Hybrid · 2021
Mizuno ST-Z Hybrid
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 24 May 2026
Performance index
Six researched ratings, lower (blue) through to elite (gold).
Where it wins
- Feel80
- Sound80
- Looks80
Watch
Rated highest for feel and sound; its softest dimension is forgiveness.
You're a 0-18 HCP at 85-115mph low-to-mid handicapper who wants a traditional, neutral, player-leaning Mizuno hybrid with strong feel/sound — and a depreciated 2021 model offers a value entry into the ST-Z line.
You need maximum GI forgiveness, you want CORTECH Chamber tech (use ST-Z 230 or ST-Max 230 instead), or you want a draw bias (use ST-X 2021 instead).
Pros
- MAS1C steel face + Wave Sole — first-generation ST-Z hybrid tech with strong centre-strike ball speeds
- Neutral CG (vs draw-biased ST-X 2021 sibling) — no engineered bias to override, supports shape control
- Harmonic Impact Technology — solid, exceedingly clear impact feedback in Mizuno premium-hybrid tradition
- Slightly smaller pear-shape footprint — traditionalist appeal at address
Cons
- Limited 2021-specific editorial coverage — most reviewer attention focused on the ST-X 2021 sibling and the later ST-Z 230 (2023) refresh
- Predates CORTECH Chamber added to 2023 ST-Z 230 — distance and forgiveness trail the successor
- Player-leaning forgiveness tilts toward slightly better players — not max-MOI GI
- First-generation ST-Z hybrid — superseded by ST-Z 230 (2023) and ST-Max 230 (2024)
By dimension
Forgiveness
SolidForgiveness tilts toward slightly better players. MAS1C steel face + Wave Sole carried from the 2021 ST-Z generation. Limited 2021-specific editorial coverage — most reviews focus on the 2023 ST-Z 230 refresh. Average forgiveness — player-leaning ST-Z profile shared with the 2023 successor; first-generation tech without later CORTECH Chamber enhancement.
Distance
SolidHigh-energy MAS1C steel face delivers exceptional ball speeds. The 2023 ST-Z 230 launch monitor recorded 144mph ball speed in the same design lineage. The 2021 generation predates the CORTECH Chamber refinement, so distance trails the 2023 ST-Z 230. Average distance — strong centre-strike ball speeds for 2021 but no class-leading distance numbers.
Workability
SolidNeutral CG with small hint of pear shape. ST-Z is the neutral variant in the ST-Z / ST-X 2021 pairing, contrasting with the ST-X 2021's explicit draw bias. Above-average workability — neutral CG + smaller traditional pear-shape head support modest shape control, distinguishing it from the slice-correcting ST-X sibling.
Feel
StrongFeedback isn't stinging but exceedingly clear. Harmonic Impact Technology from the 2021 ST line carried into both the ST-Z and ST-X hybrids. Above-average feel — Harmonic Impact-engineered solid impact, consistent with the Mizuno premium-hybrid tradition; predates CORTECH TPU damping enhancement of 2023.
Sound
StrongLow-pitched, metallic snap with volume below average, making this club more appealing to traditionalists. Harmonic Impact Technology established in the 2021 ST line for the sound profile. Above-average sound — low-pitched metallic snap with below-average volume; traditionalist-friendly acoustic carried through the entire ST-Z line.
Looks at address
StrongSlightly smaller than average footprint with a hint of a pear shape, which will appeal to the eye of the traditionalist. Mizuno premium black aesthetic with waffle crown. Above-average address — traditional pear-shaped profile + clean Mizuno aesthetic appeals to better players, established design DNA in the ST-Z line.
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 Hybrid Review - Plugged In Golf
- Read the full review at Mizuno ST-X 220 Fairway Woods and Hybrids - MyGolfSpy
We paraphrase and synthesise these sources; we don't republish them. Publishers can read how we use reviews or request a change.
More Hybrid ratings
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Mizuno ST-Z Hybrid best for?
You're a 0-18 HCP at 85-115mph low-to-mid handicapper who wants a traditional, neutral, player-leaning Mizuno hybrid with strong feel/sound — and a depreciated 2021 model offers a value entry into the ST-Z line.
Who should avoid the Mizuno ST-Z Hybrid?
You need maximum GI forgiveness, you want CORTECH Chamber tech (use ST-Z 230 or ST-Max 230 instead), or you want a draw bias (use ST-X 2021 instead).
What handicap is the Mizuno ST-Z Hybrid suitable for?
The Mizuno ST-Z Hybrid suits a broad range of abilities, from high-handicap beginners through to scratch and tour players.
What is the Mizuno ST-Z Hybrid best at?
In our research the Mizuno ST-Z Hybrid rates highest for feel and sound, and is softest on forgiveness.
Does the Mizuno ST-Z Hybrid have a shot bias?
The Mizuno ST-Z Hybrid is broadly neutral in shot shape (no built-in draw or fade bias), with a mid launch and mid spin.