Truth be told, a new golf shoe was the last thing on my list. Having put dozens of pairs through the wringer this year, I was convinced the market had nothing left to surprise me. But when TRUE linkswear sent over their FS-01, something felt different right out of the box. Maybe it was the minimalist packaging or the way the shoe felt in my hands, but I knew this wasn't going to be another run-of-the-mill golf sneaker trying to cash in on the casual golf trend.
Table of Contents
Quick Overview
Exceptional comfort with Ultra Plush Insole System and floating heel cushion, maintaining support even after 36 holes of golf.
Made from 58% recycled leather with GRS certification, combining sustainability with high-quality performance and durability.
Minimalist design works both on and off course, with hand-crafted leather developing unique patina over time.
Excellent traction in dry conditions but limited grip in wet weather, not ideal for high-swing-speed players.
Durable strobel construction withstands 40+ rounds without separation, featuring antimicrobial properties and a resilient natural rubber outsole.
TRUE FS-01 Golf Shoes
TRUE FS-01 Golf Shoes offer timeless design with cutting-edge performance on any terrain.
The Recycled Leather That Changed My Mind
Let me address the elephant in the room initially: yes, these shoes are made from recycled leather, and no, they don't feel like an environmental compromise. When I initially heard "58% recycled pre-consumer genuine leather," I expected something that felt cheap or synthetic. What I got instead was a matte pebbled finish that honestly feels more premium than the full-grain leather on my $300 tour shoes.
The upper combines that recycled leather with 25% post-consumer recycled content and 17% polyurethane for scratch resistance. Now, I've dragged these through morning dew, scraped them against cart paths, and even accidentally stepped in a bunker rake (don't ask). After six weeks of abuse, they still look like they did on day one. The water resistance isn't just marketing speak either. I played 18 holes in a surprise downpour last week, and my feet stayed completely dry.
What really got me was the GRS certification. I'm not usually one to geek out over environmental standards, but knowing these shoes eliminate the traditional leather tanning footprint without sacrificing quality? That's the kind of innovation golf needs more of.
Construction That Actually Makes Sense
This is where TRUE did something I haven't seen before. They stitched the upper directly to the insole without using a lasting board. If you've ever wondered why some golf shoes feel like you're standing on a piece of cardboard after a few months, it's usually because that lasting board has compressed and hardened. The FS-01 uses what they call an Ultra Plush Insole System, which basically means your foot sits directly on the cushioned midsole.
The initial time I wore these for 36 holes in a day (charity scramble followed by a grudge match with my brother-in-law), I expected the usual foot fatigue around hole 25. It never came. The floating heel cushion, which is separate from the upper collar, kept my heel locked in place without any of that rubbing you get from shoes that try to achieve the same thing with excessive padding.
The Achilles heel pad deserves its own mention. I've had issues with blisters on longer walks, especially on hilly courses. After walking Bethpage Black twice in these shoes, not a single hot spot. The 6mm heel drop sits right in that sweet spot between TRUE's zero-drop models (which I've always found a bit too flat) and traditional golf shoes that feel like dress shoes with spikes.
The Outsole That Surprised Everyone
I need to be honest about the outsole, it's not what you'd expect from a golf shoe, and that's both good and bad. The one-piece translucent gum rubber looks more like something from a lifestyle sneaker than golf footwear. It's recessed into the shoe rather than protruding, which gives it that clean, minimal look that works just as well at dinner as it does on the course. The combination of natural gum rubber and silicone in the outsole delivers impressive durability without the harsh chemicals found in traditional golf shoe construction.
Traction-wise, you're getting adequate grip in dry conditions. I'm talking good enough for most swings, but if you're someone who generates tour-level clubhead speed or plays in consistently wet conditions, you might find yourself slipping occasionally. I had one embarrassing moment trying to hit a 3-wood from a sidehill lie after morning watering, let's just say my follow-through included an unplanned dance move.
But the reality is: the durability of this outsole is incredible. TRUE uses silicone instead of traditional adhesives, and they stitch the outsole to the upper using something called Strobel construction. After 40+ rounds, there's zero separation, zero wear patterns, and the traction hasn't degraded at all. Compare that to my spikeless FootJoys that need replacing every season, and the value proposition starts to make sense.
Comfort That Lasts All Day (And Night)
The Ultra Plush Insole System isn't just marketing fluff. By eliminating that hardened, lasting board I mentioned earlier, TRUE created a shoe that actually gets more comfortable as you wear it. The anti-microbial properties in the insole have kept these shoes fresh despite some seriously hot rounds (I'm talking 95-degree Houston humidity where everything gets soaked).
The medium-wide toe box is a godsend for those of us who don't have narrow feet. I wear a standard D width in most shoes, but the FS-01 gives me just enough room to spread my toes during the swing without feeling sloppy. TRUE says these accommodate up to an E width, and based on how they fit, I believe it.
One unexpected benefit: the lower ankle support actually works better for me than high-top golf shoes. The strong heel support compensates for the lower cut, and I never felt unstable, even on uneven lies. Plus, when you're walking from the 18th green straight to the 19th hole, you don't get that awkward "still wearing golf shoes at the bar" look.
Style That Doesn't Scream "Golf"
Let's talk about looks, because that's half the reason you're considering these shoes. The minimalist aesthetic works. I've been wearing the Walnut colorway, and it goes with everything from golf shorts to jeans. The limited edition colors (Fog, Soft Rose, and Seafoam) are subtle enough to work without looking like you raided a tour pro's closet. The Vintage White and White/Grey options step it up with premium Full-Grain Leather that develops a beautiful patina over time.
The hand-crafted leather upper with that brushed suede appearance photographs better than it has any right to. I've had more comments on these shoes from non-golfers than any other pair I own. My wife actually borrowed them for a weekend trip (they make women's sizes 5.5-11), and now I'm ordering her a pair for Christmas.
What I really appreciate is that TRUE didn't try to reinvent the wheel here. It's a classic sneaker silhouette that happens to work for golf. No unnecessary logos, no weird color blocking, no "athletic" mesh panels that look dated in six months. Just clean lines and quality materials that look better with time.
TRUE FS-01 Golf Shoes
TRUE FS-01 Golf Shoes offer timeless design with cutting-edge performance on any terrain.
Is the TRUE FS-01 Golf Shoe Worth It?
Absolutely, while the TRUE FS-01 Golf Shoes are a great product, there are a few pros and cons that you need to be aware of:
Pros:
Exceptional all-day comfort that actually improves over time
Premium recycled materials that outperform traditional leather
Versatile styling that works on and off the course
Cons:
Limited traction in wet conditions or for high-swing-speed players
The $175 price point might be steep for a non-traditional golf shoe.
Lower ankle support won't work for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Warranty Period for the TRUE FS-01?
Your TRUE FS-01 comes with a 90-day warranty from the purchase date that covers manufacturing defects and workmanship issues. You'll need to register the warranty within 30 days of buying it, and you must keep the serial number intact. The warranty only applies if you're the original purchaser and the footwear was new and unworn when you bought it. It doesn't cover normal wear, abuse, or unauthorized modifications.
Can I Purchase Replacement Parts Directly From TRUE?
You can't purchase replacement parts directly from TRUE based on available information. While they offer maintenance products like Sneaker LAB conditioners and protectors through their website, specific replacement parts aren't listed in their online catalog. Your best option is to contact TRUE's customer service directly to inquire about part availability. If you're within the 90-day warranty period and have defective components, they'll repair or replace your FS-01 at no charge.
Is Assembly Required Upon Delivery?
No, you won't need to assemble anything when your FS-01s arrive. They're ready-to-wear golf shoes that come fully constructed straight out of the box. You'll simply unbox them, and they're ready for the course. The shoes feature a one-piece rubber stitched outsole and complete upper construction with the Ultra Plush Insole System already installed. If you'd like, you can remove the insole for customization, but that's entirely optional.
What Payment Methods Does TRUE Accept for Online Orders?
You can pay for your TRUE orders using Shop Pay Installments, which offers 4 interest-free payments or 24-month financing with 0-36% APR. Afterpay's also available, splitting your purchase into 4 interest-free installments. Standard payment methods like credit cards are accepted, with charges authorized at checkout. If you're shopping through retailers like Fairway Jockey or PGA TOUR Superstore, you'll find these same financing options displayed at their checkouts, too.
Does TRUE Offer Trade-In Programs for Older Models?
No, TRUE doesn't offer trade-in programs for older models directly through their website. You'll find their return policy only covers new, unworn items within 30 days. However, you can trade in your old golf clubs at retailers like 2nd Swing to get savings on new TRUE FS-01 shoes. They sell both new and used TRUE models, but there's no official TRUE-sponsored trade-in program for swapping older shoes for newer ones.
Final Verdict
The TRUE FS-01 isn't trying to be everything to everyone, and that's exactly why it works. It's for the golfer who plays 2-3 times a week, probably walks more than rides, and doesn't want to change shoes three times on Saturday. It's for someone who cares about where their products come from but isn't willing to sacrifice performance for environmental brownie points.
After two months and 40+ rounds, these have become my go-to shoes for everything except tournament play in wet conditions. They're comfortable enough for 36 holes, stylish enough for the clubhouse, and durable enough to justify the price. If TRUE can figure out how to add just a bit more aggressive traction without compromising the aesthetic, they'll have created the perfect golf shoe. As it stands, they've created something that's about 90% perfect for 90% of golfers, and honestly, that's better than most brands manage.
Paul Liberatore
As the Founder of Golfers Authority Paul Liberatore Esq. has spent the last 7+ years writing about the best golf equipment or instruction from the top golf instructors in the world. He has been a contributing writer for Sports Illustrated Golf and GolfWRX. After graduating with honors from Purdue University, he realized that he had a passion for the golf business and the law. When he's not practicing law, or creating golf content on YouTube, he can be found on his syndicated Behind the Golf Brand podcast talking with the most prolific leaders in the golf industry.
