With equipment releases coming thick and fast, it can be easy for a shoe to slip under the radar. However, getting this right can make just as big a difference as a new driver. I took the new FootJoy Tour X shoes to a couple of Open venues to put them through their paces…
FootJoy Tour X review: First impressions
I’ve worn Pro SL since they were a thing so I was intrigued to see how the Tour X compared. In terms of styling, they are not up my street at all. Whenever I’ve worn a more classic look shoe, I’ve preferred them without any detail – think plain white icons – and the strap, while vital, spoiled what is otherwise a good looking shoe.
But it didn’t take long for my opinion to change once the shoes were on my feet. They are far better looking from a standing perspective and they can’t be faulted in the comfort department.
FootJoy Tour X review: The technology
FootJoy, as they always do, sought the opinion of tour players and amateurs alike to ensure they built on the success of the Tour-S in delivering excellence across every performance criteria.
As Richard Fryer, the brand’s director of footwear production management, explains: “Feedback from tour and consumers told us that they loved the unmatched stability from the PowerPlate outsole and PowerStrap of Tour-S but craved soft supple leather they experienced in DNA and the underfoot comfort in Fury.
“So, we combined all three and turbo-charged it with the latest technology to create the ultimate hybrid performance shoe. And Tour X was born.”
As you can tell, this shoe is packed with technology, so here’s a more detailed look at what you can expect.
The TPU PowerPlate outsole with Launch Pod technology is the most stable FootJoy have to offer with the nine launch pods on the bottom covering an increased surface area meaning there’s even more width and stability than before.
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Additionally, a bolder graphic underfoot provides a visually striking look sure to grab attention.
Another feature carried forward from the Tour-S is the PowerStrap. Again made from TPU, this system supports the middle of the foot, keeping it locked in place throughout the swing.
As well as stability, FootJoy have succeeded in producing a shoe that is far more comfortable than its predecessor.
To do this, they’ve taken the best qualities from FootJoy’s top performing DNA and Fury lines and infused them together with the stability of the Tour-S.
Specifically, the Tour X now features the same supersoft and waterproof ChromoSkin leather found in the DNAs, as well as the 3D Foam Collar and Tongue.
And inside the shoe, those who take the plunge will benefit from the extra comfort of the Ortholite Impressions Fitbed that was such a hit in the FootJoy Fury.
All this results in quite an upgrade from the already top-performing Tour-S.
But don’t just take my word for it. Here’s three-time major winner Padraig Harrington discussing why he’s put the Tour X shoes into play: “I believe a shoe should be for performance. I’m looking for a shoe that has the ability to help me move and stabilises my feet, yet is comfortable walking around the golf course. I actually need comfort now, I’ve moved to that stage.
“The Tour X is a perfect example. It’s a very, very comfortable lightweight shoe, it’s not like a [FootJoy] classic. When we wore classics, it only took three and a half hours to get round. Now we’re out there for five hours and when I wear the more comfortable upper, my feet feel better at the end of the day. But I need to trust that, actually, I still have the performance.
“And obviously as a style icon I want the best fashion brands as well, in all the different colours.”
So how did the FootJoy Tour X perform? And how much will they cost? Find out on the next page…
FootJoy Tour X: NCG verdict
Plain and simple, I’m very impressed with the Tour X. And I’m not just saying that. It’s an all-round great shoe that you’ll likely see on my feet throughout 2020.
Are they the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn? Probably not, but they are more than comfortable enough. The tongue and collar are softer and thicker than the Tour-S and you get that bouncy feeling underfoot which will only get better over time as it moulds to your feet.
In terms of stability, I’m not sure I’ve ever worn shoes that have performed better. There’s a reason so many top players are already wearing them.
The added bonus? They’re £40 cheaper than their predecessor. £180 is a steal for a high-performing golf shoe – and you wouldn’t think twice about splashing twice that on a new driver…
FootJoy Tour X: The details
Available: Now
SRP: £179.99/£199.99 – BOA
Colour options: White/blue/lime; Black/lime; White/silver/red
More information: FootJoy website
If you have any questions about the Tour X shoes feel free to leave a comment or send me a tweet.
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