Adidas ZG21 spiked golf shoes Review

Two years in the making, adidas say their new ZG21 shoe is up to 20 per cent lighter than brand’s previous spiked shoes and ‘launches a new category of golf footwear’.

The ZG21 spiked shoe is the result of adidas’ tour pros and amateur golfers telling the brand they wanted a high-performance spiked shoe that was lightweight and extremely comfortable.

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adidas took that challenge and have aimed to created something completely new. After nearly two years, multiple prototypes, configurations and infusing their atest technologies, the brand believes it has created a spiked golf shoe suitable for everyone without making any compromises.

The new shoe features adidas’ renowned Boost cushioning system, but the ZG21 is up to 20 per cent lighter than previous comparable spiked models thier range and significantly lighter than many of their competitor’s shoes.

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ZG21 come in four models: men’s laced, men’s and women’s BOA®, and a simplified laced offering for junior golfers.

As well as a clean and sleek design, ZG21 is packed with new technology. Let’s take a closer look at the key elements.

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adidas ZG21 golf shoe tech

Lightstrike

A first in golf, this cushioning is 40 per cent lighter than any EVA foam in the market while also providing shock absorption and quick recovery, perfect for golf where stability through the swing is critical.

It’s been used in other categories like basketball and tennis, and when coupled with adidas BOOST cushioning, gives players lightweight comfort and stability with every swing and step.

Sprintskin

A lightweight and waterproof (one-year warranty) four-layer upper that combines innovative textiles and polyurethane films for breakthrough performance.

Ultra-light Stability Fin 

A new lightweight and durable TPU insert we created in the lateral sidewall that offers increased lateral stability and a locked-in feel throughout the swing.

Swingplane Traction 

Inspired by heat-map studies and running from heel to toe, we target the areas and place the maximum amount of traction where it’s needed most.

Ultra-thin TPU outsole

The new ZG21 outsole features an ultra-thin TPU construction, six strategically placed cleats, and a new crescent moon-shaped secondary lug to optimize grip, support and performance while ultimately reducing weight.

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adidas ZG21 BOA technology

The two BOA models feature the new BOA Fit System, a ‘Y’-strap design that’s a first in the sport and provides an even higher level of performance.

The configuration wraps around the foot, creating a secure fit over the instep and provides flexibility and freedom in the toe box.

The men’s ZG21 BOA is also the first golf shoe on the market to feature Li2 – a sleek, low-profile dial platform that modulates tension when and where needed with enhanced speed and effortless execution.

What adidas Golf say about the ZG21 shoe

Masun Denison, global footwear director

“ZG21 is truly a breakthrough feat in spiked performance. We were able to combine the latest and greatest materials, innovations, and manufacturing processes without sacrificing anything. It changes the game for those who love spiked footwear.”

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What BOA® Technology Inc say about the adidas ZG21 golf shoe

Eric Weis, Vice President of Commercial-North America

“The focus on athlete performance, bold design, and lightweight construction of the ZG21 BOA align perfectly with the market evolution and disruption that is at the core of the BOA and adidas golf partnership.”

Dan Feeney, Ph.D., Manager of Biomechanics Research

“Designed with a golfer’s movements in mind, the Overlapping Panel configuration built on the adidas Golf ZG21 BOA has been under development for the past two years and continues to exceed our expectations in power and precision, delivering more explosive action and unparalleled accuracy.”

What adidas’ Tour staff say about the ZG21 golf shoe

Dustin Johnson, two-time Major champion

“I couldn’t believe how light these were when I put them on. I’ve worn adidas shoes my entire career and it’s amazing how the team was able to reduce the weight so much while still keeping the great comfort, traction and stability.

“Players of all skill levels will benefit from what ZG21 has to offer when they put them on and head to the course.”

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Collin Morikawa, 2020 US PGA Champion

“We walk a ton over the course of a tournament and for me, what stands out the most is how comfortable they are.

“I wore them all week at Kapalua, which is one of, if not the longest walk we have all year, and my feet felt great.

“Throw in how light they are with the traction and stability you get, and it easily makes ZG21 one of the best shoes adidas has available.”

Danielle Kang, five-time LPGA Tour winner

“I’ve worn spiked golf shoes in competition ever since I started playing, so I was really excited when I heard about ZG21. It just has everything you need in a golf shoe.

“Usually when shoes are too light or the focus is more on stability, etc., you have to sacrifice on certain areas of the shoe. Not with this one.

“ZG21 takes it to another level because of how light and comfortable they are without losing the traction and stability we all need when we play.”

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adidas ZG21 spiked golf shoe

RRP: Men and Women – RRP £150 (laced); RRP £160 (BOA). Junior laced – RRP £65.

Models: Laced; Laced wide fit; Men's BOA; Women's BOA; Junior laced.

Sizes: Men – 6.5-12 (UK); Women – 3.5-8.5 (UK); Junior 2-6.5 (UK).

Colours: Men – Cloud White / Acid Yellow / Blue Oxide (laced, laced wide and BOA); Core Black / Dark Silver Metallic / Grey Five (laced and laced wide only); Cloud White / Dark Silver Metallic / Grey Five (laced and laced wide only). Women – Cloud White / Acid Yellow / Blue Oxide (laced, laced wide and BOA); Cloud White / Silver Metallic / Screaming Pink (BOA only); Core Black / Dark Silver Metallic / Grey Five (laced and laced wide only); Cloud White / Dark Silver Metallic / Grey Five (laced and laced wide only). Junior – Cloud White / Acid Yellow / Blue Oxide; Core Black / Dark Silver Metallic / Grey Five.

Waterproof warranty: One year.

Website: adidas.co.uk