Srixon ZXi Irons Bring a New Level of Feel, Forgiveness and Performance

Srixon is taking another step forward in its pursuit of better-feeling irons with the launch of its second-generation ZXi lineup.

The new ZXi family builds on the performance of the original ZXi irons while introducing new forging technology, AI-assisted design and Tour-inspired shaping. The result is a lineup designed to deliver a combination of feel, speed, forgiveness, stability and consistency for a wide range of golfers.

The family includes four models: the ZXi7 Players Iron, ZXi5 Players Performance Iron, new ZXi5+ Players Distance Iron and ZXiU Utility Iron.

A New Approach to Forged Performance

At the heart of the new ZXi irons is i-FORGED, Srixon's latest advancement in iron manufacturing.

The process combines the company's Condensed Forging technology with carefully controlled heat-softening techniques. The goal is to strengthen areas of the clubhead that experience the most stress while maintaining softer material properties elsewhere in the head.

Srixon has also strengthened the material surrounding each groove while maintaining the core hardness of the face. According to the company, that should improve the durability and longevity of the face while preserving the soft feel golfers expect from a forged Srixon iron.

And there's another important detail: every second-generation ZXi iron is forged by Endo Manufacturing in Japan, one of the industry's most respected forging facilities.

That combination of premium materials, advanced manufacturing and tight quality control is designed to provide consistent performance from one clubhead to the next.

AI Gets Involved

Srixon is also leaning heavily on artificial intelligence to improve the performance of its irons.

The ZXi5, ZXi5+ and ZXiU feature MainFrame iQ, an AI-assisted design system that uses thousands of simulated impact scenarios to optimize the face structure.

By reducing face mass by as much as 8% and repositioning weight throughout the clubhead, Srixon says its engineers were able to increase ball speed, forgiveness and MOI while producing more consistent performance across the face.

For better players, the flagship ZXi7 gets its own technology called PureFrame iQ.

The system builds on Srixon's existing PureFrame technology by using AI-assisted simulations to optimize the forged ridge located behind the sweet spot. The redesigned structure is intended to stiffen the impact area, reduce unwanted face deformation and improve stability while maintaining the soft, responsive feedback accomplished players are looking for.

Weight distribution also changes throughout the ZXi7 set. Long irons receive additional perimeter weighting to provide more forgiveness, while the short irons concentrate mass closer to the center for greater control and shot-shaping capability.

Refined With Tour Input

Srixon's Tour staff also played a major role in shaping the new irons.

The second-generation ZXi models feature slightly thinner toplines and cleaner transitions throughout the set, giving the clubs a more compact appearance at address.

Blade lengths, sole geometries and offset progressions have been carefully adjusted according to the intended performance of each model.

The lineup also continues to use Srixon's Tour V.T. Sole, which combines different sole widths, bounce angles and notching to improve turf interaction.

The idea is simple: help golfers maintain speed through impact while producing cleaner and more consistent contact from a variety of lies and playing conditions.

Choosing the Right ZXi Iron

Srixon has created the ZXi family to cover a fairly broad range of golfers.

ZXi7 Players Iron: Built for better players who prioritize control and workability, the ZXi7 combines premium S15C steel and tungsten with a Tour-inspired shape and Srixon's PureFrame iQ technology.

ZXi5 Players Performance Iron: The ZXi5 is designed to provide the look and feel of a players iron while adding more speed, forgiveness and consistency.

ZXiU Utility Iron: Designed as an alternative to traditional long irons, the ZXiU offers higher launch, forgiveness and versatility.

And then there's the newest member of the family.

Meet the New ZXi5+

The ZXi5+ Players Distance Iron is the most notable addition to the lineup.

Srixon has designed the ZXi5+ for golfers who want more distance and forgiveness without giving up the compact appearance of a players iron.

The ZXi5+ features stronger lofts, longer blade lengths and wider soles. It's also a fully forged hollow-body design, giving golfers a players-style package with additional distance and forgiveness.

The new model essentially fills the space between a traditional players performance iron and a more conventional game-improvement iron.

For golfers who like the appearance of a compact iron but aren't necessarily interested in sacrificing forgiveness or distance, the ZXi5+ could be an intriguing option.

Build Your Own Combo Set

One of the biggest advantages of the ZXi family is that golfers don't necessarily have to commit to one model throughout the entire set.

Srixon has designed the four models with similar shaping and progressive weighting, allowing them to be blended into combo sets.

For example, a golfer could use the more forgiving ZXi5 or ZXi5+ in the longer irons before transitioning into the more compact ZXi7 in the scoring clubs.

Srixon is also expanding its personalization options. Golfers can choose from different paintfill colors, ferrules and grip configurations, along with extensive loft, lie and shaft options.

Complimentary personalization is available during the ZXi presale period from September 8 through October 15.

Pricing and Availability

The new ZXi irons are scheduled to launch on October 16, 2026.

Pricing is as follows:

ZXi7 (7-piece steel): $1,499.99

ZXi5 (7-piece steel): $1,499.99

ZXi5 (7-piece graphite): $1,599.99

ZXi5+ (7-piece steel): $1,499.99

ZXi5+ (7-piece graphite): $1,599.99

ZXiU Utility Iron: $259.99

ZXiR/ZXiR HL (7-piece steel): $1,099.99

ZXiR/ZXiR HL (7-piece graphite): $1,199.99

With four distinct models, new forging technology, AI-assisted face design and the ability to create combo sets, Srixon is positioning the second-generation ZXi family as one of its most comprehensive forged iron lineups yet.

Why Should You Try These Irons

If you're looking for an iron that combines premium forged feel with modern speed and forgiveness, the Srixon ZXi family is worth putting on your demo list. The lineup gives golfers plenty of options, from the precision-oriented ZXi7 to the distance-focused new ZXi5+ and versatile ZXiU. The ability to blend models into a combo set is another major advantage, allowing you to get more forgiveness where you need it and more control where you want it. And with Srixon's new i-FORGED construction and AI-assisted MainFrame iQ and PureFrame iQ technologies, the ZXi irons offer an appealing mix of traditional forged feel and modern performance.

Historic Donald Ross-Designed Golf Course at Fort Bragg Set to Close

A historic Donald Ross-designed golf course at one of the nation’s largest military installations is set to close at the end of September, ending nearly 80 years of golf at the facility.

Stryker Golf Course at Fort Bragg in North Carolina has been a recreational destination for military personnel and their families since opening in 1946. But declining play and the rising cost of maintaining the 18-hole course have led officials to determine that it is no longer financially sustainable.

According to ABC affiliate WTVD, Stryker Golf Course will close at the end of the month.

The course is located outside Fort Bragg’s gates at the end of Bragg Boulevard, across from the Fort Bragg Fairgrounds.

Jennifer Hodges, director of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR), which oversees Fort Bragg’s two golf courses, said the decision to close Stryker was difficult but ultimately came down to finances.

“What it comes down to is the financial sustainability. Unfortunately, we’re not able to financially sustain two courses,” Hodges told WTVD.

Stryker costs approximately $750,000 a year to maintain, while declining attendance has reduced revenue and made it increasingly difficult to justify keeping the course open.

Hodges said Fort Bragg officials explored ways to increase participation before deciding to close the facility.

“Before we repurpose or close any type of activity, we make sure we exhaust every avenue first — the marketing campaign to drive foot traffic,” she said.

Stryker is not the only recreational facility at Fort Bragg to face cuts in recent years. Several bowling alleys and other amenities have also closed as the installation works to balance recreational offerings with budget constraints.

The future of the Stryker property has been the subject of discussion for several years.

In 2024, Cumberland County commissioners voted against a proposal to move a high school to the Stryker site. Fort Bragg officials, however, continued exploring potential uses for the property.

At the time, Fort Bragg Garrison Commander Col. Chad Mixon said the installation was considering transforming the site into what could be called the Stryker Entertainment Complex.

“There’s going to be room for investment from Fort Bragg, but also we’re working with local civic leaders as well as the state and federal funding,” Mixon said.

The closure will leave Fort Bragg with one remaining golf course: Ryder Golf Course, located on Normandy Drive on the installation, approximately five miles from Stryker.

For golfers who have played Stryker over the decades, the closure represents the end of a course with a significant history — and the loss of another Donald Ross-designed layout.

Acclaimed Chef Sophie Michell Joins Apes Hill Barbados

Heralds a thrilling new chapter in culinary craftsmanship at the luxury golf resort residential community

(St. James, Barbados) – Apes Hill Barbados today announces it has partnered with celebrated chef and author Sophie Michell, whose world-class experience, talent, and creativity will help define the next chapter of dining at Apes Hill.

Trained in England, Michell has been a resident of the island for several years and is ideally aligned with Apes Hill philosophically.  The property’s commitment to wellbeing for its members and guests has always been inspired by the world around it – fresh air, pristine spaces, wholesome food and a lighter, more considered way of living. Michell shares that wisdom. Her cooking is rooted in seasonality, sustainability and a deep appreciation for ingredients grown and sourced close to home – an ethos she has brought to life in Barbados through Local & Co, the farm-to-table restaurant she co-founded after making the island home.

Said Michell: “I was aware of Apes Hill and its impressive grounding in sustainability and wellbeing since it opened nearly five years ago,” said Michell. “I jumped at the chance to join this exquisite place when the opportunity came to dovetail our shared culinary and lifestyle beliefs.”

Michell trained in some of London's most celebrated Michelin-starred kitchens, including La Gavroche, The Greenhouse and The Lanesborough, before becoming the UK's youngest female Executive Chef. She has since built an extensive career across restaurants and hospitality, appeared on television programs including Cook Yourself Thin, Iron Chef, Sunday Brunch and MasterChef, and authored eight cookbooks.

Now, she is bringing that experience, and her refreshingly uncomplicated approach to food, to Apes Hill. Working closely with the Apes Hill team, Sophie is reimagining the menus at the Noisy Cricket (fine dining) and 20th Hole (al fresco) around a simple, fresh farm-to-fork ethos.

Michell’s addition to Apes Hill includes overseeing the new menu. Here’s a taste of what's to come in October:

Enjoy a balanced mix of grab-and-go options for when heading out for a round of golf in the morning, or a casual meal after a relaxing morning poolside. Think Bacon Rolls with Bloody Mary Ketchup, Egg, Halloumi & Plantain English Muffin with Smoked Tomato Chutney or Local Fruit Salad Pots and Apes Hill Bee Pollen Granola Pots for something lighter. 

Throughout the day savor Back 9 Beef Sliders, St. Andrew's Black Belly sheep shepherd's pie with whipped yam, Breadfruit Gnocchi with pesto and slow-roasted tomatoes, Crispy Local Breadfruit Tacos, or a Cave Hole Cobb Salad.

There is plenty of tasting, refining and experimenting happening behind the scenes, but expect more of Apes Hill’s surroundings on the plate: produce grown onsite, ingredients sourced from Barbadian farmers and producers, thoughtful sustainable choices and foods that are vibrant, nourishing and full of flavor.

Michell joins a talented group of chefs at Apes Hill. Sous Chef Lana Murrell captured first place in the Senior Chef category at the 2026 Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) Taste of Barbados Competition, one of the island's premier culinary showcases and a key pathway toward selection for the island’s national culinary team. Her colleague, Aleyanna Garraway, placed third in the Junior Chef category.

For Apes Hill Barbados, welcoming Michell is a source of great expectations for the resort, its members and the wider Barbadian hospitality industry. “Barbados is a premier culinary destination, hence, having Sophie Michell’s renowned touch helping guide Apes Hill aligns perfectly with our desire to offer premier culinary experiences,” said Cheryl Franklin, Apes Hill, Head of Brand Development & International Marketing.

For more information, visit www.apeshill.com or call +1 246 538-0590.

Aimtech Unveils World’s First 3-in-1 OIS Radar Golf Rangefinder

Optical Image Stabilization + Millimeter-wave Radar + AI Caddy — 
all in one handheld device

(ONTARIO, Calif.) – Aimtech US Inc., a high-tech enterprise specializing in laser ranging R&D, manufacturing, and sales, today announced the global debut of its flagship product: the Aimtech 3-in-1 OIS Radar Golf Rangefinder.

Developed entirely through in-house R&D, the Aimtech device is the world’s first to integrate Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), Millimeter-wave Radar Detection, and an AI Smart Caddy into a single handheld unit. It goes far beyond distance measurement—delivering swing tracking and intelligent club recommendations that combine Tour-level precision with a personal coaching experience.

Precision Built on Cross-Industry Expertise

Aimtech’s capabilities extend well beyond golf. With a robust patent portfolio in laser ranging technology, the company manufactures phase-type rangefinders, pulsed ranging telescopes, LiDAR systems, and various sensors used across power utilities, security, forestry, surveying, construction, and outdoor sports. This deep, cross-industry expertise has now been distilled into a purpose-built golf device.

The Aimtech rangefinder features a built-in Anti-Shake motor that eliminates hand tremor and blur at up to 8x magnification. Its Millimeter-wave Radar locks onto the pin in just 0.3 seconds with vibration confirmation, delivering accuracy of ±0.3 yards over a maximum range of 1,100 yards. Slope Mode provides compensated yardage for elevation changes, ensuring confidence on any terrain.

AI Coaching: Real-Time Swing Data at Your Fingertips

The true breakthrough is the AI Training Mode. Placing the device on its integrated stand activates radar swing tracking, capturing real-time data on Club Speed, Ball Speed, and Smash Factor for every swing.

The Smart Caddy then analyzes this data alongside target distance to recommend the optimal club and swing speed. It’s like having a professional coach in your hand—no external sensors or expensive launch monitors required.

Aimtech has been named a GTAA Preferred Vendor by the Golf Tournament Association of America (GTAA).

 30%-50% of Profits Reinvested in R&D Annually

Aimtech reinvests 30% to 50% of its profits into research and development each year, driving continuous product and technology iteration. From forestry mapping to the golf course, that commitment to precision is now expanding into new frontiers.

Availability

Aimtech has commenced initial production of the 3-in-1 rangefinder, with the first units already off the production line. The device is now available for pre-order at a Super Early Bird price starting at $599, with shipments expected to begin early October 2026. Customers who pre-order will secure the best available pricing and priority delivery. All purchases are backed by a satisfaction guarantee.

For more information, visit aimtechus.com or follow @AimtechUS on Facebook. 

What Are the Worst Golf Courses in Each State (New Mexico)?

Cochiti Golf Club

New Mexico is known for spectacular golf.

From the high desert around Albuquerque and Santa Fe to the mountain scenery surrounding Ruidoso, the Land of Enchantment has plenty of courses that combine dramatic scenery with memorable golf.

But not every course is getting rave reviews.

We looked at golfer ratings and reviews on sites including GolfPass and TripAdvisor to find the New Mexico courses that are generating the most criticism. Rather than simply picking courses with the lowest possible rating, we gave more weight to courses with a meaningful number of reviews.

One important caveat: Golf-course conditions can change dramatically from season to season, and several of these courses have golfers reporting recent improvements. So consider this a snapshot of online golfer sentiment—not a permanent verdict.

Here are three of the lowest-rated New Mexico golf courses we found.

1. Cochiti Golf Club — Cochiti Lake

GolfPass rating: 1.7/5 from 29 reviews

Cochiti Golf Club may be the biggest surprise on this list.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the course has the pedigree and scenery to be one of New Mexico's premier golf experiences. But its GolfPass rating of just 1.7 is dramatically lower than you might expect from a course with that kind of reputation.

GolfPass lists Cochiti at just 1.7, compared with considerably higher ratings for many of the state's other public courses.

TripAdvisor tells a more complicated story. The course currently has a 4.0 rating from 57 reviews, but recent reviews include some harsh criticism of course conditions.

One June 2025 reviewer described the course as being in "catastrophic decline," particularly criticizing the greens, fairways and rough. Another reviewer in 2024 called the layout perhaps the best in New Mexico but complained about poor maintenance.

And there is evidence that conditions have improved. A TripAdvisor reviewer who played in April 2026 said the course was in great condition, with good staff and reasonable fees.

The takeaway: Cochiti's online reputation is complicated. The course has a spectacular layout and setting, but its GolfPass rating reflects a long history of complaints about conditioning.

2. Sonoma Ranch Golf Course — Las Cruces

Sonoma Ranch Golf Course

GolfPass rating: 3.3/5 from 253 reviews

Sonoma Ranch doesn't have the rock-bottom rating of Cochiti, but its GolfPass numbers are noteworthy because they come from a much larger sample.

The Las Cruces course has a 3.3 GolfPass rating from 253 reviews, with only 58.3% of reviewers recommending it. Its weakest category is conditions, which GolfPass rates at just 2.8.

That makes the course particularly interesting because golfers generally like its layout, friendliness and pace of play. The problem appears to be getting the golf course itself into consistently good condition.

Recent GolfPass reviews have included complaints about dead grass, muddy areas and deteriorating conditions, although some golfers have also reported noticeable improvement.

TripAdvisor is considerably more forgiving. Sonoma Ranch currently carries a 4.0 rating from 37 reviews.

Still, recent TripAdvisor reviews have echoed some of the GolfPass complaints. One July 2025 golfer criticized the condition of the tee boxes and the restrictions on where carts could travel. Another 2024 reviewer described the course as dry and in need of a serious reclamation effort.

The takeaway: Sonoma Ranch isn't universally disliked. In fact, golfers frequently praise the layout, scenery and staff. But course conditioning has dragged down its GolfPass score.

3. Towa Golf Resort — Santa Fe

Towa Golf Resort

GolfPass rating: 3.7/5 from 91 reviews

Towa Golf Resort is another course where the difference between the layout and the current playing conditions appears to be significant.

GolfPass lists the resort's three remaining nines—Boulder, Pinon and Valley—with a rating of approximately 3.7 from 91 reviews.

TripAdvisor currently gives Towa a much stronger overall rating than the worst courses in the state, but its recent reviews are strikingly negative.

A July 2025 reviewer called Towa the "Worst golf course in New Mexico," citing fairways and greens that were largely dirt and mud. Another 2025 reviewer described the course as "scorched earth golf," while a third called it possibly the worst-kept course he had ever played.

Perhaps most tellingly, one 2025 reviewer said the staff issued a full refund after the golfer saw the condition of the course.

But, again, there's another side to the story.

A May 2026 TripAdvisor review said Towa was getting better, noting new sod and ongoing efforts to improve the course. The reviewer still described some rough areas but said the layout and topography could make it a top-five course in New Mexico.

The takeaway: Towa may be a classic case of a golf course in transition. The scenery and architecture receive plenty of praise, while maintenance problems have produced some brutal reviews.

What About the Other Low-Rated Courses?

There are a few important honorable mentions.

Cree Meadows Golf Course in Ruidoso currently has just a 2.0 rating on TripAdvisor from six reviews, including one golfer who called it the worst course he had ever played and complained that most of the greens were virtually unplayable.

Isleta Eagle Golf Course is even lower, with a 1.0 TripAdvisor rating—but from just one review. That reviewer complained about dirt, worn tee boxes, wildlife waste and maintenance-related delays.

Those numbers are certainly worth noting, but the extremely small sample sizes make them less useful for ranking an entire state's golf courses.

That's why Cochiti, Sonoma Ranch and Towa make a more defensible three-course list when GolfPass and TripAdvisor are considered together.

The Bottom Line

New Mexico remains a terrific golf destination, and a low online rating doesn't necessarily mean you should permanently cross a course off your list.

In fact, the reviews suggest that course conditions are changing at several of these facilities. Cochiti has received positive recent reports after years of criticism, while Towa golfers have noticed improvement efforts. Sonoma Ranch also has golfers reporting that conditions are improving.

Still, if you're planning a New Mexico golf trip and want to maximize your chances of getting your money's worth, these are three courses where it's worth checking very recent reviews and current conditions before booking a tee time.

After all, there's a big difference between playing a course at its worst and catching it during its comeback.

The Piper at Legends Golf Resort Set to Open to the Public on Oct. 2

(MYRTLE BEACH, SC) – Legends Golf Resort today announced that The Piper, its highly-anticipated new par 3 course designed by Ken Baker, will officially open for play on October 2, 2026. The announcement comes during a milestone week of golf in Myrtle Beach as more than 3,000 players from around the world compete in the Myrtle Beach World Amateur, the world’s largest golf tournament.

The Piper, which was first announced in June, takes its name from the wandering musicians of Scottish folklore. With holes ranging from 54 to 120 yards, The Piper meanders across an intimate 12-acre footprint that emphasizes fun, connection and camaraderie. Play will flow in three-hole loops, past food and drink stops with lights and a music-driven social atmosphere unlike anything else currently offered along the Grand Strand.

“We’ve watched this course come to life hole by hole over the last year and it’s exactly the experience that we set out to create for our guests and for the local community,” said Larry Woodberry, director of operations for Legends Golf Resort. “As so many players explore golf in Myrtle Beach this week, we’re excited to invite this community to be among the first to play The Piper this fall.”

Construction on The Piper is nearing completion within the resort’s 30-acre practice facility, positioned near the resort’s lighted grass range, a 50,000-square-foot putting green and short game area. From Oct. 2 through the end of 2026, Legends Golf Resort will host limited play on the new course with rounds open to resort guests and public play. More details about booking tee times, opening day availability and evening programming for The Piper will be available in the coming weeks. Additional amenities and experiences for The Piper will be unveiled in advance of the 2027 golf season.

The opening of The Piper is the first step in a multi-phase strategy to expand the golf and entertainment experience at Legends Golf Resort.

For more information about Legends Golf Resort and The Piper, visit LegendsGolf.com. 

Revo Expands Performance Collection with Three New Styles Designed for Clarity, Comfort and Versatility

(NEW YORK, NY) — Revo, the performance eyewear brand known for its advanced polarized lens technology, is expanding its collection with three new styles: Crawler Pro, Prime, and Preston. Designed to deliver exceptional clarity, secure fit and all-day comfort, the new additions bring Revo’s performance-driven approach to a range of active and everyday pursuits.

Crawler Pro marks the performance evolution of Revo’s best-selling sport frame. The style features a refined rounded-rectangular silhouette, lightweight TR90 construction and an enhanced fit for comfortable wear during active pursuits. Thicker temples help reduce backlight and glare, supporting sharp, focused vision when conditions demand it.

Built with performance in mind, Prime features a secure click-in temple system, wraparound rubber temples and adjustable nose pads for a locked-in, customizable fit. Integrated brow bar ventilation helps promote airflow and comfort, making Prime well suited for extended wear on and off the course.

Preston offers a modern take on the wrap navigator, combining a performance-minded design with everyday versatility. Spring hinges provide flexibility and comfort, while lightweight Serilium lenses help deliver lasting wearability and exceptional optical clarity.

All three new styles feature Revo’s signature polarized lens technology, engineered to enhance contrast, reduce glare and deliver crisp vision across changing environments and lighting conditions.

The new Crawler Pro, Prime and Preston are now part of the Revo collection and can be found on Revo.com.

Why Give Them a Try

If you’re looking for eyewear that can keep up with an active lifestyle without sacrificing everyday style, Revo’s new Crawler Pro, Prime and Preston styles are worth a look. Each frame combines Revo’s proven polarized lens technology with thoughtful performance features designed to improve clarity, reduce glare and provide all-day comfort. Whether you’re spending hours on the golf course, heading outdoors or simply looking for a dependable pair of sunglasses for everyday wear, the three styles offer a compelling blend of performance, fit and versatility. The lightweight construction and secure, customizable fit are especially appealing for golfers who want sunglasses that stay comfortable and in place from the first tee through the final putt.