Today, FootJoy releases the all-new Pro/SLX and Pro/SLX Carbon golf shoes. Billed as the successor to the popular Pro|SL, the new Pro/SLX has big shoes to fill.

FootJoy says the new shoes will have advanced traction, advanced comfort and advanced control. Let’s take a closer look at how FJ aims to advance this lofty goal.

Advanced Traction

At first glance, the bottom of the Pro/SLX has been completely retooled when compared to its predecessor. FootJoy is calling the new traction pattern the PWR TRAX System, consisting of the 3D X-Wing (more on this later) and a Race Trak Outsole.

The Race Trak Outsole is doing the heavy lifting as far as traction is concerned. Targeted traction in the toe and heel of the Pro/SLX works for walking up and down hills, while the larger, radial traction of the midfoot section stays in contact with the ground to facilitate the golf swing.

Advanced Comfort

FootJoy is relying on its StratoFoam midsole to give the Pro/SLX and Pro/SLX Carbon step-in comfort. This StratoFoam is the same seen throughout FJ’s non Premiere offerings like the HyperFlex Carbon and Fuel Sport.

My experience with StratoFoam has been relatively good. It’s a firmer foam but this makes it more stable than something like adidas BOOST that’s much more plush and forgiving.

The leather upper will also break in and mold to your foot for an even more holistic comfort experience.

The StratoFoam midsole is coupled with a 3D-molded collar to keep the ankle comfortable and locked in.

Speaking of lockdown, let’s discuss stability.

Advanced Control

When a shoe manufacturer mentions “control,” they’re really talking about stability. The more stable a shoe is, the less forgiving it is on the foot. This is because stability, in essence, refers to rigidity. A shoe that bends and flexes with your foot is more forgiving, but less stable.

Finding the right balance in this regard is something that all shoe manufacturers are chasing. Too stable and you sacrifice comfort. Too flexible and you open yourself up to compromising the integrity of the shoe, which can lead to injury. FootJoy hopes the addition of their new 3D X-Wing will do the trick.

This 3D X-Wing (made from TPU on the normal Pro/SLX and carbon fiber on the Pro/SLX Carbon) adds much-needed rigidity without making it completely inflexible. In a way, this “X” provides target stability to the places you need it most.

In addition to the stability-enhancing X-Wing, FootJoy wrapped the StratoFoam midsole in its more stable FTF+ foam. This, and the external heel cup, should keep you from rolling over too much on your lead side.

Availability and Pricing

The new Pro/SLX and Pro/SLX Carbon are available starting today. The Pro/SLX is available for men (starting at $210) and women ($200). Those interested in a BOA variant will have to shell out $240 (men) and $220 (women). The Pro/SLX Carbon ($240) is available only for men.

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