Tag: Shoes

  • 7 Father’s Day Gift Ideas for Procrastinators

    If you are anything like me, you tend to wait to the last minute for everything. Father’s Day is almost here once again, and if you haven’t thought of any father’s day gifts yet, here are a few ideas. Now hurry! There’s no time to lose!

    Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope GPS

    The Phantom 3 builds off the success of the previous generation by introducing new features to go with all the beloved features of the Phantom 2, including the BITE magnetic mount, “GreenView” with moveable pin placement, and more than 38,000 preloaded courses. The features include:

    • NEW Patented Slope Compensated Distances
    • NEW Touchscreen with Intuitive UI
    • NEW Auto Course & Hole Recognition
    • NEW Auto-Prompt Score Entry
    • NEW Round Timer & Odometer
    • Front, Center, Back Distances
    • Up to 6 Hazards per Hole
    • GreenView with Moveable Pin Placement
    • Shot Distance Calculator
    • 38,000+ Preloaded Courses
    • Integrated BITE Magnetic Cart Mount
    • 14+ Hour Battery Life
    • Bushnell Golf Mobile App Included

    Offered in four colors (Red, White & Blue, Neon Green, Orange and Black), the Phantom 3 Slope will be available at Bushnell Golf and retailers nationwide beginning in June and will retail for $149.99.

    Foresight QuadMAX

    Foresight’s GCQuad launch monitor set the standard for camera-based launch monitors and continues to prove itself with extensive use on the professional tours. The new QuadMAX, built on the same advanced four-camera photometric data capture technology, packs even more features into a compact, ruggedized form factor. At $20,000 it’s not likely to be an impulse purchase for most people, but if you want the best, sell one of your kidneys or tap into the kids’ college fund and get the Foresight QuadMAX. Go to https://www.foresightsports.com/ for more info.

    Club Champion – Free Fittings!

    Club Champion, the world’s leading custom golf club fitter, is celebrating dads by offering FREE custom club fittings (with a club purchase) from June 13-17!

    Whether Dad is an avid golfer or a casual player, it’s time for a visit to Club Champion! Why spend $600 plus on a driver if it isn’t fitted for your swing? Maximize your return on investment by getting fitted by some of the best brand-agnostic fitters in golf. In addition to the free fitting offer, Club Champion is also offering 20% bonus cards on any gift cards purchased now through June 16, 2024. Terms apply. Gift cards can be purchased online at clubchampion.com.

    Payne Stewart Collection

    If you were born in the 90s and beyond, there’s a good chance you don’t know who Payne Stewart is. However, any golfer born in the 70s and 80s (like your dad) will know the name. Stewart was one of my favorite golfers ever, and his untimely death in 1999 rocked the golf world. Visitors to Pinehurst Resort cannot miss the statue erected in his honor, depicting the iconic fist-pumping scene of his 1999 US Open victory with a clutch par putt on the 72nd hole to beat a young Phil Mickelson. Payne Stewart holds a special place in my heart as a player and a gentleman, and I’ll always cherish our brief interaction in 1998 at TPC Sawgrass.

    The 25th anniversary of Payne Stewart’s unforgettable victory at the 1999 U.S. Open at Pinehurst Resort will be commemorated this week when Pinehurst No. 2 course again plays host to our national championship. Stewart’s fashion made him one of the most identifiable players on the PGA Tour and, fittingly, his legacy will again take center stage with the official launch of the Payne Stewart Collection.

    The men’s luxury clothing line will honor the indelible style and grace of one of the game’s most revered figures, whose life was tragically cut short in a plane crash four months after his dramatic victory at Pinehurst. Dubbed the “All-Time Best Dressed Golfer,” Stewart’s influence went beyond his sporting achievements. His personality, charisma, and class left an enduring mark on the world of golf and fashion, now immortalized in a selection of clothing and accessories that capture his iconic look. For more info, go to https://paynestewartcollection.com/



    STNKY Laundry Bags

    If you’ve ever been on a golf trip, you’ve probably had to scramble around to find a way to bring your dirty laundry back without making your suitcase stink. STNKY Bags are the solution for sorting, carrying, washing, and drying everything that gets dirty or sweaty during your travels. They effectively lock in germs, moisture, and odors. Plus, the built-in wash net offers easy no-touch washing, making post-travel laundry a breeze.

    • Put dirty clothes in the STNKY Bag by opening the bottom zipper.
    • Turn the bag inside out and it becomes a wash bag.
    • Pack the bag with dirty clothes in your luggage, then throw it directly into the washer and dryer when you return home. 
    • When it’s laundry time, you never have to touch dirty clothes again!

    STNKY laundry bags are conveniently available on Amazon, so while you’re grabbing other must-haves for your excursion, STNKY is the travel companion you don’t want to leave behind. The STNKY Pro ($30 standard/$37.50 large) is available in five colors.

    TRUE FS-Tour Golf Shoes

    Throw out your dad’s old wingtips, it’s time to modernize his golf shoes! True Linkswear has a classic looking shoe called the FS-Tour with “fly under the radar” styling yet is loaded with modern tech and comfort. They are as appropriate for a backyard BBQ or casual Fridays at the office as they are on the golf course. Check them out at https://truelinkswear.com/

    Features

    • Two-year Waterproof Guarantee (TRUE PNWProof bootie construction)
    • Top Grain Nappa Leather Wing Tip Upper
    • WANDERLUX Ultra Plush Insole for cushioned, comfortable ride
    • Microsuede Insert Topper providing a soft on-foot feel
    • Classic, Wax Coated Laces
    • Versatile FS Tread, ready for a night out and the course
    • Metal Tour Logo Accents

    “With the FS-Tour we wanted to offer a timeless look with hidden performance detailing to create a new staple for your wardrobe, on or off the golf course,” said TRUE Footwear Designer, Jeremy Santana. “Versatility has become a trademark of our brand and the FS-Tour brings all-day style, function and performance to a new level.”

    Stretch Zone

    Is stretching the new wellness trend? If you want to improve your game and gain yardage, Stretch Zone could be the answer! Stretch Zone, the leader in practitioner-assisted stretch therapy, is experiencing a huge spike – especially with golfers! Help unlock your golf potential by enhancing flexibility, prevent injuries, and improve performance. Stretch Zone’s tailored stretches increase range of motion, boost circulation, and speed up recovery, ensuring you’re always at the top of your game. With locations nationwide, getting started is easy. Swing better, play longer, and stay injury-free. Go to https://www.stretchzone.com/ for more info.

    Hurry!

    Father’s Day is almost here, but there’s still time for one of these Father’s Day gift ideas to make his day! Hope everyone has a great week and enjoy the 124th US Open Championship at Pinehurst Resort!

  • Softspikes Strike Back

    Softspikes Strike Back

    I’m here to report that spiked golf shoes are making a comeback! Well, technically they never left, depending on where you play. You see, on the PGA Tour where every shot matters and one bad drive can cost you millions, spiked golf shoes are still dominant. PrideSports, makers of the Softspikes brand, reported that all four major winners this year wore Softspikes, 100 percent of the World’s Top 10 and 86% of 2022 PGA Tour winners wore replaceable spikes in their golf shoes.

    I remember when the spikeless shoe revolution started. In 2010 at the Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualalai in Hawaii, Fred Couples showed up wearing casual-looking spikeless golf shoes made by Ecco, and even though he shot 21-under in three rounds and lost to Tom Watson in a playoff, all everyone wanted to talk about was his shoes. A few months later he showed up for a Monday practice round with Tiger at the 2010 Masters Tournament wearing the same shoes and lit the world on fire. The spikeless golf sneaker revolution had begun.

    I admit, I was a sucker to the casual street/skater look and comfort that these new shoes offered, but the biggest attraction for me was not having to change shoes in the parking lot or locker room before playing golf. I could just wear my shoes out of the house, to the course and to the bar afterwards. In fact, I frequently wear my spikeless Puma Golf shoes to work. For years I’ve worn spikeless shoes knowing I’m sacrificing traction for comfort, but what I didn’t know was I was also giving up distance.

    In a study performed by Dr. Bob Christina (Prof. of Kinesiology at the University of NC Greensboro) & Eric Alpenfels (Director of Instruction and Golf Academy at Pinehurst Resorts), they found that wearing spiked golf shoes can result in an average gain of 6 yards of carry with a driver compared to spikeless shoes. 6 yards doesn’t sound like much, but in many cases that’s enough to hit one less club into the green, or to carry that fairway bunker you always find yourself in on the corner of that one dogleg par 5.

    The bottom line is, traction positively impacts performance. The pros know this. Softspikes has seen a steady uptick in usage among professionals since last year. We don’t know the percentage of amateur golfers that wear spiked shoes vs spikeless, but I suspect most amateurs are wearing spikeless shoes. For almost a decade I’ve worn spikeless shoes almost exclusively, but I’ll be switching back to spiked shoes and replacing the spikes in the few pairs I have with new Softspikes cleats.

    Replacement Softspikes and CHAMP cleats can be purchased in the golf section of most large retailers, sporting goods stores, golf specialty and golf course pro shops. Cleats can also be purchased online from any of these locations, your favorite online store or directly from www.softspikes.com.  

    PrideSports is the undisputed leader in the golf cleat segment with its CHAMP and Softspikes brands. The company recommends golfers change their cleats every six to eight months – or even more frequently based on use – to ensure golfers get the maximum performance out of their footwear. In my experience, twice a year seems like a good interval.

    CHAMP’s Helix®, Zarma Tour® and Stinger® cleats, as well as Softspikes’ Pivix®, Pulsar®, Silver Tornado™ and Stealth® cleats, dominate the OEM and secondary market in terms of performance and sales. More information can be found at www.champspikes.com and www.Softspikes.com, or follow @softspikesgolf and @PrideSportsUs on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

  • 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

  • New Balance – Spring 2015 Golf Shoes

    New Balance – Spring 2015 Golf Shoes

    New Balance has become legendary over the years for well made shoes that fit a wide variety of feet, especially in wide sizes. Now a serious player in the golf market, those with wide feet will be excited to see the spring 2015 golf shoe line from New Balance. They are sure to be comfortable and popular. Let’s take a look at the line based on the latest press release from the company:

    Men’s 2003 Cleated Outsole

    New Balance 2003 Golf ShoeThe 2003 golf shoe is built on a performance fit golf last that features a waterproof mesh upper with a TPU stability cage for ultralight support and fit, and a REVLite® 10mm drop* midsole for lightweight cushioning and premium responsiveness. The outsole utilizes the Champ One-Lok® Zarma Tour** cleat system. The 2003 weighs just 11.1 ounces and is backed by a two-year waterproof warranty.*** The golf shoe is available in sizes 8-12, 13 14 and D & 2E widths for a suggested retail of $134.95.

    Men’s 1000 – Spikeess Outsole

    New Balance Men's 1000 Golf ShoeThe 1000 is built on the Minimus last that is used in New Balance’s popular running and training shoes. The 1000 features a waterproof microfiber leather upper with a REVLite®  4mm drop* for lightweight cushioning and responsiveness. The Ortholite® insole is designed for cool, dry comfort and the dual density integrated spikeless outsole provides excellent traction from all lies. The 1000 weighs just 8.8 ounces and has a two-year waterproof warranty.*** The 1000 is available in sizes 7-12, 13, 14 in D and 2E widths for a suggested retail of $109.95.

    Women’s 1001 – Spikeless Outsole

    New Balance Women's 1001 Golf ShoeThe 1001 women’s golf shoe is built on the same Minimus® last as New Balance’s popular low-profile running and training shoes. The 1001 features a breathable, water-resistant mesh upper with no-sew synthetic overlays. The REVLite® 4mm

    drop* midsole provides lightweight cushioning and premium responsiveness while an Ortholite® insole provides cool, dry comfort close to the foot. The dual density integrated spikeless outsole provides traction and maintains the shoe’s minimal profile. The 1001 weighs just 6.7 ounces and is available in two colorways; grey with a hologram insert and white with grey highlights in sizes 6 -11, B and D widths in the grey and a B width in the white for a suggested retail of $89.95.

  • 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.

  • TRUE Linkswear Golf Shoes

    TRUE Linkswear Golf ShoesSome time last season on the PGA Tour, I spied Ryan Moore wearing some funky looking shoes on the golf course. They didn’t look at all like your typical wingtip or saddle type golf shoe. They looked more like mocasins or slippers. After doing a bit of research, I found out that he was wearing shoes from a new company called TRUE Linkswear. I reached out to the company and was able to get a pair of my own for review.

    Being a golf blogger means I end up with lots of equipment and accessories laying around. It also means that I have more golf shoes than regular shoes. After a year of testing just about every type and style of golf shoes on the market, I keep going back to just 2 pairs of shoes for my every day play. My “Tenny” shoes from Kikkor Golf, and the TRUE Tour from TRUE Linkswear . Now that I think of it, The TRUE Linkswear shoes aren’t just the most comfortable golf shoes I own, they may be the most comfortable shoes I own period!

    TRUE Linkswear makes shoes that are designed to work with your body and be super comfortable. While most shoe companies design a shoe from the top down using other shoes as a model, TRUE Linkswear builds them from the ground up, using the human foot as their inspiration. They have come up with a shoe that sits very low to the ground (10mm) and is very light weight. The result is a super comfortable shoe that provides ample traction and allows the player to really feel the ground beneath him at all times.

    TRUE Tour ShoesAs someone that enjoys walking when possible, these are the perfect shoe. Because they are built so low to the ground and the toe box is so wide, they are a joy to walk with and the spikeless soles provide a great combination of traction and comfort. Because they are spikeless I usually just wear them right out of the house which saves me time in the parking lot of the golf course. Walking a few holes in these is like walking around the back yard with slippers on. While the styling certainly isn't classic in terms of traditional golf shoes, they aren't ugly, and there are several color combos available for all tastes. Still, some people will prefer to stick with the old school golf shoes with firm soles and stiffer leather uppers. While I don't have an issue with stability, some people might find these shoes aren't up to par with traditional golf shoes for stability. That will depend on the player and your particular swing. Since I got these shoes, I've gone virtually 100% spikeless when I play golf. I alternate between the TRUE Tour, Ecco Streets that Fred Couples made famous and my Kikkors. Only occasionally do I bring out my traditional Ecco World Class GTX golf shoes. Overall, the TRUE Linkswear line of shoes are must-haves for anyone that wants premium, well built, walking shoes for golf. Anyone that struggles with their golf shoes being uncomfortable or too narrow will definitely want to try these. Look for new and improved styles with even better traction and comfort for 2012. See the entire line at http://www.truelinkswear.com

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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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  • 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!

  • Nike Lunar Control Golf Shoes – 2011 Masters Special Edition

    Nike Lunar Control Golf Shoe - 2011 Masters Special Edition
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    At the start of 2011, Nike Golf debuted their new Lunar Control golf shoe. Their aim with this shoe was to combine some of the elements of lightweight shoes with those of more expensive premium high performance shoes. In order to achieve the combination that creates the essence of athletic golf, Nike Golf collaborated with Nike athlete Paul Casey in the development of the Lunar Control. “Paul is extremely savvy about footwear,” said Doug Reed, Global Category Business Director for Apparel, Footwear and Accessories.  “He not only knows what he wants in performance golf shoes, but he also has a keen eye for design and color which made him a perfect muse for the Lunar Control.  He can pick up a shoe and just by feeling it, have an immediate sense of weight.  He worked with us throughout this project and provided his feedback at every stage.”

    According to the press release, the Nike Lunar Control features a familiar saddle design fused with innovative materials and construction technologies found in Nike running shoes.  Those key technologies are Nike’s Lunarlon Foam and Nike Flywire. Together they bring comfort and stability solutions to golfers. Developed in Nike’s "Innovation Kitchen", The Lunarlon cushioning system is another proprietary technology from Nike that offers underfoot comfort, ground feel and stability. The Lunarlon Foam midsole is lightweight, durable and highly responsive resulting in a unique combination of cushioning and support. Also featured is the lightweight stability layer, achieved through Nike Flywire technology. Flywire is the ideal stability technology, providing targeted support right where golfers need it.  The lightweight structure of the saddle panel works the foot naturally. An ultra-strong yet ultra-lightweight construction of high-tensile fibers combine with a TPU overlay to provide a dynamic and supportive fit in the midfoot that won’t stretch out over time. The Nike Lunar Control has a waterproof, leather upper that is reinforced by an additional waterproof surface treatment. The Nike Lunar Control is built on a next generation of the Nike Power Platform outsole.  The new design features a secondary Power Channel in the forefoot to allow more flexibility and greater natural motion. Key Features: Waterproof premium leather upper Flywire midfoot saddle Lunarlon cushioning in heel Nike Power Platform 2-year Waterproof Warranty The Nike Lunar Control golf shoe is available in the following colors: White/Black-Metallic Pewter; Black/Metallic Silver-Black; White/Metallic Silver-Volt-Black; White/Black-Varsity Red Price: $150 Of course, this being Masters week -  Nike decided to up the ante just a bit and produce a special limited edition shoe to celebrate the 2011 Masters Tournament! (See photo above) Nike's staff pros will be sporting the special edition green Lunar Control golf shoe during the week in Augusta Georgia. Not only that, but you can get the same sweet special edition shoes on Nikestore.com, and unlike most phoney special edition golf products out there, they won't charge you extra for no reason. Starting Thursday, April 7 at Nikestore.com you can purchase the Special Edition Nike Lunar Control shoes for $190. Snatch these babies up quick, because they'll be gone in no time!

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  • 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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