Driver · 2023
Mizuno ST-Z 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 29 May 2026
Performance index
Six researched ratings, lower (blue) through to elite (gold).
Where it wins
- Feel87
- Looks87
- Sound85
Watch
Rated highest for feel and looks; its softest dimension is workability.
You want the straightest, most stable driver of 2023 with low, robust spin and a premium titanium feel - and you value forgiveness over chasing the longest possible distance.
You need a draw bias to fight a slice (the ST-X 230) or want class-leading distance and workability - this is a straight, forgiveness-first head.
Pros
- The straightest driver of 2023 - a high-MOI, neutral head with weight pushed to the extremes for stability
- Low, robust spin that never spikes on thin or heel strikes, helped by the forward CORTECH steel weight
- A powerful, lively, titanium-style feel that fans of non-carbon faces will love, plus a great, low-pitched sound
- One of the most sleek, premium-looking drivers of the year
Cons
- Finished below average for distance and accuracy in a stacked 2023 field - forgiveness was its lone bright spot
- Neutral and straight by design, with no movable-weight adjustability
By dimension
Forgiveness
StrongThe strength of the head - forgiveness is its lone bright spot, a high-MOI design with weight pushed to the extremes for stability and evenly spread mass encouraging a highly stable, straight ball flight. Among the steadier neutral heads of 2023.
Distance
StrongThe relative weak point - distance was below average in relation to the overall driver field in the 2023 test, though it produces solid ball speed across the face, with the CORTECH Chamber adding about half a mph (Mizuno claims 2-5 mph for tour staff). Good, but not a standout in a stacked field.
Workability
ModestNeutral and straight by design - the straightest driver of 2023, built for straight, low-spin drives rather than shaping. A fairway-finder, not a shot-shaper.
Feel
ExcellentA real strength - a very powerful, lively sensation that fans of titanium-faced drivers (over more carbon-heavy designs like the Paradym or Stealth 2) will love, with a premium impact. One of the best-feeling drivers of its year.
Sound
ExcellentPleasant and controlled - it sounds great as it isn't high-pitched in strike, a refined acoustic. A lower-pitched, premium note that complements the feel.
Looks at address
ExcellentA class leader - one of the most sleek, premium-looking drivers of the year, with a rich glossy-black finish, a well-placed carbon crown region and blue CORTECH accents on the sole. Among the best-looking heads of 2023.
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-Z 230 Golf Driver Review - MyGolfSpy
- Read the full review at Mizuno ST-Z 230 Driver Review - Plugged In Golf
- Read the full review at Mizuno ST-Z 230 Driver Review - Golf Monthly
- Read the full review at Mizuno ST-Z 230 Driver Review - Independent Golf Reviews
- Read the full review at Mizuno ST-Z 230 Driver Review - Straight & Stable - Golfstead
- Read the full review at Mizuno ST-Z 230 Driver Review - Golfalot
We paraphrase and synthesise these sources; we don't republish them. Publishers can read how we use reviews or request a change.
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Frequently asked questions
Who is the Mizuno ST-Z 230 best for?
You want the straightest, most stable driver of 2023 with low, robust spin and a premium titanium feel - and you value forgiveness over chasing the longest possible distance.
Who should avoid the Mizuno ST-Z 230?
You need a draw bias to fight a slice (the ST-X 230) or want class-leading distance and workability - this is a straight, forgiveness-first head.
What handicap is the Mizuno ST-Z 230 suitable for?
The Mizuno ST-Z 230 scores strongest for high-handicap golfers, and also suits mid-handicap golfers.
What is the Mizuno ST-Z 230 best at?
In our research the Mizuno ST-Z 230 rates highest for forgiveness and feel, and is softest on workability.
Does the Mizuno ST-Z 230 have a shot bias?
The Mizuno ST-Z 230 is broadly neutral in shot shape (no built-in draw or fade bias), with a mid launch and low spin.