FootJoy is celebrating 30 years of its DryJoys footwear franchise by releasing a limited edition DryJoys Tour shoe as a tribute to the longest running performance golf shoe franchise in the world.
DryJoys first launched in 1989, at a time when a reliably waterproof golf shoe was something that many brands were striving to achieve, and immediately reinvented the standards for waterproof golf shoe technology.
Thirty years later the classically designed shoe still sets the industry standard, and while the technology inside has evolved drastically over that period, DryJoys remain one of the most popular golf shoes on the market.
The original DryJoys used a Sympatex membrane to ensure waterproof performance, but through close collaboration and significant R&D efforts with Pittards of England, the 1990’s saw the introduction of ECL – Extreme Comfort Leather. The significance of this breakthrough was that FootJoy was able to remove the membrane, but through a complex and proprietary tanning process the waterproof characteristics of the product could still be maintained. Removing the membrane made the shoe lighter, more breathable and more comfortable, without giving up anything in return.
As well as the developments in the leather, the outsole has seen several improvements over the years, from DryJoys, to DryJoys GX, DryJoys Pro, DryJoys PODS and now DryJoys Tour.
The shoe has been heavily represented on global tours since its inception, with Zach Johnson notably wearing a pair of DryJoys for both his Major wins, which came eight years apart at the 2007 Masters and the 2015 Open Championship.
DryJoys Tour remains a blend of traditional styling with cutting edge technology to enhance platform stability for the classically-styled golfer. The limited edition 30th anniversary edition, which will be available at selected stories at a cost of £150, boasts a plain toe saddle style in a white/grey crocodile pattern, offered with a unique white midsole colour. Each pair will also feature commemorative FitBeds and will come with a shoe bag with a 30th anniversary logo.
Paul O’Hagan, FootJoy’s European Marketing Manager, said: “In recent years we have seen a shift away from the traditional looking shoe in the general golf shoe industry. However, the trust and support for the DryJoys franchise hasn’t wavered. To make it to 30 years, and still remain one of the most popular shoes, is a testament to the quality and style.”
Richard Fryer, FootJoy’s Director Of Product Management for footwear, added: “While the style and design of the DryJoys has remained constant over the past thirty years, each new introduction has delivered additional comfort, stability and traction with advancements in technology. This is proven by the significant number of Tour professionals that have put their faith in the DryJoys name over the past three decades.”
He added: “Looking forward, we’re constantly evolving the look and feel of the DryJoys brand. I can’t divulge too much, but rest assured the renowned qualities of a DryJoys – comfortable, stylish, waterproof performance footwear – will be subtly enhanced, and safely housed in a fresh, relevant and iconic silhouette.”