Nike is widely recognized for its innovative sportswear and sneakers, but the brand has also established a prominent position in the world of golf. While Nike Golf has already captured the attention of professional golfers, it has now become impossible for sneakerheads to ignore with its impressive range of golf shoes. In addition, many special Nike silhouettes and colorways are now being released as golf releases and these are now also increasingly finding their way into the sneaker world.
There are plenty of reasons to discuss the bold move that turned into a phenomenon today. Whether you want to learn more about the origins of Nike Golf, the design of their Golf sneakers, or discover the most popular releases currently available, you'll find it all below!
The origins of Nike Golf
As one of the world's leading sports brands, Nike saw a huge opportunity to enter the golf market. The company realised the growing popularity of golf and the need for innovative and high-quality golf equipment and golf shoes.
With its proven track record of sports innovation and creating pioneering products, Nike decided to focus on the world of golf. So in 1984, the brand did just that by introducing their first collection of shirts and shoes.
But entering the golf market was certainly not an easy task. Consequently, its success did not come overnight. In fact, the brand had to convince traditional players in the golf industry that it could be a valuable addition.
Collaborations with golf legends
To win over the golf industry, Nike began working with some of the world's most talented and influential golfers. Seve Ballesteros, for instance, was the first golfer to sign a sponsorship deal with the company. Not much later, names like Curtis Strange, Peter Jacobsen, Juli Inkster and Kathy Baker also followed.
These golf stars contributed to the growth and success of Nike Golf through their performances on the course and their popularity among fans. Their partnership with Nike increased visibility and credibility for the brand.
Nike and Tiger Woods
Nike's most crucial and famous move, of course, was signing a contract with golf legend Tiger Woods in 1996. At that time, Tiger Woods was already a rising star in the world of golf and had the potential to become one of the greatest golfers of all time. Nike saw in Woods not only an extraordinary talent, but also a personality that was a perfect fit for the brand.
The collaboration with Tiger Woods was a turning point for Nike Golf and brought worldwide fame and recognition.
Fresh wind in golf industry
The creation of Nike Golf marked a breath of fresh air in the golf industry. It brought a new perspective, combining sports performance and style and also challenged traditional norms. The combination of golf stars' support and continued commitment to innovation, eventually allowed Nike Golf to conquer the golfing world.
The design of the Nike Golf model
From OG models to innovative materials with unique colour schemes, Nike knows how to flawlessly combine style with performance.
The design of golf shoes
Looking at the design of golf shoes, we see that Nike has transformed well-known sneakers like the Air Jordan 1, Air Max 1 and Air Max 90 into golf shoes. These designs stay true to the OG design, but have some features specific to golf. Thus, the golf shoes deliver the style of the OG sneakers, while having everything you need to play 18 holes in comfort.
Nike has also developed shoes specifically for golf. Think, for example, of the Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour, Air Zoom Infinity Tour, Tiger Woods '13 and Victory Pro. Of course, innovation is paramount here, but the design certainly doesn't lose out!
For example, you can choose a sleek style with a classic white pair of shoes. Or make a statement with lime, red or turquoise panels. Prefer an old-school look? Then black is the perfect choice!
Innovation in golf shoes
Besides the stylish designs, Nike also stays at the forefront of technological innovation. Although the OG models only involve small additions, such as integrated traction to get extra power from your swing or a thin overlay for waterproofing, the dedicated golf shoes are designed for golfer performance.
With extra firmness, stability and comfort, these golf shoes provide a unique fit and also awesome energy return. They also all feature spikes, which provide exceptional grip on the course.
Popular Nike Golf sneakers of the moment
The perfect combination of style, comfort and performance has made several Nike Golf releases a favourite choice for professional golfers and sneaker lovers alike. So let's take a look at some of the most popular Nike Golf sneakers at the moment!
Nike Air Max 1 '86 OG Golf 'Obsidian' | DV1403-001
Playing all day and all year round in timeless style is possible with the Nike Air Max 1 Golf 'Obsidian'! It features the vintage Air Max 1 details that are so beloved, but at the same time is combined with revolutionary golf technology.
Nike Air Max 90 Golf 'Black' | CU9978-002
Another example where the shoe stays true to the original icon is this Nike Air Max 90 Golf 'Black'. Its clean lines and timeless style is combined with a few updates made specifically for golf. Think integrated grip and a thin overlay that makes the trainer waterproof.
Nike Tiger Woods '13 Retro 'White Varsity Red' | DR5752-106
On the 10th anniversary of one of the most popular Tiger Woods sneakers, Nike re-released the iconic design. This golf shoe offers the unique fit and feel of Nike Free technology which ensures optimal comfort and fist pumps after putting. In addition, the Tiger Woods '13 Retro 'White Varsity Red' provides ultimate stability even after huge swings!
Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro Low Golf 'Midnight Navy' | DD9315-104
Besides being just as great as the original AJ1, this golf shoe also has everything you need to play 18 holes comfortably. For instance, it features Air cushioning underfoot, an integrated tread and a Wings logo on the heel. The Air Jordan 1 Retro Low Golf 'Midnight Navy' will make you feel good from the first to the last putt!
Nike Air Jordan 6 Retro Low Golf NRG Bordeaux | DV6796-116
The Air Jordan 6 Golf NRG Bordeaux combines Michael Jordan's championship glory with Nike's golf technology. As such, it has a design that represents MJ's early years, such as speed and class. In addition, the golf shoe is full of details from the early 90s, such as the visible Air unit and a translucent plastic sole. The colorway and the image of the cherry on the lace also pay homage to Jordan's favourite drink.
Opkomende Nike Golf sneakers
At the time of writing, we are soon expecting the highly anticipated release of the Air Jordan 6 Retro Low Golf 'White Khaki'. A great opportunity to get your hands on a cool golf shoe too. The clean colorway features bright, white leather on the upper and is paired with dark brown shades as accents.
Another impressive, upcoming Nike Golf release is the 'Play To Live' collection. This range consists of an Air Zoom Victory Tour 3, Air Max 1 '86 OG and Air Zoom Infinity Tour NEXT%. Each golf shoe features colourful graphics, which seems to pay homage to the popular music scene of the 1960s in Liverpool, where, moreover, The Beatles originated.
Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3 Golf NRG 'Play To Live'
Nike Air Zoom Infinity Tour NEXT% Golf NRG 'Play To Live'
Besides that, would you like to keep up to date with other upcoming shoes? Then keep an eye on our release calendar! That way, you'll always be the first to know and won't miss a single release.