One of the most underrated golf balls around just got a major glow-up

Srixon has dropped a complete rework to its Q-Star line, and it could be one of the best value propositions in golf.

Courtesy Srixon
Courtesy Srixon

Srixon boasts a reputation as a maker of the best beginner golf balls around, with iconic entry-level models like the Soft Feel and the Srixon Distance a universal fixture of pro shops around the world.

The Q-Star model, which exists one step above the Japanese brand's most affordable models, is also an underrated name in this space, evolving over the years from the original two-piece Q-Star into the three-piece Q-Star Tour model released back in 2017

In this time it has become synonymous with affordable performance, delivering elevated greenside spin, straight ball flight and distance for the widest range of players, without breaking the bank. Meanwhile, the renamed Q-Star Ultispeed became the brand's go-to for soft feel and straight distance in a more affordable 3-piece package.

Now, the entire Q-Star range has undergone a rework for the 2026 season, delivering an even more balanced package offering a choice of affordable performance or reliable feel and speed at an accessible price point.

The Q-Star Tour hasn't changed a whole lot since its introduction in 2017. Relying on the same combination of features it always has albeit with a few minor updates, its MO remains the same as it was eight years ago: soft but not too soft feel, distance for a wider range of players, and great spin thanks to its Urethane cover and SpinSkin coating. 

The outer layer of the Q-Star Tour has had an upgrade for this year, with a Biomass plus Spin Skin+ coating derived from the Z-Star models for even better check on the greens.

Courtesy Srixon
Courtesy Srixon

The foundation of the Q-Star Tour is the FastLayer Core. With its gradual transition from soft inner core to firm outer edge, FastLayer behaves like a core with thousands of layers, delivering distance and soft feel without compromise. The 2026 version has been softened somewhat for an even softer, more luxurious feel at impact without sacrificing speed. 

The choice of DIVIDE colourways also returns for this year, providing a striking high-contrast option for players who enjoy playing coloured balls and want the added benefit of extra alignment and spin feedback.

The Q-Star Ultispeed is new addition to the Srixon ball line-up this year, with a 3-piece construction made a little more affordable with the use of an ionomer cover rather than urethane. It's also firmer to the tune of around 10 compression points (although still fairly soft), delivering more speed and a higher ball flight with less spin. 

The lack of the Urethane cover does mean you'll get slightly less spin around the greens, but it more than makes up for it if distance is at the top of your list of needs.

Courtesy Srixon
Courtesy Srixon

The Ultispeed also marks the debut of a brand new alignment system unseen in Srixon's range before. Named Trackline, the distinct red and black gradient pattern features a two-stamp layout specifically designed to help players line up putts more confidently and gain more visual spin feedback. It'll be interesting to see whether or not we see track line make its way onto other models in the years to come.

For now, however, the new Srixon Q-Star Tour will hit shelves soon at a price of £36.99/dozen, while the Q-Star Ultispeed will come in priced at £29.99/dozen.

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