Spikeless with maximum grip. FootJoy can do it. The FootJoy Pro SL shoes once revolutionised the spikeless golf shoe segment. In 2022, the 4th generation tees off and presents its stable and grippy Infinity sole with further improvements.
FootJoy Pro SL shoes – what’s inside
The innovative, particularly light and flexible StratoFoam midsole, which was originally developed for the FJ Stratos and has since proven itself in the HyperFlex models, is now integreated in the entire Pro|SL series.
This patented midsole material is particularly lightweight, provides optimum support and cushioning in all golf conditions, and not only absorbs shock but also returns energy to help golfers perform to the letter time and time again.
Who is this product suitable for?
Featuring a new, sleek Pittards chromoskin leather upper, the Pro|SL Carbon is FJ’s most technologically advanced spikeless performance golf shoe. The outstanding properties of the StratoFoam midsole are complemented in this model by special carbon inserts in the outsole, which combine greater lateral stability in the heel area with outstanding flexibility in the forefoot area.
The Pro|SL Carbon uses the flexibility of the carbon inserts to elastically regain its natural position. This leads to a higher energy return when walking and counteracts foot fatigue – leaving more energy for the game.
“The use of our successful StratoFoam technology together with the improvements to our carbon insert take the shoe to a new level of performance, we are very excited about this,” said Guy Smith, Product Manager FootJoy Footwear.
Features and benefits at a glance
ChromoSkin™ leather from Pittards®.
3D foam collar for a perfect upper fit
StratoFoam midsole for fatigue-free walking comfort
Infinity outsole for tourer-proven grip and premium stability during the swing
Carbon inserts in the outsole for maximum stability and comfort (Pro|SL Carbon)
Ortholite Impressions FitBed® for more stability and comfort
As part of the new agreement, the Hawaii-based brand, Maui Jim, not only renowned for their superior lens technology and premium collections. But also, it will supply eyewear to DP World Tour staff working at events across the world.
Benefiting from global marketing rights as well as an onsite presence at several tournaments throughout the season. The agreement will also enable Maui Jim to further engage with golf fans around the world across traditional news media and digital platforms.
Besides being the Official Eyewear Supplier to the DP World Tour, Maui Jim will also become the Official Eyewear Supplier to two Rolex Series events each season. The BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Club in the UK, and the season-ending DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai.
The brand is already a familiar site in professional golf, with brand ambassadors including professionals such as Miguel Angel Jimenez and Jorge Campillo.
About Maui Jim
Invented more than 30 years ago to combat the harsh rays of the Hawaiian sun. All Maui Jim sunglasses cut 100 percent of harmful UV rays and 99.9 percent of glare from above, below and behind each lens.
Maui Jim’s PolarizedPlus2® lenses increase definition and depth perception. This is particularly important for golf, and can be found in a wide variety sport and casual styles for both men and women.
Martijn Van Eerde – Senior Director, Marketing EMEA & APAC of Maui Jim.
“We take great pride in the renewal of our partnership. In 2019 we boosted our presence in golf by becoming official supplier of the Tour. A relationship that quickly proved to work very well. Therefore, we immediately saw a great fit between our teams and culture. The pandemic of course abruptly interrupted progress. However, now we feel very fortunate to be able resume our joint efforts with this milestone agreement.
Golfers around the world, as well as many working in and around the sport, can benefit greatly from using our products and technology. We look forward to working with the European Tour group across the DP World Tour. As well as to further develop that potential alongside our efforts in tennis, Formula 1, SailGP and of course Manchester United partnerships.”
Max Hamilton – Commercial Director at the European Tour group.
“We’re delighted to welcome Maui Jim as our Official Eyewear Supplier. Also excited to see their products in use by our teams across the world during the new DP World Tour season. The brand is premium, high tech, and globally minded. Therefore, this partnership felt like a perfect fit for both parties. We look forward to promoting the brand to golf fans through a series of digital and tournament specific activations.”
Press Release by European Tour Group Communications
Arccos – the pioneer of big data and artificial intelligence for golf – today announced it has teamed up with Samsung to launch the Arccos Caddie app for the new Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, leveraging the Wear OS Powered by Samsung platform built jointly with Google to benefit golfers around the world.
By working closely with Samsung to participate in the launch of the first Samsung smartwatch to leverage Wear OS Powered by Samsung, Arccos has reaffirmed its position as the global category leader for on-course performance tracking and insights. Its members have recorded more than 7 million rounds and 460 million shots with the system while playing golf courses in 194 countries. This feeds the world’s largest on-course dataset, which now includes 31 billion separate data points that are analysed to help golfers perform their best.
Arccos Caddie App for Wear OS Powered by Samsung on New Samsung Galaxy Watches
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 users will now be able to use Arccos Caddie to receive precise GPS distances while in-play and review their shots and clubs used post game. Later this year, Arccos will also incorporate Health Services API information into the Arccos Caddie app for Wear OS Powered by Samsung, as well as enable users to see a variety of statistics from previous rounds.
“Samsung has long been a global leader in wearable technology and Wear OS Powered by Samsung comes with some major enhancements for developers,” said Ryan Johnson, Arccos’ Vice President of Software Engineering. “Our team has found the platform very easy to develop on and the result is a seamless integration between our app, the Samsung Galaxy Watch-4 Series and Android smartphones.”
Golf’s first Artificial Intelligence platform, Arccos Caddie automatically tracks shots while delivering in-round insights and post-round Strokes Gained Analytics. The system includes the world’s first A.I. powered rangefinder, smart club distance averages for each club and caddie advice for any hole on earth. These innovative features combine to help golfers of all skill levels make smarter decisions, improve faster and shoot lower scores. In 2020, the average new Arccos member improved their handicap by 5.02 strokes.
About Arccos Golf LLC
Arccos Golf LLC develops game-changing connected golf products. The company is revolutionising the golfing experience by integrating automatic shot tracking with Artificial Intelligence to deliver unparalleled insights that help players maximize their potential. Listed among the “World’s Most Innovative Companies” by Fast Company, ranking #3 in the Sports category globally, Arccos boasts the golf industry’s richest data set. Its official partners include PING (smart clubs), Cobra Golf (smart clubs) and TaylorMade (smart clubs). For more information, please visit: www.arccosgolf.com.
ARCCOS GOLF LAUNCHES ARCCOS CADDIE FOR APPLE WATCH WITH PHONE-FREE AUTOMATIC SHOT TRACKING
Arccos, the pioneer of big data and artificial intelligence for golf, today announced the official launch of its new app for Apple Watch, which allows Arccos Caddie players to record all of their shot data and access the game’s first A.I. rangefinder without having to carry a smartphone in play.
Previously in beta, the Arccos Caddie app for Apple Watch has received a major upgrade that leverages the latest enhancement to Apple Watch OS. Optimized for use with Apple Watch 6 and SE models, the golfer experience now includes extended battery life, an intuitive interface, A.I rangefinder and caddie club recommendations, more accurate shot detection, seamless shot data syncing, improved hole switching and a one-touch function to mark hole locations.
“Our goal is to give every golfer the freedom to ‘play the game your way,’ and this latest release for Apple Watch is a significant step in that direction,” said Steve Obsitnik, Arccos President and COO. “Along with the incredibly successful Arccos Caddie Link wearable, it allows players to harness the power of their on-course data to play smarter and shoot lower scores without having to carry a phone in their pocket.”
Golf’s first Artificial Intelligence platform, Arccos Caddie automatically tracks your shots while delivering in-round insights and post-round Strokes Gained Analytics. The system includes the world’s first A.I. powered rangefinder, smart distance club averages for each club and caddie advice for any hole on earth. These combine to help golfers of all skill levels make smarter decisions, improve faster and shoot lower scores.
Arccos members have recorded an astonishing 7 million rounds and over 460 million shots with the system while playing courses in 194 countries. This feeds the world’s largest on-course dataset, which now includes 31 billion separate data points that are analysed to help golfers perform their best. In 2020, the average new Arccos member improved their handicap by 5.02 strokes.
The Arccos Caddie system and Arccos Caddie Link are Permitted under the Rules of Golf (USGA Decision Numbers 2018-0414 and 2020-0305).
Leading golf apparel brand Galvin Green has built on its award-winning ‘GameDay’ Part One range with the introduction of a 2021 Part Two collection inspired by the uncompromising precision of computer-generated technologies, matched with long-lasting garments that offer exceptional performance in all weather conditions.
Designed for golfers by golfers, the collection includes a host of new products for men, women and juniors – including an array of INSULA™ sweaters made 100% from recycled plastic bottles that recently won a prestigious global Sports Technology Award for Sustainability.
Designs inspired by uncompromising precision and featuring new Golf Green colour tone
Adopting a scientific approach to the latest styling, Galvin Green designers magnified pixels in complex technical patterns to produce complete creations that merge precise elements into pure performance. They also took the opportunity to create a new Golf Green colour tone that features throughout the collection, highlighting the brand’s exclusive focus on golf and its commitment to a ‘Greener’ future.
“It’s in our DNA to do things by design and at pixel level there is a carefully calculated choice built into every detail of our clothing,” said Designer Batur Raza Muhammad. “Once zoomed out, we’ve produced a series of stunning garments that will give golfers the feel-good factor along with pure performance in all playing conditions. We believe these bright and bold designs will prove particularly popular with our ever-growing fan base of younger golfers.
“With the creation of the Golf Green tone, we wanted to establish an iconic colour to reflect our strong environmental credentials and hopefully, become as synonymous with the game of golf as Racing Green is with British motor racing,” he added.
Galvin Green compromises with the world’s needs and wears Eco-friendly
Combining the most advanced fabrics available from around the world with the Science of Excellence, each garment offers comfort and style both on and off the course. Around 70% of the collection is now produced using environmental Bluesign® approved fabric or certified by OEKO-TEX® 100 to cover thread and buttons as well as fabric. Labels and packaging also come in eco-friendly formats.
New to the wide range of men’s GORE-TEX waterproofs is the ABE jacket. Constructed from Bluesign® approved fabric, the jacket is 100% waterproof and windproof, while remaining extremely breathable. Available in three sleek colourways including Sharkskin, the jacket features a lightweight mesh lining and repositioned side seams for optimum comfort. In the popular GORE-TEX Paclite™ style, the lightweight APOLLO full-zip jacket now comes in Golf Green among seven colour choices.
Galvin Green 2021 Part Two collection
In the men’s versatile INTERFACE-1™ range, the fully windproof hybrid LUCAS jacket with a water repellent finish now comes in five colour options, including Golf Green.
An addition to the INSULA™ sweater eco-generation range, the DAMIAN offers additional padding on the shoulders and back for extra warmth made from 100% recyclable polyester from Thermore®. The sweater is extremely breathable, while maintaining a warming effect #3 – the highest level of warmth in the category. It comes in both Navy and Black options.
Headlining the vibrant VENTIL8™PLUS shirt range, the MAC, MADDOX and MARSHALL styles showcase the inspiration behind the range, with innovative pixel designs in bright and bold colours. The shirts provide UV 20+ protection and come in a Quickdry stretch fabric for improved comfort. Other new styles are the MARCO and MORTON.
A new ETHAN vest with a pixel print has been added to the SKINTIGHT™ thermal base layer range.
Galvin Green seeks the quality versus comfort balance.
New to the women’s GORE-TEX range, the ANYA lined jacket is made from Bluesign® approved fabric. The extremely lightweight and windproof jacket is treated with environmentally friendly PFC (EC) Free water repellency and 100% waterproof. It features two front pockets, one inside chest pocket, plus a two-way zipper and adjustable cuffs for greater comfort. Available in Grey and Navy colour options.
An expanded INTERFACE-1™ range of windproof and water-repellent jackets and bodywarmers includes a super-soft, extremely breathable LESLIE jacket, with shaped sleeves for easy movement and a level #2 warming effect. The jacket comes in a standout White/Silver colour combination.
The attractive DOLLY sweater joins the INSULA™ range, offering style and comfort in equal measure, thanks to the super-soft and stretchy quick dry fabric that allows complete freedom of movement, while remaining both warm and breathable.
Additions to the VENTIL8™PLUS shirt range include the stylish MAIA that offers golfers UV 20+ protection and comes in Blue Bell/White and Navy/White. The new PETRA shorts round out the collection, providing female golfers with an alternative to the popular skirt, skort and trouser ranges.
The comprehensive selection of accessories includes more caps, belts and unisex visors, plus the ever-popular functional rain hats and snoods.
An expanded junior collection features the new REINE windproof jacket and a trendy INTERFACE-1™ hoodie ROBBIE. Press Release by Galvin Green
I know I’ll probably be alienating not-so-small part of the golf community with this take. But it’s about time that we give a voice to those who can’t stand seeing golf bags lined up in front of the clubhouse you see an array of cute little creatures covering up the drivers, fairway woods and putters and you start to wonder.
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!
Guys that drive up the club in a Maserati, that claim to hit their driver 270 yards and have three grown up kids pulling plush toys over their toughest clubs? Why not, I guess. It’s a free world after all.
But there are plenty of good alternatives out there, whether you’re looking for simplicity, elegance, bright colours, luxury or anything in between.
We’ve checked some of the brands that focus on head covers and found some real beauties.
Cayce – HIT BOMBS! Driver & Fairway Woods Cover
There’s nothing more satisfying than hitting a bomb straight off the tee. And you won’t manage it if you’re mind is distracted. So, to keep yourself in the right frame of mind and focus on what to do next when you’re pulling out the big gun, Cayce has this little helper to remind you what it’s all about.
I’m a big fan of the Cayce head covers, especially those made of DURA+, making them fully water resistant. Also available as fairway wood cover. $ 64.99 or $ 59.99 (for the FW) on caycegolf.com
(Photo: caycegolf.com)
Bobby Golf – Respect Blade Head Cover
Stylistically Bobby Golf isn’t always the most confident, but this one showing Hideki Matsuyama’s caddie, Shota Hayafuji, respectfully removing his hat and taking a bow after returning the pin at the 2021 Masters, is right on point. What Cayce’s Hit Bombs head cover might be for your driver, the Respect cover is for your putter. Get yourself in a winner’s state of mind. Available for $ 85 at bobbygolf.com
(Photo: bobbygolf.com)
Reinland Golf – Shibori Head Cover
Not a misspelling of the German river region, Rhineland, Reinland Golf is the head cover brand of the Reinlands, a golf-crazed family whose son, Maxton Reinland, was seeking quality head covers for his golf label Muni Kids. His mother Marti spent hours and hours developing and sewing them and soon, Reinland Golf Company was born.
This one is a nice canvas/ fleece two-colour tie-dye version for all the hippies at heart.
Available as driver, wood and hybrid versions for $44.95 or $49.95 on reinlandgolfco.com
(Photo: reinlandgolfco.com)
Headgear – Electrified Red Styling Edition Covers
Headgear Golf, another US-based company that specialises in head covers, are producing the finest leather goods for your woods and putters. Aside from their usual elegant collection, they offer the option for customisation. They come with a no-pill blizzard fleece lining and will be sure to keep your clubs lint-free. This Electrified Red Styling Edition is really good if you’re looking for something to match your brand-new red Ferrari. Get it for $ 50 (woods) to $ 60 (driver) on headgeargolf.com
Photo: headgeargolf.com)
Desired Line Co. – Barber Pole Cover
Take some fresh colour, add a touch of graphic minimalism and a heavyweight polyester canvas with UV, and you’ll get this weather-proof Nano fabric protection head cover that is 100% made in Australia.
It’s got a sort of vintage touch, as it brings to mind the old-fashioned barbers poles.
Wood/ hybrid $ 54.95, driver $59.95 at desiredline.co
(Photo: desiredline.co)
Golf Team Clothing – Arnold Driver & Fairway Wood Head Covers
Now it’s time for one from Europe. Golf Team Clothing specialise in personalised/ branded clothing for your team, friends, club, tournament or golf academy.
Aside from the customised/ personalised designs, they also feature a wide range of very nice head covers like this one in golf’s greatest colour variation, the Arnie umbrella colours.
Truth be told, I’m just one click away from ordering one for my own hybrid. You can also choose from various colours for the inside fleece lining.
Get driver and wood covers for €52 each at golfteamclothing.com
(Photo: golfteamclothing.com)
Seamus – Pride Rainbow Head Cover
With golf still being stuck with one foot in ancient times, it’s good to see some brands moving forward, with both feet in the 21st century.
“As a tribute to our friends and customers from all different backgrounds, ethnicities and genders, we are proud to introduce our peace and pride golf head cover”, say Seamus on their page.
Why not show off your LGBT+ pride on the course?
It’s not the cheapest option out there. It’s sewn together from six colourful Cardura pieces, red inner lining and an embroidered peace sign on top. All things considered, it’s still a reasonable price for the craftsmanship you get. If you fancy, you can also add a personalised leather label for an additional $10. Fairway for $85, driver for $95 on seamusgolf.com
(Photo: seamusgolf.com)
Rawhide – Splattered Neon! Covers
Let’s keep it colourful with this one. Ok, it’s not an original Jackson Pollock but still one for the Pop Art lovers.
Rawhide hand cut, embroider and sew all their high quality leather products at their Vancouver facility and also give you the chance to create a custom design. T
his splatter design isn’t printed but splattered manually, so each cover is a one of a kind product.
Hybrid, fairway, driver for $110, $120 and $130 via rawhidegolf.com
(Photo: rawhidegolf.com)
Stymie – Fabric no. 22
This piece by Stymie is made put of finest imported wool in an elegant navy and Carolina blue hound’s-tooth pattern with a fleece lining on the inside. Add some style to your bag!
Putter and hybrid covers cost $50, woods cost $55 and driver covers cost $65 at stymiegolfsupply.com
(Photo: stymiegolfsupply.com)
Fillibegs – Tweed Yellow
Now one from my home country, Germany. Fillibegs makes head covers made from tartan and tweed fabrics that are purchased at traditional woollen mills in Scotland and England.
All covers for drivers, woods, putters are manufactured in Germany and come in a very quintessentially British style.
These patterns are available for all clubs, even irons, ranging from €44 to €74 on fillibegs.de
(Photo: fillibegs.de)
Big Dog Golf – OG White & Tan
Big Dog Golf make genuine leather (as well as some woollen) head covers which are beautifully constructed and handcrafted by a family of third generation leather-smiths from Melbourne, Australia.
All very clean, minimalistic, mostly unicolor or duotone with quiet embroideries and a branded leather patch, these covers are just what they’re supposed to be: quality covers to protect your clubs.
And that’s what they do- with style. Hybrid/ wood $ 85, driver $ 95 at bigdoggolfco.com
(Photo: bigdoggolfco.com)
Cody Golf Co. – Granite Fairway Cover
Cody Golf, a brand from Utah, started by the two friends, Cole and Brody (combined Cody), make some of the most timeless and classic head covers around.
Simple, functional, effective in a design language that can be best described as understatement. There are no gimmicks with these ones, just elegant covers in the classic sock and barrel design that will be sure to stand the test of time. They offer a relatively limited range of just five different colours.
Fairway covers cost $44.99 and driver covers cost $ 59.99 on codygolf.com
(Photo: codygolf.com)
Western Gales – Express Send
Western Gales is a division of State Apparel which makes head covers from up-cycled sails, handmade in San Francisco.
I’m a big fan of the idea of using old sails for head covers. It’s not just a good way to save materials, it’s also worth pointing out that sails tend to be very durable and weather proof.
On top of that, each piece is absolutely unique, a one of a kind cut out of a larger piece.
The best piece in their collection probably is this FedEx one. I like to thnk of it as using the FedEx cover to help “send” your ball to its destination.
From $60 (hybrid) to $68 (driver) at stateapparel.com
(Photo: stateapparel.com)
Flush – Nose Candy Putter Cover
Remember that Uma Thurman scene in Pulp Fiction where she takes a bump of cocaine in the ladies rest rooms before getting on the dance floor with John Travolta?
Whether you’ve seen it or not, you’ll definitely find the right “line” with this putter cover from Flush.
Available for blade and mallet putters for $65 via rflushgolfco.com
(Photo: rflushgolfco.com)
Golden Soul Golf – The Iceberg Putter Cover
Last but not least we it’s another simple and elegant cover. Golden Soul’s Iceberg putter cover is available as mallet and blade putter cover. With its maritime and/or festival look, I can’t help but imagine a putting green aboard a yacht somewhere in the Aegean Sea. That said, I bet it would work out well on any real course anywhere else too.
Finally spring! The next weeks will tell if authorities let us enjoy our beloved sport as we want it or if we need to face more ongoing restrictions. But wether or not we’re still looking for fresh styles to wear on and off the course, great clothes to keep your modern golfer identity up every day, cause we still think: golf is not a sport, it’s a lifestyle. So enjoy and all praise the small labels, the grass roots of our sport. They deserve it!
SOLO – Crew Neck
Run by a couple from New England SOLO Golf is bridging the gap between golf-wear and menswear with a fashionable but clean and timeless approach, just as this crew neck sweater proves. No gimmicks, just clean, warm and looking stylish on and off the course. Check out the rest of their small but profound range of clothes. SOLO is definetely worth to keep an eye on. $ 55 on sologolfco.com
Calcutta Golf Company – The Founders Hoodie
Brand new and fresh from the tailor hails this brand from the US of America. With just a small badge of products, basics as T-shirts, caps, beanies and this „Founders Hoodie“. And since we’ve seen not only Tyrrell but also DJ on the Tour in a hoodie, the modern golfer shouldn’t hesitate to „break the rules“. Just do it. Available for $ 61,99 at thecalcuttagolfco.com
Arayne Golf – Tees Headcover
An Australian accessoiries brand specialising in headcovers that differ from the ones you see normally on course. Clean with a love to detail and craftsmanship. All products are hand made locally crafted items from locally sourced materials. More to come soon. AUD 30 via araynegolf.com
Euforeia – Moondaze Golf Towel
Turning five this year Euforeia already has a broad catalogue of polos, hoodies, gloves, hats, shirts, Jackets and accessoiries and women’s line that’s really worth to be checked out. They might need a little help with their T-shirt graphics in my honest opinion, but the polos and a bunch of other things really look sharp. So does this fleece player’s towel with luxurious soft front and a textured backside. The color mix of this one is really striking me. Get it for $ 30 on euforeiagolf.com
Palos – Hello Friends Trucker Cap
Oh, wait a minute! Right, the Masters are just around the corner! In a few days there’s even a small number of patrons allowed. Even though we deeply wish that you’re one of them chances aren’t really that high, sorry. But you’ll sure grab some beers in front of your telly while rocking this Masters trucker cap in style. Cause you definetely need something to whip off your head when your favorite pro misses his putt. Or makes it. Get it for $ 25 at palos.store
McEwan Golf – Patrons Only Tour Visor
Bubba is wearing them, Bernhard did, still does and even Jon Rahm and JT were spotted in them: visors. Looks like they’re having a big come back. No big logo on this one, just the remarkable patrons only chair of Augusta embroideried in classic Imperial Hats quality by McEwan Golf. For $ 28 from mcewangolf.com
Slackertide – Mastacos T-Shirt
If you check Slackertide’s about page you might be wondering as it’s all about golfing and fishing. Weird you might think, but why not? Why not start a label with funny designs about two things you just like? Richard Blanco, a graphic designer from Florida who likes to fish and golf, did. There’s a good bunch of funny shirt designs worth to be checked out – like this Masters taco shirt for $ 30 on slackertide.com
Manors – Sunday Pin Positions T-Shirt
When it comes to golf themed T-shirt we really like the ones that don’t scream out loud: „HEY, I’M A GOLFER!“. The ones that are doing a subtle job midly begging for a affirmative nod when another golfer recognizes the design. Such as this great one, The Sunday Pin Positions, from Manors. The three brits behing Manors started in 2019 being backed up by American and British investors and accomplished to fuse the style and sophistication of the 50s and 60s with the loose and relaxed twist of the 21st century. Clothes for on and off the course. T available for £ 35 via manorsgolf.com
Burning Cart Society – Support Your Local Caddies T-Shirt
Cut from a similar wood are the guys from Burning Cart Society, who not only love the game of golf, but also love to walk, hence the name. They believe walking a course (unless you can’t because of a physical handicap) is essential for experiencing the game, the layout of the course. This tongue in cheek design that takes the logo of the 80s punk rock band „Circle Jerks“ on to a golf journey perfectly depicts this. Or as they state as their ethos: More public golf and less gates. Self expression over dress codes. Break down the walls. $ 25 via burningcartsociety.com
Asher – Quiet Please T-Shirt
And another brilliant and subtle design only golfers will understand. Inspired by the sign that keeps the peace and puts us on the edge of our seat. And once the sign is down anything goes. Fabulous. Also a great colour. Want it? Get it! $ 30 at ashergolf.com
Maximilian Kieffer of Germany prepares to tee off on the fourth hole during the second round of the Estrella Damm N. A. Andalucia Masters at Real Club Valderrama on September 04, 2020 in Sotogrande, Spain. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)
On the eve of this week’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic, TravisMathew has unveiled Max Kieffer as a new ambassador on the PGA European Tour.
The young German, who tees it up tomorrow on Emirates Golf Club’s Majlis Course, joins last season’s Scottish Championship winner, Adrian Otaegui, representing TravisMathew throughout the 2021 season.
Commenting on the new signing, Stewart Clare, TravisMathew Regional Sales Manager EMEA: “As our brand continues its rapid rise in popularity in the USA, we are also hugely excited about expanding the European business. Having Max as part of our team will undoubtedly support us as we further develop distribution through a select number of retail partners.”
As the official apparel brand of the European Tour, TravisMathew takes its inspiration from Southern California culture and style, blending perfect performance and functionality, on and off the golf course, with innovative design.
For the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, Max will be wearing the ‘THE ZINNA, a design TravisMathew calls ‘The Perfect Polo’, due to its lightweight, ultra-soft fabric that offers enhanced stretch and wrinkle-resistance, while benefitting from quick-drying and moisture-dispersing qualities.
On joining the team, Max said: “It’s great to be part of the TravisMathew family. I’m a huge fan of the apparel, both in terms of comfort and performance, and I look forward to working with the European team throughout the season.”
In addition to Adrian Otaegui, Max sits alongside a host of golf ambassadors representing the brand on The PGA Tour – Jon Rahm, Keegan Bradley, Will Gordon, Joel Dahmen, Joseph Bramlett, Tyler McCumber and Seamus Power.
The Off-Season Beauties are for the winter golfing months. There's something for everyone here.
Fancy a golf trip to somewhere warmer? We can forget it for the moment. Wait until mid-March? No way.
As long as we don’t have a Siberian winter and snow is covering the courses, there are absolutely no winter conditions that can stop us from hitting a few balls at the range every now and then or playing a quick 9-hole round.
With a nice warm thermos of tea -or something stronger if you must-, the right clothing and the right partner, it can be quite nice. After all, how else are we going to shift those extra pounds from Christmas?
I’ve selected a few of our favourite winter pieces that will keep you warm and dry – while still looking good. Like always, I’ll bring you the best golf apparel tips while avoiding the brands and labels that you can find in every golf shop, looking beyond the mainstream to the ever-increasing amount of emerging brands that are out there.
Rhoback – The Snow Day Q-Zip
The American brand Rhoback is a brand for clean-cut and timeless styles. They’ve got a good selection of golf clothing and accessories, but also shorts and shirts that seem more like something you’d wear at a California beach. Golf, beach life, surfing, hanging out at the pool – they seem to concentrate their image on the finer things in life. Avoiding large prints, their pieces are fine crafted and designed in a classy, stylish way. However, since we (sadly) don’t all live in the year-round California sunshine they also have pieces designed to keep you warm- without scarfing style. Take this quarter zip sweater for example, which, as they describe, doesn’t affect your swing or handshake. It’s a very nice and warm piece in a quintessentially Nordic design. Available for $ 120 on rhoback.com
Bagjack Golf – Full Zip Quilted Vest
Next up is Bagjack, a Berlin label and a big household names in messenger bags. Their design ethos is uniquely well thought-out, very technical, always lightweight and practical, just like bike couriers like it. The label is very popular in Japan, and a local golf-loving investor teamed up with them to launch Bagjack Golf to not only produce great bags, but also many accessories and practical clothing for our favorite sport- including a lot for the colder days. This padded vest not only keeps you warm, but also offers plenty of pocket depth and options. The stretch material ensures that this piece will not restrict your swing. It’s a little on the expensive side, but trust us, it’s worth every yen. Available for ¥ 43,000 via bagjack-golf.com
Almigos – Nuevo Basic Hoodie
I already introduced Almigos to you in one of our posts last year. A rather small, yet first-rate label from the Californian desert, which inspires many of their designs. Ever since Tyrrell Hatton caused an uproar when he competed in one of their hoodies on the European Tour (and won Surrey), the previously unpopular piece of etiquette-defying clothing should somehow have made it – we live in the 21st century, right? After all, even etiquette hardliners should ease their minds in the off-season, especially when it comes to such a harmless and lovable design as this one. $ 55 on almigosgolf.com
Birdies Double – Knit Golf Hat
There is however one big disadvantage of hoodies: having your hood up while you swing greatly restricts the lateral field of vision and movement. That’s why we might suggest that a classic beanie is definitely the better choice for a companion on cold days. You can’t go wrong with this minimalist piece from the relatively new small golf label from Chicago. It’s got no screaming colors or huge lettering, just a small logo patch on the side, otherwise just restrained, simple, warm and cozy. Get it now for just $15 via birdiesdouble.com
Linksoul – Revolution Gaiter
Another annoying thing about winter: the cold that creeps into your collar. Scarf? No, it’s inconvenient, dangling, often too bulky, and just plain irritating. Turtleneck? Too narrow. Remember the saying: wearing a turtleneck is like being strangled by a really weak guy all day. This neck warmer with the beautiful slogan “Make Par Not War” is the ideal solution. It’ll keep your neck toasty warm without being too tight, and if you need to visit the clubhouse’s restrooms, but you do not have your mask on hand, this one easily covers your mouth and nose. An all-round good choice, even during the pandemic. Order here for € 20 linksoul.com
Birds Of Condor – Breezy Windbreaker
And yes, it’s time to admit: I’m a Birds of Condor fan. The Australians do it best here with this lightweight, hooded windbreaker made of waterproof material comes with three pockets and bags of style. Actually, we I’d even go as far to say that it should never leave your bag- it’s always a good call when the weather suddenly changes on you and it’s too late to turn back. At just under € 70, I can say from experience that this is a bargain and that the Australian brand always delivers super fast and for reasonable shipping prices. For AUD 109.95, it’s yours. Available on birdsofcondor.com
Stitch Golf – Bonesman Umbrella
I’ve been looking for an original Arnie Palmer umbrella for a long time, but this good piece actually does a better job of showing the bad weather what you think of it. It’s also a nice piece of small, on-course rebellion opposing to the same-same and mostly bland umbrellas from more mainstream manufacturers. If this buccaneer design goes a step too far for you, you can use the classic stitch logo design. Get it for $80 at stitchgolf.com
State Apparel – Competition Pant
The next piece was originally developed for golfing below 10°C in the rain. These trousers have inside of the pockets that are made of fabric with the function of a towel. Goodbye wet hands! However, the absolute top-tier feature that makes this piece a must-have is in the leg hem. There is also a second layer of fabric underneath, on which you can wipe your clubs. Normally, nobody would ever really want to do this with their pants, even if it often seems tempting. However, since this second layer disappears under the folded trouser leg, so the mud, wet and grass don’t stick to the leg on the and when entering the clubhouse, all you have to do is simply roll down the hem to look presentable and clean. They are currently priced at $ 205, and are absolutely worth every penny stateapparel.com
Straight Down – Gunner Jacket
This brand from San Louis Obispo has been around for 30 years now, but still hasn’t made it in Europe. The Gunner Jacket is extremely light, folds up to a conveniently small size and still keeps you warm thanks to its fluffy lining. It’s available in three different colors for $ 134 at straightdown.com
Cut Made Club – Hazard Camo Windbreaker
Finally, another fresh label from Europe! Cut Made Club, a brand new label from Sweden willing to bring the street style to the fairways with clean looks just released its first collection a few weeks ago. It’s currently still a limited range, but definitely promising in appearance. In addition to fleece jackets, shirts, sweaters, long-sleeved polos, caps, bucket hats and socks to match this camouflaged windbreaker are also available. So you better watch out you don’t get lost out there of the fairway! Get it for € 101.95 at cutmade.club
If one asks about the public image of golf, the prejudice of the sport of old, white men with rigid regulations and dress codes from the last century persists. Especially among the younger ones, i.e. the ones who are so urgently needed in the sport, golf is viewed as uptight, deadly serious and bourgeois. If you follow the discussions about shorts on the Tour, colored socks or even collarless shirts, you will notice how our dress codes are still stuck in the old days. On the other hand: just the fact that the discourse takes place at all also shows that something is happening. Golf is finally becoming more casual, fresher, more lifestyle as new small labels from the States, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and finally also from Europe are mixing up the scene. With new colors and designs, with charming, smart and witty ideas and lots of attention to detail they are taking the necessary step from stuffy clubhouse fashion to lifestyle, blowing winds of change onto the fairways AND the street, create looks for sports and everyday life. We would like to introduce some of them to you little by little.
True Linkswear – TL-01
A golf shoe that doesn‘t look like one? Currently there are a few. But one that comes across so retro, minimalistic and as casual as an Adidas Stan Smith, so cool and yet so light that you would love to even wear after the round – that‘s rare. Can I have some more of those, please! Available in gray, black and white.
139,- € via truelinkswear.eu
Orlebar Brown – Jarrett Marini Stripe Polo
Polos – still the garment par excellence in our favorite sport. But who’s saying they always have to look the same? Orlebar Brown, the British brand for sports and beachwear, has got some polos made of the finest terry cloth on the market that feel so unique and are as stylish as a 70’s bond hanging at the pool with a view over Côte d´Azur. You don‘t wanna change it anymore.
145,- £ from orlebarbrown.com
Cayce Headcovers
There are people who like little bears, tigers or a funny Santa Claus as head covers. And there are people who would rather put a sock on it than be seen with something like that. There’s a good bunch of manufacturers who are bringing stylish versions onto the market. We particularly like the colorful pieces of Cayce, here the “transfusion” model, a co-op with Fade Golf.
from 49,99 $ via caycegolf.com
Iliac – Merinostretch Cardigan
Whenever we see old pis of Arnold Palmer sporting his stylish cardigans, we’re asking ourselves: where have they gone, the light, beautiful cardigans? Hands down: Justin Thomas leaves the best impression when he’s wearing a cardigan – visually. This version made of Merino from Iliac Golf is it. Iliac is the brand of skate and snowboard pioneer and former Pro Bert La Mar, who now prefers to change green for snow or the concrete in his free time.
164,50 $ on iliacgolf.com
Muni Kids – Drip Arnie Tote Bag
Speaking about Arnie… if you wanna go hand in hand through life with the legend forever, sharing the small things for the round, but also your shopping goods or your laptop with him, the Arnie Tote Bag is just the right one. Muni Kids, a small fine golfwear brand from Portland, delivers Arnie as a pop art piece for every day’s life. Also available as a t-shirt. „You must play boldly to win.“
25,- $ via munikids.com
Birds Of Condor – Neverfind Bucket Hat
This streetwear and golf brand from Australia is already a household name as they always deliver tongue-in-cheek designs on our favorite topic. Shirts, sweaters, caps, lots of fun accessories and these bucket hats, popular with the youngsters. Nevermind if you can never find your ball, plenty more out there mate.
39,95 $ (AUD) on birdsofcondor.com
Uther – Mayan Aztek Tour Towel
Sorry, but we’re sick of seeing the same huge company logo towels over and over again! Uther produces golf towels that bring color and taste to the course – here in a Native Americans design. It‘s almost a shame to use it to clean one’s equipment.
35 $ from uthersupply.com
Criquet – The Driving Glove
Criquet should be known to some of you already. Their polos, sweaters and jackets stand for clean design, comfort and high quality. Always a bit different, but without being deliberately edgy. For them gloves doesn’t always have to be white. The tasty Driving Glove is available in black, green and yellow.
35 € via criquetshirts.com
Random Golf Club – Randamu Tee
Erik Anders Lang, known from golf adventures, recently launched his own line for street and golfwear. A logical step since he has many followers and stands for a new type of golf: loose, casual but stylish, always with a tiny bit of street smartness. I’d wear it from clubhouse to night club to random golf club.
T-shirt 35,- $ from erikanderslang.com
TinyMtn – Pete Dye Course French Lick Miniatur
At the beginning of the year one of the great course architects, Pete Dye, died at the blessed age of 94. Few of us will have been lucky enough to play one of his treats, but you can now put one of his masterpieces in miniature on a scale of 1: 20,000 – the French Lick in Indiana. Nice gift, nice appreciation, we think.
Get it for 47.67 € (and many other miniature courses) via shapeways.com/shops/tinymtn
