Ecco's Hybrid Golf Shoes - A Nice, but Pricey Alternative

Something’s definitely afoot on the PGA Tour. It started last August, when Ryan Moore won the Wyndham Championship wearing what appeared to be skateboarder shoes with golf cleats. The web was abuzz as folks tried to figure out what kind of shoes he had on (Puma C Hopper) and where they could get them.

The Couples Shoes

Then, at the Shell Houston Open, Fred Couples showed up for the first round of the tournament sporting a sock-less sneaker look. He wore the same “sneakers” at the Masters where he ended up finishing 6th (opening with a 66) garnering more attention for the “Couples Shoes.”

Smartly, the manufacturer ECCO quickly moved to make them widely available for purchase. They are called the Golf Street Premier. ECCO describes them as being a casual sport-hybrid golf shoe meant for on and off the course wear. The suggested retail price is $140.

Innovative Design

Instead of the familiar golf spikes, the sole of the Golf Street Premier feature a series of pre-molded traction bars made from polyurethane (PU) that offer a nice balance of traction, stability and comfort.

Taking its cues from modern men's fashion, Golf Street Premier has full-grain leather uppers with funky color pops and cool metal-rivet accents. They come with synthetic blend wide-flat laces in two different colors for added user customization.

David Griffith, ECCO USA

David Griffith, the spokesperson for ECCO USA, took the time to answer some questions regarding the new line of hybrid golf shoes.

When (and how) did ECCO decide to add hybrid golf shoes?

DG: The designers wanted to add a style that was truly a hybrid sport-casual shoe, something that has never been done before. The result is the Golf Street Premier, with its durable pre-molded traction bars making it versatile enough to be worn on or off the course.

Were they designed with Fred Couples in mind (did he influence the design)?

DG: They were designed to offer golfers a fun, laid-back alternative and provide the freedom for wear on the first tee or out and about with friends. While not designed specifically for Fred per se, his nonchalant demeanor and relaxed style of play is a perfect match for the shoe.

So how did Fred end up wearing them?  Is there a story relating to how he discovered the shoes?

DG: Fred likes to wear tennis shoes due to his bad back, so the Golf Street was a natural fit for him. The shoes’ polyurethane midsole provides support that won’t break down over time like foam or air, which he says helps his back. Additionally, there are more than 800 traction angles on the bottom to provide the performance and stability he demands to play his best.

The blogosphere was buzzing about the shoes.  Any indications of how sales (orders) have been for the Golf Street Premier?

DG: ECCO USA has received thousands of calls even before the Masters, already selling out twice in 2010.

Features

Like all ECCO golf shoes, Golf Street Premier is made using a proprietary direct-injection process that creates a one-piece construction that won't break down over time. Features include:

• Durable and breathable textile lining with microfiber heel grip
• Removable Cambrelle covered inlay sole with the ECCO Comfort Fibre System (CFS) that increases the air circulation for perfect inner climate keeping feet fresh, clean and cool all day
• Polyurethane direct injection process creates a cushion for support and comfort for the middle of the foot
• Internal stabilizer adds stability and ensures the foot controls the shoe
• Single density thermoplastic polyurethane with pre-molded rubber outsole that's flexible but durable
• Comfort Fiber system foot bed
• 1-Year Limited Waterproof Warranty

For men, the color options are: Black/Black/Chili, Concrete/White/Cactus and Licorice/Coffee/Fanta. See Ecco Men's Collection for details.

According to the ECCO website, there are women’s versions of the Street Premier available in colors like Orange, Black, White, Green and Purple. You can learn more here: Ecco Women's Collection.

Conclusion

With a mainstream golf shoe manufacturer like ECCO jumping into the category of casual sport-hybrid shoe, it shouldn’t be long before other big names (think Footjoy, Nike) do the same. That would be a win for golfers because it could lead to lower prices. The Golf Street Premier, at $140, is a bit steep.

For anyone seeking a casual alternative, an option to consider is the line from USA Dawgs. In November, they introduced a collection of casual golf footwear that blends exceptional comfort, performance, value and style. The price point is $50. You can learn more at DawgsGolf.

The move towards a more fun, laid back look on the golf course is great, just as long as it doesn’t lead to slower play. Being more relaxed with a purpose is best!