I’m a big TRUE Linkswear guy.
I’ve tested more than half a dozen different models and performance has varied across the board. The best up to this point is probably the Antigravity while the worst has to be the Ascent PNWProof.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: TRUE makes the best golf shoes for the golfer who is looking for a shoe they can wear to the course, to the bar afterward or to a movie with friends. They’re not the best golf shoes in the world but for a specific golfer, they’re perfect.
Next on the list is the TRUE Original 1.2, highlighted by a toe box that’s wider than the Grand Canyon, better traction than the average TRUE shoe and solid waterproofing capabilities.
Are they worth buying or are you better off picking another pair from the lineup?
Pros
If you compare the traction to the entire industry, it’s below average. But it’s better than the typical TRUE shoe.
In fact, outside of the Antigravity and its spiked models, the Original 1.2 might be the next best thing in terms of on-course grip. If traction has been your issue with other TRUE models, the Original 1.2 may be worth trying.
The pattern itself is made up of rubberized lugs of various shapes and sizes that are slightly larger than those found on other TRUE traction patterns. They still haven’t figured out the traction pattern but maybe one day they’ll take a hint from my articles and make a shoe that has industry-leading traction.
TRUE operates in the Pacific Northwest so you better hope it does waterproofing well. The Original 1.2 features great waterproofing and includes a two-year warranty. If you play a lot of golf in wet conditions, the Original 1.2 is a good pick.
The comfort on the golf course is fine (see the Cons section below for both sides of the coin) but it’s only worth trying if you’re a fan of zero-drop golf shoes. The goal of zero-drop footwear is to create a more natural walking experience by keeping the heel and forefoot level. If zero-drop is your thing, you’ll like the on-course comfort that the Original 1.2 offers.
Cons
While the comfort is average on the tee box, fairway and green, it’s severely diminished when walking on harder terrain which I attribute to its firm, zero-drop construction.
One of the redeeming factors of other TRUE models has been the notion that you can wear them on and off the course. This isn’t the case with the Original 1.2 as I encountered much more soreness off the course. Additionally, expect some aches and pains when walking on cart paths, parking lots and rocky terrain.
Aesthetically, the toe box can look awkward. It’s really, really wide. If you have super-wide feet, it may be worth it, but if not, I’d pick another TRUE model. My pair fit fine but many online reviews state that the Original 1.2 runs smaller than expected and recommend ordering a half-size larger than you normally wear.
If shoes that fit perfectly are a top priority for you, avoid the Original 1.2 altogether. I’m not saying they’ll fit you poorly but it’s not worth running the risk.
If the TRUE Original 1.2 still piqued your interest, click the button below to find the best price.
MacInFL
2 weeks ago
“If shoes that fit perfectly are a top priority for you, avoid the Original 1.2 altogether.”
This comment matches my experience. I have had two pairs of the Original 1.2 and both were almost uncomfortably snug even with the wide toe box. I mitigated this somewhat by wearing thinner socks. On the positive side, the zero drop heel is a good thing though takes some accustomization at first.
Although I like the look, I cannot recommend this shoe due to lack of durability. I play 2-3 times a week, always from a cart. The soles on both pairs started to separate after about 8-9 months of wear. Also, the finish of “Toughened Synthetic Leather” upper began to break down on both shoes after about 6 months of wear.
Perhaps due to the “synthetic leather”, I found the shoes to wear very warm compared to other golf shoes I have worn.
Bottom line, even with the sharp looks and zero drop design, I cannot recommend the shoes. Definitely not worth the premium that True charges.