REVIEW: FootJoy Flex Coastal Golf Shoes
FootJoy Flex Coastal golf shoes.
The FootJoy Flex Coastal golf shoes are a stylish, modern take on the all-terrain golf footwear space. Designed to be worn comfortably on or off the course, the FootJoy Flex Coastal shoe is a safe step into a non-traditional look for the brand.
FootJoy Flex Coastal Details
FootJoy has always been synonymous with tradition, style, and comfort. When you hear their brand name, you immediately think of the “traditional” golf shoe look: saddle leather, minimal coloring, and highly durable.
The Flex Coastal is closer to a sneaker or gym shoe in every sense of the phrase. This is not your grandfather’s FootJoys; instead, this is a fantastic right turn into a more modern look that frankly FootJoy needed to do.
As listed on their website, the shoe’s features center around fit and comfort:
PERFORMANCE MESH
Lightweight performance mesh delivers incredible all-day comfort with exceptional breathability.
LASER SPORT FIT
Offers a full rounded toe character with a standard fit across the forefoot and instep. A toe spring and a slightly narrow heel completes the athletic profile.
VERSATILE TRACTION
The Versa-Trax outsole is engineered with traction elements to create an outsole that is perfect for on course performance with wear-to-the-course versatility. Each traction zone maximizes traction during your swing and provides exceptional grip when walking the course.
COMPLETE SUPPORT
A soft EVA midsole provides increased underfoot cushioning, enhanced comfort and exceptional stability.
FootJoy Flex Coastal shoes up close.
Overall Impression
The Flex Coastal golf shoes scream comfort right out of the box. Lightweight, “airy”, and soft, these shoes look like they were made to be worn all day.
Despite being a little on the wide side in the toes, I found the Flex Coastals to be true to size with enough room to allow for a comfortable fit, even during a walking round. Far too often I’ve tried shoes that don’t allow for enough space in the toes, which becomes an issue after prolonged wear. FootJoy has done a great job factoring this understated quality in this shoe’s design.
Traction was also adequate, even on wet grass. Slipping is always something to consider with soft-spikes, but the Flex Coastal golf shoes held their own (literally). No worries of scuffing the green, either, which superintendents will appreciate.
However, I’m not sure if I would wear these in any setting other than a golf course. I’m not certain they look “good” with anything other than golf pants or shorts, so I keep these in the “golf course only” category.
Breathability was also a bit of a factor, especially on hot days. While my feet didn’t overheat, the shoe’s outer mesh seemed to be more protective than air-flow-conscious.
Regardless, I find myself slipping on the Flex Coastals more often, especially when heading out to the driving range for a practice session. I love being able to bring a single pair of shoes to the course, not needing to change in the parking lot.
The FootJoy Flex Coastal golf shoes are a great move for the brand overall, and future releases of this style are sure to offer upgrades in terms of additional colors and mesh patterns. Visit FootJoy.com to learn more.
