ASICS JAPAN S Golf Shoes Review: Comfort Meets Retro Style

Quick Take on the ASICS JAPAN S Golf Shoes

The ASICS JAPAN S Golf shoes give you a sweet blend of retro vibes and modern performance. With turf traction soles and a look that works on and off the course, these kicks are a great deal for golf fans.

Nostalgic Vibes Worth Exploring

Okay, let’s get one thing straight: when I hear “old-school,” it takes me back to the 80s. Back then, ASICS was a big deal in the sneaker game thanks to legends like Isiah Thomas rocking the ASICS Spotlyte. That shoe pulled inspiration from the JAPAN S, which hit the scene a few years earlier. I mean, who can resist that classic appeal? Just like your favorite Chuck Taylors or Air Jordans, the JAPAN S shoes sport a timeless look that’s still a hit today. Sure, there have been retro versions in the past, but this is the first time they’ve stepped into the golf world. So, the big question is: do these new JAPAN S Golf shoes live up to the hype? I decided to find out by putting them to the test.

First Impressions: Style Points!

Unboxing the ASICS JAPAN S Golf shoes? Instant love. My wife even chimed in, “Oh, I really like those!” The color “clay grey”—although around my neck of the woods, clay is more like deep red—actually looks sleek, especially with the oyster grey stripes. If you just glanced at them without seeing the sole, you might mistake these shoes for basketball kicks. But flip them over, and you get a sole tailored for turf. Definitely glad they slapped “Golf” on the name!

They come in more colors too: black/black, white/white, white/midnight, and white/jasper green. So, there’s plenty to pick from!

Comfort: Breaking Them In

When I first slipped into the JAPAN S Golf shoes, they felt a bit snug. I wear a size 9.5, and while the sizing seemed right, it took a couple of sessions for them to feel more comfy. The padding around the ankle had a soft touch, giving good support without cramping my style. The tongue’s cushioning felt great, wrapping around my feet nicely regardless of how tight I laced them up. Now, the footbed? It’s not what you’d call plush, but hey, it adds to that retro charm.

Performance: Holding Your Own

Now, let’s chat about performance. To judge a shoe’s traction, I always think: “Would I wear these on my hardwood floors?” The answer for the JAPAN S? Absolutely! Not a bad thing, just means they’re not too aggressive. The moderate height lugs gave me decent grip on most surfaces. I slid a bit on some wet grass, but for the most part, felt stable and grounded while taking shots. The circular lug design under my toes kept me engaged during swings, which is a plus.

Midsole Flexibility: Balanced Feel

Moving up to the midsole, I felt there was enough torsional flex, which helped with my swing. But it was a different story at the toes; they were stiffer, reflecting the court shoe influence. So, they’re kinda in-between stability and mobility territory. The synthetic leather also helped with lateral stability, making them a balanced choice if you’re looking for a versatile golf shoe.

Versatile Fashion Statement

Part of what I love about the ASICS JAPAN S Golf shoes is how they seamlessly blend into everyday life. You could hit the course one minute and then roll into a store afterward without missing a beat. The timeless design and casual appeal make these shoes a killer option for those who like having a bit of flair on the green and off it. The not-too-aggressive lugs mean you won’t leave a mark wherever you stroll.

Pricing: A Win for Budget Golfers

At around $100, the ASICS JAPAN S Golf shoes are fantastic for those of us keeping an eye on our budget. With multifunctional use in mind, you can grab these without feeling guilty about breaking the bank. Plus, you get some solid style points and a retro look that’ll definitely turn heads.

Room for Improvement

But let’s keep it real: after a couple of weeks, these shoes didn’t quite reach that “I could wear these all day” comfort level for me. While they work great for a round of golf or two, if you’re planning to walk the entire course, you might want to explore other options. If you’re looking for something a bit more cozy, check out the ASICS GEL-KAYANO ACE 2. The added comfort and support can really make a difference on those long days out on the course.

Final Thoughts: Solid Choice for Casual Golfers

So, what’s the verdict? The ASICS JAPAN S Golf shoes are a solid pick for golfers out there who value comfort, style, and versatility without breaking the bank. They look great, feel decent enough after a break-in period, and work well for casual rounds. Whether you’re hitting the links or grabbing groceries afterward, these shoes have you covered. So why not give them a shot and enjoy that perfect blend of retro and practical?

For more info or to explore other stylish options, check out ASICS HERE.

In the end, it’s all about finding the right fit—literally and metaphorically—so happy golfing!