By Jeffrey A. Rendall, Images Courtesy of Puma Golf

CARLSBAD, CA – Though it can be said a whole host of things have changed in the game of golf over the past thirty or so years a good argument could be made that nothing has evolved quite as dramatically as golf shoes.

Sure, there was the comprehensive switch from metal to soft spikes about twenty years ago likely brought on by an overabundance of spike marks on heavily traveled greens. I can’t say for sure but I’m guessing those scuffs and bruises on delicate putting surfaces kept a lot of superintendents up at night worrying about how to maintain playable greens for their employers.

But even with all the new innovations I must admit I never thought I’d see the day where there were traditional-looking golf shoes with no laces. Such is the case for the Puma TitanTour Ignite Disc Golf Shoes which at first glance don’t appear all that much apart from your typical shoe -- until you see them up close…and there aren’t any laces to tie them.

Seeing as the TitanTour Ignite Disc shoes are so different I decided to pay a little more attention than usual to the footwear other golfers were sporting one recent day at a local club. It’s safe to say there were a lot of different styles, pretty much everything from casual-looking slip-ons (also no laces) to old-style saddle shoes -- and there were quite a few that could easily double for athletic running shoes.

There were even some high-tops (note, PUMA makes a hi-top golf shoe). It doesn’t get any more diverse in the entire golf industry than shoes.

Needless to say I was curious to hear the story behind the new PUMAs. Grant Knudson, Head of Footwear & Accessories for PUMA Golf was happy to provide it. We caught up with Knudson recently and he explained the latest products for us.

GolfTheUnitedStates.com: In a time when golf shoe designs are getting more "modern," the TitanTour Ignite Disc Golf Shoes looks somewhat traditional. What was the motivation behind creating a shoe like the Titantour Ignite Disc?

Knudson: The idea behind the design of the TITANTOUR IGNITE DISC shoe was to take modern technology, including our proprietary IGNITE foam and DISC lacing system, and fuse it with a classic golf silhouette and traditional materials like our full-grain leather. So essentially this is a shoe where golf heritage meets modern performance.

GolfTheUnitedStates.com: Describe the technology incorporated into the TitanTour ignite disc shoes. How is it improved from what you've produced in the past?

Knudson: The big improvement is the DISC technology which allows you to quickly and easily tighten your shoes for a more secure, consistent and custom fit. A simple turn tightens the shoes to your desired fit and micro-adjusts to ensure you’re dialed in. Gone are the days of fumbling over laces in the parking lot, or having your shoe come untied during a round. A more locked-in feel and improved stability equals improved performance on course.

GolfTheUnitedStates.com: "Performance" is a word associated with all types of golf equipment. What is "performance" where a golf shoe is involved?

Knudson: Performance in footwear, and this is true for all our PUMA Golf shoes, is providing comfort and stability without sacrificing style. At the end of the day your shoes need to perform at the highest level, but they also need to look good – it’s amazing what a stylish pair of shoes can do for your confidence on course.

GolfTheUnitedStates.com: What materials help supply the "performance?"

Knudson: We have a few key technologies that make up the “performance” in our shoes.

IGNITE Foam – PUMA’s proprietary foam that provides energy return, responsive comfort, stable cushioning and superior step-in comfort.

PWRFrame – which is our ultra-thin TPU frame that encases the midsole for lightweight strength and durability, increased flexibility and superior traction.

Then there’s our use of premium textiles and materials like our full-grain leather – that provide long lasting quality and durability.

GolfTheUnitedStates.com: Is it more difficult to make a leather golf shoe waterproof?

Knudson: Not really. With today’s technology, it’s possible to make most shoes waterproof whether they are leather, synthetic or mesh. PUMA Golf utilizes a variety of proprietary ways to ensure every one of our performance shoes have a waterproof warranty.

GolfTheUnitedStates.com: When a consumer is shopping for golf shoes, are comfort and looks the only factors they should consider?

Knudson: They should consider – comfort, style and stability – your shoes need to be performance ready, be comfortable throughout your entire round, and give you the style-edge over your foursome.

GolfTheUnitedStates.com: The disc is very unique...I've never seen anything like it. What is the thinking behind replacing laces?

Knudson: We utilize a steel cable in the DISC closure system that micro-adjusts to your foot, providing all the benefits of laces without the hassle of lacing your shoes. The result is a quick, easy, consistent fit.

GolfTheUnitedStates.com: Finally, there are many choices when shopping for golf shoes. What is the best reason why someone should choose the TitanTour ignite disc shoes?

Knudson: PUMA is the brand that has been able to blend sport performance, lifestyle and fashion better than any other brand in the marketplace. In TITANTOUR IGNITE DISC we provide golfers with the ultimate performance footwear with every modern bell and whistle one could think of, while still maintaining the classic silhouette that traditional golfers love.  We provide a shoe that not only performs but gives you the style edge on course.

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Having been an extensive user of shoelaces my whole life, I was a tad skeptical on first glance at the TitanTour Ignite Disc shoes. I didn’t understand how the disc worked, didn’t know how to tighten or loosen…etc…  If ever there could be apprehension about putting on a new pair of shoes, this was it.

I’m happy to report it only took about 30 seconds to dispel the worries. If anything the shoes are easier to put on and tighten than regular laced-up golf shoes. The same goes for taking them off – one click of the disk and the tension eases.

Not to mention the shoes were very comfortable right out of the box. Gone are the days of having to break in new golf footwear like a pair of business shoes. No more blisters…no more pain.

What else can you ask for?

Like everything else in golf, shoes are subjective to each person’s styles and tastes. PUMA offers a wide variety of footwear to try with a range of prices as well. You can even get outfitted like Rickie Fowler if you desire.

If we could only play like him…our golfing lives would be complete.

(Note: I got my son a pair of PUMA shoes for his first golf shoes.)