Ecco's Premium 109

Last updated: 16th November 2009

ECCO's most exclusive offering, the Premium 109 collection, is an unrivalled experience designed for those who seek the very best.

This unique, numbered edition of rich, crocodile skin golf shoes is individually crafted and handmade-to-order by highly skilled artisans.

Each of the 109 pairs to be produced is accompanied by a distinctive collector's accessory package. This includes a crocodile leather luggage tag made from the exact same, hand-selected hides used to make the shoes, a platinum plate with the player's name and shoe edition number, cedar shoe trees and a gold-colored silk shoe bag.

Available at only a handful of elite golf clubs worldwide, Premium 109 collection golf shoes are inspired by the ultimate instrument of technology - the human foot.

Corresponding to this natural shape, the unique ECCO "Freedom Fit" allows toes to spread and move freely. This enhances circulation, increases airflow and ensures superior comfort. It also delivers exceptional on-course performance by creating a swing platform that offers outstanding flexibility and stability while feeling like an extension of your body.

Hand-selected crocodile skins for the Premium 109 collection are prepared exclusively at company-owned facilities using unique production technologies and the professional know-how upon which all ECCO products are based.

A Conversation with Dieter Kasprzak, ECCO's CEO and Premium 109 Collection Designer:

Why did ECCO decide to make golf shoes?

I felt an immediate connection to the sport when I first started playing in 1994. In order to perform your best, you truly have to be in the moment and erase everything else from your mind. I clearly remember my first round and how uncomfortable my golf shoes were. That was the same day the idea for an ECCO golf line was born. Our sole focus since then has been to create shoes that support a player, so he can concentrate 100% on his game and not have to worry about his feet.

What led to the creation of the Premium 109 Collection?

The main goal was to create the world's best golf shoe, which connects to my desire as a designer to produce a perfect product. The technology behind these unique shoes is based on the knowledge ECCO has gained from working closely with scores of major champions and top Tour pros. I then chose the most exclusive materials in order to make this the perfect combination of function and style.

Why is the production limited to 109 pairs worldwide?

The Premium 109 Collection is not for everyone. The idea is to make a very limited edition each year. So, for example, this year we produced 109 pairs, which refers to the year 2009. Next year we will launch an edition of 110 pairs, and so forth.

What's so unique about the Premium 109 Collection?

Beyond the limited edition, premium materials and advanced technology, it's the tremendous care that goes into making each shoe. For instance, it has taken approximately one year to make each pair of shoes. I personally visited the farm in Thailand where the crocodile skins are produced to ensure the quality. I have also spent many hours adjusting the design to reach perfection. This has been a very pleasurable process, because my dream was to make the world's best and most exclusive golf shoe and I think this is what has been done.

What message would you like to share with the man who has bought this shoe?

Do enjoy them - that is the very purpose of these shoes!

Materials

Designed to exceed the expectations of the world's most discerning players, the Premium 109 collection carries golfers in total luxury from the first tee to the final green. Each shoe combines leather, PU and TPU midsoles and outsoles for unprecedented comfort, style and performance that are evident from the very first step.

- Upper: Soft, luxurious, hand-selected crocodile skins for an unparalleled look and feel

- Insole: Unique ECCO Comfort Fibre System features a removable leather inlay sole constructed of soft foam for enhanced cushioning and moisture absorption

- Shock Absorption: Additional shock-absorbing material inserted for long-lasting comfort

- Shank Piece: Internal stabilizer provides maximum support during all phases of the swing

- Leather Welt: Classic feature that provides an elegant finish

- Outsole and Midsole: Unique technology combining genuine leather with an ultra-lightweight, cushioning PU midsole and durable TPU heel flick

- Cleats: Advanced, green-friendly grip system fitted with standard tread CHAMP cleats from for quick, easy replacement.

Where to buy? UK: Wentworth Club. Cost £2000.