Tag: golf shoes

  • TRUE Linkswear – All Day Knit II

    TRUE Linkswear – All Day Knit II

    TRUE Linkswear has come a long way from their first generation golf shoes I tried in 2012. They have always been known for making supremely comfortable golf shoes, but back in 2012 the design of the shoes wasn’t as polished, and while the shoes were amazingly comfortable, they also looked a bit like clown shoes. With a low to the ground design to mimic walking barefoot to the gaping wide toe box, the shoes provided amazing comfort at the expense of some style.

    Compromising style for comfort isn’t a problem anymore with TRUE Linkswear. With over a decade of experience and 500,000+ happy customers to show for it, TRUE Linkswear has matured and their current lineup is a representation of that maturity, with a blend of classic styles and modern materials, TRUE Linkswear has a shoe for just about every golfer. The one thing all their shoes still have in common is comfort. A great example of that is their most popular model – The All Day Knit II.

    Simply put – The TRUE Linkswear All Day Knit II golf shoe is one of the most comfortable shoes (not just golf shoes) I’ve ever worn. It sits low to the ground and the breathable upper takes the shape of your foot and allows perspiration to escape, keeping your feet happy and dry on those hot summer days. There’s just enough cushioning for all day wear, and paired with a pair of thin no-show socks these are a walker’s best friend on the golf course – as long as it’s not too wet out, because the All Day Knit II isn’t waterproof. As long as you stay away from the puddles you should be fine. If they do get a little wet or dirty, no problem. Just toss them in the laundry. That’s right – The All Day Knit II are machine washable! The only real tradeoff these shoes make is in stability. While they offer some support, if you need lots of lateral stability in a golf shoe these won’t be a good choice, but in my experience stability and comfort in a golf shoe are often at odds with each other. For most golfers, these will be great everyday performers that you can wear right out of the house and to apres-golf activities alike. Heck, I even wear them to work sometimes.

    The All Day Knit II is available in 12 different colorways, and if you are like most people you’ll want 2 or 3 pairs in different colors to match outfits. MSPR is $145 direct on TRUE’s website and they run in sizes 7 to 15 and fit widths D to EE.

    All Day Knit II – Features

    • TRUEknit Fully Breathable One-Piece Upper (90% Polyester, 10% Spandex)
    • Full Sock Fit Flexible Opening for Slide-In Comfort
    • One-Piece TRUEknit Upper Flexibly Conforms to Most Foot Shapes (D-EE)
    • New Open Cell Footbed for Increased Breathability and Comfort on Warmer Days
    • NEW Wanderlux Midsole for Increased Comfort and Rebound
    • TOUR Tested & Approved Outsole Cushion & Tread
    • Extremely Lightweight – 9.1 oz. (Size 9 M)
    • Cross-Life Tread for Maximum Versatility
    • Transitional Drop (~6 mm)
    • Comfortably Fits up to EE Width
    • Machine Washable

  • 2021 Holiday Gift Guide – Apparel Ideas

    2021 Holiday Gift Guide – Apparel Ideas

    Galway Bay Rain Gear

    Galway Bay White Rain Jacket
    Galway Bay All-Weather Short Sleeve Jacket

    Golf is an outdoor sport and sometimes it rains, so why not be prepared with the best rain gear available? You never know when it’ll rain in Florida, but when it does you better be ready! Galway Bay’s awesome waterproof jacket is always in the trunk of my car or golf bag, ready to deploy at a moments notice. I prefer the sleeveless model, but they have something for everyone. Check them out on their website, or Amazon.

    DVRX Performance Pants

    Devereux is a men’s golf brand that brings a fresh take to the sometimes stale world of golf. The line aids a lifestyle that will allow for golf to be more inclusive, inviting and straight-up less boring. They design and deliver apparel that the world of golf not only wants, but needs, welcoming the next generation of golfers who are breaking stigmas and outdated standards. As one of the only direct-to-consumer golf apparel brands, they have the freedom to create apparel for the kind of golf we like, the kind where you untuck your shirt, wear your hat backwards and leave your belt at home, but utilizing the functional fabrics of golf clothing. 

    For more information, visit dvrxthreads.com

    TRUE linkswear + Foray X + Sport

    The walking-focused golf shoe brand headed up by Jason Moore and his brother / PGA TOUR player Ryan Moore debuted several new lines this year including its wildly popular TRUE Pebble and Dead Golfer collections. Rounding into the final stretch of 2021, these Pacific Northwest pioneers are bolstered by an $11.25 million investment from private equity firm KarpReilly.

    TRUE linkswear Foray Street
    TRUE Linkswear Foray Street

    Recently, TRUE debuted the limited-edition Queen of Clubs Foray X True Knit II ($175), its first collaboration with the women’s golf apparel brand Foray Golf. The shoes come wrapped in a Foray-designed carry bag perfect for travel or just storing the shoes at home. Foray has also added several unique finishes to the shoe, including a translucent sole under which sits the Queen of Clubs artwork.

    The Moore brothers are all about comfort and performance, and TRUE’s Sport Series was just unveiled in November to rave reviews. Engineered for the eternal pursuit of par and the grinders and early risers, as the TRUE crew likes to say, the Sport’s adaptive upper is both breathable and waterproof, a one-two punch any diehard golfer would relish. It’s offered in two models, OG ($165) and Lux ($175).

    TRUE is planning a Black Friday sale with killer “final sale” deals on older models, big-time savings on top-selling collections and free gift cards with certain levels of spending.

    Shop: www.truelinkswear.com.

    TravisMathew Apparel

    Coming off the heels of a successful Cloud Collection launch and just in time for the holiday season, performance and lifestyle brand TravisMathew, launched their His + Hers Cloud Collection which features their first ever women’s products. Perfect for cozy nights in or busy days running errands, the line consists of seven different items, including a hoodie, crewneck, and lounger pant for both men and women – along with a throw blanket in the same soft, micro-fleece fabric.

    Click here for more info and gift ideas!

    G-Tech Apparel – Heated Pouches

    I’ve always wondered what those sleeves were that NFL quarterbacks and coaches were using, and now everyone can get one to keep their hands warm in any situation. G-tech’s hand warmers have been used in the NFL, CFL, NBA, MLB, NCAA, PGA Tour, and LPGA Tour. A heated hand warmer is an invaluable piece of gear for those chilly days outdoors, especially for golf. It’s really difficult to play good golf with cold, stiff hands. G-tech keeps your hands toasty for better grip and feel. Their battery powered sleeves feature a patented technology that keeps your hands warm by heating a sort of gel bar in the center of the sleeve. I’ve tested it myself and it really works!

    For more info, check out G-tech’s website here, or buy on Amazon here!

    Puma Cloudspun WRMLBL Vest

    PUMA Golf- Cloudspun WRMLBL Vest
    PUMA Golf- Cloudspun WRMLBL Vest

    I love a nice vest, especially because it allows me to swing freely without restriction while still keeping me warm. Being a huge fan of Puma and their stylish and functional golf apparel, it was only fitting that I fall in love with their new Cloudspun WRMLBL Vest. The Cloudspun WRMLBL Vest elevates a course classic with soft Cloudspun fabric and a subtle, Dassler-inspired quilted pattern. With a woven internal label that reads “Stay Warm, Enjoy Golf” you will be reminded to keep smiling no matter how the course is playing.

    Radmor Golf Fall + Fall & Winter Collection

    Saving the planet one piece of golf apparel at a time is an ambitious resolution. But that’s just what Radmor Golf has set out to do. The Seattle-based golf apparel company is the only brand in the golf industry to eliminate the use of “virgin” polyester at the garment level – a harmful material used in the vast majority of “stretch” and “moisture wicking” fabrics.

    In doing so, Radmor Golf has reduced the amount of recycled ocean polyester and recycled nylon to just 10%, almost unheard of in the apparel business. Instead, founders Scott Morrison and Bob Conrad rely primarily on BCI organic and extra-long-staple Pima cotton, two of the softest, most durable cottons available.

    Radmor’s new fall and winter collection features a curated assortment of high-performance, refreshingly casual polo shirts, corduroy and knit pants and t-shirts in fall colors like sage and blue graphite. And as golfers battle the elements this winter, or just want to stay toasty, Radmor’s hoodies, sweatshirts are popular plays, and its weather-resistant Moscrip Jacket is perfect for rainy or blustery days.

    For Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Radmor is planning a “site-wide” sale with savings ranging from 30 to 50%.

    Shop: www.radmorgolf.com

  • Biion Builds a Better Golf Shoe

    Biion FootwearSince taking up golf in the early 1990’s, I’ve tried on a lot of different golf shoes. In fact, my golf shoe collection is getting a bit ridiculous with over two dozen pairs and counting. However, I have only three or four favorites that I wear consistently. The rest only come out once in a while, usually to match a particular outfit. You may not always play your best, but you can always look your best!

    Now that Canadian company Biion has bust onto the scene, my favorites list is very likely to grow. I first met the folks behind this company a few years ago at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, but their presence at the 2016 show really made waves, and they’ve been riding that wave all summer.

    Biion makes golf & lifestyle shoes from an elastomeric polymer material called Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA). This smooth, flexible rubbery material is perfect for shoes, because it flexes with your feet as you walk, provides ample cushioning and feels soft on your skin. EVA is commonly used as padding in all kinds of athletic gear like ski boots, hockey pads and bike saddles.

    Biion’s shoes have a honeycomb shaped cleat on the sole that provides solid traction on the golf course, but these shoes are just as happy pulling double duty being worn around town. They can be worn with or without socks,a s the soft EVA is gentle on your feet. With over 40 models to choose from, there’s surely a style or pattern you’ll love.

    I got a few pairs to try out, and the first thing I like about them is that I don’t have to wear socks. They fit perfectly and flex with my foot as I walk. The EVA material doesn’t breathe like a textile, but the holes in the shoe provide some ventilation for your feet. Obviously these shoes aren’t waterproof, but at the same time they’ll never get stinky and moldy like regular shoes can get. If you play golf early in the morning you’ll pick up plenty of dew and grass clippings, but I simply hose them off and wipe them dry.

    I’ve grown to love these shoes. I can throw them on in the morning without socks, play golf in them and wear them everywhere else. I’ve even worn them to the office for a change of pace. They’re easy to maintain and look great. While the price (around $100 USD) is a little steep in my opinion, I can see these shoes lasting longer than traditional shoes.

    If you want to make a statement on the golf course, country club, the marina or just around town, take a look at Biion and their cool, comfortable shoes. If you are anything like me, you’ll end up with a few pairs in your closet.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOLc67D7CJY

  • Ecco Tour Hybrid Wingtip Shoes

    ECCO Golf Collection - Men's Tour Hybrid Wingtip Lion_BurntOchreIt’s no secret among my friends and peers that I’m a big fan of Ecco shoes. After all, I have 6 pairs! They have just about everything one could want in a shoe. They are durable, fit well, comfortable and stylish. The one complaint I hear all the time is that they cost too much. Personally I don’t see this as a valid complaint because like any premium product in any category, if you want quality you’ll have to pay a bit more for it.

    Such is the case with Ecco’s newest golf shoe – the Tour Hybrid Wingtip. Retailing at about $190, you can certainly get a cheaper shoe, but I doubt you can find one so well constructed for the money. By combining the classic styling of a traditional wingtip dress shoe and the modern materials and traction of their popular TPU nubby outsole that Fred Couples made famous, they have created a great looking, functional golf shoe that you can wear all over. In fact, I probably wear my Hybrid Wingtips to work more often than on the golf course.

    While these shoes can be worn anywhere, make no mistake – this is a golf shoe first and foremost. The patented outsole configuration of approximately 100 molded traction bars and 800-plus traction angles provides plenty of grip. The TPU material is much more durable than rubber and is said to last the life of the shoe. The GORE-TEX liner makes them waterproof while still allowing your foot to breathe, and the fit is more precise than most other shoes on the market.

    ECCO Golf Collection - Men's Tour Hybrid WingtipEcco shoes seem to fit my foot perfectly, and the deep heel pocket keeps my foot securely in place. Everyone’s feet are different of course, and the Euro sizing makes them a little different for fitting. It goes without saying, but because many people order online these days I would recommend trying them on in store first to get the right sizing. Pair them with a nice pair of Kentwool socks and your feet will be happy.

    Spending $190 for the Ecco Tour Hybrid Wingtip is a bargain, and here’s why: Considering that a decent pair of business casual work shoes and a nice pair of golf shoes will cost well over $200 together, these can perform both duties for less moolah. Not only that, but the Eccos will probably outlast the other two pairs anyway!

    In summary – I love everything about this shoe. I can wear them right out of the house to work, then simply walk on the golf course in the afternoon with no discomfort at all. They provide plenty of traction and stability while keeping my feet dry, and they look fantastic. The Ecco Tour Hybrid Wingtip isn’t just my favorite golf shoe, they are my favorite shoes.

  • James Lepp – Big Break Greenbrier Finalist

    James Lepp Big Break James Lepp hails from Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada – a suburb of Vancouver. Success in golf is nothing new to James. A four time All-American at the University of Washington, he won the 2005 NCAA Individual Championship, the first Canadian male to win a national championship. In total James won seven times in college and twice on the Canadian Tour, but in 2010 he burned out and decided he needed a break from competitive golf. He turned his focus to bringing the golf world some youthful and stylish footwear options, and Kikkor Golf was born. Having met James Lepp a few years ago at the PGA Show in Orlando, it was a treat to follow his progress on the Golf Channel reality show The Big Break and we are proud to be ambassadors for the Kikkor brand. We sat down with James to talk a little bit about his experience.

    ITG: How long have you been playing golf, and how did you get your start?
    James: I’ve been playing since I was 4 years old, so 25 years! Yikes! I started by joining my dad on the course in the evenings.

    ITG: When did you know you wanted to be a professional golfer?
    James: Since I was 4 really. I always loved it growing up.

    ITG: Did your time on the Big Break differ from your expectations of the event? What did you expect and what surprised you about your time at the Greenbrier?
    James: I’m used to preparing for anything so nothing jumped out at me really. Perhaps what surprised me the most was how I remained nervous throughout each episode. I thought I would get into a rhythm, but every shot on every day was gut wrenching.

    ITG: What can you tell people about the Big Break experience that we may not know from watching it on TV?
    James: The Big Break is a massive production. There are over 100 Golf Channel staff at the site. They don’t mess around.

    James Lepp

    ITG: How has being on the Big Break changed your career?
    James: It’s still pretty fresh so I’m not sure how it’s changed yet. We’ll see next year I suppose.

    ITG: How did your shoe company, Kikkor Golf get started?
    James: I started Kikkor because there was an unmet need in the market. Golf shoes sucked a few years ago. There needed to be something that was cool and comfortable.

    ITG: Can you tell us something funny and/or interesting about James Lepp that most people don’t know?
    James: I got my head caught on a chain link fence while playing roller hockey a couple years ago. It ripped part of my scalp off, but I played the rest of the game with a t-shirt wrapped around my head.

    ITG: What advice can you give to young people who want to follow in your footsteps and become a professional golfer or businessman?
    James: Don’t do it because you’re expected to do it. Do it because you want it.

    ITG: Who or what has been the biggest influence in your career?
    James: My DNA really. I’ve always learned and done things in my own little way. Not to say that others haven’t influenced me, but the way I think is pretty unique.

    ITG: If you could play golf with anyone – past or present – who would be in your foursome? What course would you play?
    James: Augusta National. Play with Jack, Tiger, and Rory.

    ITG: If you could change any rule in golf, what rule would you change and why?
    James: Not being allowed to type down spike marks is pretty stupid. Did you know that metal spikes cause the least amount of ‘bumps’ on a putting green? It’s just the few nasty ones they create that causes all the trouble. If we could tap those down we’d have better greens overall. Plus you’d have a natural aerating system.

    James LeppITG: What’s the strength of your game? And where do you feel you need to improve?
    James: Strength is in my course management and being able to think my way around a course. The area that needs improvement is probably my driving.

    ITG: What’s on your iPod right now?
    James: I listen to sports talk radio (TEAM 1040). I don’t have time to even know what kind of music I like. Lame, I know.

    ITG: If golf didn’t exist, what would you be doing right now?
    James: Inventing golf! Ha. I’d probably be a soccer player.

    ITG: In ten years, James Lepp will be…
    James: 39 and a multiple winner on the PGA Tour.

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  • adidas Golf Introduces adidas STREET Footwear

    adidas STREET footwearGolf shoes are evolving. It used to be that all golf shoes either looked like the classic saddle or wingtip style, or they looked like tennis shoes with spikes. In the last few years, companies like Ecco have changed the way we think about golf shoes, making the “street style” popular with the help of brand ambassadors like Fred Couples. Another shoe company that is changing the game is Kikkor Golf. Their innovative line of skater inspired shoes is gaining much popularity with golfers, especially the younger crowd.

    These new style shoes are comfortable, make a statement and can mostly be worn right out of the house and on to the first tee. With the nubby, spikeless sole of these golf shoes, one seldom has to change his shoes in the parking lot or locker room any more. Of course, there are other options for those traditional spiked shoes to be worn off the course too, but I personally don’t wear traditional golf shoes much any more.

    This new youth movement in golf shoes has forced the big boys like Nike, Footjoy and adidas to jump into the market as well. TaylorMade adidas Golf has answered the call with their adidas Street footwear. The details of the new shoe are below, in the TMAG press release. We’ll be posting our review as soon as we can get our hands on a pair, so keep checking back or simply subscribe to our email updates for more.

     

    Justin Rose wearing adidas STREET footwearCARLSBAD, CA (September 21, 2011) – adidas Golf, the industry leader in footwear innovation, has introduced the spikeless adidas STREET footwear. adidas Golf Tour Staff professional Justin Rose debuted the new spikeless golf shoe en route to his wire-to-wire win at the BMW Championship last week.

    adidas STREET combines iconic adidas styling with full-grain leather for a rich look and feel. The upper is both lightweight and durable, while the soft, spikeless outsole provides traction, comfort and off-course versatility. The spikeless sole gave Rose superior traction throughout the week, including in wet conditions during the final round when a steady rain fell throughout the back nine.

    Rose switched to the adidas STREET last week after being given a prototype pair and was instantly hooked, as the innovative shoe has helped his footwork and allowed him to move freely with the extra flexion and torsion he needs. “I noticed an impressive improvement after wearing the adidas STREET shoe. The softer construction puts less stress on the body and I walk off the course feeling fresher,” said Rose.

    adidas STREET is designed to allow the foot more natural flexion and torsion while cushioning every step. The spikeless outsole delivers superior traction with 124 strategically placed traction lugs of varying size for a secure grip in all playing conditions, with textured synthetic toe-cap that’s super durable and improved abrasion-resistance.

    adidas Golf launched the Balance Nitro franchise in 2005 leading the Japan spikeless category.  Later adids Golf continued innovations with the Traxion Lite series in the US and now the release of the adidas STREET. The adidas STREET is poised to solidify that leadership position when it launches nationally on November 1, 2011.  “It’s exciting to see the adidas STREET succeed so soon on tour, but not a surprise, since we’ve been making the best spikeless golf footwear for more than five years,” said Kevin Ross, vice president of adidas Golf.

    adidas Street Soleadidas STREET carries a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $90 in five colorways – white/white/black, black/black/white, cognac brown/tour white/gum, white/FP royal/FP royal, and white/FP lime/FP lime – to be released on November 1, 2011.

    Connect with adidas Golf on Facebook | Twitter

    About Taylor Made Golf Company, Inc. dba TaylorMade-adidas Golf Company TaylorMade Golf has led the golf industry's technological revolution since the company was founded in 1979. TaylorMade metalwoods, irons and putters have been used to win hundreds of professional golf tournaments around the world. In 1998, TaylorMade became a wholly owned subsidiary of the adidas Group. adidas Golf creates high-performance, technology-infused golf apparel and footwear worn by hundreds of professional golfers around the world. Ashworth, which became a brand of the TaylorMade-adidas Golf Company in 2008, creates relaxed, lifestyle-oriented golf apparel synonymous with authenticity and quality. Learn more about TaylorMade-adidas Golf and its brands at (866) 530-TMAG (8624) or www.taylormadegolf.com, www.adidasgolf.com, www.ashworthgolf.com, and www.tmag.com.

    About the adidas Group About the adidas Group The adidas Group is one of the global leaders within the sporting goods industry offering a broad range of products across the three core brands adidas, Reebok and TaylorMade-adidas Golf. Headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany, the Group has more than 39,000 employees and generated sales of EUR 10.381 billion in 2009.

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  • Sneak Peak – 2012 Kikkor Tenny Golf Shoes

    2012 Tenny Khaki CrusaderOne of the hottest new golf shoes to hit the course this year was Kikkor Golf and their youthful, skate-inspired designs. Their most popular model is called the Tenny, and I’ve logged many miles on the golf course with mine. The Tenny unites street, skate, and lifestyle and puts it on a golf course in a sophisticated, yet bold way. It was the most popular style in 2011 and promises to turn heads into 2012 as well.

    The Specs:
    1 year waterproof action leather or water-resistant suede leather
    Kikkor’s Diacon Embedded Spike System™ (DESS™)
    Durable rubble cupsole
    Kikkor Komfort Foam™ Technology in tongue and collar
    EVA comfort insole

    For a sneak peak of the 2012 Tenny, take an exclusive look at the product video below! I can’t wait for these shoes to hit the market, and with our special promo code shown in the sidebar to the right, our readers can save 10% on every order from Kikkor.com. Happy viewing!

    2012 Choice: Tenny from Kikkor Choice on Vimeo.

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  • 5 Golf Companies You Have Not Heard Of

     

    Putter Lounge's Element 29 FinishThe golf industry is so huge that every year at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando Florida, the industry fills up most of the exhibition and meeting space in the Orange County Convention Center. That’s almost 14 million square feet of golf clubs, apparel, accessories, trinkets and gadgets. More than 1000 companies come to show off their stuff to over 40,000 golf industry professionals from 75 countries. It’s all quite overwhelming. Every year we do our best to see everything, and every year we fail miserably. So I thought I would take a little time to introduce you to a few companies that most casual golfers may not know about. (Click on the photos to zoom in)


     Putter Lounge – Based in Colorado, these folks perform small miracles with putters. Want to refinish an old Scotty Cameron or Bettinardi? They offer seven different options, from the classic black oxide to midnight oil and the super popular candy white finish. Their new “element 29” finish (See photo above) is also sure to turn heads. These guys will make an old putter look brand new, and even fit your flat stick with a new shaft and grip if you want. I sent my Bettinardi BB8 to them to have the candy white finish applied and the results were stunning. Check out the photos here. Prices hover around $100 for refinishing. Very reasonable! Check them out at www.putterlounge.com

    Kikkor Golf Tenny Clayburn ShoesKikkor Golf – Kikkor makes golf shoes that your dad wouldn’t wear. The casual, skater inspired styles are very popular with the younger generation of golfers and are designed to be an alternative to the standard golf shoes we all grew up with. They are very comfortable, supportive and reasonably priced. With many different styles and colors available, there is something for everyone. I love them because I can wear them out of the house and to the bar after golf! They just look like a pair of sneaks. Check out our full review here and use our special promo code “intothegrain” at checkout to save 10% for yourself!
    Energy Athletic IonX Shirt Energy Athletic – Ever spend $30 for a little rubber ionic bracelet? Oh yeah, I’m sure it really works… Seriously though, for those who tout the benefits of these bracelets, wouldn’t you like to enjoy the benefits of that ionic material all over your body, rather than just on your wrist? Energy Athletic Golf Apparel has the solution. The IonX Ionized Energy Fabric, exclusive to Energy Athletic Golf, delivers ionized energy to the entire upper body through a negatively charged electromagnetic field built into the molecular structure of the fabric. This is supposed to increase your energy, focus and performance. The shirts look good and cost about $70, which is a way better deal than a stupid looking rubber bracelet. www.wearenergy.com Piretti Cottonwood 2 PN in Midnight BlackPiretti Golf – Piretti makes putters. Lots of companies make putters, but the smaller guys seem to do a better job at it than the big companies. Piretti is no exception. Their flat sticks are made with more weight and less loft than most, and they use soft metals and CNC milling to get the specs perfect. At the 2011 PGA Merchandise Show I saw and rolled putts with dozens and dozens of putters, but the Piretti Cortino LN that I tried was the best. With the added weight and slightly less loft, the ball seems to roll off the face especially well on faster greens. Piretti’s prices are also excellent. Unlike some of the bigger guys who charge almost as much for so-called “limited edition” head covers, for just under $300 you'll get a custom built, ultra premium putter that will have your playing partners wishing they heard of them first. View the full line at www.pirettigolf.com Royal Collection JP104 Fairway WoodRoyal Collection – Remember Sonartec, the popular fairway woods that took the PGA Tour by storm and were endorsed by Nick Price? If not, you need to get out more! The parent company of the now defunct Sonartec is Royal Collection. Based in Japan, they have been the #1 fairway woods and hybrid on the Japan PGA Tours for 7 years in a row. Known for the familiar “driving cavity” feature, they produce the best feeling and performing fairway woods on the planet. Not sure how they do it, but if you want to find out they will now be available in the U.S. through select dealers. Save your pennies though, because the best fairways in the world don’t come cheap. Expect to pay over $300 per club. I think they are worth it. Check out the whole line of fantastic drivers, woods, irons and wedges at www.royalcollectionusa.com. You can thank me later.

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  • Kikkor Golf Shoes

    Kikkor Golf Eppik 2.0 Blue Swede on GreenLate in 2008, 25 year old James Lepp and some of his friends came up with the concept for a new type of golf shoe company called Kikkor Golf. The idea was to deliver a golf shoe for the younger crowd (or young at heart) that didn’t fit the mold of the typical adult golf shoe. Instead, Kikkor makes golf shoes in the skater mold with comfort and style in mind, without ignoring the important technical attributes such as grip, stability, waterproofing, and durability. The idea is a good one, because there was lots of buzz about the brand at the 2011 PGA Merchandise Show! So why does Kikkor make golf shoes that look more at home in a skate park or Pac Sun store? Well, according to the company Kikkor is here for four reasons. 1. It doesn’t matter what age you are, 10, 25, or 45, nobody truly wants to wear the same stuff as their dad. 2. The golf shoe industry consistently designs shoes that are targeted only for the older demographic, leaving younger players with very few options that match their personal style. 3. Do we really have to wear dress shoes on the golf course? 4. The need for really comfortable golf shoes.

    Kikkor Golf James Lepp with Eppik 2.0 Swede on wallBefore founding Kikkor, James Lepp enjoyed a great deal of success as a golfer. Playing at the University of Washington in 2005, he became the first Canadian male to ever win the NCAA Division 1 Championship. He also won the British Columbia Amateur four years in a row starting in 2002, and won the Canadian Tour’s Greater Vancouver Classic twice. Once as an amateur in 2003 and again as a professional in 2007. In other words, James has walked a lot of golf courses and knows that a comfortable pair of golf shoes is very important.

    Kikkor has several different models to choose from. While some models, like the Eppik 2.0 use replaceable Champ Q lok spikes, other models like the Tenny have permanent spikes that Kikkor calls their Diacon Embedded Spike System (DESS). The common theme across the entire line is comfort and style. You won’t find any typical saddle style golf shoes here, only more casual and fun styles. I got my hands on a pair of the men’s Tenny in white and I’ve been wearing them for several months. Not only am I impressed, but my fellow golfers are taking notice, because they are always asking me about my shoes and where to get them!

    Kikkor Tenny White ClassicThe biggest test for my new Kikkor shoes came a few weeks ago at a US Amateur Public Links qualifier. Most golf courses down here in Florida require one to use a golf cart, and the courses that allow walking see far fewer walkers during the brutally hot summer months. When I signed up for the qualifier in late May, I knew that the competitors were required to walk for 36 holes in the heat. With temperatures forecast in the low 90s, I was primarily concerned with having some comfortable shoes and staying hydrated.

    The Kikkor Tennys performed flawlessly. I was comfortable all day, the traction was good even in the morning dew, and their looks garnered plenty of attention from the other players and caddies. After numerous rounds, practice sessions and several miles of walking on the odometer, I noticed one small problem. The thin fabric covering on the top of the insole was peeling from the heel area. This is just a cosmetic thing, and it didn’t affect the performance or fit of the shoe. The DESS permanent spikes are supposed to last the life of the shoe, and while the heel area is starting to show signs of wear I have no reason to believe this claim isn’t true.

    Kikkor Retra Hot and ColdMy Kikkor Tenny shoes have become my main golf shoes, not only for their comfort and performance, but also because I am lazy and with these I don’t have to change shoes in the parking lot at the golf course. I simply wear them to and from the course without having to worry about walking into a bar after the round wearing golf shoes or sandals with a horrible golfer tan. You could always get a pair of Cleatskins to wear your golf shoes in public, but just wearing my Kikkors is my choice.

    Most of the models offered come with a 1-year limited waterproof guarantee and an extra pair of laces in a different color. My White Tennys came with black and white laces. The ladies also get some sharp looking models. Most models sell for $80-100 and Kikkor.com has the occasional sale where the prices drop quite a bit.

    Kikkor Golf James Lepp JumpingKikkor is run by a bunch of young entrepreneurs, and as such they know when to work hard and play hard. Check out the video below of founder James Lepp showing off his considerable skills at his trademark shot, called the saucer pass, and when you are ready to get your very own box of awesomeness, click the Kikkor banner on the right side of the page or use the promo code “intothegrain” at the Kikkor online store for a 10% discount on your order!

  • Dawgs Golf Shoes Review

    Dawgs Golf Spirit ShoesYou know those rubber shoes that everyone’s wearing? They are comfortable and light weight, and you can get them in all kinds of wacky colors. Alas, they don’t have very good traction for playing sports, especially golf. For a while I thought it would be great if someone came up with a golf version of these light and comfortable shoes. Finally someone did. They are called Dawgs, (www.dawgsgolf.com) and the shoe is called the Spirit. Dawgs doesn’t just make golf shoes. In fact, the company specializes in EVA footwear made for casual comfort, or working shoes for people who’s careers have them on their feet all day long. Many medical professionals and food service workers wear Dawgs for all day comfort and support. Being on your feet for 8 hours or more on a hard floor can really take a toll on your body, so it’s imperative to wear a comfortable pair of shoes.

    Dawgs have taken their experience from designing shoes for commercial use and used it to come up with the world’s lightest golf shoe – The Golf Spirit!

    Dawgs Golf Spirit ShoesAt less than 7 ounces per shoe (Men’s size 9 is under 7oz; Women’s size 7 is under 6oz), the Dawgs Golf Spirit is designed for golf in extreme comfort. While extremely light weight, the Golf Spirit shoe doesn’t seem to sacrifice weight for comfort. The shoes are made from high quality EVA (a.k.a. Closed Cell Resin) to absorb shock, protecting your heels and foot. The Golf Spirit shoe has 9 soft spikes embedded in rubber/EVA out soles for traction on the golf course. It’s important to note that the spikes are not replaceable, as they are part of the shoe. From the looks of them however, I would bet that they will probably last for the life of the shoe. The shoe also has a quick adjusting Velcro strap for a better fit, and ventilation holes all around to keep your feet cool.

    I took my pair of black Dawgs Golf Spirit shoes to the practice range at LPGA International in Daytona Beach, FL to try them out. After a practice session, I hopped on to the course for 18 holes. The first thing I noticed about the Spirits was how light they are. I'm used to my heavy leather soled Ecco World Class GTX shoes, so putting these on for me is like wearing a slipper. The integrated spikes stick out quite a bit, and since these are so light and made of EVA, they tend to flex a lot making it slightly awkward on a hard surface like the parking lot. Once on the grass however, they feel very similar to many other lightweight golf shoes. Dawgs Golf Spirit ShoesThe fit is snug and supportive, with plenty of padding in the heel area to absorb shock. At first it takes a little while to get used to the fact that you can feel the wind pass through the shoes as you walk. Because EVA is odor resistant, you don't need to wear socks with these shoes. That's a bonus for those of us who get shamed by friends for their hideous golfer tan lines! Traction during the swing was no problem at all, as the integrated spikes did their job, holding my feet in place. As expected from a shoe this light, there isn't a tremendous amount of lateral support, but it was certainly enough for my golf swing. If you generate enough torque during your swing to spin out of your shoes, the shoes probably aren't your problem anyway. Living on Florida, we are in the unenviable position of dealing with all sorts of critters like scorpions, poisonous snakes and fire ants to name a few. Scorpions are rarely seen on a golf course, and no golf shoe in the world will protect you from an angry Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake. However, fire ants are a big problem all over the Southern USA, and if you've ever had a run in with them you won't be eager to repeat it. The Dawgs Golf Spirit shoes have ventilation holes all over them, and while they allow for ventilation, it also makes it very easy for fire ants to ruin your day very fast if you happen to be standing near them, so be careful where you step in these! The Dawgs Golf Spirit shoes were comfortable and a joy to wear. In terms of fashion, it might be tricky to incorporate these with your high priced golf shirts and belts. But for anyone who just wants to swing out to the local muni and walk 18 holes with your family or golf buddies in cargo shorts, these are the ticket. On a hot day it's nice to not have to wear socks. Heck, you can even step right into that water hazard to play your sliced tee shot without taking them off. Dawgs Golf Spirit shoes come in sizes ranging from 8 to 17 (No half sizes) They seem to run a half size small, so for example if you normally wear a 10.5, make sure you get into a size 11. They also come in several colors like Black, Black/Tan, White/Black, Navy/Lime and a few others. They are also available for ladies and children. Priced at $50, these are cheaper than most golf shoes, and perfect for beginners or as a spare pair to leave in the car in case you forget your shoes. Again, because they are made of odor resistant EVA, they won't stink up your trunk or fall apart in the heat of the car. If you order two or more pairs direct from their website, you'll also get free shipping. If you are looking for an ultra-light and comfortable golf shoe, give these a try!

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  • New Product Spotlight – Cleatskins Golf

    Cleatskins GolfSometimes a product comes along that makes you think to yourself: “Damn! Why didn’t I think of that?!?” One of those products appeared to me at the PGA Show this year, and from the impressions I got, it will be well received by consumers. The company is called Cleatskins, and they make rubbers. OK, we don’t call them that any more. Back in the good ‘ol days in the snowy North East, my dad used to go off to work with his nice Italian leather shoes on, and to avoid destroying them with snow, dirt and road salt, he slipped some rubber coverings (we called them rubbers) over the shoes to protect them from the elements. One day many years later at my golf club, I observed some poor sap slip and fall on the golf club’s hardwood floors because his plastic spikes had no traction on the wood floor. Suddenly, I had a thought that it would be great if you could slip on some rubbers over your golf shoes! Well, that random thought got lost in my head, as did many other thoughts in my twenties…

    Enter a company called Cleatskins. They sell an accessory designed to slip over cleated footwear so people can go from the course, pitch, field or wherever without changing shoes. Made of compression molded rubber, Cleatskins started in 2008 making their shoe covers for sports like soccer, baseball, football, wrestling, rugby, field hockey, and others. In 2009 the company debuted the new golf line. Golfers now don’t have to change shoes simply to grab a beer with the boys after the round, or struggle with golf shoes in the parking lot before your round. Just slip some Cleatskins over your shoes, drive to the course, take them off prior to starting play and slip them back on when you are done. That’s exactly what I did last week when I gave my pair a test run at Falcon’s Fire Golf club while playing with fellow golf bloggers Dave Lair and Tony Korologos.

    Cleatskins GolfCleatskins are available for men and women in all sizes, and in 6 different colors to match your golf shoes. Like a slipper for your shoes, they go on and off pretty easy when sized right. Since they are sized to fit several different shoe makes and all sizing is different, I got the large, which accommodate size 8.5-10.5. Since my golf shoes are 10.5, they go on a little tight and take a little work, but once on they don’t come off and add only a little weight to the shoe. It was nice to just get out of the car and walk into the clubhouse, leaving my playing partners to their shoe bags and scuffed car bumpers. Arriving at the first tee, I simply pulled them off and went about my business. Slipping them on after we finished, I could walk anywhere around the clubhouse and not worry about slipping or tracking dirt all over the place, including in my car.

    Priced at $24.95 a pair, this product is pretty much a no-brainer for me – the ultimate slacker. If I can save 5 minutes every time I play golf by not having to change shoes, these babies are worth it. Plus, the durable rubber will last at least as long as a set of tires on your car, and they won’t track dirt and grass all over the house and locker room either. To clean them, just hose them off or throw them in the wash. All in all, Cleatskins are a simple and effective product that do what they advertise very well. Pick up a pair today and you’ll see what I mean! Cleatskins are available at select retailers, or direct from their website at www.cleatskins.com.