Nike Lunar Control, U.S. Open Special Edition

One of the benefits of running a site such as this can be the occasional FedEx or UPS delivery that shows up on the OTC doorstep.  Of course we disclose and of course we appreciate the chance to check out some pretty cool stuff.  And when it comes to marketing, Nike Golf is a tough brand to beat.

This morning, a rather sizable package bearing the big Swoosh was deposited in my hands.  Nike is a major, if not the major, player in the professional golf world.  In fact, when it comes to golf apparel, Nike Golf is the number one brand by sales volume.

OTC is not beholden to Nike or Nike Golf and we have no business or advertising arrangement.  That said, it’s a favorite brand and genuine innovator in one of the most classic and preppy of sports: golf.

While I love the old canvas bag and hickory shafted clubs once carried by my grandmother (she was a very cool lady in her day – classic dame) I opt for more modern equipment when out on the fairway myself.  I need all the assistance I can get and what arrived today will definitely help out on that front.

In preparation for the the upcoming U.S. Open, Nike Golf crafted this special edition of their Nike Lunar Control golf shoes.  After quickly testing them in the back yard, I can’t wait to put them to work out on the course.  Unfortunately, I won’t be doing that at the Congressional Country Club – right next door in Bethesda, Maryland – where the Open is taking place this year.

For you techies out there, these shoes are constructed with Nike’s Lunarlon foam, which is both super cushioning and extremely light.  The shoe’s “flywire” saddle uses high-tensile strength fibers to support your mid-foot.  The leather body is waterproof and quite flexible.  These are some f the most comfortable golf shoes I’ve ever put on my feet.

Nike Golf athletes, including Lucas Glover, Paul Casey and Carl Pettersson will be sporting these special edition Lunar Control shoes during the U.S. Open next week.

The box also contained a new Body Map chest stripe Dri-Fit polo shirt.  While I’m  very much a traditional cotton polo guy on a day-to-day basis, these shirts are great when it comes to spending several hours out in the sun hunting down lost balls.  That activity tends to encompass a large portion of my time on any given course.

Speaking of the box, allow me to reiterate that Nike Golf knows how to package its stuff.  The heavy duty and well finished box speaks of permanence and is meant to be kept.  Frankly, it’s quite beautiful.

The thick plexi translucent inner lid has a very Nike motto etched on it: ” To the most prepared go major results.”  The custom embroidered shoe bag with “June 16-19 2011” (the dates of this year’s U.S. Open) below an American flag adds a special touch to this special gift.

This special edition colorway will go on sale (sans the fancy box, sorry) to the general public June 13, 2011, at nikestore.com.  Should you be attending, they will also be available in the Nike Golf shop at the U.S. Open. MSRP is US$190.00.

All of this athletic coolness is lost, however, on my three year-old.  He quickly commandeered that awesome box and turned it into a bed for his little stuffed lamb. Children have a wonderful way of putting things into perspective.

Thanks again to the team at Nike Golf.  Additional photos are below.