Rory McIlroy's Nike Lunar Control 3 shoe review
Rory McIlroy's new golf shoes - are they for you?
If the new Nike Lunar Control 3 shoes are good enough for Rory McIlroy, they are good enough for anyone.
Incorporating direct feedback from the world number one himself, Nike Golf has blended stability, lightweight performance and comfort into its standout shoe for 2015.
Now I might not be able to generate 120mph of clubhead speed like a certain Northern Irishman, but even I appreciate a golf shoe that offers stability and control.
I may have only slipped on the Lunar Control 3s for two rounds and a full day of testing so far, but the traction provided is simply superb given I have yet to lose my footing during any full-blooded swipes off the tee.
Stability was also experienced on those delicate, fiddly shots around the greens due to being slightly lower to the ground.
This was all part of the plan, however, as McIlroy challenged Nike designers to create a golf shoe that provides better traction, prevents slippage and retains control needed to generate his colossal power through impact.
Now while we have already seen something similar from another brand recently, Nike Golf responded to McIlroy’s comments by adding an extra spike under the big toe and what Nike call "secondary traction elements" to create a wide, stable base.
“I love the look of the shoe and how much lower to the ground it makes me feel,” said McIlroy.
“With the increased traction and stability, I am able to be more aggressive with my swing and do not have to worry about slipping.”
Aside from stability, the shoe is incredibly lightweight thanks to the soft Nike Lunarlon foam in the midsole, while continued Nike Flywire technology in the upper generates added comfort by securing the foot effectively.
The new footwear comes in four stylish colourways of White/Volt/Black (top of page), Pure Platinum/Bright Crimson/Black (pictured above), Black/Pure Platinum/Metallic Silver and White/Pure Platinum/Wolf Grey/Black, and is also available through the Nike ID programme.
Verdict
They are on the feet of McIlroy and they should be on yours too.
OK, they set you back £130, but you cannot ask for much more than a golf shoe that delivers comfort, lightweight performance, style and stability.
Although only several rounds into wearing them, Nike Lunar Control 3 represents the best traction I have experienced in a golf shoe.
Grip it, rip it, and pose for the cameras.