Wwelcome to I tried ita GOLF.com series on golf gear – apparel, equipment, accessories and more – that we recently tried out. We’re here to give our honest, no-nonsense take on the latest and greatest golf or golf-related items. So scroll down to read what we like about golf’s latest (or new to us) products.
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When it comes to golf shoes, there is one thing I take very seriously and that is protection from the elements.
Even in the desert, golf courses can sometimes be wet places and the quickest way to ruin a good day on the course is a pair of wet socks, especially on a cold day.
That’s what intrigued me True Linkswear’s new Ascent PNWProof golf shoes.
I lived in Bend, Oregon for two years and although it is on the dry side of the Cascades, I would occasionally get an idea of the elements that can come into play in the Pacific Northwest.
So when I took a trip to Seattle last fall to play Chambers Bay, in NovemberI knew I needed a pair of shoes that would keep my day from getting soggy.
Turns out the new Ascents really were PNW-proof.
Here’s my review of the shoe, looking at five factors: stability, traction, comfort/fit, style, and most importantly for these purposes: elements.
Elements
Although I was fortunate to draw a beautiful fall day with temperatures in the low 50s and mostly sunny skies, the golf course was still quite wet in places.
However, there was never a moment where I thought I was wearing the wrong shoes as my feet stayed completely dry for the entire five-hour lap. Impressive, as there were several low areas of the golf course where we had to move golf balls because there was temporary water.
I haven’t worn the shoes in actual rain yet, but with as much water as there was on the course, I’m confident these shoes are truly PNWProof (and they’re backed by a 1-year waterproof warranty).
Comfort/fit
The Ascent PNWProofs really have an advantage because they are built on a running shoe platform that looks much more like a trail running shoe than a golf shoe. This makes these shoes easy to slip on and off and you can keep them on your feet for hours.
Walking Chambers Bay meant climbing over 21,000 steps and going up and down hills. Nevertheless, I didn’t rush back to the car to change shoes. I felt like I could easily go for 36.
I wore a size 11, the same size as most other pairs of shoes.
Stability
Like many golf shoes built on a running shoe base, the Ascents have a good amount of material on the outsole and I felt my heel move slightly vertically as I walked. But that doesn’t really bother me and adds to the comfort. Lateral stability is what I care about most and I’ve never had a problem.
Jack Hirsh/GOLF
Traction
I never wear studded shoes anymore, but I’m still amazed at how much traction I can get from studs that seem so minimal.
The traction pattern on the bottom actually looks more like a hiking boot, and I bet these would even work well on the trail.
Style
The shoes are offered in black, white and yellowish ‘Rainer’ colorways, which won’t necessarily be the focal point of your ensemble, but won’t distract from it either.
I think the style of these shoes really suits the functional vibe of a pair of shoes, ideal for a second 18, a quick 9 or a range session.
TRUE Ascent PNWProof
Designed to handle the elements with a 1-year waterproof warranty, the Ascent PNWProof is an all-weather shoe that combines ultra-flexible comfort, a breathable construction and trail-inspired traction for versatility on and off the track. Featuring Wanderlux supercritical midsole foam and a TRUE comfort collar, it delivers cushioning, support and durability without compromise, designed for golfers and adventurers alike.
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In short
Unlike many shoes in this category, the True Ascents prioritize protection from the elements without sacrificing comfort, stability or traction.
If you are looking for a casual pair of golf shoes that can serve you even in bad conditions, then the Genuine Ascent PNWProofs are a great option.
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#shoes #PNW #proof #Chambers #Bay