Golf Central

They look the business and probably feel more comfy than a pair of silk socks, but the story behind the new design of their new TOUR360 LTD footwear is a strange one.

Apparently, Tour professionals have advised Dave Ortley, global director of footwear design for adidas Golf, that they want to be at one with the ground when they are playing. Sound bizarre? It’s true. So the brain-boxes in charge with design have introduced ThiNTech technology, a revolutionary new low-profile shoe construction that brings the golfer closer to the ground to give the golfer the ‘feedback’ they desire. It is hoped this technology can improve a player’s feel and stability to in turn promote better ball striking.

Here’s what Ortley had to say on his new pumps.

"It’s not a game of inches, it's a game of fractions of an inch. That's the difference between a solid shot and a mis-hit. Tour professionals advised us that they wanted to get closer and more connected to the ground to increase the consistency and purity of their ball-striking. THiNTech incorporates a one-piece Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) sole that positions the foot closer to the ground creating a remarkably solid, responsive and stable shoe that makes hitting a golf ball a more tactile experience. It also lowers the athlete's centre of gravity to promote increased stability, and channels feedback from the ground more efficiently to promote improved footwork."

Adidas expect the TOUR360 LTD is going to become the number shoe on Tour for adidas athletes, but you’ll be lucky to see your average 24-handicapper chopping around in a pair as they carry a price tag of £150.