With another golf season underway, players everywhere are looking for any edge to improve their game. One area where technology continues to advance is in golf shoes. Nike has recently introduced their Airmax 270 model onto the links, claiming increased stability, traction and comfort. How do these shoes actually perform? Will they help your handicap this year?
Introduction to Nike’s Airmax 270 Golf Line
Nike’s Airmax technology has been widely popular in their running and basketball shoes for years. The 270 refers to the expanded heel Air unit, providing more cushioning than previous models. While other companies like Adidas have already brought Boost and Bounce technology to the course, Nike is a relative newcomer. Their first Airmax golf shoes debuted just a couple seasons ago.
The core benefit of Airmax is increased comfort and shock absorption. This is particularly important for golfers as the swing involves a lot of twisting force and pressure on the feet and ankles. By cushioning the landing of each step, Airmax technology aims to reduce fatigue and discomfort. This could provide an advantage during long practice sessions or tournament rounds.
Beyond comfort, Nike claims the 270 provides players with greater stability and traction. The wide heel is designed to anchor your foot through the swing motion. The sole uses their patented pentagonal lugs with two densities for steady footing on different lies. The consensus is while other brands may offer more lateral support, Nike delivers excellent forefoot flexion for powerful transfers of energy.
Available models include both traditional cleated and spikeless versions. The cleated 270 G has a premium leather upper with Flywire cables for lockdown support. The 270G spikeless is constructed with a Flyknit woven upper for lightweight breathability. Both incorporate Nike’s FlexLoft system with removable turf or spike inserts. There is also a special 270 NRG edition co-designed with Tiger Woods.
In terms of aesthetics, the 270 brings Nike’s bold, modern style to the course. Various colorways include black, white, cool gray and university red. Swoosh branding is prominent but tasteful. While Adidas leans more traditional and FootJoy more understated, Nike shoes announce themselves. You’ll get noticed wearing a pair.
Reviews and Performance Feedback
So how do Nike’s claims about the 270 golf line stand up? Let’s dig into some early reviews from media testers and consumers.
Overall the consensus seems to be the Airmax 270 delivers on comfort as promised. The expanded Air unit offers plush cushioning that helps alleviate foot fatigue. One reviewer called them “like walking on pillows.” The partial inner sleeve helps lock down the heel.
However, some pointed out the softness comes at the expense of stability on side slopes or uneven lies. The 270 may not provide enough lateral support for golfers who struggle with ankle rolls or pronation. So these shoes are likely better suited to younger players with higher mobility.
As for traction, the pentagonal lugs grip well in a variety of conditions. Testers reported solid footing on dewy morning grass, as well as harder pan surfaces. The integrated lugs on the 270G cleated seemed to provide slightly better traction than the removable FastFlex spikes. Wet weather performance also received positive marks.
In terms of energy transfer and swing mechanics, responses indicated the Nike 270 allows comfortable freedom of motion without sacrificing stability. While mobility trainers appreciate the forefoot flexibility, some noted a slight loss of power transmission compared to firmer models.
Overall, most reviewers recommended the Airmax 270 line for the walking golfer seeking all-day cushioning. They offer a responsive, supported feel without overly restricting movement. However, those needing more lateral stability may want to explore alternatives like the Nike Roshe G Tour or Adidas CodeChaos.
Key Features and Technologies
Let’s take a more detailed look at some of the integral technologies incorporated into the Airmax 270 golf shoes:
- Articulated Air-Sole unit – The 270 Air unit provides more volume and smoother transitions than previous Airmax models. Strategic flex grooves offer flexibility where needed.
- Reinforced drag-on upper – The 270G cleated model uses premium leather reinforced with Flywire cables. The 270G spikeless has a Flyknit upper for lightweight breathability.
- Flexible Flight Speed chassis – Low profile Nike Flight Speed technology offers responsive traction and stability. Pentagonal lugs provide multi-surface grip.
- FastFlex spikes – The removable FastFlex golf spikes twist and flex with your foot for optimal ground penetration. A tool-less system allows quick replacement.
- Nike React foam – Soft React technology delivers lasting comfort and energy return for reduced fatigue.
- FlexLoft system – Allows customization of soft or firm sole inserts for personalized performance and feel.
Pros and Cons
Based on early feedback, here is a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Nike Airmax 270 golf line:
- Plush cushioning for long-lasting comfort
- Lightweight, breathable woven upper
- Modern athletic styling stands out
- Responsive traction even in wet conditions
- Offers good forefoot flexion for fluid swings
- Less lateral stability than some golf-specific models
- Softness may reduce power transmission
- Minimal waterproofing — better suited to dry days
- Higher price point around $180-200
Are the 270 Golf Shoes Worth It For You?
The bottom line is Nike’s Airmax 270 golf shoes offer a lightweight, athletic alternative focused on flexibility and cushioning. This makes them best suited to younger, mobile golfers who walk and want comfort without too many stability limitations.
The plush Air unit cushions landing shock well, though some power may be lost compared to a firmer design. Traction is also reliable across conditions. But players needing more ankle support may be better off with a different model.
Priced around $180-200, the 270 presents a premium option similar to other athletic golf shoes. However, the stylish look and performance may justify the cost for some buyers, especially as deals emerge.
As with any golf shoe, it’s best to try them on in-person and walk a few holes before committing. Consider how much you walk, what surfaces you play on, and any existing foot issues. Your individual needs should determine if the Nike Airmax 270 is a good fit for your game this season.