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FootJoy is the clear market leader when it comes to golf shoes and the Pro SL has been a top seller for a number of years. We got our hands on a pair of the updated Pro SL to see how they perform.
The FootJoy Pro SL golf shoe was born in 2016, following on from the very popular DryJoys Casual model. Adam Scott was an early adopter and the Pro SL has never really looked back. There are a number of different Pro SL models, all of which belong to FootJoy’s so-called ‘modern tech’ range. Here we test the laced version of the Pro SL (yes, there’s even a Boa model).
FootJoy Pro SL golf shoes review: First Impressions
The first thing I noticed on opening the box was the leather upper which felt really soft and supple. The overall appearance was of an athletic-looking shoe with a quality feel. It also felt very light. Indeed, on getting out the kitchen scales, this size 7.5 shoe weighed in at a lean 360 grams which is very much at the lighter end of the spectrum
This model comes in four different colour options, although I should mention that not every colour is available in all widths. The white/grey that I tested is available in an impressive four widths but the grey model is only available in standard.
I’ve already mentioned the leather upper which is constructed from Pittards leather and comes with a one year waterproof guarantee.
There is a decent amount of padding around the collar and tongue of the shoe, and a look at the sole revealed 180 (I counted) rubber lugs making up the soft spikes. This is apparently an increase of 30% from the last model so as to enhance traction.
Prior to testing these shoes, I had gone for a FootJoy measuring. This had confirmed my size UK 7.5 (Euro 41) in a wide fitting. It had also found that my right foot was slightly smaller than my left. When I first put these shoes on I have to say that my right foot didn’t feel as well supported as my left. However after a few holes this sensation disappeared and the shoes felt comfortable as long as I tied the laces up quite tightly.
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A feature of some of the current FootJoy lineup is that there’s quite a minimalist lacing system but it is very effective. I do feel that if you are between sizes then you may be better off dropping down half a size.
FootJoy Pro SL golf shoes review: On The Course
Testing was carried out in dry conditions at Woburn and then at my home heathland course. After some initial concern regarding right foot support, everything settled down and the shoe felt comfortable and light. This latest model has Stratofoam midsole cushioning to enhance underfoot comfort and support. It also felt stable thanks to what FootJoy calls the Power Harness – essentially this is the medial and lateral support which combines with the heel piece.
The 180 rubber lugs or ‘stabilisation points’ as FootJoy calls them, allied to the perimeter weighting of the proprietary outsole with 17% more surface area in the heel, all make this a very grippy shoe. You almost forget that this is a spikeless model, such is the on-course performance. There was no sense of instability or slipping even when swinging hard on uneven surfaces.
Breathability was excellent as you would expect from a premium leather upper. My feet remained fresh after each round of testing. And the softness underfoot combined with the lightweight construction means that I wouldn’t hesitate to play 36 holes in this shoe.
FootJoy Pro SL golf shoes review: The 19th hole
If ever there was a shoe that could be worn away from the course then this is it. The unobtrusive branding means that I could easily pop into the supermarket on the way home without a second thought. And if I were to encounter a banana skin, I would probably remain upright thanks to that grippy sole.
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So this is another quality product from FootJoy that will have wide appeal; from young to old, from casual golfer to tour pro. I think that this is a well-constructed and comfortable shoe that performs well and comes in at a reasonable price point, considering the premium construction.
Although the Pro SL will suit the majority of golfers, I have also reviewed the Pro SL Carbon model which offers some further performance advantages at an extra cost. And it is this model that, arguably, is the only reason not to buy the Pro SL.
Fit: True to Size/Small/Large/Wide/Narrow Style: Athletic/Traditional/Off Course Friendly/All Weather/Casual Out of Box Comfort: 8.5/10 Stability: 8.5/10 Value for Money: 8.5/10
FootJoy Pro SL golf shoes review: The Details
Available: Now RRP: £159.99 / $129.99
Sizes: UK 6 -14 depending on colour choice ( half sizes upto 11). Colours: White/grey, White/navy, Black/charcoal, Grey.
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FootJoy Pro SL golf shoes review - Best Golf Shoes - National Club Golfer | National Club Golfer
