I got an e-mail from James Lepp, the founder of Kikkor Golf, yesterday and I realized that I was way behind in writing this review. So I finally got my act together and wrote-up my thoughts on the Kikkor Tenny (more on the e-mail at the end of this review).
I first met with Kikkor (pronounced Kicker) back at the PGA Show. James had sent me a note prior to the show, letting me know that he enjoyed reading the site and asking if I had time to stop by their booth. I made some time in my extremely busy schedule (that was sarcasm) and was glad I did. The crew at Kikkor is a great bunch of guys and they were mixing up some great drinks.
James was kind enough to send Phil and I each a pair of shoes after the show. First things first, these are a really nice looking pair of shoes. The style isn’t for everybody, but that’s kind of the point. James founded Kikkor because he was tired of not being able to find golf shoes that reflected his off-course style. I personally think these these look much better with a pair of cargo shorts out on the golf course than traditional saddle golf shoes. They also go really well with the apparel from companies like Sligo.
Second, these shoes are very comfortable. You may have read my review of the TRUE Tours and are wondering how these compare. The Kikkors are a much more “structured” pair of shoes and they don’t give you the feeling of being barefoot. They’re basically a pair of skateboard shoes with spikes. I actually really like skateboard shoes for a wide variety of activities (I have pair to work out in). The reason is that they’re flat and stable, meaning they don’t significantly elevate the heel above the toes. In my opinion, this helps your balance, and lets your feet work closer to how they were designed.
The TRUE Tours basically feel like a pair of slippers with traction. The Kikkors feel like a really comfortable pair of skateboard shoes with traction. They’re not as flexible and feel much more “built-up” around your foot. Depending on what you’re looking for, that may be preferable. I personally think that both are far better than typical golf shoes.
You may have noticed that the Kikkors sport some unusual looking soft spikes. They are actually built in, non-replaceable spikes. The reason they went this route is that traditional cleat systems add height to the sole of the shoe. The lower you can get to the ground, the more stable you’ll be. Initially I was concerned about the durability of the spikes, but after playing a number of rounds in them, I’m convinced they’ll last a long time. I’ve seen virtually no wear on the spikes after several rounds and numerous range sessions. I would typically start having to replace soft spikes at this point on other golf shoes. Plus, this design has an added benefit: when you wear them out, you can wear them out. Get it?
I’ve played in both wet and dry conditions and the design provides plenty of traction and stability. I really like the built-in spikes, but if that’s not your thing, they do offer models with traditional replaceable soft-spikes. The only real downside to the Tenny is that the suede is only water resistant, not waterproof (they have other models that are completely waterproof). But so far, I haven’t had a problem with moisture getting into the shoes – that said, I’ll play when it’s wet or muddy outside, but if it’s raining hard you probably won’t find me on the golf course.
All in all, I really like the Kikkor Tenny. They’re extremely comfortable and provide excellent traction and stability out on the golf course. I also love the style. Not everybody does, but as I said before, that’s the point.
Kikkor isn’t currently sponsoring anybody on tour, but I did see a certain Canadian long drive phenom hanging around their booth at the show. I’m willing to bet that if you checked out his shoes on the course this year, he’ll probably be sporting a pair of Kikkors.
The Tenny’s retail for $115, which seems downright reasonable compared to many other shoes on the market right now. You can get them in Clayburn (my favorite), black or white.
If you decide to pick up a pair of Kikkors, you can use the code “72strokes” to receive a 10% discount at checkout. Yes, if you use the code, I get some beer money.
Oh and back to the e-mail that kicked all of this off. You may have seen the “Day at the Office” video from Kikkor that I posted a few weeks ago. They’ve now launched on Facebook. Upload a video of your best golf shots around the office and you could win free Kikkor kikks for 3 years.
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