Mizuno ST-Z

The deep-and-low CG profile prioritises off-centre ball-speed retention. Carbon composite crown and reengineered Wave sole design lowers the CG for better spin and improved MOI performance. Independent reviewers noted the ball rarely falling off line despite hitting off the toe. Above-average forgiveness for a 2021 tour-aspirational fairway — the model genuinely combines low-spin character with stability.

Independent testing measured a ball speed of 141.3 mph at a 93mph swing speed with a 223-yard average carry — premium ball speed for a 2021 fairway. Independent fitter ranking picked the ST-Z as the fairway wood with the quickest ball speed in their 3-wood test for 2021. The 3rd-generation maraging steel face is stronger than ever allowing a thinner profile and the hottest face ever on a Mizuno fairway wood. Low/mid-spin, high-launch design pairs with the hot face for top-tier 2021 distance performance.

Reviewer testing flagged technology hidden within a throwback shape that appeals to golfers who want a traditional-looking fairway they can use for a variety of shots. Centered, deep CG (true to the Z axis naming) — neutral trajectory rather than imposing a draw or fade bias. Adjustable hosel with 4° loft range and face-angle / lie tuning lets skilled players dial in trajectory and bias. Low-spin design holds shape against the wind versus higher-spin fairways. Above-average workability for a high-MOI fairway — neutral CG plus shape-on-demand intent.

Reviewer testing: the fairway feels both firm and fast off the face, felt powerful and fast with a real solid sound and feel to the strike. The reengineered Wave sole technology and multi-thickness pads behind the hitting area both improving sound and feel versus the predecessor. The manufacturer cites the line as one of the biggest 2021 improvements over the prior generation. Above-average mid-tier feel — solid and powerful tactile signature.

Reviewer testing offers mixed acoustic feedback: on centre, this club produces a mid-low pitched pop without any metallic notes; leave the centre of the face, and the sound quickly turns to a dull thud. Another reviewer flagged the sound as a little bit more metallic with a responsive, high-pitched noise. Vibration-research engineering targets a more muted, powerful tone, but real-world acoustic varies by face contact location. Solid acoustic on centre strikes; off-centre acoustic less polished. Above-average overall — better on centre than off.

The head has a throwback shape that appeals to golfers who want a traditional-looking fairway. Independent reviewers describe a flat black carbon crown with minimal graphic designs and a curved, rounded profile that gives it a throwback look. The classic-shape address profile pairs with the brand's player-style irons — confidence-inspiring without screaming game-improvement. Above-average looks — the carbon-crown / classic-shape combination is rare at this price point in 2021.