Sqairz is a footwear brand that was founded by Robert Winskowicz, a golf industry veteran. He had the idea for a square-toed shoe that would improve stability and accuracy. This all occurred following a visit to a driving range wearing a pair of square-toed dress shoes. That, I believe, could be called ‘serendipitous’.
Winskowicz first observed that the square toe design actually improved his aim. But that wasn’t all. Further research has shown that improved ground force reaction provided by a wider toe box allows stronger balance and stability, with improvements in clubhead speed & distance.
A quick look at the website shows that Sqairz makes footwear not only for golfers, but also for baseball, softball and pickleball – all sports where traction and stability is paramount. The brand offers a range of different golf shoes for men and women – all with patented technology to help improve your performance.
Here we test the limited edition NF (for Nick Faldo) 1990 golf shoe which is very similar to the more widely available Pro S2 LT.
Sqairz Limited Edition NF1990 Golf Shoe review: NCG Summary
NCG SUMMARY
This is a striking full-grain leather golf shoe, which offers a premium appearance, excellent comfort and performance enhancements
PROS
- Premium and classic appearance.
- Made from full-grain leather.
- ‘Limited edition’ appeal.
CONS
- Looks won’t be for all.
First Impressions
This was my first exposure to the Sqairz brand, and in fact it seems that the company has only been making golf shoes since 2020. I note that Sqairz have found their way onto Sepp Straka’s substantial feet. And Sir Nick Faldo has been so impressed with Sqairz that he has invested in the company.
The squared-off toe is what makes this shoe immediately stand out from competitor brands, and it did initially look a little strange. However, as is usually the situation, I quickly got used to it. I wasn’t sure about the idea of a more spacious toe box because I like to feel that my feet are cocooned inside a golf shoe but I have to say it worked well. There was plenty of space for my toes but no sense of looseness.
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This model is available in half sizes right the way from 7 to 12., and also in size 13 & 14. There is a very helpful guide on the website which will assist you in getting the size that’s right for you, based on your size in other popular shoe brands.
This particular shoe, the NF 1990 Limited Edition is different from the rest of the Sqairz lineup in that it is crafted from full-grain premium leather. It comes in just one colour, classic white, with dark blue detailing around the sole, laces and collar of the shoe.
It certainly presents a smart and classic look. Now you can read on the website about the TPU outsole and NRG-Foam midsole etc. For me, there are a few notable features.
Firstly, in these days of synthetic leather or microfibre uppers, it is nice to have a proper leather shoe. I also liked the innovative Sta-Put lacing system with silicone printing on one side, helping to achieve a secure fit.
The TPU heel stabilizer and traction system, comprising over 290 nubbins, along with 6 Pivix soft spikes promises to give stability when swinging hard
The UK size 7 (Euro 41) size fitted my usually sized 7.5 wide foot closely out of the box. I was concerned initially that they were a little on the tight side but that feeling disappeared after a few holes. The toe box did feel nice and roomy but my foot felt secure and snug in the shoe, overall. I do just wonder whether Sqairz should consider offering a couple of width fittings. I am normally a wide size and the fit suited me fine, but for those with narrower feet, this shoe might not work so well
On Course Testing
Testing was carried out over two rounds in showery conditions on my home heathland course. The shoes felt a little stiff initially but that feeling soon settled and I found them to be comfortable to wear, with good support around the ankle in particular.
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The comfort is provided by some excellent lightweight padding offered by the whole of the shoe. The heel counter ensured strong stability such that my foot felt securely contained in position.
The shoe gripped particularly well when testing on uneven lies and hitting out of fairway bunkers. Rather intriguingly the website suggests distance advantages can be gained by wearing this shoe, due to better use of the ground. Now I cannot verify this from my limited testing, but I certainly felt a strong sense of balance with these shoes.
There was no water ingress and my feet stayed cool and dry throughout testing. A 2 year waterproof warranty is supplied with most Sqairz footwear which is reassuring.
The 19th hole
Due to the overall design, I think this is a shoe for the golf course rather than the clubhouse, although the sole configuration means that the spike bar can be navigated with no problems.
In summary, this is an innovative shoe, offering performance gains, and it will be interesting to see if it gains prominence in years to come. I suspect it will.
Fit: True to Size/Small/Large/Wide/Narrow
Style: Athletic/Traditional/Off Course Friendly/All Weather/Casual
Out of Box Comfort:9/10
Stability: 10/10
Value for Money: 9/10
Sqairz Limited Edition NF1990 Golf Shoe review: The Details
RRP: £ 228 (currently on sale at £152)
Sizes: UK 7-12 (inc. half sizes) / UK 13-14.
Colour: UK – White
More info:
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