True Linkswear TL-01 Review: minimalist comfort on and off the track
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TRUE Linkswear has recently released their TL-01. In recent years they continue to make some of the most interesting golf shoes in the industry. Although comfort is the main focus of the brand, they have done an impressive job by using some of the latest design trends in shoes and applying them to the golf industry.
The TL-01 is a new attempt to make a crossover shoe that can be worn on and next to the golf course. After the successful TRUE Knits, golfers now have a different lifestyle option from their line. Although the TRUE Originals and Majors are more dedicated golf shoes that you would probably not wear to work or elsewhere in your normal life, the TL-01 has a number of features that make them a solid choice for your next round or on your way are eating out with friends.
The TL-01 functions
When TRUE Linkswear re-invented their brand a few years ago, one of the key concerns was finding the best materials they could find that the elements could tolerate. I can tell you from personal experience that all of their recent releases have maintained their claims even over a year after wearing them.
The TL-01 focuses on minimalism, comfort and versatility. With just 8.7 grams, they are the lightest shoe from TRUE to date. They feature full-grain nappa leather that is weather resistant, has a premium look and offers breathability for different temperatures.
The zero-drop sole, one of the brand's original features, is back in the TL-01, which helps provide a more natural pass. The sole also has a little cushioning built in with an EVA midsole, which is a common cushioning in premium walking shoes that focus on comfort.
Moreover, TRUE Linkswear has quite a lot of tread built into the bottom of the TL-01 so that they can withstand various conditions on the golf course. One thing that is different from some of their other shoes is that the TL-01 has a traditional fit. They say that over time the leather molds to your foot, similar to a baseball glove that breaks over time
You can see them in action in this video:
My impressions
When I first saw the TL-01 prototype at the PGA show in February, I was struck by the design. I really like the simplicity and the way the leather looks. I can imagine that I am wearing them with shorts, jeans or one of my golf clothes. They don't look like a golf shoe, so you can wear them in almost any situation where you feel comfortable.
My first impression is their lightness. You do not feel that you have too much on your feet, but the comfort and stability that fans are used to from the other releases of TRUE are still there. There is enough support for your feet – these shoes can certainly walk around on or next to a golf course all day.
One of the reasons why I was attracted to the track at TRUE Linkswear is because I have wide feet. In my view, many other golf brands have done a poor job in addressing this market. Although not every golfer has this problem, it is one of my favorite parts of their originals.
The TL-01 offers a more traditional fit that I thought might be a problem for me. I solved this problem with the thickness of the socks that I wear and I believe that this is an essential consideration for anyone considering buying them. I have found that wearing thinner socks allows me to quickly get my feet in and prevent me from feeling that they are too tight on the sides. Although I have not had the opportunity to break them in much, the shoes will probably become wider for me over time. It is also worth noting that this style of shoe seems to be designed to be worn with no-show socks, which has become more of a trend. I leave it up to you whether you want it or not.
Although this is more a subjective choice, I will probably wear the TL-01 off the golf course. That does not mean that you cannot play golf. The TL-01 offers a lot of comfort and support and I am also very impressed by the grip on the bottom. However, since I have TRUE Originals and Majors, I believe they better meet my needs for the type of functions I want on a golf course. TRUE & # 39; s latest crossover release, The Knits, also created a similar situation for me. Although I could play golf in it, they have become my primary shoe for warm weather.
Wrapping It
Overall, the TL-01 looks smooth, they are very comfortable and I think they can withstand their claims of a true crossover golf shoe. With this release, TRUE Linkswear continues to expand the versatility of their line. They have two great shoes that are primarily for golf, and now two crossover models that fit the rest of your life.
They are currently offered in white and black, and a gray model is planned for the end of July. For $ 149 I think they are reasonably priced if you look at the quality of the materials used and other functions of the shoe. WHERE Linkswear also offers a risk-free 30-day trial period, so if you are not satisfied with the size or fit, you can exchange them or get a refund. You can buy the TL-01 here on their website.
If you are interested in reading some of my other reviews about TRUE Linkswear, you can view them here:
TRUE Original Review
REAL Major Review
TRUE Knits Review