Course of Style: Adidas to unveil its first "natural motion" golf shoes

The golf world is experimenting with "natural motion" footwear, as companies like TRUE Linkswear and Nike adopt golf shoe designs loosely based on the "five finger" concept that has swept the running and hiking fields. This approach brings the foot into closer contact with the ground and eliminates much of the superstructure of advanced athletic shoes. Ryan Moore and Tiger Woods have been early adaptors of this trend.
 
Now Adidas is introducing its own version, with two new models that play up the idea of "freedom and control" and "natural stability."

 
The first, provisionally called Puremotion, is a highly technical golf shoe with an “anatomical shape” and spikeless sole. It features a wider, “web-shaped forefoot” that Adidas says provides a natural fit for comfort and performance. The idea here is that instead of being firmly locked into place, your toes have room to wiggle and grip down at key moments during the swing.
 
The second shoe is the Crossflex and it’s built on a lightweight running last—a shoemaker’s form shaped like a human foot. In lieu of spikes, it has "pods" and "zonal traction elements" for grip in various ground conditions. In other words, it's flexible, lightweight and spikeless.
 
These seem to be the buzzwords in golf footwear right now, along with breathable. Both models have Climaproof mesh uppers and carry a two-year waterproof guarantee.
 
Both shoes will be unveiled atthe PGA Merchandise show in Orlando, Fla., in two weeks. Adidas is not even sure what the final names will be or the exact price ($100 to $120) when they go on sale this summer, but one thing seems clear: like other hybrid and natural motion golf shoes, they can be worn on the street, in your kitchen and to the office on Friday, which for many men will be a welcome leap forward.