ridge running along the middle of the sole helping to stop the club digging excessively.

The iron has a wonderfully soft feel and sound at impact and it offers a good level of feedback. Again, better players will really enjoy this and will feel confident of shaping the ball and controlling the flight.

Although it’s a classic-looking forged iron, the lofts are a little more modern, so you’ll find the ZX7 flies a touch further than the equivalent forged irons from other manufacturers.

Related: Srixon ZX7 Irons Review

Strong Ball Flight

That means the ball flight is also a little lower and more penetrating – ideal for wind play. We were impressed by the fact the ZX7 delivers such a strong ball flight but with healthy spin levels to ensure the ball touches down softly. 

It may not be the most forgiving on poor strikes, but that’s what you give up when you move to a classic forged head like the ZX7 that is specifically designed to offer better players greater opportunity to manoeuvre the ball and control the flight.

For those seeking a players’ iron that offers great feel and workability without stretching the budget too far, the Srixon ZX7 is a real contender.

Srixon ZX7 Irons

Srixon has unveiled new, forgiving ZX4 irons as well as the new ZX Utility iron. Find out all the details...

Srixon ZX4 Irons Revealed

Sitting alongside the new ZX5 and ZX7 irons, Srixon has added to the ZX range with the ZX4 iron and ZX utility iron.

The new ZX4 irons are a fully hollow set created to bring forgiveness to the Srixon iron line up while maintaining the brand’s signature look and forged feel.

From the short to the long-irons, the hollow construction aids forgiveness across the face. High-density tungsten in the head helps with launch too by lowering the centre of gravity in the long and mid-irons.

The ZX4 also has a forged HT1770 Steel face which is strong and light, whilst the 431 Steel body helps absorb vibrations for softer feel.

Related: Most Forgiving Irons

Srixon's new MainFrame technology is also part of the design. This technology is a variable thickness pattern made up of grooves, channels and cavities, and is milled into the backside of each ZX4 face.

This is designed to increase ball speed on every shot by maximising COR (Coefficient of Restitution) for greater distance.

Srixon's engineering team used artificial intelligence and machine learning to develop the unique face pattern, with computers running thousands of simulations before settling on the fastest design.

The Tour V.T. Sole then gives the ZX4 smoother turf interaction and impact feel by gliding nicely through the turf even if the contact is heavy.

Like all ZX irons, ZX4 also feature the resurgence of Srixon’s popular sole notches. Used by professional tour players, these heel and toe notches are designed to enhance iron workability without sacrificing forgiveness.

The ZX4 Irons officially launch in the UK & Ireland on the 20^th March 2021 with an RRP of £899 (6-piece steel 5-PW) in steel and £999 (6-piece graphite 5-PW) in graphite.

To go along with the ZX4 irons, Srixon has also unveiled the ZX Utility iron which has already found its way into the bags of some Tour players like Shane Lowry.

The new design is smaller, more compact, and more blade-like compared to the outgoing Z U85 model, and yet does not compromise on forgiveness.

Related: Best Utility Irons Golf Clubs

This forgiveness comes from the fully hollow construction, combined with tungsten placed in the base of each iron which lowers the centre of gravity to promote a higher launch.

This utility has a forged SUP10 face for enhanced speed and distance while a forged 1020 Carbon Steel body absorbs vibrations for extremely soft feel.

Much like the ZX4 irons, the ZX Utility also has the MainFrame technology on the backside for more speed and distance.

The Srixon ZX Utility has an RRP of £199 in steel and £209 in graphite.

The new Srixon Soft Feel Brite golf balls revealed today Srixon's come in three eye-catching colours

Srixon Soft Feel Brite Golf Balls Revealed

Srixon has has unveiled its new Soft Feel Brite golf balls, coming in red, orange and green.

The balls have a soft feel thanks to Srixon's softest FastLayer Core, which also provides added ball speed and reduced long game sidespin for accuracy.

The low-compression design and soft, thin cover is said to offer all-round performance including distance off the tee and control around the greens.

A 338 Speed Dimple Pattern helps to reduce drag and increase lift descent for distance, especially in windy conditions, Srixon says.

The balls's Fastlayer Core features a soft centre that gradually transitions to a firm outer edge to give golfers both great feel and distance.

“The new Soft Feel Brite golf ball puts us at the forefront of the low-compression distance ball category,” said Lionel Caron, Srixon Sports Europe Chief Sales & Marketing Officer.

“Whether off the tee or around the greens, the new Soft Feel Brite lives up to its namesake. With it, you’ll experience a solid yet comfortable impact on every swing, giving you more confidence as you address each shot.”

Related: The best Srixon golf balls

The brand new Soft Feel Brite is available in 'Brite Red', 'Brite Orange' and 'Brite Green' with an SRP of £25 per dozen.

They will be available to buy across the UK & Ireland from the 13th February.

The new Srixon Soft Feel Balls unveiled today have been built for both men and women seeking a soft feel on shots

Srixon Soft Feel Balls Unveiled

Hot off the heels of the new UltiSoft, Srixon has now launched an update to the Soft Feel ball range for 2020 for both men and women.

The new Soft Feel Lady ball actually hits the shelves first on October 1st before the men's version launches on November 1st.

The all-new Soft Feel features Srixon’s softest FastLayer Core, which has a soft center that gradually transitions to a firm outer edge.

RELATED: Best Value Golf Balls 2020

Yet this softer core is more resilient, snapping back into shape more quickly after impact for added ball speed, while reducing long game sidespin for increased accuracy.

The low compression design and soft, thin cover provides all-around performance with distance off the tee, and increased greenside spin that all players crave.

The 338 Speed Dimple Pattern is said to help the ball cut through the wind more easily by reducing drag at launch and increasing lift during descent for longer, straighter shots from tee to green.

A thin ionomer cover provides a soft feel while adding enhanced greenside spin on those tough pitches and chips and both balls also have an Easy Target alignment system on the side to help with putting aim.

“This is our 12th generation Soft Feel golf ball, putting us at the forefront of the low-compression distance ball category,” said Lionel Caron, Srixon Sports Europe’s Chief Sales & Marketing Officer.

“With this new model, we’re excited to give golfers our longest Soft Feel to date, in a ball that maintains the signature feel golfers expect from a Soft Feel.”

Soft Feel joins the UltiSoft as Srixon's softest-feeling options within the range, while the Q-Star Tour provides all round performance with better short game control. Then there are its premium offerings in the Z-Star and Z-Star XV, which are played out on tour by the likes of Open Champion Shane Lowry.

The Srixon Soft Feel Lady, offered in Soft White and Passion Pink and Soft Feel, offered in Soft White and Tour Yellow, will have an RRP of £25 per dozen.

Srixon's low compression, soft-feeling ball has got longer for 2020 thanks to a new core design and improved dimple pattern

New Srixon Ultisoft Ball For 2020 Unveiled

Srixon has today launched the third generation of its two-piece UltiSoft golf ball.

True to its name, Ultisoft has the lowest compression in the Srixon ball range which delivers that soft feel on all shots.

UltiSoft’s off-the-tee performance has got longer this time around thanks to a new FastLayer Core, gradually transitions from soft inner core to firm outer edge, said to behave like a core with thousands of layers for distance and great feel without compromise.

The 338 Speed Dimples featured on UltiSoft improve overall aerodynamics for better flight performance with drivers, woods, and irons. With just the right combination of dimple uniformity and dimple occupancy, the Speed Dimples boost distance and fly straight, even in the toughest wind conditions.

For short game control, a soft thin ionomer cover provides more greenside spin and softer feel on all pitches, chips and putts. You'll also notice the new sidestamp design, which should help align you putter more easily on the greens.

The new UltiSoft goes on sale from 19th September 2020 with an RRP of £23 per dozen.

The new Srixon ZX range of woods and irons promises both power and precision through new technologies and effective adjustability

Srixon ZX Range Unveiled

Srixon is set to launch its new ZX range of woods and irons, designed to bring speed to the serious golfer.

The ZX Woods were designed to help generate more speed and distance thanks to the brand’s new Rebound Frame Technology.

Rebound Frame Technology works by layering alternating zones of flexibility and stiffness that work in tandem to focus more energy into the ball at impact for more distance.

RELATED: Srixon Z85 Irons Review

Both the ZX5 and ZX7 drivers feature a strong but lightweight carbon crown that is 15 per cent larger the previous generations. This new crown repositions mass low, deep, and around the perimeter, increasing MOI and forgiveness on every drive.

The ZX7 driver delivers a more penetrating ball flight and adjustability comprising of two sole weights to give any player their desired launch conditions or alter swing weight, while an adjustable hosel provides variation in loft, lie, and face angle.

Meanwhile, the ZX5 driver delivers confidence due to a larger footprint and attened shape, with a single weight placed low and deep to help make it ideal for straight drives that launch high and carry far.

The same technologies, tour preferred shaping, and focus on speed are featured in the new line of ZX fairway woods and hybrids to deliver distance, along with a stepped crown, which lowers the centre of gravity to optimize launch and increase MOI.

Milled into the back of every ZX5 and ZX7 iron face is a design called MainFrame, a variable thickness pattern made up of grooves, channels, and cavities that increases ball speed on every shot.

After two years of learning and refining, these final faces offer greatly improved COR because they maximize flex at impact for more ball speed on every strike.

The grooves in the 8-iron through to pitching wedge on the ZX5 and ZX7 irons are sharper, narrower, and deeper than those on the long irons for more spin and stopping power on approach shots into the green.

Srixon’s ZX5 irons combine pioneering ball speed technology with premium forged feel, and delivers all of it in a forgiving yet workable profile at address.

Meanwhile, Srixon’s ZX7 irons provide a compact blade shape, slim topline, narrow sole and mass positioned behind the sweetspot that delivers the workability, feel, and aesthetics of a players iron.

Both irons feature an updated Tour V.T. Sole that glides smoothly through the turf, progressive grooves to improve consistency, and forged construction from a soft 1020 carbon steel body that absorbs vibrations for an extremely soft feel.

Coming in January 2021 is the ZX utility iron, which is more compact than the previous generation, delivering a more blade-like address profile that blends seamlessly with any set.

It features Srixon’s MainFrame technology, along with a hollow design and multi-piece construction. All of these powerful technologies come together in a smaller profile, with all the same forgiveness that is expected from a utility iron.

The ZX range officially launches in the UK and Europe on 19th September 2020, with the following RRPs: ZX7 driver £449, ZX5 driver £429, ZX fairways £249, ZX hybrids £229, ZX Utility £209, ZX7 and ZX5 irons £149.50 per club in steel, £166.50 in graphite.

Srixon Q-Star Tour Golf Ball Launched - New for 2020 Srixon has introduced the third generation of Q-Star ball promising tour performance with a soft feel.

Srixon Q-Star Tour Golf Ball Launched

Brand new for 2020, Srixon has announced the launch of the third generation of its Q-Star Tour golf ball, which promises performance that is seen on tour with a soft feel that isn't.

As expected, the balls have several pieces of key technology to talk about, such as the FastLayer Core, Srixon's SeRM compound, and a new alignment design.

Starting with the all-new FastLayer Core, this acts as the foundation of the new ball. With its gradual transition from soft inner core to firm outer edge, FastLayer behaves like a core with thousands of layers which is said to deliver distance as well as soft feel.

RELATED: Srixon Z-Star Balls Review

Srixon has also implemented its Spin Skin technology with Slide-Ring Material (SeRM), which is a urethane compound that covers the coat of the golf ball. Why? Well the SeRM cover helps to dig deep into the grooves of wedges and irons which increases friction and therefore spin and control.

Finally the Q-Star Tour also features a new stamping design which can help players with alignment especially when putting and even off the tee.

“The new Q-Star Tour is a tour-caliber golf ball, delivering a softer feel at impact,” said Jeff Brunski, Vice President of Research and Development for Srixon.

“We’ve enhanced this generation with the new FastLayer Core to drive more ball speed and distance, while the SeRM urethane cover offers maximum spin and stopping power.”

The Srixon Q-Star Tour will be available in Pure White and Tour Yellow and officially launches in the UK and Ireland in February, 2020, with an RRP of £34.99.

For more gear releases and equipment news, do not forget to follow Golf Monthly on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Srixon AD333 Ball Review - Technical Editor Joel Tadman tries out the ninth generation of Srixon's popular AD333 ball new for 2019.

2019 Srixon AD333 Ball Review

Key Technology

• A new Fast-Layer Core starts soft in the centre and gets progressively firmer towards the outer edge to maximise speed while keeping spin low.
• Srixon’s 338 Speed Dimple Pattern helps to reduce drag through the air to create a fast and penetrating ball flight.
• Spin Skin technology and Slide Ring Material (SeRM) is a new urethane coating with flexible molecular bonds to increase friction at impact to maximise spin.

Long Game

Ball speed with the driver is more than competitive, pushing close to the speeds premium balls produce and keeping spin similarly low to help maximize carry distance.

GM Verdict

The entry-level, two piece ball category is a popular and competitive market but the Srixon AD333 has long been a favoured choice and this latest iteration looks to have built on its prior success.

It does this through offering surprisingly good short game control around the greens considering it lacks the urethane cover of its premium counterparts, the Z-Star and Z-Star XV. This is no mean feat given the firm feel and competitive distance golfers will experience off the tee and on iron shots.

The ball flight also impressed, especially in crosswinds, the new dimple pattern helping the ball stay in the air while holding its line. While it doesn’t have the soft feel or short-game spin of premium offerings, at this price point it’s one of the best balls you can buy.

For more golf gear reviews and content, do not forget to follow Golf Monthly on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The latest version of the popular 2-piece ball will feature a new core for added distance and a Spin Skin with SeRM cover coating for extra greenside spin.

Srixon Unveils 9th Generation AD333 Balls

Known for providing impressive all-round performance without the punchy price tag, Srixon has announced it will launch a 9th generation of its popular AD333 golf ball with multiple design updates that should lead to longer drives and more short-game spin.

The most notable comes from a new Fast-Layer Core, which starts soft in the centre and gets progressively firmer towards the outer edge.

This, along with Srixon's 338 Speed Dimple Pattern, is said to deliver more distance off the tee regardless of the conditions. The specially-designed dimple pattern helps to reduce drag to create a fast and penetrating ball flight.

Additionally, the new two-piece balls come with Spin Skin technology and Slide Ring Material (SeRM) which we saw on the new Z-Star and Z-Star XV models. This new urethane coating with flexible molecular bonds is said to increase friction at impact to maximises spin generation, especially with the wedges and iron shots, by digging deeper into the grooves at the point of impact.

RELATED: Best Value Golf Balls 2019

“The new AD333 maintains and builds on the high-quality performance that consumers throughout Europe have come to expect from our leading two-piece golf ball,”said Leslie Hepsworth, UK & Ireland President at Srixon Sports Europe.

“Featuring a number of new technologies, including a new FastLayer Core, our designers have done an amazing job to deliver a 9th generation AD333that promises even more ball speed and distance.”

The new Srixon AD333 ball goes on sale September 6th with an RRP of £24 per dozen in both white and yellow colour options.

Don't forget to follow Golf Monthly on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more of the latest gear news.

2019 Srixon Z-Star & Z-Star XV Balls Launched - New Tour balls benefit from use of a special macromolecule material in the coating that improves overall performance

2019 Srixon Z-Star & Z-Star XV Balls Launched

The new Srixon Z-Star and Z-Star XV for 2019 are the first and only golf balls in the world to use the macromolecule material called Slide-Ring, or SeRM. This is a macromolecule material developed at the University of Tokyo whose network construction uses "moveable cross-linking", making it proficient in shape restoration, damage resistance, impact resistance and vibration absorption.

In Srixon’s new tour balls, this unique SeRM is blended into the Spin Skin coating to improve not only driver distance but also the feel and spin on the Z-Star, and increases spin performance on short game without losing driver distance on the Z-Star XV.

The combination of the highly durable ultra-thin 0.5 mm urethane cover and spin skin with SeRM a soft feel. It is also more resistant to minor scratches caused by sand and pebbles in bunkers, and is also stain-resistant.

RELATED: 2017 Srixon Z-Star and Z-Star XV Ball Review

The Z-STAR's new core construction delivers high-resilience with the increased hardness of the mid-layer, and provides higher launch angles and lower driver spin with the enhanced outer hardness and inner softness.

The new two-layer core on the Z-Star XV with the larger outer core promotes higher repulsion. SeRM used in the coating delivers softer feel by contacting deep into face of the club, delivering more spin control, without sacrificing flight performance.

"I switched immediately into the new XV because it gave me 1.5 extra mph off the tee," Graeme McDowell said of the new model.

The new Srixon balls are on sale from February 2019 with an RRP of £44.99 per dozen.

Srixon Z 785 Driver Review - Technical Editor Joel Tadman tests the new Srixon Z 785 driver on the Foresight Sports GCQuad to assess performance over its predecessor

Srixon Z 785 Driver Review

The new Z 785 driver has much more shelf appeal than its predecessor thanks to the added flashes of colour and generally looking more futuristic.

At address it has a significantly different look too, with the carbon fibre pattern clearly visible on the crown with the new alignment mark helping centre the ball on the face.

The extra size over the Z 765 is also noticeable, immediately boosting your confidence before a ball is struck, although you could argue it isn’t as easy to align given the previous model had more contrast from a lighter face and white grooves.

Send a few balls down the range and you’ll notice the sound is different too, the new Z 785 model offering up a softer thud compared to the more metallic sound of the Z 765.

We tested the old Z 765 driver in 9.5° of loft with the Miyazaki tour issue shaft with a 5677 flex profile, meaning it’s stiff in the butt section and x-stiff towards the tip.

A foolishly heavy gym session the day before testing meant the numbers were not especially comparable to other driver reviews but having set some solid base numbers, we tried the new Z 785 in the new x-stiff Project X HZRDUS shaft.

Sadly it didn’t give us the performance we were hoping for, so reverted back to the Miyazaki shaft in 8.5° as it was clear the Z 785 launches the ball higher than the Z 765 driver.

As you can see below, we got 3 mph more ball speed on a similar launch, spin and a slightly higher flight, resulting in two yards extra carry on average.

The writing on the tip of the shaft, should you take the head off to adjust it, is plentiful and could bamboozle you at first but on closer inspection it is relatively straightforward – there are simply numerous loft, lie and face angle settings to help you get dialled in.

It’s fair to say - this represented just a minor improvement but the head does feel more stable at impact, despite us not seeing a major improvement in accuracy. We’ve ordered the new Tensei CK Pro Blue 70 x-stiff shaft, which is a stock option, so we’re hopeful we might get a few more yards from it in further testing so watch this space.

Srixon Z585 & Z785 Irons Review - Technical Editor Joel Tadman tests the two new better-player irons from Srixon at West Hill Golf Club

Srixon Z585 & Z785 Irons Review

These irons are aimed at mid-to-low handicappers seeking distance, a soft feel and a relatively compact and traditional address profile.

Key technology On the Z585 irons, a new Speed Groove, essentially an internal channel on the SUP10 face insert, allows for more face flexing, enhancing ball speed and distance. A wider Tour V.T. Sole with more trailing edge bounce provides smoother turf interaction and more consistent ball striking. The Z785 irons feature a tour cavity, providing additional mass behind the impact location for increased shot-shaping ability and versatility.

How we tested We gathered GCQuad data in stock stiff Nippon NS Pro Modus Tour 120 shafts before hitting them outdoors on the range to assess ball flight.

GM Review

Looks These irons are very pleasing on the eye, especially down at address. On the Z585 there’s a nice balance of some meat behind the ball but in a very refined, classy profile that thankfully doesn’t look much different to the previous generation. The Z785 (below right) is slightly smaller, with less offset and a thinner topline.

Feel/Sound There’s a solid, explosive thud at impact from the Z585 that, given it’s a forged head, feels closer to a better player iron than it does a distance iron. The Z785 feels and sounds softer, closer to a muscleback.

Performance These irons were a pleasure to hit and genuinely appeal to a wide spectrum of player types. This is because they’re surprisingly user-friendly for their modest size, but feel soft enough and provide consistent distances without going too far. The 7-iron loft on the Z585 is 31°, so fairly strong for what many would pigeon hole as a better player iron, and as a result these irons will carry further than many other irons of a similar size.

The design changes in the head suggest you might get a little more distance and we experienced a ball speed and distance increase over the previous Z 565 iron of two mph in ball speed in the 7-iron, which led to a three-yard increase in carry. The ball flight was slightly lower too, as was the spin by 200rpm, so the descent angle was a touch shallower. But generally speaking, the overall flight was where we’d want it to be, not climbing too much into the wind or coming in too low that it won’t stop on the greens.

You'll notice we hit the old and new 7-series models the same distance, although they were much more consistent despite not quite peppering the sweetspot every time.

The Tour V.T. sole is excellent at making the irons glide through the turf. It was difficult to tell the impact of the extra trailing edge bounce, but generally this should make the irons more forgiving on slightly heavy contacts. You can still compress shots and take big divots if that is how you like to feel the club moving through the turf.

We also noticed the grooves are spaced closer together than on the previous models, which has created room for an extra groove on the face. This should help performance from the rough and in wet conditions as well as reducing the chance of a flyer, although this isn’t something we have tested yet.

Given the lofts of the Z 785 are only one degree weaker, there’s definitely scope to blend a set with the two models, perhaps switching to the 7-series from the 6- or 7-iron, but most golfers will enjoy what the Z 585 has to offer through the bag.

Srixon Z85 Woods and Irons Revealed - Everything you need to know about the new Srixon Z785 driver, fairway and hybrid as well as the Z585 and Z785 irons

Srixon Z85 Woods and Irons Revealed

Srixon has unveiled its new Z85 series of woods and irons, replacing the Z65 range and featuring tour-proven clubs crafted for the best players in the world that go on sale from September 14^th, 2018.

Headlining the range is the Z785 driver, which benefits from a titanium Cup Face made from a premium exotic alloy, allowing Srixon to make the face thinner and more flexible for added ball speed.

The face is actually 10 per cent thinner than the face on the outgoing Z565 driver. There’s also a lightweight carbon crown, which shifts the weight to the perimeter to provide more forgiveness and a tighter dispersion.

The Z 785 driver promotes a low-spin, penetrating trajectory in a tour preferred look and profile. It also features a Quick Tune System so golfers can adjust loft and swing weight as well as the Project X HZRDUS shaft as standard, one of the most popular shafts on tour.

RELATED: Srixon Z565 Driver Review

The Srixon Z F85 fairway wood features a steel face and stepped crown for ball speed and higher launch respectively. Srixon has made subtle changes to the bulge and roll properties of the face to increase distance and forgiveness.

You’ll notice the Z U85 hybrid has a larger profile than the previous generation to appeal to a wider audience. It also features the stepped crown for improved playability.

The Z85 Series woods go on sale from September 14, 2018, with an RRP of £349 for the Z 785 driver, £199 for the Z F85 fairway woods and £179 for the Z H85 hybrids.

Z85 Irons

Taking over the acclaimed Z65 series, the new Z85 series of irons builds on the technologies that help enhance distance, workability and feel.

The Z 785 irons (above) feature a tour cavity, providing additional mass behind the impact location for increased shot-shaping ability and versatility. The Z 585 irons (below) feature an added Speed Groove, essentially an internal channel on the SUP10 face insert, which allows for more face flexing, enhancing ball speed and distance.

Both irons offer an wider Tour V.T. Sole for smoother turf interaction and more consistent ball striking while the forged construction from the soft 1020 carbon steel provides a better feel through impact.

Building on the most recent success of the Z U65 Utility iron, the new Z U85 Utility irons feature a hollow, forged construction for a high-launch trajectory, soft feel and distance.

The iron-like address profile means they can be combined easily with the Z 785 or Z 585 irons, depending on player preference. It now comes in 2-6-iron and has a wider sole to suit more player types.

The Srixon Z Series irons officially launch in UK on September 14, 2018 and have an RRP of £799 for a 6-piece steel set (£899 for a 6-piece graphite set) for the Z 585 and Z 785 irons, while the U85 Utility irons are priced at £169 per club.

New cover and core design developments are said to enhance performance for the slower-swinging golfer

2018 Srixon Soft Feel and UltiSoft Balls Launched

Srixon has revealed two new performance ball upgrades for the second half of 2018.

Sitting alongside the tour performance Z-Star and Z-Star XV and the AD333 and AD333 Tour are the 2018 Soft Feel and UltiSoft, both designed to provide golfers with a soft feel on all shots.

The new Srixon Soft Feel is now in its 6^th generation, with the latest iteration designed specifically for golfers wanting to maximise distance and control with exceptional feel.

It features a softer cover for more greenside spin and improved short-game feel, an EGG core for a high launch, low spin trajectory off the tee and an upgraded 338 dimple pattern that reduces aerodynamic drag for added distance and stability in the wind.

“The all-new Soft Feel was designed to help players maximise their distance off the tee, while providing even better feel and control,” said Jeff Brunski, Vice President of Research and Development.

“The latest generation Soft Feel accomplishes this goal, offering a lower compression ball for incredible distance, but a softer cover to provide that greenside performance all players crave.”

The Soft Feel is available in White, Tour Yellow as well as a Soft Feel Lady model in Soft White and Passion Pink. It goes on sale on the 1^st August 2018 with an RRP of £24 per dozen.

RELATED: Best Value Golf Balls 2018

The UltiSoft golf ball is now in its second generation and is even softer than the previous model. It is ideal for golfers with mid-to-low swing speeds, seeking a soft feel around the greens as well as a higher launch and maximum distance off the tee.

Softer than before, the variable-compression Energetic Gradient Growth Core gives you a high-launch, low spin trajectory off the tee for added distance and an ultra-soft feel.

The soft, thin cover provides more control around the greens and a softer feel on all shots while the new 338 Speed Dimple Pattern has been created to cut through the wind for maximum distance and accuracy.

The new Srixon UltiSoft golf ball officially launches in the UK & Ireland on the 1^st August 2018, with an RRP of £24 per dozen.

2018 Srixon AD333 Tour Ball Review - We test out Srixon's latest ball offering, said to provide tour-like performance for the average golfer

2018 Srixon AD333 Tour Ball Review

Aimed at This ball is aimed at mid and slow swinging golfers who want close to tour ball attributes, like a distance, soft feel and greenside spin, without the premium price tag.

Key technology On the 2018 AD333 Tour, Srixon’s 3rd generation SpinSkin replaces the previous version to provide more control around the greens. Use of 338 dimples compared to 324 on the previous version creates a longer and more stable flight while a slightly lower compression from 75 to 72 should aid distance off the tee for slower swing speed players. The SpinSkin coating is the same as what features on the Z-Star and Z-Star XV ball models played on tour.

How we tested We put this ball in play for an entire round to see if we could notice any difference in performance over our usual premium choice.

Long game Distance and ball flight off the tee was comparable to premium offerings, the driver spin was a touch higher than we’d like but on the course it seemed pretty stable in the wind.

Short game The AD333 Tour does feel fairly soft and grips up nicely when you cleanly strike a chip or pitch before gently releasing out.

Overall performance The AD333 Tour is a really impressive offering considering its modest price tag. For many abilities and player types, especially slow and mid swing speed players, it will provide the requisite control around the green coupled with a soft feel and good all-round performance off the tee or into greens. The flight is long, stable and consistent and the difference between it and our usual premium ball are fairly minimal. The only difference perhaps coming around the green in terms of feel and control but the majority of amateur players will be satisfied with its short game performance.

The new 2018 Srixon AD333 Tour golf ball has been revealed and is said to deliver tour performance for players with moderate swing speeds

The new 2018 Srixon AD333 Tour golf ball has been revealed and it now features an even lower compression core to suit players with moderate swing speeds.

The newest version of the popular AD333 Tour model turned to even lower compression to help deliver tour performance to golfers who don't swing fast enough to make the most of higher compression tour balls like the Srixon Z-Star.

Related: Best golf balls 2018

It means the improved Energetic Gradient Growth Core is now even easier to compress to create lower driver spin for impressive distance and accuracy on full shots.

As before, it has a urethane cover for soft feel and feedback, while Srixon's Spin Skin coating grabs onto grooves to boost spin for greenside performance like a Z-Star style ball.

You'll also find a 338 Speed Dimple Pattern with a low-drag, aerodynamic design that helps enhance carry time for longer distance with more control.

Related: Best mid-price golf balls 2017

Speaking to GM Michael Ross, Senior Product Manager for Golf Balls for Srixon, said: “The AD333 Tour was designed primarily for good players but who have more moderate swing speeds.

“The problem we identified is that these golfers aren’t optimising their performance by choosing to play a high-compression tour ball because they aren’t able to compress it, so they end up sacrificing distance off the tee and with their irons.

“These golfers don’t need to play a high-compression tour ball just so they have the excellent greenside spin performance that they’re used to. They would benefit greatly from playing a ball that offers the same great greenside performance but is easier to compress. That’s why we developed the lower-compression 2018 Srixon AD333 Tour.”

2018 Srixon AD333 Tour Golf Ball - Details

The new 2018 Srixon AD333 Tour will retail at £29.99 and will be available in stores from the 2nd of February 2018.

2017 Srixon AD333 Ball Review - We test Srixon's new two-piece ball offering out on the golf course at West Hill Golf Club

2017 Srixon AD333 Ball Review

Aimed At This ball is aimed at those who want affordable distance without losing out too much on a soft feel or control.

Key technology The UK’s best-selling two-piece golf ball for the past 11 years now features a lower-compression core, a new third-generation Spin Skin coating and a more efficient 338 Aerodynamic Speed Dimple Pattern. These three technologies combine to deliver balanced performance, including longer and more accurate driving distance, better iron control and improved greenside spin.

The aerodynamic 338 Speed Dimple pattern offers more control in the wind by reducing drag Srixon’s new Spin Skin coating is now more elastic with less bonding points, so it produces more consistent spin from any lie.

How we tested We played a round using the new AD333 ball at West Hill Golf Club and compared it to our current ball of choice.

Distance The AD333 delivers excellent distance without feeling overly firm. In fact, off the tee, the feel is similar to that of a premium ball, but it offers slightly more distance and a marginally higher ball flight. Into greens, the ball offers an enjoyable balance of soft feel, launch and spin without necessarily favouring one over the other.

Control The Spin Skin coating certainly helps to create a degree of check on cleanly struck chips, but this is not quite at the same level as a premium urethane-covered ball. The gap has certainly narrowed, though, and the feel is surprisingly soft.

2017 Srixon AD333 Ball Unveiled - The best-selling, two-piece golf ball on the market gets an upgrade in all areas of performance

2017 Srixon AD333 Ball Unveiled

Srixon has announced the launch of a newly redesigned version of its popular AD333 golf ball, which has been the UK's best-selling two-piece golf ball for the past 11 years.

Ideal for golfers who demand balanced performance from a more durable, 2-piece offering, the new AD333 is a premium, lower compression golf ball that delivers the perfect combination of performance, exceptional distance, soft feel and greenside control.

Much like the AD333 Tour model, the new AD333 features a lower-compression Energetic Gradient Growth Core, a new third generation Spin Skin coating, and a new, more efficient 338 Aerodynamic Speed Dimple Pattern. These three technologies combine to deliver balanced performance, longer, more accurate driving distance, better iron control, and improved greenside spin.

Related: Best Value Golf Balls 2017

“The AD333's built-in tour technologies should help golfers see great performance in every aspect of their golf game,” said Michael Ross, Senior Product Manager at Srixon. “This is the golf ball for players who seek maximum playability from a more durable, two-piece design.”

The lower compression Energetic Gradient Growth Core, now down to 75 compression points, uses variable stiffness to deliver better feel and more distance on every long game shot but especially off the tee thanks to lower spin.

Third Generation urethane Spin Skin Coating is now more elastic with less bonding points so it produces more consistent spin from any lie — especially the rough.

Finally, the Aerodynamic 338 Speed Dimple Pattern has been improved to offer more control in the wind by reducing aerodynamic drag to maximise distance. In fact, this is the lowest drag dimple design Srixon has ever produced.

Available in Pure White and Tour Yellow, the new AD333 golf ball officially launches in the UK on September 15th and has an RRP of £22 per dozen.

2017 Srixon Z-Star & Z-Star XV Balls Review - We we test out the updates to the popular premium Z-Star ball model from Srixon

2017 Srixon Z-Star & Z-Star XV Balls Review

With Hideki Matsuyama taking the PGA Tour by storm in recent months the new Srixon Z-Star and Z-Star XV golf balls have been thrust even more firmly into the limelight.

Srixon has made minor evolutions to many of the technologies that featured on the previous generation launched in 2015, like the core and Spin Skin coating that provides the soft short game feel.

Related: How to choose between the Srixon Z-Star and Z-Star XV balls

A more noteworthy improvement is the new dimple pattern. It’s Srixon’s lowest drag dimple pattern ever created and is said to add some lift later in the ball’s flight for more distance.

When attempting to change a ball’s performance for the better, Srixon is always looking at providing more distance, without sacrificing short game feel or control. So we were keen to discover if the R&D ball boffins had achieved their goal.

To conduct our review, we took samples of both old and new Z-Star and Z-Star XV to the range and short game area of Red Tail Golf Club just outside Orlando, Florida, with our GC2 Launch Monitor. We played a variety of shots with both, including drives, iron shots, pitches, chips and putts to attempt to decipher any improvements in performance or key differences between the two.

The first conclusion we made was that the performance between the balls was very similar. If anything, the difference between the balls had lessened, making it harder to know which was best suited to our game.

As Srixon suggested, the lower compression of the Z-Star meant it provided marginally less driver spin (we’re talking under 100 rpm here) than the Z-Star XV and actually launched higher by 0.8 degrees. Interestingly, both carried exactly the same distance.

On to the short game and it was clear both these balls spin in a way you expect a premium ball to spin – it was hard to tell by the feel or watching the ball land and grip if it was an improvement on the previous generation.

There’s no question the Z-Star XV feels slightly firmer around the green off the clubface but still seemed to spin as much as the Z-Star on chips and pitch shots. If you have a very soft feeling putter like Odyssey’s new O-Works range, you might find the firmer XV model compliments this a little better.

The only way to find out which model is best for your game is to hit them both on the launch monitor and try them out on the putting green and various different short-game scenarios to see which one provides the best balance of feel, control and distance for you.

2017 Srixon Z-Star Balls Revealed - New Z-Star and Z-Star XV balls promise more distance, more spin and a more consistent ball flight when playing in the wind

2017 Srixon Z-Star Balls Revealed

The 5th generation Srixon Z-Star and Srixon Z-Star XV golf balls, replacing the 2015 Srixon Z-Star range, are said to provide golfers with more distance, more spin and more consistency in the wind.

One of the ways it can deliver this promise is through a new core construction. On the Srixon Z-Star, a “Super-soft” E.G.G. (Energetic Gradient Growth) large-diameter core has enhanced outer hardness and inner softness and feels softer than the previous model, providing higher launch and lower driver spin.

On the new Srixon Z-Star XV, a new “High-repulsion” E.G.G. large-diameter dual core has been redesigned with a larger, softer inner core with varying hardness and an outer core with more consistent hardness.

The new outer core promotes higher repulsion and increases ball speed, while the new inner core design provides the optimal launch conditions having higher launch angle and lower driver spin.

Related: 2017 Srixon Z-Star ball review

These core technological updates are combined with a newly developed dimple pattern. A new 338 Speed Dimple Pattern utilizes five different dimple sizes to improve the relationship between uniformity and occupancy for more efficient and longer flight.

By decreasing the drag coefficient right after launch, it helps the ball travel through the air with less resistance and maintains ball speed. By increasing the lift coefficient after the ball reaches its apex, it helps the ball stay in the air longer to maximise distance.

To improve spin control and a soft feel around the greens, Srixon say its latest Spin Skin Coating is 13 per cent softer than the previous model.

The high-durability, ultra-thin (0.5mm) urethane cover provides more consistent spin control on approach shots from any lie, especially from the rough. Is also is highly durable and has scuff resistance on wedge shots.

To celebrate the launch of the new Z-Star Series, Srixon has also confirmed a new partnership with Prostate Cancer UK that will see the delivery of limited edition 15 ball Bonus Packs, that will include an additional free sleeve of the new Z-Star or Z-Star XV decorated with the iconic Prostate Cancer UK logo.

Srixon will donate £1.50 for every dozen golf balls sold at trade to Prostate Cancer UK, helping to raise vital funds and awareness of the life-threatening male-specific disease.

Both the Srixon Z-Star and Z-Star XV will be available in shops from the 17th February, with an RRP of £44.99 per dozen.

Golf Monthly's Srixon Z765 irons review, the middle model of the three new forged Z-Series irons geared towards the low and mid handicap golfer

Key technology The Z765 is one of three new irons aimed at low- to mid-handicappers. All three feature a modified Tour V.T. Sole design to reduce turf resistance and tighten shot dispersion. Five per cent larger grooves and the double-laser-milled faces improve the contact and spin consistency from wet or bad lies. A new heat- treatment process on the face enhances both feel and distance

Will Suit Low- to mid-handicappers who want a bit of everything from a traditional-looking iron design.

GM Review

Looks The Z765 iron is a very clean and understated design with a hint of offset and mid-to-slim top line and blade length. The finish and overall cosmetics create a premium aesthetic.

Performance The Z65 series of irons is seriously impressive and the Z765, the middle model of the trio in terms of size and loft, is arguably the one with the widest appeal as it strikes that perfect balance of combining a traditional look and feel with distance and forgiveness.

While still having a relatively compact profile, these irons pack plenty of punch, assisted by the heat-treated faces. Lofts are on the low side of traditional, but you still get the feel and distance control you expect from an out-and-out better-player iron given the 1020 carbon steel forging.

The V-shape of the sole is much more pronounced and it certainly seemed to assist the club in gliding more efficiently through the turf, creating shallower divots and a little more forgiveness on slightly heavy contacts. The sound at impact is louder than the bladed Z965 – a sign of the difference in construction – but not to the point where it’s off-putting.

The 10th generation Srixon Soft Feel ball has been unveiled, boasting new core and cover innovations set to benefit both male and female game improver golfers

Srixon has launched its next-generation Soft Feel golf ball range that includes specific models for both male and female golfers designed for those with mid to low swing speeds.

Now in its 10^th generation, the all-new Soft Feel provides golfers with even better feel on all shots, as well as improved greenside spin, distance and accuracy from tee to green. It does this through Srixon's Energetic Gradient Growth (E.G.G.) Core, also found in the Srixon AD333 golf ball.

The new Soft Feel is a 60 compression design that is 12 points softer than the previous generation Soft Feel for an even softer feel on all full shots without sacrificing the distance and accuracy.

The Ionmer cover on the new Soft Feel is 11 per cent thinner and 5 per cent softer than the previous model, with the softest feel rating tested in the low-compression golf ball category. The new softer, thinner cover also provides golfers with more greenside spin and softer feel on all pitches, chips and putts.

The new Soft Feel cover features Srixon’s 324 Speed Dimple pattern which combines greater uniformity of dimple design with better surface coverage. This results in less drag on the ball, producing a more penetrating ball flight and maximised distance on full shots.

The Soft Feel Lady golf ball features the same performance benefits as the men’s Soft Feel, but offers a slightly higher launch and comes in Soft White and an eye-catching Passion Pink finish.

Both new Soft Feel balls retail at RRP of £25 per dozen and are available to purchase from the beginning of September 2016 in both a new classic Soft White and a striking Tour Yellow finish.

For further information on all Srixon products, visit www.srixon.co.uk

The new Srixon Z65 range has been launched, featuring two drivers, fairways, hybrids and three better player irons designed to be more forgiving and launch the ball higher

The new Srixon Z565 driver replaces the Z545 driver and features a new Power Wave Sole to increase both launch angle and forgiveness. This is essentially a multi-step design that allows the lower portion of the face to bend more, increasing distance across the face. A Stretch Flex Cup Face has also been added, extending further around the crown and sole to create a larger sweetspot. Slight draw bias will help serial slicers achieve a straighter flight.

The crown has been made four grams lighter than the previous driver and that weight has been repositioned to enhance clubhead MOI and lower the centre of gravity. Srixon engineers did this by analyzing the club using computer-simulated impacts and identifying locations where the titanium crown could be made thinner without sacrificing feel, sound, or durability.

Golf Monthly's full review of the Z565 driver

The lighter crown, power wave sole and stretch flex face cup combine to create something Srixon call the Ripple effect, coming together to provide 'never seen before' performance.

"This new generation of Z565 drivers will launch slightly higher than the Z545, but the primary goal was to increase ball speed," Jeff Brunski, Srixon R&D Director, told GM. "That’s where the new power wave sole technology came from. Having better ball speed across the face – especially low on the face – helps overall distance, but also distance dispersion. The improvements in the Z565 are universally beneficial. All golfers can benefit from more ball speed, higher smash factors and a slightly more forgiving head."

The Z565 model will suit a wider range of handicaps and swing speeds, while there's also a Z765 driver that is smaller at 445cc and comes with a heavier shaft as standard to provide the penetrating ball flight and workability better players prefer. Both drivers feature adjustable face, loft and lie angle and comes in 9.5° and 10.5° with a Miyazaki Kaula Mizu shaft.

Z65 Fairways and hybrids

The non-adjustable ZF65 fairway wood and ZH65 hybrid feature the Stretch Flex Cup Face but also boast a new Arc Support Channel – a channel on the crown that becomes progressively deeper by loft to promote a higher launch and more optimal spin across the face.

The fairway wood also has a crown step to add flexibility to the upper portion of the face and increase ball speed. It comes in lofts of 13.5°, 15°, 17°, 19° and 21°, while the hybrid comes in 16°, 19° and 22°.

Z65 Irons

Replacing the Z45 trio of irons is the Z65 series, featuring three forged models: the bladed Z965, the bladed cavity Z765 and the compact cavity-back Z565 aimed more at low-to-mid handicap players.

All three feature an updated version of the Tour V.T. Sole design, which has been modified to move even more efficiently through the turf to reduce impact resistance and tighten shot dispersion.

The clubhead material has undergone a new heat- treatment process to enhance both feel and distance. The grooves have also been made five per cent larger and the faces have been double laser- milled to improve the contact and spin consistency, particularly from wet or bad lies.

A ZU65 utility iron completes the family. It features a hollow construction in a slim profile, which positions weight lower for a higher launch. Srixon has managed to improve the feel with unmatched distance with a new S20C body and SUP10 face. Like the new Z 65 irons, these utility clubs also feature 5% larger grooves for more spin and control on longer shots into greens.

For more information, visit www.srixon.co.uk

Golf Monthly's Neil Tappin headed out to the course at West Hill to provide an in-depth Srixon UltiSoft review. Will this new two piece design make it into your bag?

Srixon UltiSoft Review

Key Technology: This is the lowest compression and softest Srixon golf ball ever thanks to an innovative new core design that produces softer feel and maximises energy transfer at impact for more long game distance. This new low compression core also creates a higher launch angle and lower spin, resulting in straighter distance, which is further boosted by its 324 Speed Dimple pattern that reduces drag in flight to produce a penetrating trajectory. Designed specifically for golfers with low to mid swing speeds, it also features a thinner and soft Ionomer cover that enhances feel and control though the bag.

Full Srixon UltiSoft Review: We were pleased to hear that Srixon had plans to launch a brand new golf ball into the mid price-point end of the market. The new UltiSoft is aimed at the mid to high handicap player looking for a solid all round performer. In that regard the brand has certainly hit the brief. From long range, this offered a strong flight that actually didn't seem to spin too much (our tester is a faster swinger so this golf ball would not necessarily be quite right for him). Around the greens you really notice that soft feel, especially off the putter face. The only downside was that we tested this ball along side the new Srixon AD333 Tour ball - and this one, with its urethane cover, offers spectacular performance for just four pounds more per dozen.

The Srixon UltiSoft however, will not disappoint. The slower swinger will certainly notice the long game benefits and the short game feel is soft off the face, if lacking a little spin relative to more expensive options.

Will Suit: Premium golf balls are expensive and if you're looking for genuine performance without the hefty price-tag, the Srixon UltiSoft is well worth testing.

Blending distance with forgiveness thanks to an impressive range of innovative technologies, the Srixon Women's Z355 range could help you take your game to a new level.

With a number of successful Tour players, including Inbee Park and Mika Miyazato putting Srixon equipment into play, the manufacturer has been going from strength to strength in recent years. The Srixon Women's Z355 range features key technologies that make these clubs Srixon’s longest and most forgiving to date.

Srixon Women’s Z355 driver RRP: £279

This attractive, sleek black, deep-faced adjustable driver has been engineered to produce maximum distance with maximum forgiveness. The key technology is described by Srixon as “Action Mass”. This features a heavier head weight an ultra high balance point in the shaft to produce greater consistency as well as length.

The QTS adjustability system in the Z355 driver allows you to choose from 12 different settings to alter loft, lie and face angle depending on the shot shape you’re seeking to produce.

The titanium face is strong yet light and, as such, it helps you generate excellent ball speed and so distance.

The driver comes in starting lofts of 12 and 14 and the excellent Miyazaki Jinsoku shaft comes as standard.

Srixon women’s Z355 fairways RRP: £179

The sleek and stylish Z355 fairways look superb at address and the shallower head inspires confidence. The fact that the centre of gravity has been pushed lower means it’s easier to get the ball airborne on a strong launch angle.

Like the driver, these fairways feature Srixon’s innovative Action Mass technology which helps you generate more effortless power by allowing the weight of the clubhead to do the work.

The maraging steel face on these fairways delivers excellent feel but also greater distance and consistency, thanks to lower spin and a higher launch.

The fairways are available as 3W (15) 5W (19) and 7W (22). Miyazaki Jinsoku shaft comes as standard.

Srixon women’s Z355 hybrids RRP: £159

The hybrid is now an essential component of most well organised golf bags. It’s a hugely versatile club, playable in a range of situations from the tee right up to the green’s edge. This offering from Srixon ticks all the boxes.

The clubs are an attractive shape and they look great behind the ball with their sleek and unfussy black finish. Like the fairways, they feature a lower centre of gravity that delivers greater forgiveness and a higher launch angle. Plus, the maraging steel face produces a strong flight and impressive distance.

As with driver and fairways, these hybrids feature Srixon’s Action Mass technology.

The hybrids are available in 3H (19) 4H (23) and 5H (26). The Miyazaki Jinsoku hybrid shaft comes as standard

The new 2016 Srixon AD333 Tour golf ball is five compression points softer than original AD333 Tour for a better greenside feel

The 2016 Srixon AD333 Tour is a golf ball designed for players without tour-level swing speeds who wanted tour like feel.

The 2016 update carries the same name as the 2014 AD333 Tour, but now launches higher and spins less for longer distance on all shots.

That was possible thanks to a new Energetic Gradient Growth core that is five compression points softer to aid distance and deliver a softer feel.

With a firm outer layer that softens towards the centre, the core is precisely cured at different temperatures to achieve stiffness variations in a design that aids long-term durability and consistent power distribution from shot-to-shot.

The three-piece ball is covered by a thin and soft Urethane cover thats aids overall softness by 21% compared to the previous AD333 Tour to improve feedback off the face.

Second generation SpinSkin technology – as found on the 2015 Srixon Z-Star – also increases frictional force by 18% to improve short game control.

Finally, a next generation 324 Speed Dimple pattern improves the aerodynamics to reduce drag for longer drives.

Commenting on the launch, Ben Davis, Srixon’s brand manager, told GM: “Our testing showed that golfers who have a swing speed of around 80 mph with the driver gain distance hitting the new AD333 Tour compared to the Z-Star.

"Conversely, testing has shown that golfers with swing speeds of around 90mph with the driver would gain more distance with the Z-Star, while those with 105mph+ swings would benefit from using Z-Star XV.

“For short game the new AD333 Tour will feel slightly softer and spin more around the greens thanks to its lower compression and new second generation Spin Skin technology,” added Davis.

Srixon's golf balls are currently trusted on tour by a wide selection of players, including Graeme McDowell, Keegan Bradley, Shane Lowry, Russell Knox, JB Holmes, Hideki Matsuyama, KJ Choi and Miguel Angel Jimenez.

2016 Srixon AD333 Tour details

The 2016 Srixon AD333 Tour golf ball will retail at £36 per dozen.

The Srixon UltiSoft golf ball is the brand's softest ever ball, and should suit mid and slow swinging golfers

The Srixon UltiSoft golf ball is the brand's softest ever ball, and should suit mid and slow swinging golfers

The launch of the Srixon UltiSoft golf ball sees Srixon join what is becoming a low compression trend, and it does so in a big way with a ball that it is calling its softest ever.

It was possible thanks to an innovative new core design that produces softer feel and maximises energy transfer at impact for more long game distance.

This new low compression core also creates higher launch angle and lower spin, resulting in straighter distance, which is further boosted by its 324 Speed Dimple pattern that reduces drag in flight to produce a penetrating trajectory.

The Srixon UltiSoft golf ball joins the popular AD333 as a two-piece offering, and has been in the making for over two-years while the brand’s R&D team ensured every element of the manufacturing process was closely scrutinised.

Designed specifically for golfers with low to mid swing speeds, it also features a thinner and soft Ionomer cover that enhances feel and control though the bag.

Telling GM more about the UltiSoft, Ben Davis, brand manager at Srixon, told GM: “The UltiSoft is a ball that helps golfers with lower swing speeds achieve maximum distance and even softer feel.

“Our proprietary E.C.G. core allows us to make a ball with lower compression that feels softer, but still maintains maximum initial velocity. Generally speaking low compression means low initial velocity; however, our Proprietary E.C.G. technology has been improved based on material and structural development and made it possible to maintain repulsion and lower compression at the same time, ensuring neither feel nor distance is compromised.”

Srixon golf balls are used on tour by players including Graeme McDowell, Keegan Bradley, Shane Lowry, Russell Knox, JB Holmes, Hideki Matsuyama, KJ Choi and Miguel Angel Jimenez.

Srixon UltiSoft golf ball details

The Srixon UltiSoft golf ball will be available across the UK and Ireland from the end of March, with an RRP of £32 per dozen.

Golf Monthly's Srixon Z355 driver review, a club that features extra weight in the head and a high balance point shaft to help increase distance and forgiveness

Key technology A feature across Srixon’s new Z 355 family is Action Mass Technology, whereby more weight is placed in the clubhead to increase ball speed. This is combined with a higher balance-point shaft, ensuring the overall weight of the club isn’t affected.

The 211g clubhead also aids stability, helping mid-to-high handicap golfers achieve more distance and accuracy on off-centre hits. Forgiveness comes courtesy of Srixon’s Ti Booster Cup Face, which has been designed to create faster ball speeds from a larger face area.

Loft options 9.5°, 10.5° and 12° with 12 adjustable loft and face-angle settings.

Will suit Those who prefer a traditional look to their driver, as well as a combination of distance and forgiveness.

GM verdict The Z 355 head is more rounded than most others on the shelves. It’s very traditional in its all-black appearance and while there’s no alignment aid, visibility of the face angle is helped by the contrast between the black crown and silver face. It sits slightly toed-in at address and there’s lots of loft on show, helping the driver’s target golfer, the game-improver.

Initially, you can feel the extra weight in the head, but it doesn’t feel cumbersome to swing. As someone who tends to pull the ball, delaying the arrival of the clubface seemed to help my dispersion. Stability at impact is also impressive, the feel is solid and the loud, metallic sound screams power. Strikes from across the entire face performed well, and forgiveness is aided by the many face-angle settings that should help tighten your start lines.

The Golf Monthly test team's Srixon Z155 irons review, where Action Mass Technology that places more weight in the head to boost distance and forgiveness

Key technology Action Mass technology combines a larger and more forgiving head that is hotter off the face with a lightweight, high balance point shaft to increase stability and offer more speed at impact. The same Tour V.T. Sole design seen on Srixon’s better-player Z-Series irons comprises increased leading- edge bounce and less trailing-edge bounce to reduce turf interaction time by 43 per cent. Use of a high strength steel in the faces of the 3-7 irons leads to minimal loss of ball speed on heel and toe strikes.

Shaft options

Nippon NS Pro 950GH in steel, Miyazaki Jinsoku in graphite

Will suit Mid- to high-handicappers who want to hit their iron shots further and demand maximum forgiveness.

GM verdict The oversize look of the Z 155 irons will boost the confidence of its target golfer who requires a club that looks inviting to hit at address and offers distance and forgiveness aplenty. The finish has a premium shine to it and the irons look sleek from the back, too. The stock Nippon NS Pro 950GH shaft weighs under 100g, which means you can really feel Srixon’s Action Mass technology places more weight in the head for more distance and forgiveness the weight of the head.

This was a feeling we enjoyed as it raised the awareness of the clubhead and it seemed like swing speed could be increased without any extra effort. The heads themselves also felt stable through the hit as a result. They certainly have a more pronounced sole design compared to most irons on the market and the turf interaction was clean and brisk as a result, helping reduce the effect of those marginally heavy strikes. However, the long shaft lengths may reduce control of the clubface for some players.

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.

A review of the three new sets of Srixon Z Series irons. The Z 945, Z 745 and Z 945 are all tested by Golf Monthly technical editor, Paul O'Hagan

The new Srixon Z series irons have been built to cater for both amateurs and professionals.

The slim topline and compact shape in Srixon Z 745 and Srixon Z 945 irons provide the confidence and workability that better players demand. You can see a video review of all three sets of Srixon Z Series irons above.

Amateurs on the other hand, will benefit from the added forgiveness and distance in the slightly larger Srixon Z 545 irons, which feature a strategically positioned tungsten weight in the toe of the 3-6 irons to move the sweet spot for longer, more forgiving flights.

As with the new Srixon Z Series woods, the irons have had tour input from the likes of Graeme McDowell, Keegan Bradley and Hideki Matsuyama, who have helped Srixon refine the shapes, weight placements and face materials.

Alongside this, ball speeds have also been maximised with advanced face constructions. This can be seen in the new Srixon Z U45 utility and Z 545 irons that have distance-enhancing SUP10 steel faces and soft 1020 carbon steel bodies for a more responsive feel.

To enhance turf interaction and trajectory control, the Z 545, Z 745 and Z 945 irons all feature the newly developed Tour V.T. Sole. By increasing leading bounce and decreasing trailing bounce, a “V” is created in the sole profile that helps tighten shot dispersion, a trait that Srixon’s tour professionals raved about during testing.

The new Srixon Z Series irons and utility also feature double laser milling, which places two different laser milling patterns on the club face, one parallel to the grooves and another slightly angled. The result is more stable spin performance for better distance control from every lie.

The Srixon Z Series irons are available from October 1st at £600 (steel) and £699 (graphite), with the Z U45 utility at £165.

Srixon has updated its premium ball franchise for 2015 with the introduction of two new Z-Star models

Srixon has updated its premium ball franchise for 2015 with the introduction of two new Z-Star models.

Both the 2015 Srixon Z-Star and Z-Star XV come with the promise of improved distance, short-game spin and wind playability.

Key features of the 2015 Z-Star models include a new speed dimple pattern, improved spin skin, an energetic gradient growth (EGG) core and a super-soft urethane cover.

According to Srixon, the balls are adept in windy conditions through a combination of high initial velocity, high launch angle and a low spin.

The 324 speed dimple pattern brings lower aerodynamic resistance to the table, allowing more air to pass around the ball for a more desirable trajectory, increased distance and better playability in blustery conditions.

The three-piece Z-Star comes with a large-diameter EGG core tasked with delivering high launch and low spin.

The presence of the soft core and the harder outer layer ensures the Z-Star delivers more distance from the tee, as well as retaining its renowned short-game feel around the greens.

The four-piece Z-Star XV, meanwhile, boasts a dual core and utilises a high-resistance loonier ultra-thin mid-layer to increase the contrast between the hard outer layer and the soft inner.

This, in turn, results in a firmer feel and more distance than the Z-Star model.

In other developments, the new spin skin coating is 21% softer than the 2013 Z-Star, while the super-soft neo-urethane cover is 7% softer.

Srixon says that adds up to a better club-face interaction, improved feel and more consistent spin performance.

The 2015 Srixon Z-Star and Z-Star XV will be available from February. Both come with an RRP of £45 per dozen.

They come in Pure White and Tour Yellow colour schemes.

Keegan Bradley has signed a multi-year contract extension to remain a member of the Cleveland Golf and Srixon PGA Tour staff

Keegan Bradley signs new contract with Cleveland/Srixon

Keegan Bradley has signed a multi-year contract extension to remain a member of the Cleveland Golf and Srixon PGA Tour staff.

Bradley will continue to play a Srixon Z-STAR XV ball as well as the new Srixon Z-Series woods, Cleveland irons and Cleveland 588 RTX 2.0 wedges.

He will also carry on using headwear with a Srixon logo on the front and Cleveland Golf logos on the sides, while wearing a Srixon glove and carrying a Srixon golf bag.

“I’m really happy about continuing the relationship,” said Bradley. “I think 2015 is going to be a big year for me. A major part of that comes from the confidence I have in my equipment and trust in Cleveland Golf and Srixon’s really great support staff.”

Bradley, the son of a PGA club professional and the nephew of LPGA World Golf Hall of Fame member Pat Bradley, is currently ranked 26^th in the Official World Golf Rankings.

The 28-year-old from Woodstock, Vermont, finished the season ranked 28^th on the 2014 Money List with $2,828,638 and has career earnings of $14,134,708.

Todd Harman, president of Cleveland Golf/Srixon - U.S.A, said: “We are extremely pleased that Keegan has once again chosen to remain a member of our PGA Tour staff.

“We’ve had the pleasure to play a part in Keegan’s journey dating all the way back to his college days at St. John’s, and we’re thrilled to continue being a part of his journey moving forward.

“We take great pride in the passion and competitive drive that Keegan brings to the game of golf. Keegan is the type of brand ambassador and competitor that any organization would be thrilled to have as a member of their team.”

For more information visit www.srixon.co.uk and www.clevelandgolf.com

The new Srixon Z Series woods feature a Z 545 driver, Z F45 fairway woods and Z H45 hybrids

The Srixon Z Series woods range - which comprises a Z 545 driver, Z F45 fairway woods and Z H45 hybrids - has been unveiled.

The Z 545 driver features Dual Speed Technology to maximise a player's rotational efficiency and deliver more kinetic energy at impact.

This, coupled with an advanced face design, delivers more head speed, more ball speed and ultimately more distance.

The new Srixon driver also sports a Booster-cup face construction and variable face thickness - with a 35% larger sweet spot - for increased speed and forgiveness.

Elsewhere, the Quick Tune System allows loft, lie, face angle and centre of gravity to be adjusted.

Graeme McDowell, Hideki Matsuyama and Keegan Bradley are were amongst the Srixon Tour players giving feedback on the Z Series.

The Srixon Z F45 - for players of all abilities - also come with Dual Speed Technology and the Quick Tune System.

A HT1770 steel Booster-cup face improves ball speed and its mid-size design helps maximise launch conditions from any lie.

The Srixon Z H45 Hybrid, meanwhile, has a lower centre of gravity for a higher and more penetrating launch. Its shape promotes smoother turf interaction and more confidence at address.

Click below to see some images of the new Srixon Z Series woods:

Srixon Z 545 driver:

The Srixon Z 545 driver has a 35% larger sweet spot and a 440cc head.

Dual Speed Technology helps increase ball speeds and therefore distance.

There are 24 unique settings for loft, lie, face angle and centre of gravity.

Srixon Z F45 fairway wood:

The Srixon Z F45 fairway also boasts QTS adjustability.

It is available in 3, 3+ and 4 models and comes with a Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage Black HBP 60 shaft.

The ultra-hot HT1770 steel face helps maximise ball speed.

Srixon Z H45 hybrid:

The Srixon Z H45 hybrid also has Dual Speed technology to enhance the swing's rotational efficiency.

The centre of gravity has been moved lower to promote a more desirable ball flight.

It is available in 2, 3 and 4 models.

Also check out the four new Srixon Z Series irons

The new Srixon Z Series irons range is made up of the Z 945, Z 745, Z 545 and Z U45 models

The new Srixon Z Series irons range - on sale now - features the Z 945, Z 745, Z 545 and Z U45 models.

The new irons family is designed for players of all abilities, with the Z 945 and Z 745 geared towards competent players and the Z 545 irons more suited to those seeking added forgiveness and distance.

See below for some images of the new Srixon Z Series irons.

Srixon Z 945 irons:

The Srixon Z 945 irons are forged from ultra-soft 1020 carbon steel and feature a muscle-cavity design and thinner topline for a look that encourages workability.

A redesigned tour V.T. Sole decreases turf resistance for a tighter shot dispersion.

The Z 945 irons - available from 3-PW - have double laser-milled faces, with the increased surface roughness providing additional spin and trajectory control.

Srixon Z 745 irons:

Srixon's Z 745 irons boast a number of similar characteristics but differ slightly in terms of aesthetics.

They, too, come in 3-PW with True Temper Dynamic Golf shafts.

In both better-player sets, strategically placed tungsten weights are employed in the 3-6 irons to fine-tune the sweet spot position.

Srixon Z 545 irons:

The Srixon Z 545 irons are more distance-orientate for players who are prepared to sacrifice some of the workability and feel found in both the Z 945 and Z 745.

The cavity-back irons are forged from a high-strength SUP10 steel face, which promotes higher ball speeds.

They are slightly larger and more forgiving than the Z 945 and Z 745 models.

 Srixon Z U45 utility iron:

The Srixon Z U45 - for more skilled players - boasts a compact and powerful address view for those looking for a different option off the tee and a different option for long, aggressive approaches into greens.

It is available in 18, 20 and 23-degree lofts with a Miyazaki Kosuma Blue UTI shaft.

Also check out the new Srixon Z Series woods

Srixon has announced it is to update its popular 2-piece Soft Feel golf ball line, with the launch of two new balls.

The new Srixon Soft Feel golf ball will be released in Pure White and Tour Yellow for improved visibility, as well as a ladies version in Pure White and Pink. The new Soft Feel Lady utilises a lower compression core formulation, providing exceptional distance to golfers with slower swing speeds.

Incorporating Srixon’s newly developed 344 aerodynamic speed dimple design, air resistance is minimised in order to maintain ball speed, resulting in a longer, more penetrating ball flight, as well as great stability in wind. This is the same dimple pattern used in the Z-STAR, a ball played on tour by Srixon staff players Graeme McDowell, Keegan Bradley and Hideki Matsuyama.

Engineered with a new highly resilient super soft, 72 compression core formulation, as well as superior new aerodynamics, the new Soft Feel will provide golfers with moderate swing speeds exceptional distance off the tee and soft feel around the greens.

Srixon has been able to achieve these performance characteristics by combining a low compression Energetic Gradient Growth core with a Rabalon HR+ and Pana-Tetra dual blended soft ionomer 1.8mm thick cover, enhancing feel and increasing ball speed.

Golfers will also benefit from a new precision alignment aid that has been added, ensuring a square set up at address and optimal target focus.

Further information on the new Soft Feel balls will be available on Srixon’s website from the end of September.

Hideki Matsuyama, a Srixon staff player, clinched victory at the Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village on Sunday June 1. Golf Monthly takes a look at what's in his bag.

Srixon staff player Hideki Matsuyama has won his first PGA Tour title after beating Kevin Na at the first hole of a sudden death play-off in the Memorial Tournament, at Muirfield Village.

Golf Monthly takes a look at the equipment Matsuyama used to secure the victory.

The current world number 13 is a full Srixon staff player and was seen using a Srixon ZR-30 driver.

The champion also used the Srixon Z-545 iron and Srixon Z-945 iron.

Matsuyama also carried Cleveland Golf wedges, and the Srixon Z-STAR XV golf ball, featuring Spin Skin technology.

With this win Matsuyama has strengthened his credentials as one of golf’s leading rising stars.

The final round saw Matsuyama needing to find a birdie at the 18^th hole to force a play-off. An imperious iron shot to 5 feet set up the chance for the Japanese golfer to force the play-off, and he duly obliged, setting a new record in the process, as the only player ever to birdie the final hole in each round of the Memorial Tournament.

After Na found water from the tee in the first play-off hole, Matsuyama was afforded the luxury of needing a par to win, and achieved this with a superb up and down from the left hand rough.

Following the victory, Matsuyama said: “I’m really, really happy. It’s a dream come true to win at Mr. Nicklaus’ course.”

Golf Monthly's digital editor Neil Tappin reviews the second generation of the Srixon AD333 Tour golf ball, which offers premium performance at an affordable price tag

Key technology: Srixon AD333 Tour

The 2016 update carries the same name as the 2014 AD333 Tour, but now launches higher and spins less for longer distance on all shots. That was possible thanks to a new Energetic Gradient Growth core that is five compression points softer to aid distance and deliver a softer feel. With a firm outer layer that softens towards the centre, the core is precisely cured at different temperatures to achieve stiffness variations in a design that aids long-term durability and consistent power distribution from shot-to-shot. The three-piece ball is covered by a thin and soft Urethane cover thats aids overall softness by 21% compared to the previous AD333 Tour to improve feedback off the face.

Full Srixon AD 333 Tour Review

The 2016 version of the Srixon AD333 Tour continues the franchise nicely. The long game performance is solid - any player, no matter what you swing speed will see good distance and a strong flight. You would expect that from a traditional golf ball brand. Where this really comes into its own is with the spin around the greens. The ball checks on the second bounce in exactly the way you would expect from a premium priced golf ball.

Srixon UltiSoft review

If you are looking to test a new ball and perhaps don't want to pay the hefty price tag attached to a premium ball, this is a must. The short game control is simply superb and whilst the cover offers plenty of spin and feel, there appeared no drop off in durability.

Will suit... players with average swing speeds after plenty of spin around the greens.

Technology

Cover - Srixon's Spin Skin technology has been applied to the new AD333 - a feature that first appeared on Srixon's Z-Star balls - to enhance control on scoring shots. The cover is made from a blend of Rabalon HR+ and Pana-Tetra, which is designed to be very durable.

Core - The Energetic Gradient Growth (EGG) core starts with a soft centre and becomes increasingly firm towards the ball's outer layer. This should help to increase distance on full shots.

Dimple design - A new 344 Speed Dimple design should reduce drag, thanks to the enhanced surface area coverage. Reduced drag means more carry and a penetrating flight that copes with the wind.

Aesthetics

Shelf appeal - While the package design clearly means nothing to the performance on offer, it does offer an updated and modern look that will catch the eye of many players.

Durability - The durability of the 2011 version of the AD333 was already excellent. The new ball continues the trend and copes very well with full rounds of golf. Where the improvement is noticeable is how the ball doesn't scuff when full shots are hit with new wedges.

Performance

Flight - The AD333's long-game flight was excellent. The trajectory was similar to the previous incarnation - plenty of height, without spinning too much. It's a flight that works particularly well on wet or lush fairways when there isn't much run on the ball.

Distance - You aren't likely to see much, if any, drop in distance compared to the premium Srixon Z-Star, and some will even find it longer. The ball certainly offers impressive hang time off the tee, and there was impressive distance offered right through the set up to full wedge shots.

Forgiveness - Full-shot testing of the AD333 took place on a driving range, with a left-to-right wind blowing, before being tested out on the course. The ball coped very well in the wind, with purely struck shots maintaining their line. The reduction in full-swing spin is a benefit into the wind.

Spin - This is an area where a premium ball with a urethane cover will offer clear improvements. When hitting into firm greens, there isn't quite as much stopping power as there would be from a premium-priced ball.

Feel - You could be surprised at how soft the AD333 feels off the putter face, and when chipping and pitching. This helps to provide the confidence to attack the ball aggressively .

Key technology:

Srixon's new Spin Skin technology - a coating designed to provide extra grip on the clubface when hitting approach shots - should deliver extra bite. This doesn't affect shots hit with less lofted clubs, so distance isn't sacrificed. The actual cover has also been tweaked to offer a softer feel off the face. Resistance through the air is reduced, thanks to four per cent more dimple coverage.

Will suit: anyone after an all-round premium performer.

With mid size, forged cavity heads the Srixon Z-Star irons are aimed at low to mid handicap golfers. The Z-Star irons feature two types of forged carbon steel to help combine feel with accuracy.

There is plenty of forgiveness in the cavity which is hidden at address. Visually though, we still haven't made our minds up about the cavity design.

W: srixon.co.uk

Adopting one of Srixon's premium ball names, the Srixon Z-Star driver features the STAR fitting system that enables golfers to independently adjust face angle and internal weighting. With a turn of a key 84 configurations are possible.

The Srixon Z-Star driver is one of the best looking driver heads on the market at the moment. Those who struggle with their driving will find added forgiveness in other models.

W: srixon.co.uk

An adjustable hosel allows for 12 face-and-lie configurations on the Srixon Z-Star woods, while the Starburst variable face design should provide golfers with greater forgiveness.

The adjustability helps create a head that is pleasing to the eye but the sole design will not suit those who struggle to hit woods pure.

W: srixon.co.uk

Srixon's softest ball the Srixon Z-Star, has a large core to help produce more distance from the tee and on long shots. The cover is extremely thin to help make sure that the maximum amount of energy is transferred at impact so that no power is lost.

For the majority of players the Srixon Z-Star XV will be the longer of Srixon's two premium balls. It has a slightly firmer feel without sacrificing control.

W: srixon.co.uk

The large core of the Srixon Trispeed, combined with the 324 dimple design helps achieve a penetrating ball flight. This helps to produce a high launch angle, low spin and shallower landing angle, resulting in greater carry and roll out. A low compression and thin cover combine to help improve the feel off the face.

W: srixon.co.uk

Srixon Sports has announced that 2010 US Open champion and Ryder Cup hero Graeme McDowell has signed a multi-year contract to endorse its brand worldwide.

McDowell, who was made MBE in the New Year Honours List, will play Srixon irons, Cleveland wedges and the new Srixon Z-STAR XV ball, which will be officially launched at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando at the end of January.

The 31-year-old Ulsterman enjoyed a remarkable 2010 in which he became the first European to win the US Open for 40 years and he starred in Europe's Ryder Cup victory over the the United States by holing the winning putt. 

Golf Monthly's columnist has risen to number seven in the World Rankings having defeated Tiger Woods at the season-ending Chevron World Challenge.

See also: New shoes for Graeme McDowell

As part of the multi-year contract, G-Mac will also wear a Srixon hat and glove and carry a Srixon bag and will help develop both Srixon and Cleveland to a new generation of golfers around the world.

"I am really excited about my decision to join Srixon," said McDowell. "There is a great energy amongst the team at Srixon regarding my signing with them and I am looking forward to feeding off this energy going into 2011."

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