The FootJoy Pro SLX from Acushnet Holdings Corp. - spikeless grip, new foam and a tour focus

Reviewed: ad hoc news Lifestyle & Consumer desk. Edited and checked on 2026-06-26, 17:55. Details in the imprint.

FootJoy Pro SLX feels firm under the first step on the practice green, the leather upper creaking softly as the spikeless sole bites into damp turf. The shoe sits low, locked around the heel, more like a sporty sneaker than a classic saddle. After nine holes, what stays is how neutral the stance feels, even on sidehill lies.

What sets the Pro SLX apart

With the Pro SLX, Acushnet Holdings Corp. leans on FootJoy's tour feedback and tweaks almost every layer of its successful Pro SL recipe. The model uses a multi-material spikeless outsole with so-called PWR TRAX traction elements arranged in radial patterns for grip on uneven lies. According to FootJoy, more than 200 individual traction points contact the ground in a full swing, designed to keep lateral movement in check without sacrificing walking comfort.

Inside the midsole, FootJoy combines its StratoFoam cushioning with an FTF-support rim to separate soft underfoot feel from the firmer edge that stabilizes the swing platform. That dual-density structure is meant to absorb walking impact while still resisting torsion when a player pushes hard off the trail foot. On the upper, premium ChromoSkin leather from Pittards keeps the silhouette quite clean while promising waterproofness in wet rounds, supported by a manufacturer-backed waterproof guarantee.

Fit, feel and on-course behavior

On the foot, the Pro SLX feels slightly snug in the midfoot with a more relaxed forefoot, which suits many players looking for containment without pinching the toes. Several fit reviews highlight a medium instep with good arch support rather than an ultra-flat bed, which matters on 36-hole days. The collar padding locks around the heel, and the relatively rigid heel counter reduces unwanted heel lift during aggressive transitions.

German golf journalist Michael Waack described in a recent test how the sole "grabs" the turf on wet fairways with a quiet crunch, while still rolling smoothly over the car-park asphalt after the round. That combination comes from the varied lug shapes and slightly beveled edges that avoid the harsh, blocky feel of some older spikeless designs. For players who walk, the extra cushioning of StratoFoam under the heel is noticeable, particularly late in the round.

BOA option and design choices

FootJoy sells the Pro SLX in a standard lace version and as Pro SLX BOA, where the dial replaces laces for quicker micro-adjustments through the round. The BOA variant routes fine cables across the instep to tighten evenly when the player turns the heel-mounted dial. Some golfers prefer that for early-morning rounds when fingers are cold or for a clean look without loose laces.

Visually, the Pro SLX keeps a tidy profile with subtle color blocking, which helps it blend both with traditional trousers and more athletic golf outfits. The branding is restrained compared with some FootJoy icons, which is consistent with Acushnet CEO David Maher's strategy of pushing performance stories first and keeping styling refined rather than loud. That approach aligns with the target group of low to mid handicappers who care more about predictable footing than about wild fashion statements.

Pricing, availability and stock context

In Europe, the FootJoy Pro SLX typically lists around 209 euros at launch in the lace version, with the BOA model sitting slightly higher, depending on retailer promotions. Availability covers specialist golf retailers and major online golf shops across key markets, while the United States sees pricing commonly around the 199.99 dollar level. For investors, Acushnet Holdings Corp. shares (ISIN US0050981085) trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker GOLF, giving exposure not only to FootJoy footwear but also to Titleist balls, Scotty Cameron putters and Vokey wedges within the same portfolio.

This article was AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. Product information without guarantee; prices and availability may change at short notice. No investment advice, no buy or sell recommendation. Stock-market transactions involve risks up to total loss.