Nike Air Max 1 G Golf Shoe

There are few more iconic lines in the history of sneakers than Nike Air Max.  Sneakerheads all across the world have coveted the classic designs for decades.  Well, Nike has been no stranger to bringing some of their classic sneaker silhouettes to the golf course for awhile now, but their latest is easily one of the best.  I’m talking about the ICONIC Nike Air Max 1 golf shoe.  Nike made big splashes with their Air Max 1 release because of the limited “Grass” model (it’s literally all green and looked like turf – it’s sweet), but they also released classic OG colorways as well.  Not only is the Air Max 1 G a shoe that would make a sneakerhead proud, but it’s a solid golf shoe too.

The Looks

From a general profile perspective, the Nike Air Max 1 G is pretty much dead on.  The shape is about as close as you can get to the original while making it functional for golf.  Given the Air Max 1 G has to hold up to golfing conditions, the shoe is all leather as opposed to multiple textiles like the regular AM1.  As mentioned, there is a rare “grass” green pair, and there’s also a limited “pay day” pair with dollar bill print on it.  Those are going for pretty big markups on eBay right now, but the classics are the more universally appealing options.  The first releases of the Air Max 1 G came in the classic OG white/red, white/gum (my favorite), and black/white/gum.

Part of the Air Max 1 G’s appeal for me is that it’s a fairly neutral shoe that gives you an overall laid-back look but still flows well on the golf course.  If you want a modest look, the white or black options are great.  However, if you want to step it up, the OG white/red gives you a little extra flash that stands out just a bit more.  Like making a strong statement without going totally overboard.

Comfort Level

Admittedly, the Nike Air Max 1 G is a bit stiff out of the box.  There is going to be a break-in period.  With regular use though, that should go quick.  In terms of general comfort, wearing these feels just like wearing the regular sneaker!  It’s literally one of the best street/lifestyle shoes of all time and exactly what I’m looking for.  By combining a lightweight Phylon midsole and Air Max Unit, the Air Max 1 G is both extremely comfortable and stable.  While a fairly simple shoe, the AM1 is great for that 18 hole walk you have ahead of you.

One important factor to note about the Air Max 1 G is that it does have a narrower fit.  I’m far from a wide-footed shoe guy and these were snug.  As they break in, they will loosen up and will be plenty comfortable, but you wide-fit players should try them on first and judge for yourself.  In terms of “heel-to-toe,” the Air Max 1 G is pretty true to size – just narrow.

On-Course Performance

As mentioned in the comfort section, the Nike Air Max 1 G is pretty snug.  While this may create comfort issues for some (totally making performance irrelevant), others will find this to make the shoe more supportive and better for golf.  My feeling was that the Air Max 1 G felt sturdy on the ground and supportive through the swing.  It does have a taller mid sole, so players that like to be “closer to the ground” may not be a fan.

In terms of traction on the course, the Air Max 1 G is great.  True, these are classified as spikeless, but you can see the “nubs” on the sole are pretty serious.  When taking your stance, it’s almost like you’re locking into velcro.  I understand that may be hard to imagine, but that’s what keeps coming to my mind.  Let me point out to you that slick surfaces are not exactly the AM1 G’s best friend.  On rough concrete, the Air Max 1 G is a fine walk, but slick wet concrete or asphalt could spell disaster before you get on the course.  In fact, dry, hard, slippery tee boxes and fairways could cause similar issues during the swing.  In short, the Air Max 1 G is great on grass where they can lock in, but I wouldn’t classify them as a true “street to course” spikeless shoe.

Final Thoughts

I personally love the Nike Air Max 1 G golf shoe and I’m pumped Nike brought it to the links.  That said, I’d say it’s largely because I’m fortunate that they fit me well and I’m a sneaker junky.  These, much like Jordan golf shoes, have nostalgic value that plays a key role in my love for the shoe.  Sure, the AM1 is a perfectly good golf shoe, but Nike has plenty other models that more players may find desirable.  BUT, for the guys like me out there, the Air Max 1 G is awesome and I will guarantee you that this will be a popular summer shoe on the golf course.

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