Golf footwear megastar FootJoy has entered the minimalist footwear movement with the introduction of their new M Project shoe. The M Project will compete directly with Adidas Adizero and the new Puma Faas Lite Mesh shoe. FootJoy spent over 18 months in development of the M Project before its release this past February.
The minimalism concept first gained popularity in running; the thinking being that shoe design and construction should enable the foot to move as if it was essentially barefoot. Minimalist shoes lead not only to more efficient form and movement, but fewer injuries. By applying this same theory to golf, getting a player’s feet as close as possible to the ground will improve his or her stability, control and lower-body movement throughout the swing. The design of the M Project shoe, forces a player to find his center of balance over the ball. Minimal construction for maximum feel!
FootJoy has incorporated several unique features into their new M Project shoe. Each model in the M Project collection features extra space in the forefoot to let toes spread out and increase grip. FootJoy has lowered the shoe’s heel 40 percent and has a thin outsole that puts a golfer’s foot closer to the ground. The Laser Thin Duramax™ proprietary rubber compound provides low profile turf gripping power while maintaining highly flexible. The ProTekt Toe Guard is designed to provide abrasion resistance in key wear areas.
The new M Project is available in both cleated and spikeless models. The cleated versions incorporate Softspike’s P.I.N.S. Spike System and Stealth cleats which deliver low-profile performance and exceptional comfort. The spikeless shoes are offered in both leather and mesh while the cleated shoes are currently only available in leather. The leather used in these shoes was developed by Pittards of England. It is thin yet strong and helps top offer lightweight comfort, optimum feel and durability. All of the new M Project shoes carry a two-year waterproof warranty.
According to Doug Robinson, Vice President of Footwear Design & Development Worldwide, you may soon see some of your favorite stars on the PGA Tour sporting these new kicks. Footjoy has over 160 endorsers wearing its shoes on the worldwide tours including notable stars such as Adam Scott, Luke Donald, Louis Oosthuizen, Bubba Watson, Steve Stricker, Webb Simpson, and Zach Johnson, so it’s bound to happen sooner rather than later.
Just like the majority of FootJoy products, they can be purchased at major golf retail outlets and online around the country and the world for that matter. MSRP is $135 for the spikeless shoes, while the cleated version sells for $10 more although many online retailers are selling them for less. For more information, visit them online at FootJoy.com/mproject.
