Driver · 2024
Mizuno ST-Max 230
The CaddyIndex™ breakdown: our rating across all six performance dimensions, researched from published expert reviews, online sentiment and our own weighting algorithm.
By the CaddyCompare editorial team · updated 8 July 2026
Performance index
Six researched ratings, lower (blue) through to elite (gold).
Where it wins
- Looks88
- Forgiveness85
- Feel85
Watch
Rated highest for looks and forgiveness; its softest dimension is workability.
You want the steadiest, easiest-launching head Mizuno makes, with a little help straightening a leak to the right.
You swing fast and spin it too much, want to work the ball, or need adjustable weighting (try the ST-G).
Pros
- Mizuno's most forgiving, most stable driver — a big, high-MOI head, and a Golf Digest 2025 Hot List pick
- An easy, high, straight flight with a hint of draw to fight a slice
- A lovely, balanced feel and sound, and a premium look
Cons
- Higher-spinning than rivals — it can leave a little distance behind for a fast swing
- Forgiveness-first — no adjustable weights and little shot-shaping
- Better for moderate swings and higher handicaps than for the strong player
By dimension
Forgiveness
ExcellentMizuno's most stable driver yet — a big, deep-weighted head that holds ball speed and line on the sloppiest of strikes.
Distance
StrongLong and easy, if not the very fastest — the flight runs a little high and spinny, which suits a moderate swing.
Workability
ModestMade to straighten a leak right, not to shape shots — a fixed, stability-first head with a touch of draw and no weights to move.
Feel
ExcellentA firm but padded strike — quieter and more muted than most forgiveness heads, yet full of pleasing feedback.
Sound
ExcellentA well-judged, forceful note at impact — enough punch to feel you've flushed it, clear of both the metal ring and the flat clunk some heads give.
Looks at address
ExcellentA smooth, reassuring head — a large but neat shape with a square face angle and the upmarket finish Mizuno does so well.
Sources
Dig into the independent expert reviews and lab tests that feed into how every club here is rated. Each one is worth reading in full — they carry the launch-monitor data, hands-on testing and detailed photography that paint the complete picture before you buy.
- Read the full review at Mizuno ST-Max 230 Driver Review | Golf Monthly
- Read the full review at Mizuno ST-G & ST-Max 230 drivers: full review + robotic testing | GOLF.com
- Read the full review at Mizuno ST-Max 230 Driver Review | Golfalot
- Read the full review at First Look: Mizuno ST-MAX 230 Drivers (tested) | MyGolfSpy
- Read the full review at Mizuno ST Max 230 Driver Review | The Golf Guide
- Read the full review at Mizuno ST-Max 230 Driver Review | Golfers Authority
- Read the full review at Mizuno ST-MAX 230 Driver — specs | 2nd Swing Golf
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Frequently asked questions
Who is the Mizuno ST-Max 230 best for?
You want the steadiest, easiest-launching head Mizuno makes, with a little help straightening a leak to the right.
Who should avoid the Mizuno ST-Max 230?
You swing fast and spin it too much, want to work the ball, or need adjustable weighting (try the ST-G).
What handicap is the Mizuno ST-Max 230 suitable for?
The Mizuno ST-Max 230 scores strongest for high-handicap golfers, and also suits mid-handicap golfers.
What is the Mizuno ST-Max 230 best at?
In our research the Mizuno ST-Max 230 rates highest for forgiveness and looks at address, and is softest on workability.
Does the Mizuno ST-Max 230 have a shot bias?
The Mizuno ST-Max 230 is broadly neutral in shot shape (no built-in draw or fade bias), with a high launch and mid spin.