by Craig Lemley | Jul 5, 2019 | Apparel, Products, Reviews
I am not one for gimmicks or novelty products — cheap, one-use-only items that usually just end up sitting in the junk drawer — but I am a shoe junkie. So when a couple of boxes of GolfKicks showed up at the CGB headquarters I found myself feeling skeptically excited to try them out.
The idea behind GolfKicks is simple: turn most any flat soled pair of shoes into golf shoes by adding spikes. Thoroughly enticed by the notion of turning any shoe I want into a fly pair of golf shoes, I spent months trying to decide what brand would be best suited for a trial run. I knew I wanted something cheap in the event I totally ruined them, but also something I’d want to wear regularly incase the GolfKicks performed as advertised. I also wanted something familiar in both fit and style, with nothing else like it already available as a golf shoe, and finally settled on a pair of classic Vans checkerboard slip-ons ($50 brand new).
GolfKicks in hand and thinking I’d done enough homework on my choice of test shoes — I’d also seen a pair of the same shoes while scrolling GolfKicks’ Instagram — I figured I’d be hitting the course in no time at all, but that wasn’t the case. I learned Vans’ sole pattern is “not ideal” for GolfKicks after visiting the installation tutorials on the company’s website. Flat, minimally textured shoes work best, but the company says there’s been enough interest in the Vans pairing for them to be “going with it,” and providing a Vans-specific installation video, too. So far, so good.
GolfKicks come with most everything you need for installation — the spikes, a small Phillips head screwdriver and a marker for pilot holes — but you will need a 5/32 drill bit to make pilot holes. For my Vans, though, the company suggests using a slightly larger bit for the pilot holes, as well as Shoe Goo or another strong glue to secure the spikes to properly, so it cost me another trip to the store and a few extra bucks before I was ready to go. Once you have everything you need, installing your GolfKicks is as easy as marking your spots, making pilot holes, and screwing them in. The company suggests starting with 8 spikes per adult shoe — 4 on the heel and 4 for the toe — though each set comes with plenty extra in case you want to add a few more, or need some for replacements.
Regardless of the shoe, your pilot holes are important to make sure you screw the GolfKicks in properly by hand. You want to make sure the bottom of the GolfKicks spikes are flush with the sole of the shoes, without stripping the thread by trying to tighten them too much. For my Vans, I added a dollop of Shoe Goo to each pilot hole before screwing the GolfKicks in, and had to let the adhesive set overnight. GolfKicks are meant to be permanent, meaning don’t try to take them out and reinstall them whenever you want. You’re putting literal holes in the bottom of your shoes, so even if you do remove them chances are your soles are already damaged — another reason why shoe choice is important.
24 hours later and I’m on the course with my new golf shoes — playing a short 9 at Cherokee Ridge Golf Course. Walking on hard surfaces proves a little uncomfortable as you can definitely feel pressure points on the bottom of your feet coming from the spikes. It’s not a deal breaker, though, and may not be noticeable in other shoes with more favorable soles. On the turf, though, the pressure points disappear making the shoes feel a lot more like a regular pair of golf shoes.
Swinging hard from every kind of lie I could find, even deliberately trying to pop a spike or two out of the shoes, I found myself pleasantly surprised at the feel and performance of the GolfKicks. Not a single spike had loosed by the end of the round, and numerous double-takes, complements and questions I got about my “Vans golf shoes” made the afternoon all the more enjoyable.
Cool as they are, GolfKicks will not replace your everyday golf shoes, especially if you’re playing a lot of golf or walking the course regularly. But it is one of those few novelty items that lives up to its promises, cheap and easy enough for anyone to try, and A LOT of fun. I couldn’t be happier with my Vans, and you better believe I’ll breaking them out again when the feeling’s right. If you’re looking to take your golf shoe game in to another level, add a pair of GolfKicks to your collection.
ColoradoGolfBlog, in some cases, receives a small commission when you purchase items from these links. CGB has endorsed all advertisers, products and services and advertising does not influence editorial decisions or content.
by Craig Lemley | Jan 18, 2019 | Apparel, Products, Reviews
TRUE Original
TRUE Linkswear has a simple ask: Enjoy the walk. And they’ve made it extremely easy.
To say the 10 year-old company is making the best golf shoes money can buy may be bold enough, but I’ll take it one step further and say TRUE Links is also making the best lifestyle shoes money can buy.
I’m not lying, but first I’ll make our case for them on the course.
We were first introduced to the TRUE Originals ($149) and the TRUE Outsiders ($139) two years ago when they graciously sent a few pairs to the CGB headquarters. Both lines tout casual yet athletic designs — clean lines and simple, tasteful features, and just the right amount of edge — but the performance of the shoes is what’s most evident at first look.
Set atop the company’s signature cross life rubber tread is beautiful full grain waterproof leather, layered with a waterproofed Symptax bootie, and coated with a water repelling “system.” All this is to say that, according to the companies website, TRUEs are the highest performing waterproof shoes in the game. The company backs that claim up with a 2-year waterproof guarantee — depending on the model — but they may be selling themselves short.
(For those curious and or concerned about where TRUE’s waterproofing products are sourced, the company places a high priority on health and environmental safety. See this page for more details.)
TRUE Outsider
Colorado can’t compare to the sogginess of the Pacific Northwest, where TRUE Links was born, but we do have a fair share of elements to deal with on the course all year round. A little more than 2 years in, and after countless rounds in rain, sleet, snow, ice, mud and everything else, our TRUEs are still going strong. Aside from the nicks and creases that come with normal wear and tear my Outsiders perform like new, keeping my feet dry, and happy.
The comfort level is off the charts, mainly due to the wide base sole that lets your arches and toes spread out naturally as you step and swing — particularly important for those of us with wider feet — and the foot-conforming inserts have only gotten more comfortable over time. The sturdy tread proves reliable no matter how wet and slippery the conditions, and moves like tennis or hiking shoes. Strolls down the fairway aren’t interrupted by any rubbing, pinching or other discomforts either. You truly couldn’t ask for more from a golf shoe on the course.
To many, though, golf is more than a game; it’s a lifestyle. It only makes sense a golf shoe company would deliver a product built for the grind on and off the course.
TRUE Knits
We live an active lifestyle off the course — hiking, skiing, camping, sports, etc. — so the TRUE Outsiders and Originals remain a go-to for worry free footwear. My pair is a must for trips to the creek at the local dog park (where the 2-year waterproof test for this review occurred). No matter how much mud and gunk I traipse through, a simple rinse with a damp rag and these shoes and ready to go again.
Other times, though, something a little more relaxed is in order. That’s a perfect time to bring out the TRUE Knits. The Knits’ ($129) design is more in the casual sportswear realm, meaning high points in performance can still be expected on and off the course, and they’re a perfect tennis shoe substitute. Clearly, the Knits are not waterproof, but the polyester material does keep your feet dry in dew-like conditions — and talk about ventilation.
The Knits are effortlessly cool. The design is sleek and sublet at first glimpse, but a closer look reveals a classic wingtip pattern formed into the beautiful material. On more than one occasion I’ve taken my Knits from a business meeting straight to the tee box, and never fail to earn some compliments along the way.
TRUE OG Premium
The TRUE OG Premium ($179) is the company’s latest release. While we have yet to get our hands on them — or feet in them, if you will — the OGP may the best TRUE shoe yet. As noted in the product description, it’s basically the Original design wrapped in a ultra premium vintage brown leather. Given TRUE’s performance track record and the stunning design, the OGP went to the top of our 2019 wishlist immediately.
If you haven’t figured it out by now, know that we have nothing negative to say about TRUE Linkswear’s offerings (except wishing there were even more lines to shop from). With unmatched performance, unquestionable style, and the highest quality materials, TRUE Links is making the best golf and lifestyle shoes. And that’s no lie.
Enjoy the walk.
ColoradoGolfBlog, in some cases, receives a small commission when you purchase items from these links. CGB has endorsed all advertisers, products and services and advertising does not influence editorial decisions or content.
by Craig Lemley | Dec 30, 2017 | Apparel, Reviews
As younger generations of golfers impact the game with tremendous buying power, the image of the game is quite literally changing. Neon ensembles made famous by one Mr. Fowler, and eccentric prints and loud patters donned by the likes of John Daly and others have found their way onto public courses. But, golf being golf, a strong testament to tradition remains.
Arnold Palmer Apparel, as the name should suggest, is among the best performance golf clothing to come through the CGB headquarters. From the fit and the fabrics to the styles and performance, the official clothing line of the King himself impresses. The company’s shirts tout moisture wicking fabric keeping players comfortable in the steamiest of conditions while also protecting from harmful UV rays, and the flexible material moves with the body through the full range of motion. Palmer polos come in a variety of colors and traditional styles, each with a cleverly iconic name associated with the golf legend, and range from $50 to $60.
Pants and shorts are also available from Arnold Palmer Apparel, each offering similar performance material. Though bottoms usually aren’t the most exciting part of a golf ensemble, the company’s designs shine in the details. Rivets emblazoned with the iconic umbrella set these pieces apart, capped by impeccable cuts and creases that withstand the wear and tear of the course. Though the colors and designs are fewer, Arnold Palmer Apparel pants and shorts will compliment any golf wardrobe, ranging from $45 to $65.
Weather on the course can often times be as unpredictable as one’s game — something we know well here in Colorado — making midlayers and outerwear and essential addition to course attire. As important as they are, I’ve found these pieces are amongst the hardest to shop for, and more often than not, I’m left disappointed in one way or another. Palmer Apparel’s offerings in this category made me a believer once again, with pieces designed for a range of conditions. Performance is one thing, but it’s the fit that usually gets me — it’s all in the sleeves. To my delight, I found these pieces move easily throughout my swing and the sleeves don’t ever interfere with my grip at all. If you’re looking for a go-to in this category of golf clothing, look no further. (Check the website for prices and styles.)
Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, it did. (Hats, belts, and other accessories are available, too, but that’s not what I’m talking about.)
Arnold Palmer Apparel is closely tied to Arnie’s Army Charitable Foundation, one of the foremost philanthropic organizations in the industry, providing financial support via retail purchases. Golf is pricey as it is, and so is the associated apparel. But knowing my dollars are helping not only helping grow the game, but also helping change people’s lives, makes clicking the checkout button a lot easier. Given the close ties the game has to nonprofit organizations — when’s the last time you played in a scramble not benefitting a charity of some kind? — companies fostering social endeavors through sales seems a natural fit, and very welcomed.
Fashion is as big a part of today’s game as the game itself, and will remain so for the foreseeable future. And companies big and small will continue to attract and equip golfers of any style, eccentric or traditional, on and off the course. Fact is, the golf attire industry has reached a point where consumers can now make more conscience buying decisions — beyond the aesthetics — without sacrificing individual style preferences. Arnold Palmer Apparel is a shining example of what the industry should strive for.
ColoradoGolfBlog, in some cases, receives a small commission when you purchase items from these links. CGB has endorsed all advertisers, products and services and advertising does not influence editorial decisions or content.
