Professional golfers and weekend players don’t need heavier shoes, so companies constantly look for ways to reduce weight while still maintaining high performance. Adidas has refreshed its ZG Series premium lightweight offering with two new midsole foams, and a waterproof upper.
The ZG23 ($200) is Collin Morikawa’s season-end sneaker. It features a redesigned midsole that is made from two different materials. Adidas used Lightstrike Pro, a soft foam that provides extra cushioning while you walk. They also surrounded it with Lightstrike Pro, which is a firmer material that increases lateral stability in certain areas.
Adidas still has six replacement cleats at the shoe’s bottom. They repositioned the smaller traction elements following a study of the swings of staff golfers, such as Danielle Kang, Xander Schauffele, and Morikawa. This also helped them to identify which areas of the shoe need additional connection to the ground.
The upper of the shoe, also known as the upper, is made from a waterproof, four-layer material called Sprintskin. The Sprintskin combines woven materials and polyurethanes to prevent moisture from entering the shoes. It also adds minimal weight.
Adidas has added to its standard lace-up models, a ZG23 version for women ($220) that features a ratcheting BOA Fit System ($220). A system of wires secures a wrap-over section across your foot by turning a dial. This allows for micro-adjustments to the fit.