FootJoy D.N.A.

Since their release earlier this year, FootJoy's new D.N.A golf shoes have already proven to be a hit on the PGA Tour. Playing off of that, they are likely to be a hit with Joe Everyday Golfer as well. The D.N.A. stands for DryJoy's Next Advancement and by all accounts, it certainly is.

When it comes to golf shoes, each player's idea of comfort is a little bit different. There is no "one shoe fits all", scenario, (not to be confuse with "if the shoe fits, wear it", which is a whole different scenario related to sizing). In my humble opinion, since no company is going to offer a "test drive," it is always best to try them on first.

You might think the shoes feel a little weird at first - a result of the spike alignment being a little different. If you're at the golf shop, put them on and then walk around a bit, maybe even hit some balls in a hitting bay (Golfsmith in Tampa, FL comes to mind). Get an idea if they are going to be right for you; odds are they are.

A lot of research and technology went into this footwear. Here are some of the key features:
3D FoamCollar: Using a very spongy material, the collar molds to the ankle, which is important in eliminating excess movement of the foot within the shoe during the golf swing. This can be a power killer and compromise balance and comfort.
SnugFit Tongue with MicroVent" Technology: Made from a material similar to that found in the 3D Foam Collar, its thin and athletic design is shaped to match the foot. It also features a targeted ventilation zone which provides optimal breathability.

ChromoSkin Leather: Developed by Pittard's of London, this thin, performance leather is supple, durable and lightweight. These characteristics fit well within the specifications of the D.N.A. With leather this good, it's no wonder that FootJoy can offer a two year warranty.

NitroThin TPU (thermoplastic urethane) Outsole: This is perhaps the most obvious piece of technology on the shoe and provides lightweight stability and performance. It's plain to see that the nine Stealth Cleats by Softspikes have been pushed farther out towards the edge of the sole. In fact, so much so that the edges of the top spikes on each shoe are visible when looking down at the shoes. The Nitro Last offers a full rounded toe character, slightly shallow forefoot, slightly narrow heel and standard instep. The extra depth helps accommodate a thicker fit-bed for enhanced cushioning.

The Xtra-Thick FTF FitBed: Provides the optimal amount of comfort for the underfoot and heel support. It's quite noticeable in the heel, and pretty thin in the toe, all of which is by design. The sole's instep portion is molded slightly upward, which guarantees a snug yet comfortable fit.

When it comes to spikeless shoes, you can't go wrong with either the Dryjoy Casuals or Nike TW 14 Mesh shoes for comfort. But if you're looking for that same amount of comfort in a spiked shoe, that's what you'll get with the FootJoy D.N.A.

These shoes require no break in period; buy them in the pro shop and wear them to the range -assuming you warm up - or straight to the first tee. They aren't your grandfather's shoes - they can pass both the style style and class tests. Besides, if you're game goes south, you might as well look good doing it.

Sizes for the FootJoy D.N.A. range from 7-15, depending on width. They're available in six colors, primarily white with a colored trim and black/gray. The shoes fits true to size in both length and width.

Like I mentioned earlier, FootJoy has put a lot of technology into the new D.N.A. shoe. The result is a product that is lightweight and offers functionality, comfort and style. Plain and simple, this is a good looking shoe - no matter what color you choose. The new D.N.A. is proof that a company can improve on something that they are already the best at in the industry: making golf footwear.

Unfortunately for us common folk, this PGA Tour-quality shoe also carries a PGA Tour-worthy price. Major golf retailers list the standard lace model at around $190 while the BOA lace style, which tightens by a knob on the back of the shoe, sells for around $210. For more information or to try on a pair, visit your favorite golf retailer or go to the FootJoy website at www.FootJoy.com.