Golf Shoe Trends Promote Feel Fashion

If you think there's nothing new under the golf shoe sun, that the category begins and ends with leather-bound saddle oxfords, then you might want to tune in. Manufacturers have made major strides, if you'll pardon the pun, toward more lightweight, casual, even streetwise styles.

That's right, streetwise golf shoes.

At least two major brands have introduced golf shoes that double as off-course kicks. That means no spikes, of course. (Can't go tromping around the kitchen or tavern with those, can we?) It also means these models look nothing like golf shoes.

At least, not your grandfather's golf shoes. Not your dad's, either. In fact, not even your big brother's.

Let's run through a few of the trends currently moving golf footwear forward.

Dual-use versatility

Until recently, one could wear his athletic or casual shoes for golf, but not the other way around. But once metal spikes gave way to plastic, it was only a matter of time before pointy protrusions were deemed unnecessary altogether.

ECCO and Ashworth now offer shoes suitable for an 18-hole round and the happy hour that follows. Naturally, the street-inspired style appeals to younger - perhaps less committed - golfers. But these models promise good traction with flat, well-nubbed soles, so slippage isn't an issue.

Skeptics should note that forever youthful Fred Couples plays in just such a pair, and he had no problems en route to four Champions Tour victories and a sub-68 scoring average in 2010. (Of course, Freddie's swing is so smooth he could stay balanced in roller skates.)

Go low and feel the course

Traditional golf shoes, with their thick soles and spikes, hoist the golfer off the ground while nailing him to it. A new movement puts players more in touch with turf.

By dispensing with spikes and softening shoe bottoms, innovative companies are encouraging golfers to feel the course through their feet. These low-profile models are said to promote more natural footwork for better balance and rhythm. They're super-light too, weighing in at as little as 11 ounces per shoe.

Shoemakers have also discovered that pinching the toes into a tight, pointed space is no way to treat these precious digits. Wider toe boxes have come into vogue, further enhancing feel along with comfort.

Some traditionalists sniff that these shoes are better suited to the bowling alley. (Or worse yet, the circus.) Wearers swear by them, crediting lower scores to the unequalled feel.

Boot camp

It may be a while before you see a tour pro sporting golf boots. Then again, don't put it past Ian Poulter.

Yes, high-tops have made their way from the basketball court to the golf course. While they've yet to catch on with a broad audience, golf boots are out there for those seeking something truly different. Aside from their conversation-starting looks, boots are a good choice when conditions are especially wet, muddy or cold. They also appeal to golfers who need added support for troublesome ankles.

Far from a revolutionary idea, golf boots actually recall the original golf footwear patented by William Park in 1917. As they say, everything old is new again.

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