In February when Red Sun Day made its initial appearancethere was one thing in particular that I was drawn to: shoes.
For months, I’ve seen prototypes and been left wondering what Sun Day Red’s attempt at golf shoes would look.
I’m happy to report that it’s no longer left to my imagination. Sun Day Red’s first golf shoe, the Pioneer Cypress, makes its retail debut tomorrow, December 4th. It’s here and, to my surprise, it’s glorious.
I’m not going to sit here and say I love everything about Pioneer Cypress. But based on initial impressions and first wear test alone, I’m pleasantly surprised at what Sun Day Red has come a long way in such a short time.
If the brand’s mission was to make the traditional golf shoe better, they’re well on their way. Here’s what I mean.
There are no shortcuts
If I could say one thing to sum up Cypress Red Pioneer Day of the Sun, it’s the idea of ​​not taking shortcuts. Ironic, isn’t it, considering the brand isn’t even a year old and they’re already launching a polished golf shoe? But still, Red Sun Day pulled out all the stops for Cypress Pioneer.
It is, without a doubt, the most premium golf shoe I have ever seen. And, trust me, I’ve tried on a lot of shoes. The full-grain leather upper, buttery-soft leather sockliner, and gorgeous perf detailing give the shoe a feel (and smell) worthy of its eye-watering $250 price tag. Yes, I wish they were cheaper. But, also yes, I’m willing to pay extra for materials that feel this good.
This shoe literally passes my sniff test. Nothing beats the smell of real leather and fresh glue.
Speaking of smelly shoes, the Pioneer Cypress comes with two pairs of insoles for when one inevitably gets smelly. Oh, and the extra pair has massaging nubs (similar to what you’d find on a G/FORE shoe, which is cool considering TaylorMade’s partnership with the brand).
Another small detail adds to the experience. It’s not often that you get an extra pair of insoles with your golf shoe. I’m here for it!
A concerted effort
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, traditional golf shoes are hardly comfortable and rarely functional. Most brogue, saddle and derby style golf shoes are better suited for a church pew than a pot bunker.
While I don’t think they were 100 percent successful in creating a super comfortable, functional traditional golf shoe (more on that in a minute), there are a few things that Sun Day Red did to drastically improve on the shoe. your typical traditional golf course.
The first thing was to strengthen the attraction. The use of SoftSpikes and different height plugs made from a solid TPU is sure to provide enough control. I like the use of TPU instead of a softer rubber that can wear out faster. These soles, along with their replaceable spikes, should provide consistently excellent performance.
Another important thing that Sun Day Red did with the Pioneer Cypress was to create a balanced midsole. Most traditional shoes I’ve worn feel like bricks. The Cypress Pioneer has a bit more give without sacrificing stability. It’s definitely not the most comfortable shoe I’ve worn, but when compared to other similar “styles”, the midsole is softer (although, it’s still very, very firm).
Room to improve
Has Sun Day Red created the perfect golf shoe? Not enough. But for a first attempt, it’s commendable. If I were the shoe designer (there’s probably a good reason I’m not), I would have liked to see a wider, more curved last groove cut into the outsole to create a better experience walk.
I would have also liked a shell tongue to help with water retention and maybe an extra hole or two to really help lock the foot back into the heel.
However, the Sun Day Red Pioneer Cypress Golf Shoes are, without a doubt, the most well-made golf shoes I’ve seen this year. And, objectively, one of the most beautiful.
If you’re looking for an ultra-premium golf shoe that still has the ability to perform on the golf course, the Pioneer Cypress is worth a try.
The Sun Day Red Pioneer Cypress Golf Shoes will retail for $250 and launch in five colorways.
Post The most surprising golf shoes of 2024 appeared first on MyGolfSpy.
