IRVINE, Calif. (March 3, 2010) – ASICS America officially announced it has expanded its footwear offering by introducing a golf collection. The two new styles, the GEL-Ace™ for men and the Lady GEL-Ace™ for women, will be available in the United States beginning in mid-November at Golf Galaxy retail stores nationwide and online at golfgalaxy.com and dickssportinggoods.com.
Buzz about the collection began in April 2009, when Japanese golf sensation Shingo Katayama, who placed fourth at the Masters, received considerable media coverage while wearing a prototype of the GEL-Ace™ shoes. Combining a fashion forward aesthetic with ASICS’ proprietary technology, the shoes are a true innovation for all golfers from professional to recreational.
"I am proud to wear ASICS golf shoes, and believe the shoes make me a better player,” says Shingo Katayama, professional golfer. “They have great fit and style and I’m less tired after several rounds.”
The men’s GEL-Ace™ will be available in three colorways: white/green, white/silver and black/silver in sizes 7-12,13,14. The women’s Lady GEL-Ace™ will be available in two options: white/hot pink and white/champagne gold in sizes 6-12. Women's style will retail for $125 and the men's style will retail at $170.
Best known for performance oriented running shoes, ASICS has translated key technical features and craftsmanship into a golf shoe that enhances athletic performance. Most notably, an extended trusstic that contours the heel and provides a solid base of support under the heel and arch, leading to a reduction in fatigue while also enhancing foot stability during the golf swing.
Additional features include; waterproof inner lining that keeps the foot dry while maintaining breathability, a sockliner that is reinforced for additional arch support, hidden lacing system that allows for a snugger fit and slimmer profile, and replaceable Champ Scorpion Stinger Spikes.
“We are thrilled to enter the golf category and bring ASICS technology to today's golfer,” says Matt Donnelly, Footwear Manager for ASICS America Corporation. “Based on the excitement and interest Katayama generated wearing the shoes at the Masters, we feel confident consumers are interested in a functional yet stylish golf shoe.”
Golf Product Manager Matt Donnelly was interviewed by Tee It Up Radio on April 25, 2010, regarding ASICS entry into the golf category. Listen to the audio.
Click here to play
UPDATED FIT INFORMATION (May 27, 2010):
We have been receiving questions regarding the fit of our golf shoes compared to our running shoes, as well as where to find them. Here is some additional information to help answer those questions:
Shoe Fit: Our golf shoes run about a 1/4 size longer than our running shoes. If you have a wider foot, staying in the same size you have in a running shoe may provide the best fit. A narrow foot may require you to look at a half size smaller golf shoe than your normal running shoe size. Standard width wearers may stay in the same size as their running shoe. As always, trying on the shoe prior to purchase will confirm your best size. If you are purchasing online through Dick's or Golf Galaxy, their customer service department may be able to provide you with additional fit information based on previous purchaser’s feedback.
Availability: The shoes are currently carried at Dick's Sporting Goods and Golf Galaxy. Beginning October 2010, you may begin to see the product in other retailers as well. Updates on availability will be posted on this blog.
Spikes: The Champ Scorpion Stinger Spikes are the replaceable spikes which can be used on this shoe. Look specifically for spike No. 75640.