Here’s what you could be putting on your feet for the new season
Our guide to all the new golf shoes 2021 has to offer will grow in the weeks ahead to help you make an informed decision about what will go on your feet when the season finally begins in earnest…
Adidas are are always striving to become more sustainable, their new range minimises water use from the manfacturing process to deliver a more environmentally friendly end product.
The No-Dye collection features shoes with uppers that only use the natural colour of each featured material and I love the overall effect it gives.
The absence of dye helps Adidas achieve 60 percent savings on water and energy while also giving these shoes a really distinctive look.
There are three different styles included in the range allowing it to really showcases some of the brands best models. The adicross ZX Primeblue has a really trainer like styling and is perfect for use both on and off the golf course. The ZG21 Motion and ZG21 Motion BOA are definitely more sporty and I love the high sock lining we see in the BOA offering which aims to offer more stability.
These are available in both men’s and women’s offerings.
Adidas always make good looking golf shoes and the ZG21 is no different. I love the styling of these especially in the BOA offering as they are super sporty.
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These also come in a laced offering which my colleague Alex Perry has to try out.
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This is Adidas’s lightest ever shoe that features both spikes and boost cushioning technology.
Adidas used heat-map studies of the foot to help locate their spikes in the best locations so you can create maximum traction.
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For the rest of us Brits out there you’ll be pleased to know these are waterproof and come with a one-year warranty.
These are available in men’s laced, men’s and women’s BOA and a simplified lace offering for junior golfers.
RRP: £150 (laced); £160 (BOA)
Elsewhere the Adicross Retro are super stylish, with their clean retro look you’ll stand out on the course.
The spikeless non-marking outsole is perfect for that on and off course versatility and I really like the fact they use recyclable plastics in the design too.
RRP: £75
It’s 50 years since Adidas introduced the first Stan Smith which has been pretty iconic in the world of fashion for generations. To mark the occasion Adidas are releasing the Stan Smith Golf shoe in a new white and green colourway.
As we’ve seen in the rest of the range it has a primegreen upper which is made from recycled materials. It is also waterproof to help keep golfers dry both on and off the course.
“When we were talking about bringing this shoe into golf, the original white and green colorway was a must-have as part of our planning,” said Masun Denison, global footwear director, adidas Golf. “The Stan Smith silhouette is known throughout the world for being so versatile from a fashion standpoint, so we’re excited to give golfers that same style and versatility for when they head out to the course, now in a more sustainable way.”
As a nod to golf traditions of the past, the shoes feature a removable white kiltie to give players another way to wear their shoes, and add some flair to their round.
RRP: £85
The Adicross ZX Primeblue have a really sporty trainer-like styling.
It features key Adidas technologies such as Boost and the Traxion outsole but the big tech story is all about the environment.
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More than 50% of the shoes’ yarn is made from recycled plastic waste from beaches helping reduce ocean pollution. It also uses up leather waste by reusing cutouts. Sustainable and stylish. Sold.
The new range from Duca Del Cosma is seriously expansive including TWENTY TWO new models for 2021!
On the men’s side the Tomcat leads the collection, I really love the futuristic modern styling of this. The new Airplay XII outsoles also extremely interesting. It is made from recyclable rubber as part of Duca’s sustainability commitment.
The sole features a mixture of grips. Cone shaped nubs for grip, as well as 2-Way-Twist triangular nubs on the toe to help with your swing transition.
RRP: £159.95
The Kingscup is handcrafted using recyclable microfibre which is sustainable and super comfortable.
If the image didn’t give this away these are waterproof. They feature new OnSteam technology that provides waterproof protection in the inner lining. It actually has the capacity to absorb eight times its weight in water!
RRP: £129.95
If you’re after something more classic in styting take a look at the Elpaso model. This has a 100% leather upper combined with recyclable microfibre in the sock system and insole. The Arneflex sole adds a modern twist to this more traditional offering.
RRP: £179.95
The Valderama shoe is aimed at the elite golfer. It has a recyclable Airplay IV outsole which provides superb traction as well as a waterproof sock system and Italian Nappa leather upper.
RRP: £179.95
Duca’s Italian heritage is the inspiration behind the Kuba 2.0. It is made from Nappa leather and has a really sporty shape and styling.
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RRP: £179.95
A modern take on the classic Kuba model the Kubaneo is made from Nappa leather and delivers a bold look both on and off the course.
RRP: £179.95
For the women the Wildcat spearheads the collection and also make a bold statement. I absolutely love the orange and pink colour combination here and the modern trainer like styling. These are definitely going on my must try list.
RRP: £159.95
The stylish Siren is a waterproof offering that is also crafted from soft Italian Nappa leather. I love the pops of yellow here on the sole, laces and collar of the shoe which matches in with the modern trainer like styling.
RRP: £16.99
The Atlantis shoes feature some really intricate coral detailing which needs to be seen up close to be appreciated. The splashes of gold really add to the premium look and feel of this model.
Always one of my favourite releases of the year – and the Ecco Biom H4 do not disappoint.
For my money these are the best looking shoes Ecco have ever brought to the market. The sporty trainer style with the bright pops of colour on the side and the sole make this a very attractive model.
So what’s new in this generation of Biom Hybrid?
To be honest there is so much technology in this shoe it is hard to know where to start.
The most obvious thing is the modern new trainer like shape which is possible thanks to the brand new last the shoe was built on. (A last is an object which mimics the shape of a foot which shoes are then built on.)
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Talking of shaping, the heel of the shoe is also slightly wider to give you more stability and extended ground contact.
And – perhaps most importantly in terms of performance – is the remodelled sole. It has three key sections for stability and traction, ground penetration, and rotational support. Overall the big focus here is on the mid foot and heel stability.
As with all Ecco shoes the sole is made from fluidform technology allowing it to be built directly onto the upper without any glue or stitching. This helps with cushioning and also makes the shoe more flexible.
You can see we have Ecco’s premium yak leather on the upper which is extremely strong and durable. And of course the Gore-Tex technology to make these 100% waterproof.
Another really cool technology is called ‘x-tense invisible’ which links the sole directly to the laces for more stability.
These are available in both men’s and women’s and I can’t wait to get out on the course with these soon so I can give you my full review.
FootJoy have a serious impressive shoe line-up for 2021 after adding numerous brand spanking new shoes to their portfolio for 2021. You may have seen them out on tour already, but here’s everything you need to know…
First up the Stratos.
The big story behind this shoe is comfort thanks to a new cushioning compound called StratoFoam. This is a foam blend which helps absorb shock for optimal comfort as well as providing an energy return when walking and swinging.
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But that’s not where the new technology stops as we also have a new outsole design. The VersaTrax+ design provides optimised traction for any lie or condition you could face out on the course.
This is achieved by changing the tread pattern to provide anti-channeling traction as reduce debris can be caught in the print and the numerous angles help maintain grip and prevent slipping.
It also features numerous TPU compounds to ensure you have the best grip both on and off the course making this a truly versatile footwear option.
The upper is made from Pittards English leather which is beautiful and soft for a luxurious supple feel. It also features an integrated tongue to keep that comfort story going.
The Hyperflex were a golf shoes built from the ground up.
The key new technology is very clear to see on the outside of the shoe in the form of the all new “wrapid” closure system, featuring a new Boa fit. This is to provide a tighter precision fit without adding pressure on the top of the foot – but it also really adds to the aesthetics of the shoe.
This whole shoe has an athletic style and this is by no mistake. It is shaped with a slightly narrower heel and full rounded toe to give it a more sporty appeal.
They feature a new outsole called ‘Optiflex’ – grooves that flex with the movement of your foot to ensure everything stays where it should throughout the swing as well as added comfort.
Talking of comfort there is also a layer of stratofoam cushioning to absorb shock and give maximum energy return. And that red section on the heel? That’s an extra moulded fitbed for further comfort and control.
RRP: £129.99 (laced); £149.99 (BOA)
The classic styling of the Premiere series line-up is to die for.
The new designs from FootJoy looks to combine inspiration from classic shoes with some serious modern technology.
The men’s range features three different designs in the Premiere range all inspired by important people in FootJoy’s history. The series also includes women’s premiere series models.
But that’s not all! FootJoy have now added a new limited edition Peach Cobbler shoe in the Premiere Series Packard model.
These are to celebrate 75 years of leadership so quite appropriately FootJoy are releasing 75 pairs. Each shoe will be numbered, from 1-75, and be accompanied by an authenticity card with its unique number.
You have the Masters to thank for the peach theme. Augusta National is found in Georgia which is also known as the Peach state. The local Fruitland Nurseries was one of the world’s most successful horticultural sites back in the 19th century so much so the state became famous for its peaches.
Want to get your hands on a pair? As there are only 75 pairs available worldwide the only way to get a pair is to win one. 12 pairs will be available to to UK winners. So head over to the FootJoy website to find out more.
FootJoy also have a number of spikeless models for 2021.
No surprises out the gate. The incredibly popular Pro SL remains in the line-up. I love this new grey and white colourway. With tour proven all weather traction you can’t go wrong with this model.
RRP: £149.99 (men’s) £124.99 (women’s)
If like me you love the convenience of the BOA closure system you’ll be pleased to hear FJ have also added a Pro SL Carbon BOA to their line-up.
The Carbon offering differs from the Pro SL as it features a carbon fibre insert within the midsole to offer exceptional stability and motion control.
At the other end of the budget scale, the Flex has a new look and new colourways for 2021. If you’re after a shoe that you can wear both on and off the golf course this is for you. The combination of the cushioning from the EVA midsole, and the breathability of the upper, make these seriously comfortable.
RRP: £79.99
Again the Flex XP have a really sporty styling. The new mesh ribbing gives your foot more support throughout the swing. these shoes are lightweight and breathable as well as being fully waterproof.
RRP: £109.99
A brand new addition to the range is the new Flex XP Camo. The men’s offering comes in this striking grey print.
This pattern is so popular at the moment I imagine these will sell out fast!
RRP: £109.99
If you’re after something super lightweight you’re in luck. The Superlites XP have a really sport styling but also boast some serious comfort. An added bonus, they are fully waterproof.
RRP: £99.99
The Contour casual gets its name from its relaxed styling and comfort levels which aim to deliver a casual underfoot feel. This also has a spiked counterpart.
RRP: £99.99
FootJoy’s 2021 women’s range is their biggest yet with numerous spiked and spikeless options.
First up the classic styling of the Women’s Premiere series shoes are to die for. I really like the fact we have laced and BOA options here too.
RRP: £149.99
Again the Pro SLs come in numerous women’s colourways and has BOA and lace options. I loved these when I tested them out last year.
RRP: £124.99
There are also three Flex models in the women’s range. The Flex is a versatile lightweight spikeless offering which is perfect for all day comfort in summer, both on and off the course.
RRP: £79.99
The Flex XP colourways are gorgeous this year. I especially like the mint and pink options. These are waterproof and feature the same mesh ribbing for support as we saw in the men’s offering.
RRP: £109.99
If you like the styling of the Flex XP you’re going to love the new Camo model.
The popular camo print has been introduced in a grey offering for the men and a blue for women. Some of these just arrived on my desk and they are absolutely gorgeous!
RRP: £109.99
Finally the Flex coastal have a retro materiality and style. I really like the casual styling of these and the texture of the knitted mesh upper.
RRP: £79.99
I love the styling of the brand new Sports Retro shoe, the contrasting colours in this model are so eye catching. I really like the way the upper is very traditional but then we have a more modern sole style.
RRP: £114.99
The latest addition to the FootJoy line-up is the women’s HyperFlex and I love the modern sporty styling of this shoe.
The outer of the shoe is made from an engineered mesh with hot melt yarns for enhanced structure to help support the foot. This OptiFlex design features dual flex grooves which flex naturally with your foot throughout the golf swing.
There is also Stratofoam cushioning in the midsole to help absorb shock to reduce foot fatigue.
It’s not often a serious new player comes along in the world of golf equipment. Introducing Payntr Golf – a name some will recognise from the cricket shoes worn and endorsed by the likes of MS Dhoni and Michael Vaughan.
David Paynter, a former Yorkshire and Northamptonshire cricketer, is the great-grandson of Eddie Paynter, who famously hit the winning runs in the Ashes ‘bodyline series’ of 1932-33.
After retiring, he set about providing cricketers with the kind of footwear he wanted to wear in his own playing days.
“I used to get trainers spiked as a player and a lot of other players did too,” he said. “There was an obvious trend that players just didn’t like what was out there. We’ve developed footwear that has helped cricketers get more out of their game, and have worked hard to establish the brand in the biggest tournaments and competitions in the world, including the world-famous Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Big Bash League (BBL).”
Now, in a joint-venture with former Nike and Under Armour veteran Mike Forsey, Payntr have applied similar principles to golf shoes.
“I truly believe in a biomechanical-first design philosophy that is based specifically around the needs of the golfer from the ground up,” says Forsey.
“By blending informed style and true performance enhancing benefit, Payntr Golf is well positioned to become the innovative product alternative for the passionate golfer.”
In appearance, there are certainly shades of both those brands in Payntr Golf’s debut shoe: the X 001 F that will retail directly from the company’s website only – initially at least – for £120.
While my testing to date has been limited to pacing around the house and visualising the incredible shots I will hit wearing these shoes just as soon as I am able to take to the links once more, there’s no doubting the quality of the fit or the attention to detail.
A full review will follow – of the shoes, not the fanciful quality of the shotmaking – in the weeks ahead.
But it’s already apparent to me that these are serious golf shoes from a serious brand that I strongly suspect is going to be in golf for the long haul.
Puma have expanded their hugely popular Crafted collection by adding the all new Caged Crafted line-up.
I love the way the leather is incorporated on the side. It adds a really sophisticated, traditional twist to the athletic modern shaping of the shoe.
In terms of tech they feature a new adaptive fit system which provide 360-degree support around the mid-foot.
The shoe also features full-length foam cushioning for responsive comfort, while below this the sole features three-dimensional traction that adapts to how you move for improved grip.
The toe is covered in full-grain leather for a clean classic look and the whole shoe is waterproof – crucial in the UK, of course.
If you’re wondering where you’ve seen them before, Bryson DeChamebeau and Gary Woodland have been sporting them out on the PGA Tour.
RRP: £120
Puma have also introduced the new Ignite Fasten8 Pro which is available in both men’s and women’s options.
The internal fasten8 fit system features 8 webbing straps that wrap round from underneath the foot before integrating into the lacing system. This helps delver an exceptionally secure personalised fit.
I love the detailing on this pink and white women’s offering. The microfiber upper is also fully waterproof which is definitely a big bonus when you play most of your golf in the UK.
RRP: £100
There’s something inherently exciting about a new pair of golf shoes as it is – but tell me Rickie Fowler has helped design them and I’m all over it.
The Puma Ignite Proadapt has been designed in collaboration with the PGA Tour star with the game’s best players in mind. The result is a shoe with tour-validated stability, precise fit, exceptional traction and comfort. And this is Fowler we’re talking about, so it obviously comes in a modern, sleek design.
The styling is very sporty too, the shaping and textures work together really well to deliver a shoe that looks dynamic and powerful.
In terms of technology these feature a new adapt foam which this delivers high energy return, stable cushioning and ground feel. We also see a moulded collar which gives you the comfort of a running shoe in a high end full grain leather golf shoe.
These are a spiked offering and feature dual-durometer tornado cleats, with a name like that the grip must be good. The sole also features flex-groves in key areas to improve the natural movement of the foot and make sure they provide all day comfort.
The shoe also comes with a one-year waterproof warranty.
RRP: £140
The new Fusion Evo spikeless shoe is the next evolution in the Fusion range. It delivers extreme comfort, stability at a very affordable price point and all in a super athletic styling.
Puma are describing these an inappropriately comfortable because they feature Fusion Foam, a mix of super soft Eva foam and ultra-responsive rubber for ultimate cushioning.
The upper has a mesh bootie construction for comfort. The nylon webbing straps in the middle of the shoe, are part of the PWRStrap Fit System, and integrate with TPU heel lip for a locked in fit. The sole features hex traction lugs for traction and stability out on the course.
The new Skechers range is so vast it is hard to know where to start. As always the designs aim to deliver ultimate comfort but this years models have been designed with feedback from tour stars including Matt Kuchar and Brooke Henderson.
The core of the 2021 range is built on existing proven technologies such as the Ultra flight midsole technology. So what’s new? New Arch for technology is an insole system designed by looking at over 120,000 foot scans to help provide optimal arch support. It is designed to mold to the shape of your foot, helping spread your weight out and reduce shock.
The new Max Bolt design features a pretty cool 3D printed textile upper. It is water repellant, has high rebound cushioning and a durable spikes sole.
RRP: £89
I really like the sporty feel of the Max sport offering. They are definitely more trainer like and are designed to be super lightweight. The upper is a breathable textile which is still water repellant.
RRP: £99
The shoe with the most innovative sole technology is the Elite 4 Victory. It features a unique gripflex sole which has numerous multi-direction cleats as well as lugs to provide superior traction and stability.
RRP: £99
The Elite Tour SL features a full leather upper, it is waterproof and via the soles each pair has 236 contact points with the ground for added traction.
RRP: £119
A new model for 2021 is the Torque Pro. It features leather detailing n the upper, a waterproof membrane and softspikes in the sole for maximum grip.
RRP: £99
The Pro 4 Legacy is the best shoe for wet weather with full waterproof protection. Again we have softspikes in the diamond traction sole plate for maximum grip no matter the conditions.
RRP: £119
The Arch Fit and Arch Fit Front Nine feature the new arch technology as well as a waterproof upper and goodyear performance outsole for traction and stability.
RRP: £89
When Brooke Henderson is involved in the insight behind a new product it is definitely something to get excited about. She is in fact one of a number of Tour pros who have been part of the design process for the Skechers 2021 women’s range. The new shoes also take inspiration from the brands running and lifestyle divisions.
The Skechers Go Golf Sketch-Air Dos combine style and comfort in a really sporty design. It features air-cooled memory foam for instant cushioning. I really love the simplicity of this design and the gold detailing.
RRP: £89
I love the colour pop in the Skechers Go Golf Tropics collection. This range features numerous different shoe styles all with their own vibrant island vibes. My favourite has to be the Sketch Air Tropics seen on the bottom left below, probably Skechers most attractive shoe to date.
RRP: £89
If you’re serious about getting the perfect foot support the Skechers Go Golf Arch Fit are for you. The arch support is podiatrist certified so you can be assured your foot is getting maximum support for stability out on the course.
RRP: £89
No laces, no problem. Skechers Go Golf Elite 3 Twist shoes feature a Twist Fit closure system to help you get the perfect fit. I really like the futuristic minimalistic style this adds to the shoe. It also features a spikeless durable TPU outsole.
RRP: £99
The Skechers Go Golf Max Swing are made from lightweight breathable textiles for maximum comfort. These are perfect for long days on the course as they won’t weigh you down. The striking design will also make you stand out on the fairways.
RRP: £79
If trainer styling is up your street the Skechers Go Golf Max Sport have got you covered. I particularly like this navy and pink option.
RRP: £79
The Go Golf Pro 2, Elite 3 Delux, Max Fairway 2 and Go Walk are also remaining in the range for 2021. You can read my reviews of the Go Golf Pro 2 and Go Walk here.
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New golf shoes 2021: Under Armour
Under Armour’s 2021 golf shoe range is extensive with eight different models headlined by the new Spieth 5.
The fifth iteration of Spieth’s golf shoe aims to provide the comfort and feel of a spikeless, with all the traction and power of a spiked shoe.
This grip comes from a new interior traction system. There is a new 3D moulded footbed that wraps over the side and top of the foot. This reduces gapping between the shoe and foot creating a better fit and reducing undesirable movement.
The sole also features flex channels that further increase traction, stability and the ability to transfer power from the ground into the swing.
The shoe is designed to sit as low to the ground as possible thanks to feedback from Spieth. It also features UA’s Hovr cushioning platform, for all round comfort and energy return for the swing.
SRP: £147
Elsewhere the first shoe in the Hovr range is the updated Hovr Drive.
SRP: £140
The whole range is designed off the back of extensive work with world leading bio-mechanist, JJ Rivet, to provide shoes with the best possible traction.
Over recent years this has led to numerous new technologies such as the rotational resistance traction and both horizontal and vertical traction systems.
A new technology for 2021 is the new Hovr cushioning which combines energy return and comfort benefits.
There are also numerous other models in the 2021 range to benefit from then new Under Armour Hovr cushioning:
The Hovr Show SL has an updated styling and is also available in a new Mod Grey colourway.
SRP: £130
The Under Armour Hovr Knit is a brand new model for 2021 featuring a full knit textile upper for a sock like fit. I love the modern fresh look of this.
SRP: £115
Another new model is the UA Hovr Forge RC SL this was strongly influenced by Under Armour’s heritage and its original Charge RC running shoe.
SRP: £105
The Hovr Fade SL is has been an incredibly popular model for Under Armour so it is no surprise it stays in the line-up for 2021. It now also comes in two more colourways Mod Grey and Academy.
SRP: £90
The range has also been expanded for 2021 with two brand new models. First up the Charged Draw RST is a tech-laden spiked offering.
SRP: £90
In contrast the Charged Draw Sport SL is a spikeless shoe but still has market-leading traction, impact absorption and energy return from its cushioning compound.
SRP: £85
There are also two new ladies models. First up the Women’s Charged Breathe SL has a really modernistic style and I love this silver colour way.
Finally the Women’s Charged Breathe TE SL has a similar silhouette but features a striking patterned textile upper.
