WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Durable plastic posts along the arch and a wider heel improve stability. Angled traction elements help optimise the foot’s movement during the swing.

PRICE/AVAILABILITY: RRP $339. Available at authorised Ecco Golf stockists.

THE DEEP DIVE: The newest development in the groundbreaking Biom series, Ecco Biom C4 offers unrivalled 360-degree breathability, allowing golfers to stay cool and comfortable throughout their round.

This new blend of innovative comfort ensures a finely-tuned balance of cushioning, rebound, waterproofing and air-flow.

Ecco’s most advanced technologies are used in this new iteration of Ecco’s Biom story; an updated Biom with optimum support and superior control, while the TPU posts on the outside add stability, and Biom Natural Motion technology enables the foot to move naturally and close to the ground.

This latest model also boasts Goretex Surround construction, offering 100-percent waterproof protection and 360-degree breathability, helping to keep your foot dry and comfortable. This is combined with an Ecco Exhaust Grid that scoops fresh air towards the sole of your foot. The progressive Ecco MTN Grip outsole has three different sections providing traction, stability and rotational support.

Crafted from Ecco Performance Leather, the Ecco Biom C4 also comes with a new, super-stretchy mesh sock that offers golfers unparalleled comfort. 

The brand-new design comes in two colour ways for men (white/concrete & black) with a BOA version joining in summer.

To find you nearest stockists, visit americangolf.com.au

The post Ecco Biom C4 Shoe: What you need to know appeared first on Australian Golf Digest.

Today’s shoes can match any type of style or personality, and these new models boast all the technology you want for power and comfort.

Here are eight you should slip on this summer:

ECCO BIOM COOL PRO

The new Ecco Biom Cool Pro features the company’s innovative Fluidform Direct Comfort Technology – a ‘state change’ process that uses specialised fluid materials to form around an anatomical last, ensuring a finely tuned balance of cushioning and rebound, while also creating a flexible and durable bond without the compromises common with stitched or glued assemblies.

A Biom Natural Motion last, based on scans of more than 1,000 athletes’ feet, mirrors the contours of the human foot, enabling it to move more naturally, closer to the ground, and forms like a second-skin around the foot.

Ecco’s Tri-Fi-Grip outsole ensures multi-purpose zonal performance for excellent grip, stability, durability and flexibility, while the upper of the shoe is manufactured using extra strong, durable and thin Ecco Rich Two-Tone Yak leather from Ecco’s own tanneries that is perforated on the forefoot, with a natural touch, sporty surface that has equal amounts of matte and shine. Gore-Tex Surround offers 100 percent waterproof construction and 360-degree breathability, to keep your feet dry and comfortable. RRP: $329.95

See americangolf.com.au for more.

ADIDAS TOUR360 XT

Adidas Golf has unveiled the Tour360 XT Primeknit, which features a waterproof knit upper, giving players a new level of comfort without sacrificing any performance on the course.

Golfers want a shoe that is comfortable above anything else. When they walk off the 18th green, they want their feet to feel as fresh as they did when they stepped onto the first tee. The premium knit upper in the Tour360 XT Primeknit gives players a soft feel every time they play. Beyond the comfort, the special yarns that make up the upper of the shoe are designed to repel water, keeping feet dry while still giving players breathability and stability where they need it most. The shoe also is highlighted by the eight-cleat X-Traxion outsole, the best traction system Adidas has made to date. Players will also appreciate the full-length Boost midsole, providing an added level of comfort and energy return so that every hole feels like your first.

The Tour360 XT Primeknit comes in three colourways: grey, black and active teal. RRP: $259

See adidas.com/us/golf for more.

TRUE LINKSWEAR MAJOR

Recently launched to rave reviews in the United States, True linkswear’s new Major shoe is now available in Australia and New Zealand via local distributor Jack Oliver Golf Co. True’s premium offering, the Major is built to stand up to any weather, last longer than any shoe in their history, yet feel like your favourite sneaker straight out of the box. In a nod to the environment, True has ditched cardboard packaging in favour of a quality reusable shoe/gear bag. RRP: $279

Learn more at jackolivergolf.com.au

UNDER ARMOUR HOVR DRIVE

The challenge when trying to make a golf shoe that feels soft is making sure that it’s not too soft, and it still responds to the natural movement of your feet in the golf swing in an effective way. Under Armour, while designing the HOVR Drive, looked to accomplish this by making their own cushioning material called HOVR to perform how golfers expect a golf shoe to. The HOVR material runs the length of the shoe to help do just that.

The new technology allows the shoe to be soft and flexible, while still being supportive. Also adding to comfort is a new toe box design that is wider at the forefoot. The upper is made of microfibre, which helps lower the overall weight of the shoe.

For traction, there are two different types of spikes on the outsole that address movements of a variety of directions. The RST 2.0 spike is designed to keep your foot in contact with the ground during rotational movements throughout the swing. For horizontal movement, Under Armour chose to use Softspike Silver Tornado spikes. Together with traction elements, these spikes will keep you locked in – no matter how hard you swing. RRP: $249

See wsports.com.au/underarmour for more.

SKECHERS GO GOLF ELITE V.3

Skechers Go Golf Elite V.3 can be described in three words: comfort, comfort, comfort. This waterproof shoe features an all-new spikeless-designed traction outsole for stability on the green, keeping you stable and comfortable so you can focus on your game. The full grain leather, deco-stitched upper has H2GO Shield waterproof protection and the low drop is designed to keep your foot low to the ground in a neutral position. The lightweight, responsive 5Gen cushioning and high-performance Resamax cushioned insole gives you maximum comfort, while the TPU bottom plate ensures added durability. RRP: $199

Check out your local on-course stockists for more information.

FOOTJOY CONTOUR & CONTOUR CASUAL

FootJoy’s new Contour and Contour Casual shoes provide maximum comfort and cushioning via an outsole that has been constructed using an on-trend cup sole design. Street shoes that feature ‘Cup Soles’ are typically heavier due to the dense rubber material in the outsole. However, in designing this shoe for golf, FootJoy was able to reduce weight by replacing rubber with an EVA wedge. This also offers the benefit of greater underfoot cushioning. Contour Series shoes are the go-to comfort shoe in golf and this new edition is wrapped in a buttery soft NappaLuxe leather, which is 100 percent waterproof for year-round play. RRP: $229.95 (Contour); $199.95 (BOA lacing); $189.95 (Contour Casual)

Available now. See footjoy.com.au for more.

CALLAWAY DEL MAR

While walking the links, let your feet relax in comfort in Callaway Del Mar golf shoes. Clean meets comfort with the company’s soft-colour scheme, sleekly styled shoes that draw some looks, but won’t bring enough attention to interrupt your swing. But don’t be fooled, each pair comes packed with performance technologies, including a microfibre leather upper with Opti-Dri waterproof protection, a Dura-rubber spikeless outsole with multi-directional traction lugs, and an extra-thick PU insole for superior comfort. The Opti-vent mesh liner for breathability and heat management is backed up with one-year limited waterproof warranty. RRP: $139.99

See callawaygolf.com.au for more.

PUMA IGNITE NXT

Puma’s iconic Ignite spikeless franchise has gone to the “NXT” level with the release of this striking family that includes three unique lacing options.

According to Puma, the NXT line is “built from the ground up” using the company’s Pro-Form TPU outsole with an organically altered traction pattern.

“An Ignite Foam midsole, wrapped in SoleShield for added durability, provides unparalleled comfort and energy return to help you feel and play your best all day long,” says Cobra Puma Golf’s Matthew Farley.

I was intrigued, and as someone who is prone to getting sore feet after 18 holes, I put the new army-coloured Solelace model to the test. I was immediately impressed with how the laces completely enveloped my big hoof (size 14), offering 360-degree support and some pretty sleek looks that even got the nod of approval from the wife, the biggest critic of my golf wardrobe.

While the process of putting these on was a learning experience – don’t be put off by the initial tight squeeze of the Solelace model – the upper features a flat-knit waterproof mesh vamp with PWRFrame reinforcement and, combined with Puma’s PWRCage pieces, really provides a feeling of a secure fit. So comfortable, in fact, I now find I wear these puppies as casual street shoes when I’m not on the fairways.

Being a bigger build myself, I need added support underneath my feet to avoid aches and pains – it’s my No.1 priority in any new golf shoe purchase, regardless of how it looks or promises to perform. The NXT’s Ignite Foam gives me that required cushioning and more.

Another striking feature of the NXT line is unquestionably the sole. The 100-or-so strategically placed directional hexagon lugs for increased traction throughout the swing are no gimmick. They deliver superb grip and power for my aggressive swing speed, and the bright red sole certainly turns heads.

“These are the fastest growing shoe under $200 in the country,” adds Farley, who found it impossible to hide his excitement.

“What’s not to like? They’re cool, comfy and deliver unparalleled performance at a fantastic price point for Aussies.”

The Puma Ignite NXT line certainly ticks a lot of boxes… from the ground up, as it happens.

RRP: $169.95 (solelace/laced); $179.95 (disc)

Check out cobragolf.com/pumagolf for more.    

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These aren’t your grandfather’s golf shoes, but that’s not to say you can’t find a pair that looks like them. How they perform, however, is thoroughly modern.

Improvements in technology mean today’s golf shoes offer vast options. Choices used to come with compromises: comfort meant giving up performance. Less weight meant less stability. Style worked on casual Fridays, not on tee-time Saturdays. But the new shoes show us a place where consumers get all they want. A shoe can be light and structured, spikeless and full of traction, waterproof and breathable, supportive without looking clunky. Most textile uppers are made to be waterproof now, and classic styles use the latest high-tech performance materials.

Whether you want a traditional leather upper with a sole full of cleats, a facsimile of your favourite running shoe, or any street style in between, you’re covered. When it comes to golf shoes, we’re in a really good place. Even grandpa would agree.

From left →

1. Skechers Mojo Elite

It’s lightweight with an emphasis on comfort and features triangular traction elements that flex for optimal stability during the swing. The mixed-leather and textile upper is waterproof.

2. Ecco Biom g3

A Gore-Tex lining keeps out moisture but is breathable. A soft, resilient foam insole and synthetic-rubber collar provide extra comfort.

3. Adidas Tour 360 XT-SL

This popular tour shoe goes spikeless. The traction elements vary in height to provide extra grip where it’s needed most. The outsole’s X-shape adds stability by better connecting the forefoot section of the shoe to the heel.

4. Callaway Skyline

The midsole’s double-layer approach features a top layer of cushioned foam for maximum comfort and a firmer layer of foam on the bottom for support. Channels allow the outsole to give as you flex your feet during the swing.

5. New Balance Striker

The soft, thermoplastic urethane (TPU) in the outsole flexes for support. The shape features more width in the toe box for a better fit.

6. Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour

This flagship tour shoe mixes throwback looks (leather upper) with high-tech support (a resilient foam midsole originally developed for running and basketball that offers cushioning, responsiveness and durability).

From left →

7. G/Fore MG4.1

The one-piece textile upper is breathable, flexible and fortified with a wide-lacing pattern for extra stability. The thick foam sole adds comfort, and, as usual with  G/Fore, there’s fashion even in a sneaker.

8. Under Armour Hovr Drive

Under Armour’s new, lower-profile cleats provide additional grip for horizontal movements during the swing. The midsole is cushioned towards the instep, and the outsole is firmer around the outer edge for support.

9. FootJoy FJ Fury

A cushioned insole moulds to your foot, and the outsole is firmest where you need it most. The upper features a leather-mesh combo that’s waterproof yet breathable.

10. True Links TL-01

Heavy glue and other unnecessary materials have been eliminated from this street-shoe-inspired style that’s the lightest model in our guide.

11. Puma Ignite NXT

Don’t let the mesh upper fool you, this shoe is waterproof and stable. A TPU saddle adds support, and other high-stress areas are reinforced as well.

The post Foot-Stompin’ Good appeared first on Australian Golf Digest.

Leading golf footwear innovator, Ecco Golf, has unveiled an exciting addition to its cleated lineup – Ecco Strike.

A result of the company’s commitment to designing golf shoes that provide performance-enhancing grip, the new Ecco Strike design is defined by an improved spiked outsole which features a rotational line that compliments the natural movement of the foot throughout the swing.

The sole combines strategically positioned Zarma-Tour spikes with a series of hybrid cleats – a concept that’s engineered to provide increased room for dynamic traction, as well as reducing the overall weight of the shoe. The hybrid elements, including a rotation line on the toe, are complemented by the Zarma-Tour spikes which utilise six flexible, anti-clogging comfort legs to maximise traction and durability.

The re-engineered cleat configuration represents an evolution in spiked golf shoe performance, with the overall stability of the shoe further increased by a more optimised Fluidform platform, providing a finely-tuned balance of cushioning and rebound.

Ecco Strike is crafted from the company’s own performance-driven Ecco Yak leather, providing an extra strong, durable and modern upper material with a two-tone surface that’s both sporty and water-repellent.

Additional features of Ecco Strike include:

• 100% Gore-Tex waterproof protection
• The option of a BOA closure system for optimum fit
• A two-component direct-injected P.U/T.PU outsole which creates a highly comfortable, hard-wearing playing platform
• A microfibre heel pad to ensure a secure, snug fit while walking, and throughout the swing, with additional collar padding providing further wearing comfort
• A removable, washable Ortholite foam inlay sole which provides long-term cushioning and enhanced breathability, as well as the option of extra width when you take it out
• A premium textile lining which provides a soft, comfortable in-shoe experience

“When designing Ecco Strike, we decided to really take things back to basics and rethink how to achieve the best possible on-course traction,” said Michael Waack, Head of Global Golf at Ecco. “Through extensive research and analysis of how the foot rotates as it contacts the ground, we’ve been able to engineer the perfect combination of spiked and hybrid cleats to provide the grip that will enable golfers to play with more confidence.”

Ecco Golf shoes are worn in competition around the world by Fred Couples, Ernie Els, Smylie Kaufman, Thomas Bjørn, Lydia Ko, Minjee Lee, and Caroline Masson among others. 

Now available for $289 (RRP), go to americangolf.com.au/ecco-golf for more information.

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Leading golf footwear innovator, ECCO Golf, and Sydney-based American Golf Supplies Pty Ltd have announced a new partnership which will see AGS become the distributor of ECCO Golf shoes in Australia.

The new deal means the current distribution by subsidiary ECCO Shoes Pacific Pty Ltd will end by the start of the new distribution agreement.

Private company AGS, established 50 years ago and owned by Paul and Kim Roser for the past two decades, is the Australian distributor for PING clubs, bags and accessories and has 24 staff operating nationally.

“We are delighted at the opportunity to represent ECCO Golf in the Australian golf market,” said Paul Roser.

“ECCO is a privately owned company committed to making the highest quality product with technical innovation. Our goal will be to make the ECCO golf shoes broadly available to the Australian golfers where they currently play and shop,” he added.

The deal comes following the recent appointment of Jesper Thuen as ECCO Golf’s Head of Asia-Pacific. Jesper, former Global Marketing Manager at ECCO Golf, sees Australia as key growth region.

“Paul, Kim and the team at AGS are the perfect partner for ECCO Golf in Australia. They know the golf business inside out, and I’m excited about the distribution network and expertise that they can offer,” said Thuen.

“Most importantly, their passion for our products is already shining through, and I’m sure this will filter down to the retailer and ultimately the Australian consumer in time,” he added.

For more information, visit golf.ecco.com

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