The latest Mizuno metalwoods have been announced, featuring a new energy source – the CORTECH Chamber.
After multiple developments for stability, sound and spin, Mizuno has identified the missing piece to its ball speed equation – the CORTECH Chamber – which encases a stainless-steel weight with elastomeric TPU, taking stress from the clubface and creating an additional source of energy. At the same time, it locates weight closer to the clubface to reduce spin rates, while contributing to a more solid, powerful sensation at impact.
“Our player testing over the years shows that placing extra weight close to the face results in faster ball speeds and low spin rates,” said David Llewellyn, director of R&D for Mizuno. “We’ve been steadily working towards the CORTECH Chamber, which is incredibly effective at that job. Encasing the steel weight within the TPU Chamber means that we’re moving weight close to the face at the same time as creating an additional source of energy. Steel is twice the density of Titanium but won’t weld directly, which is where the TPU has a second role.”
Since 2020 all of Mizuno’s contracted professionals have played and aided in the development of the driver. Maintaining a consistent look at address, while incrementally elevating performance has built trust in Mizuno drivers among elite players – from college to the PGA Tour.
The CORTECH Chamber features in three new ST-230 drivers (RRP £499), the ST-Z fairway (RRP £299) and new hybrids (RRP £279).
The first of the drivers, ST-Z 230, is designed for a neutral bias with great stability on off centre hits. The Forged SAT 2041 Beta Ti face is boosted by the CORTECH Chamber to be faster, spin less and deliver a solid sensation at impact. The carbon sole plate is now a single piece to allow weight to be pushed to the extremes for overall stability. It also offers a modern players’ profile and Quick Switch hosel with four-degrees of adjustability.
The ST-X 230 driver has a more rounded, deeper profile with weight located closer to the hosel, meaning it is slightly higher spinning and draw-biased for the majority. It is also more workable for many elite players – especially in the lower lofts.
Finally, the ST-X PLTNM 230 is a high launching, super lightweight draw-biased driver – ideal for slower and moderate swing speeds. The ST-X PLTNM is 30g lighter overall than any custom option of the ST-X 230, and comes with a Helium Platinum Shaft and lightweight grip.
Meanwhile, the ST-Z 230 fairway wood is a mid-low spinning, high launching, adjustable addition to any player’s bag. Developed with Mizuno’s tour advisors, it is mid-sized and playable for all levels. Utilising a high energy MAS1C steel face boosted by the CORTECH Chamber, it delivers high ball speeds and a powerful, solid sensation at impact. The carbon composite crown allows for a low centre of gravity and stability while the expanded front to back weighting delivers consistent launch characteristics.
The ST-Z 230 hybrid is also a mid-low spinning, high launching and adjustable option for all players which utilises the same MAS1C steel face boosted by the CORTECH Chamber. It has a slightly larger, more playable footprint than its predecessor – the CLK – with a waffle crown and thick sole weight engineered to create a low sweet spot and deep centre of gravity for high launch and efficient spin rates.
