Mizuno ST-Max 230 Review

ST-Max 230 is the forgiveness and correction model of the line, and it differs from the ST-Z in footprint as much as in weighting. The head is larger and deeper front to back with a carbon crown freeing mass for the sole, and that mass is biased toward the heel, producing a flight that turns over rather than the strictly neutral launch the ST-Z aims for. Launch is high and spin sits above the ST-Z, which suits the moderate swing speeds the model targets.

The face is forged beta titanium with a variable thickness pattern and a Cortech chamber behind the lower portion to support flex low on the face. Impact sound is firm and slightly muted. Fitting is a four-setting hosel plus a rear weight port, with stock lofts of 9.5, 10.5 and 12 degrees covering most of the intended fits. The letters are a provisional placeholder: nothing gets a real grade until it has been hit on a range and measured rather than read about.