The golf shoes that are helping save our oceans
Last updated:
An estimated eight million metrics tons of plastic trash ends up in our oceans every year. The ocean currents have formed five gigantic, slow moving whirlpools where the plastic collects, called gyres. Most of the plastic debris sinks or remains in the gyres, however a significant percentage of it washes onto our coastlines daily.
The plight of plastic pollution in our oceans is one of the world’s most pressing ecological issues – and adidas Golf is doing its bit to help.
They have unveiled a limited-edition version of the popular TOUR360 XT shoes made with yarns spun from upcycled plastic waste that was picked up from beaches and coastal communities.
adidas has partnered with Parley for the Oceans – which is committed to raising awareness of the fragility of our seas and collaborating on projects to end their destruction – to develop this first in sport.
The unique ocean blue and aqua green colorway of this limited-edition TOUR360 XT Parley us made from repurposed plastic waste that’s then incorporated as raw material into the upper of the footwear. This thread comprises the entire upper of the shoe.
adidas works with Parley for the Oceans to intercept plastic waste which is then transformed into thread used to make high-performance sportswear. The TOUR360 XT Parley is built on the TOUR360 XT eight-spike outsole with X-Traxion technology, so golfers will still get the traction and stability while knowing they are helping protect the oceans.
“Our company is extremely focused on sustainability and we wanted to incorporate that mission into our sport,” said Masun Denison, global footwear director, adidas Golf.
“This is the first golf shoe we’ve ever made that incorporates upcycled materials and this is just the beginning. In a sport that’s played outdoors and where sustainability is often under the microscope, we feel this is a massive step forward for the game.”
The use of upcycled material falls in line with adidas’ overall strategy to use 100 percent recycled polyester in all apparel and footwear by 2024.
By intercepting plastic waste on beaches and coastal communities, adidas is committed to the Parley AIR strategy (Avoid, Intercept, Re-Design). While many other categories within adidas have created apparel and footwear utilizing upcycled plastic waste, this is the first in golf.
From a performance standpoint, the TOUR360 XT Parley features a sock-like opening for optimal comfort while also offering full-length BOOST, the best cushioning in the game. The 360WRAP in the midfoot provides additional support and stability so that players can stay locked in throughout the swing. It also offers a one-year waterproof warranty.
