Ladies Golf Shoes � A History

It wasn't until the 1940s when the first ladies golf shoes were introduced in America .

History of ladies golf shoes

The history of ladies golf shoes developed as the game did. Originally, golf was a male sport with its roots in Britain . Golf clubs soon became considered as the preserve of the male middle classes and in many clubs across the country, ladies were banned from playing golf or joining the clubs.

America 's boom

But in America � the land of democracy and opportunity � ladies golf became fantastically popular, and as such, ladies golf shoes became better quality. I t was inevitable that the more women who took up golf and bought ladies golf shoes the more the manufacturers of ladies golf shoes would improve their design. Droves and droves of women in America , are hitting the golf course with 5.76 million of them needing to invest in a good pair of ladies golf shoes � that's how many women now play golf according to research by the National Golf Foundation. Where women go, shoes go too; ladies golf shoes will inevitably boom.

The first ladies golf shoes

But it wasn't until the 1940s that the first ladies golf shoes were designed � merely smaller versions of the male golf shoe. They were still made with leather and metal spikes and were uncomfortable. At the turn of the 20 th century, male golf shoes were even considered dangerous. The spikes in the golf shoes were known to gauge into the feet. The heels were also weighted with 30 ounces, making it even tougher on the golf course.

Lighter ladies golf shoes

But as more ladies began to play, the golf shoes became more flexible and lighter. This was partly thanks to advances in the world of technology and textiles but also thanks to the demand consumers placed on manufacturers.

Key dates for men's and ladies golf shoes:

•  1917, William Park was granted a US patent for a golf shoe, which was more of a boot.

•  1923, the golf boot turned into the golf shoe when the Field and Flint Company decided to improve men's golf shoes � ladies golf shoes were not yet available.

•  1940s, FootJoy introduced the first ladies golf shoes. They were however not very lady-like. The sales tag line read: � Everything mannish except the sizes.�

•  1970s, rubber soles were introduced.

•  1980s, Etonic introduced the first men's and ladies golf shoes with waterproof treated leather.

•  1995, a fully waterproof leather and more breathable material was introduced.

•  1990s saw the introduction of non-metal cleats for better traction that caused less damage to the golf course.

Good golf shoes

An average golf round takes four hours and the player can walk four miles, which is why men's and ladies golf shoes are such a vital part of equipment for the game. Shoes need to be lightweight, have good cushioning and there are many brands specifically for ladies golf shoes to ensure you get the perfect fit for you.

Sports HQ is the European division for Confidence Sporting Goods, inc., the famous manufacturer from Palm Springs , California . We sell a huge range of sporting equipment, including ladies golf shoes. Because we sell directly to you, you can expect to save up to 70% on normal retail prices when buying from us.

Call us today on 01527 598388 for more information or to place an order.

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