REVIEW: TRUE Linkswear TL-01 Shoes
To say the TRUE Linkswear TL-01 is a golf shoe would be doing it a disservice. Featuring a classic, minimalist design that’s been perfected by the brand over the years, the newest offering from TRUE is perfect for any occasion on — or off — the golf course.
Features and Build
What has impressed me the most about TRUE Linkswear over the years has been their dedication to consistency in quality. The TL-01 is yet another example, featuring high-quality Nappa leather, an EVA cushioned insole and a design that wraps around your foot comfortably.
This is definitely a low-profile shoe, rising to just below your ankle. More on the fit later, but I was impressed by how well the TL-01 molded to my foot right out of the box… er, the shoe bag.
I find the outer sole of the shoe to be somewhat unique in its design, featuring what TRUE is calling a Zero-Drop build that supports your foot’s natural arch. The “spike” pattern is recessed a bit, leveling out at the sole without protruding in the slightest. This adds to the shoe’s versatility in wear options, allowing the TL-01 to be worn comfortably on city streets our at the office. You don’t feel like you are wearing a golf shoe.
TRUE specializes in preparing you for the elements, and the TL-01’s come “Weather Ready” with just enough repellant to keep you dry without sacrificing breathability.
Fit and Performance
I found the TL-01’s to be a bit snug in fit at first, but they definitely loosened up a bit during my first wear. TRUE advertises a sock fit opening for the TL-01’s, however I found dress socks or extremely thin athletic socks to be the best combo for these shoes. When laced snugly, the shoes can be a little tight.
Once you find the right sock combo (you can also wear these suckers barefoot if you want to get rowdy), the TL-01’s are fantastic. You can feel the cushioning nicely with every step, and the shoe’s low profile is extremely modern and stylish. I found them to pair nicely with everything from jeans to golf shorts.
On the course, the TL-01’s hold their own from a strict golf shoe perspective. There’s nothing monumental here in terms of on-course performance, but I found the shoes to be stable and supportive throughout my golf swing. They are also incredibly lightweight, making them the perfect walking companion. TRUE Linkswear is a preferred choice of golfers who like to #EnjoyTheWalk, and the TL-01’s are no exception to this mentality.
Overall, the TRUE Linkswear TL-01 shoes are a home run. Their minimalist style and uniform fit give you everything you want in a shoe, and not just a golf shoe. They are another example of a company who clearly cares about their customers’ experience in the game, and the TL-01 is bound to be one of the brand’s most popular releases.