Shoe News

Adidas releases all-black ZOZO Championship-inspired golf shoes

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October 14, 2021

The latest version of Stan Smith's golf shoes are here with Adidas releasing a limited-edition colorway of the classic tennis-inspired silhouette to honor the Zozo Championship and its return to Japan. The design of the shoe is centered around the Japanese fashion retailer’s philosophy, “Be unique. Be equal.” Those words are inscribed at the heel of the shoe.

According to Adidas, the solid black upper represents equality, and the vibrant multi-colored outsole stands for our idiosyncrasies as individuals. The combination of an all-black tongue, upper, midsole and laces is a rarity among golf shoes, but it creates a uniquely sleek look. This style will also make for some fun on-course photo opportunities: Each follow-through will reveal a red, yellow, blue and black spikeless bottom that will add a pop of color to any golf outfit.

The limited-edition shoe's look is coupled with practicality and comfort. It’s waterproof and includes extra midsole cushioning, optimizing the classic Stan Smith design for golf. Continuing with Adidas’ mission to “end plastic waste,” the upper of the model is constructed with recycled materials.

The shoe not only highlights the tournament's name sponsor's corporate outlook, but it also celebrates the return of the championship to Japan. Last year, the event was temporarily moved to Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks, Calif., due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Next week, however, the tournament returns to its host country. A 78-man fieldwhich includes hometown star and reigning Masters champion Hideki Matsuyamawill compete at Accordia Golf Narashino Country Club in Chiba, Japan.