(FEATURE) – 2013 MyGolfSpy Fall Apparel {SPY ZINGER’s Top Picks}

MyGolfSpy is unique, and has been from it’s inception. It’s a place where the readership is presented with informative topics from the golf industry in a manner that is straight forward, factual, and most importantly, without bias. There are not contrived popularity contests, or a sponsorship influenced facade. What you see, is what you get. This Fall/Winter 2012 apparel feature is my introductory article as a contributing member of the MGS editorial team. I have structured it’s content in the same manner you have come to expect from MGS.

As a member of the equipment forum communities since 2005, I have had the opportunity to test and familiarize myself with clothing from a variety of apparel companies. I sat down and drafted a list of companies that represent what I consider to be the “best of” in each particular apparel category. The brands featured did not approach MGS with a feature request. Rather I selected them because I have used their product in the past and they’ve proven to be what I would consider leaders in their category. A collection of my favorite brands and products. It’s my hope that you find the narrative and photographs informative as you navigate through your holiday shopping list. Enjoy!

// KENTWOOL

Kentwool is offering MyGolfSpy readers a 20% OFF Coupon Code.   Coupon Code: Bubba2

“The World’s Best Golf Sock?” Let me get this straight, there is a “best” sock, and even more specifically, a “best golf sock?” A sock is a sock, isn’t it? That was my mentality until last winter. I was making some purchases for the upcoming golf season and was in the market for a few pair of socks. I had seen some photographs from the PGA show, and saw Kentwool featured as well as their stable of touring professionals on staff. Naturally, if I have a bag full of “tour issue” clubs, the socks should match right? I saw they offered a 30 day, no questions asked money back guarantee, so how could I lose?

Kentwool socks are made from Merino wool, which is extremely soft, keeping your feet cool in the summer, warm in the fall. Like much of the tech clothing in our closet today, Kentwool socks wick moisture away from the foot to keep it dry. Most importantly, the sock is friction resistant against the foot, which keep blisters at bay. The fibers do not bond with bacteria, keeping your socks smelling fresh after a round.

After a complete season of exclusive use of Kentwool socks, I won’t wear any other brand on course. From the moment you put these on your feet, you can tell they’re different. They provide a remarkable cushion feeling along the bottom of your foot that moves around to the top of your toes and around your heel. The top is thinner and designed to promote airflow. They are the perfect companion to TRUE Linkswear shoes (which I wore this season,) adding an extra layer of support.

I posted a couple photographs of a lone charcoal colored Kentwool sock. This pair has been worn on course and to the office for about one year. They have been washed over 50 times, and still maintain their shape as well as their color. They feel as good today as they did when I put them on my feet for the first time. I included this pair because Kentwool socks are not cheap initially, but seem to last at least twice as long as other sock options. The technology, comfort, and longevity, is why they have been included in this feature.

For 2013, Kentwool introduced the 19th Hole Collection which is offered in three patterns: stripes, argyle, and solid. They offer unique special edition socks from time to time as well.

// TRUE Linkswear

Has a golf shoe ever run a marathon and won PGA Tour event in the same day? It’s a question TRUE Linkswear CEO, Rob Rigg was asking on twitter after TRUE brand ambassador, Ryan Moore won in Vegas this year with their new “Protos”. That same sunday, Rigg was sporting TRUE’s new Sensei shoes while running the Portland Marathon. It was a landmark day for the young company and sparked a 48 hour 50.2% discount on their shoes.

I purchased my first pair of TRUE Linkswear shoes at the conclusion of the 2011 season (TRUE Tours) and have worn the brand exclusively for 2012. Admittedly, when I first put them on my feet, I could not get them off fast enough, and wondered what I had just purchased. They looked goofy, and felt like a slipper, how could I possibly golf in them? Fast forward to the conclusion of the 2012 season, and I have since purchased four additional pair. They have proven to be the most comfortable shoe (not just golf shoe) I have ever worn.

New for 2013 is the TRUE Proto, and Sensei. The Proto is the ultimate golf shoe combining the look and technology of a golf shoe with the comforts of a walking shoe. The Proto is built off the same barefoot platform as previous models, but the sole has been redesigned for 2013. I found the new sole to be an upgrade from previous shoes and offers added lateral support. The new traction pattern on the bottom of the shoe is improved as well and is more aggressive for added stability during the swing. This same sole radiates a harder feeling from previous lines, yet is far from harsh feeling. The Proto’s come with a 2 year waterproof guarantee. Ryan Moore had the Proto’s on during Sunday’s win in Vegas this month.

Also new for the 2013 TRUE line-up is the Sensei. It seem’s like TRUE took their favorite running shoe and turned it into a golf shoe. I am not sure if there is a more comfortable feeling shoe on the market today, let alone, golf shoe. Earlier in the summer, I read “tweets” from CEO Robb Rigg as he was training for a marathon in his TRUE golf shoes. As comfortable as TRUE shoes are, I was unsure how they would be the right shoe for a 26.2 mile trot. As it turned out, Rigg was training in the Sensei and they are every bit as comfortable as your favorite running shoe. This level of comfort sacrifices water resistance, so make sure you wear them accordingly.

TRUE Linkswear shoes take a little getting used to. Although they are a comfortable shoe right out of the box, they feel different on your feet while walking the course. Traditional golf shoes are built on a dress shoe platform with an enhanced heel. TRUE’s feature a “zero-drop” which allow your to TRUE-ly feel the course with your feet. This also places your foot into a more natural position standing over the ball and walking. From the tee box, to the fairway, in the sand, on the greens and even in the rough (so I’ve heard…) they just feel different. They feel better than anything else and there is not a better way to put it. In my opinion, they are the best shoe in the game from a comfort and performance analysis.

TRUE Linkswear require no break-in period and are ready to go from the moment you take them out of the box. As a guy requiring 4E width, they fit perfectly in the toe box allowing my foot and toes to function as if they were actually barefoot. They are as comfortable to wear as a pair of bedroom slippers.

Comfort and performance aside, you’ll be hard-pressed to find brand in golf with the level of customer service TRUE provides. TRUE really understands how to treat a customer, and take complete ownership of their product. I have had a couple interactions with “Cody” about sizing and another issue I was having with my original TRUE Tours. I was taken aback by how I was treated as a customer. I was treated like I was the most important client he had all year and his concern was genuine. TRUE is a young company but they get it. They produce an excellent product, they continue to improve upon their designs, treat their customers well, take ownership and responsibility when things go wrong. TRUE isn’t just a brand on my foot, it’s a company values and appreciates my business.

// 59 BELTS

If I told you I made a new golf purchase custom made from machine milled 303 Stainless Steel, you’d probably think I am going to describe my latest flat stick rather than an accessory that helps keep my pants up. This past year, I made my first 59 Belts purchase. Early in the season, I played with a couple friends of mine that had ordered custom 59 belts. Having seen them on tour in the past, I had yet to see one in person. I was really impressed with the quality, fit and finish of these belts. So much so, that I went home and placed an order on the spot.

I initiated contact with the owner of 59 Belts, Trevor Derrheim. After an exchange of a couple emails, as well as instructions for fitting, I was set and ready to go. Two days later, I had my belt, and thought it looked better in person than the photos on their website. I ended up going with the understated murdered-out 59 logo belt. Plain black leather strap with the aluminum, powder coated black “59” buckle.

The aspect I appreciate most from 59 is the level of personalized service you receive from Derrheim. From the first exchange of communication to the last, you are left feeling like a tour player that is under contract with the company (although 59 does not have paid endorsers.) Each buckle is handmade, one at a time for each customer, and the attention to detail is unmatched. The sky is the limit with personalization and buckles can include your club logo, initials, or even a bust sculpture of GolfSpy Dave.

New for 2013 is the “59 Mini” which is a smaller version of the standard 59 buckle and thinner strap to fit narrow pant loops. The Mini featured here is orange with the white strap, and was donated by Derrheim as a giveaway for a luck MGS reader!

// ILIAC GOLF

Rich in tradition is the slogan of Iliac Golf. That’s exactly what they deliver too, traditional styling paired with modern fabric. Iliac is a unique brand in that you will not find their selections in big box golf retailers. Their products are available through their website or select golf club pro shops. Iliac apparel is made in the United States and each piece is custom made for the order. Therefore, new orders can take between 15-30 days depending on the style and availability of the fabric. The aspect I like most about Iliac’s apparel in addition to the styling is the fit.

The Checked Gingham shirt featured here is UV protectant (50 spf) and weighs only 4oz. The fabric is light enough to play even in warm weather without having to apply sunscreen to the arms. I spoke previously about the fit of Iliac shirts. The Gingham’s sleeves are tapered and fit snugly to the arms. The chest and torso are a tailored fit yet the shirt remains long enough to stay tucked into the pants. The unique attention to detail in the dress-shirt collar, pocket and elbow patches are really well done. When I put the shirt on for the first time, I was pleased and wished all of my shirts fit the same. Iliac typically recommends going a size larger than you would in your average golf shirt.

Premium fabric, construction, and made to order in the United States comes at a premium. Although, I cannot afford to have my entire closet filled with Iliac, I find enjoyment in having a variety, and this certainly provides that. On the days I’ve worn Iliac on-course, I’m asked, “What brand of shirt is that?” Treat yourself to an Iliac shirt, and I bet you’ll be treating yourself to another shortly thereafter.

Tradition does not stop at apparel at Iliac. They also offer a complete line of traditional leather headcovers. The attention to detail and quality craftsmanship found in their shirts are also incorporated into their headcovers. Premium leather, a soft cloth liner, and fabric accents found on their shirts, go into each cover. Driver covers are sized to fit the modern 460cc drivers today. The fit starts out snug, then loosens after break-in. Fairway woods, hybrids and putter covers are also available.

// GMAC

It seems to be a recurring trend on the professional golf tours, players are teaming with apparel manufactures to design their own line of clothing and outerwear. This union produces offerings that seem to be inspired by the players personalty as well as the latest in performance fabrics and technology. Admittedly, the fashion forward, and trendy designs are coming from the European players. In January of this year, Graeme McDowell launched his apparel line, G-MAC, by Kartel.

“The story of the G-Mac by Kartel collection began when Karl Swan, managing director of Kartel Clothing, approached Graeme at the Irish Open 2011 in Killarney with the idea of launching a clothing line. Karl had a great appreciation for Graeme’s style, and Graeme had a similar appreciation for Kartel quality and their heritage of over 65 years in producing fine garments.”

This past season, I wore some of the G-MAC Collection from Kartel. One of the more surprising pieces was the MG Wool V-neck knitwear. Made from 100% pure new mercerized wool. It’s wool, and it’s machine washable! The knitwear fit is a little more “fitted” that the shirts, which I prefer to reduce bulk, yet by no means does it feel constricting. It designed to feel light with non-itch comfort.

The marketing features of this shirt include the McDowell family crest as well as a narrative of it’s history and meaning. McDowell incorporated this heritage as an inspiration into the design of his G-MAC apparel. I thought these were neat personalized features included with the purchase and speak to McDowell’s dedication to his clothing line. This is a classy touch, and provides a nice conversation piece when worn on-course. Not only is the design unique, it’s comes with some history, and perspective on a major champion you may not have otherwise took the time to learn about, had you not purchased his apparel. I’m left with the impression, that McDowell put a great deal of thought into his quality designs, and wanted them to be personalized.

// MARTIN

The byline for Martin Golf Apparel is “Timeless as the Game.” This not only describes the look and design of Martin, but it also describes their marketing strategy as well. The concept is what first drew me to the Martin golf line. Here we sit in the fourth quarter of 2012, while big box retail chains, and low-priced internet discounters drive the golf marketplace today. I have a level of respect for a company that markets only to green-grass PGA Professionals that run clubhouse pro shops. I am not sure what it is, but a pro shop at an exclusive country club anywhere in the United States has a certain feel to it. There are usually limited, hand picked selections from a variety of brands often geared toward the culture of the club. Maybe I am a lone holdout, but I still make several equipment and apparel purchases each year from a PGA Professional. It’s akin to buying local produce from farmers in your area and it just feels right to support the place you call home.

The older I get, I find myself spending more on a limited selection of quality items, than low-priced bargain items. I commonly select apparel with this criteria. I’ve found that after repeated wear and cleaning, the knitwear’s structure, fabric breakdown (lack thereof) and colorfastness remain constant overtime and wears very well. Other than cost, I believe this is a marked difference between better brands versus discounted, mass produced items. The upfront cost is usually more, but the longevity of the piece is twice the duration of a discounted brands. Martin prides themselves on the use of non-synthetic fabrics in the construction of their apparel.

// SUNICE

The golf industry has seen advances in apparel technology and fabric over the last ten years, especially in outerwear.  Options today fit and feel more like a shirt yet remain waterproof.  The result is quiet fabric designed with less bulk, weighs less, and offers more features than ever before.

Owned by the Fletcher Leisure Group out of Montreal, Sunice has over forty years of experience in the outerwear category.  Sun Ice began as a technical leader in skiwear but has become the #1 Canadian golf outwear wear brand since entering the market in 1992.  They offer a comprehensive outerwear line and complete head to toe layering system.

Living in the Minneapolis, Minnesota, area I am too familiar with cold, wet weather.  In fact, much of the golf season here is played dressed in layers, especially during the spring and fall months.  Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to test and purchase a variety of outerwear options from a collection of manufacturers.  Time and again, I am drawn back to the performance, fit, and lifespan of Sunice offerings.

This past fall, I used the Sunice Bollon jacket when temperatures dropped in October.  Off the rack, you’ll notice the fit of Sun Ice sizing is the perfect complement to layering.  I typically wear a size large in shirts and jackets.  The Bollon is sized to wear the appropriate amount of layering for the style of jacket that it is while still fitting like a large should; not too constricting but designed for golf performance.  The Bollon is a full stretch jacket, with a stretch ‘tricot’ lining.  Once it’s on, you’ll immediately notice how whisper quiet the waterproof material is so you don’t sound like a bag of Doritos during your aggressive motion into the ball.  The waterproof material works as designed beading water away from the outer layer, including the zippers and seams.  The Bollon includes a cinching system at the waist as well for a custom fit.  Once you’re on the green, there is no need for a towel as this jacket comes with an in pocket ball cleaner.

The Bollon comes with a four year waterproof warranty, offered in a variety of sizes in both black and silver.  This has fast become my favorite last layer on brisk fall days.