Can your shoes really make you hit the ball further?

They say they have created their “most scientifically driven golf shoe to-date”. So let’s see if they can back that up in our Under Armour Spieth 4 review.

Under Armour Spieth 4 review: First impressions

I’ve always liked the style of the Spieth shoes and their fourth offering may be the best yet in that regard – it’s a classic looking shoe in a modern sense. The flashes of orange and the black detailing in places complement the neutral white colour, as do the subtle patterns on the Clarino microfiber upper.

If you don’t know before putting them on, you soon realise the shoes are packed with tech. The big takeaway though, was the feeling of stability provided as soon as you lace them up. Anyway, let’s delve deeper into the technology Under Armour have been able to incorporate…

Under Armour Spieth 4 review: The technology

Not only did three-time major winner Jordan Spieth have some input in the design, but Under Armour teamed up with JJ Rivet, the head of biomechanics and sports performance at the European Tour institute.

“Given the importance of power in a golfer’s swing, we wanted traction to be a focal point for the Spieth 4 GTX,” Rivet says. “Through our insights and testing, we were able to engineer a golf shoe that extends force and power to a golfer’s shot beginning with traction from the ground up.”

A lot of this traction comes from the patent-pending lower profile RST 2.0 spikes. This technology will help golfers to keep their feet planted throughout the swing and eliminate any loss of power and control caused by losing contact with the ground.

And despite being so low to the ground, the lightweight design and dual durometer EVA footbed ensure that, underfoot, the experience is pleasant even if the overall shoe feels quite rigid at first.

Finally, unlike previous models, Gore-Tex has been added, meaning the Spieth 4 shoes will be up to the test in any conditions – a vital attribute for those in the UK.

Under Armour Spieth 4 review: My results

Under Armour say this shoe can make you hit the ball further. Surely not? So I went to elite coach and UA ambassador Dan Whittaker’s golf centre in Manchester to find out.

We tested the Spieth 4 GTX shoe on special force plates against a number of other top performers to see if the numbers backed up UA’s claims. 

You might not think a shoe can give you these extra gains, but they really can. Both my longest and shortest shot travelled an extra four yards versus the other shoes available.

You might not think this is much but you have to remember, I was hitting a 7-iron – these numbers are only going to increase as you work up through the bag.

And across the board, my stats were better in the Spieth 4 GTX.

The extra stability on offer meant I was able to load through the floor more, which resulted in significant gains in all distance categories as well as clubhead speed.

If I am to cherry pick some other notable results, against a shoe I’d still recommend to people, my shortest distance was up by 13.9 yards and my average shot was 12 yards further.

Under Armour Spieth 4 review: My verdict

I won’t lie, they aren’t the most comfortable shoe straight off the bat. When you put them on for the first time, don’t be surprised when they feel a little rigid. But if you’re driven by performance, it’ll be worth your time to stick it out. And once you’ve worn them in, the comfort factor will come with it.

I’m a big fan of the styling and the Spieth 4 shoes will complement most outfits nicely. These will be on my feet for the remainder of 2020 as I look to get those precious extra yards.

We all know club and ball technology has gone about as far as it can – give or take a few yards – so the next logical place to look for gains, without overhauling your swing, is at the shoes you’re wearing.

So if you’re willing to sacrifice a little bit of comfort to begin with, Under Armour have really cracked it.

The details

RRP: £170
Available: Now
More information: Under Armour website