If you were to scan through the Nike site, you would find many, many different golf shoes available. In this review, though, we are interested in the Nike Air Max 1 '86 OG G, a spikeless model that is based on the iconic Air Max 1 sneaker.
First things first; you may wonder how the golf version and original Air Max 1 differ? Well, Nike have added a synthetic upper that is water-resistant, whilst the sole of the shoe has been given an update, with a new traction pattern providing more grip.
Starting with the grip, I felt that there was plenty there in dryer conditions and the shoe performed well in slightly wetter weather. Obviously, these aren't going to rival the best spiked golf shoes and, given their sneaker-design, it's likely that you won't want to wear them in winter, as the '86 OG G is definitely more tailored to summer months.
Another element where I noticed that perhaps this shoe has been adapted and tailored for summer is within the 4-window design in the heel of the shoe. Like the Air Max 1, you can see the large Air unit underneath which I found helped with ground force when swinging the golf club. It worked really well, but I did feel the heel was slightly high, something that should change and compress the more you wear in and embed the shoes.
Moving to the comfort and, initially, when slipping on the shoes, I felt the padding around the heel was slightly tight but, after only a few minutes, it had loosened and the footwear instantly became some of the most comfortable golf shoes I've ever tested. The 4-window design helps with the support, but it's the full-length foam midsole which moulds to the feet quickly and provides ample support.
One slight negative I must say, and it's something which others have stated in the reviews on the official Nike site, the fit is narrow. Although I don't have the widest feet, I could see why many would find them a tad snug so, if you are after golf shoes for wide feet, I'd recommend going up a size or searching elsewhere.
The final point and, arguably, the standout aspect of this shoe, is the overall look. I would easily put these amongst the best sneaker golf shoes on the market, with the subtle details, like the paint splatter around the length of the sole and the iconic swoosh, giving the Air Max 1 '86 OG G a really premium aesthetic. What's more, I found that the synthetic upper that has been added does indeed provide water resistance, something which worked really well on damp days especially.
There is a lot to like about the Nike Air Max 1 '86 OG G, with its looks and comfort putting it amongst the best Nike golf shoes on the market right now. Although the fit is snug, it does have a somewhat locked-in feel, but if you can try the shoes on before buying them I would highly recommend it.
