Loading article...
Loading article...
see also: Equipment Reviews

We take a look at the golf ball that Hideki Matsuyama used to win 5 times worldwide in 2016, plus a lower compression option called Q-STAR
"I trust the total performance of the Z- STAR XV," says Matsuyama. "I have excellent distance and spin control on my iron and wedge shots, but what I like most about this new Z- STAR XV is its pleasant sound and feel on all shots – especially the superb feedback on putts and chips."
We spoke to short game guru Dave Pelz, and what really gets him excited is the Spin Skin outer cover. He talked about today's fast greens, that make it more important than ever to get some "grab" on the ball from close-in distances.
Here is a look at the new models, plus a peek into the Q-STAR Tour, a low compression ball with Tour performance.
Z-STAR
The new Z-STAR is longer off the tee and
softer than ever before for improved greenside spin
performance, perfect for skilled players that demand
ultimate control from a tour-level golf ball. Featuring
a refined, slightly softer Energetic Gradient Growth
core, the Z-STAR generates remarkable ball speed
on full shots for exceptional distance. A new 338
Speed Dimple pattern enhances performance in the
wind with a better combination of dimple occupancy
and uniformity, which lowers drag for more
aerodynamic flight and enhanced distance. The new
third-generation Spin Skin® coating helps create
even more friction by further decreasing the amount
of urethane bonding points, imparting better spin
control without sacrificing full-shot performance.
Z-STAR XV
The new Z-STAR XV, like the Z-STAR, is
designed for skilled players that demand maximum
performance from a tour-level golf ball. Also like the
Z-STAR, it features the new 338 Speed Dimple
pattern for less drag and enhanced distance
performance, and the third-generation Spin Skin®
coating for even more friction and greenside spin
control. The most significant difference with the Z-
STAR XV is its Dual Energetic Gradient Growth core,
providing the advanced four-piece construction that
makes it perfect for golfers that demand more
distance in the tour performance golf ball category.
The inner core is larger and softer than the previous
model, and the outer core has a more consistent
hardness to help increase ball speed for improved
distance, especially for players with high swing
speed.
Q-STAR TOUR
More golfers are purchasing lower
compression golf balls to enjoy better feel and
performance on the golf course. With the Q-STAR
Tour, Srixon has a premium, 3-piece urethane cover
ball with a lower compression, designed especially
for skilled golfers that don’t have tour-level
swing speeds but demand tour level performance
and feel from their golf ball. The Energetic Gradient
Growth core promotes seamless energy transfer for
incredible ball speed on full shots and more
consistent launch and spin. The Speed Dimple
pattern lowers drag for better performance in the
wind, and the Spin Skin® coating adds flexibility to
improve friction at impact for better greenside spin
control. This product is a new category entry for
Srixon and figures to be a phenomenal fit for many
players.

FINAL RESULTS: 2026 Junior Invitational at Sage Valley
Mar 14, 2026Miles Russell surged with a closing 67 to reclaim the boys title while Asterisk Talley dominated the girls division at Sage Valley
Meet the Amateurs in the 2026 Masters: Six Different Paths to Augusta National
Mar 22, 2026From teenage phenoms to seasoned dreamers, the amateur class at the 2026 Masters brings six compelling stories to Augusta
Mark Your Calendars: Key USGA Entry Dates for 2026
Mar 12, 2026For players mapping out a competitive schedule, knowing exactly when USGA entries open and close is critical
San Francisco City Championship: Champions Crowned
Mar 22, 2026Joey Hayden, Gianna Singh, Bob Niger, and Jeff Thomas capped championship week with title-winning performances at Harding Park.
Gary Woodland Wins Houston Open in Emotional Comeback After Brain Surgery
Mar 30, 2026Gary Woodland’s Houston Open win is a reminder of why perseverance matters in golfLoading latest news...