50 Words or Less
With a few modern enhancements to the iconic original, the ECCO STREET RETRO blends contemporary style with tour proven performance. Exceptional comfort.
Introduction
As I sit down to write this review, it’s hard to fathom that the 2020 Masters is next week. Equally hard to get my mind around is that it’s been ten years since the 2010 Masters that seemingly launched the spikeless revolution. That year, Freddie Couples shot an opening round 66 to take the lead wearing ECCO GOLF STREET shoes. Freddie may not have been the first golfer to wear spikeless golf shoes, but he sure gave them a springboard to acceptance. The new ECCO STREET RETRO shares a lot of similarities with the original while also offering some modern updates.
Looks
A glance at the photo of Freddie wearing the original STREET shoes from my Marking A Milestone feature (check it out HERE) shows the ECCO STREET RETRO’s nearly identical look. From the nubs on the sole to the pebbled leather uppers and even the vertical lines on the toe midsole, the RETROs seem true to their name. Under closer inspection, the notable differences are the lacing system, contrasting tongue tag, and textile collar. All three give the STREET RETRO a more modern style. All the elements come together in a clean, contemporary looking golf shoe that could be easily pass as a casual trendy shoe in the office or at the local tavern.
The ECCO STREET RETRO comes in four colorways: marine, black, bright white and mocha.
Comfort
I never wore the original, but I can tell you the new STREET RETRO is amazingly comfortable. I slipped them on sans socks initially and was impressed with the interior contours that were not only smooth to my skin but also felt like they were molded for my feet. From heel to toe, the RETRO is form fitting without even a hint of snugness. I really enjoy how both the cut of the shoe and the cushioning around my ankle secure my heel in complete comfort.
I typically wear a 9.5, which falls into the EU size 43 per the ECCO sizing chart. Over the years I’ve learned that the EU 42 is better for me and the fit is spot on in the STREET RETRO. Super comfortable right out of the box and during testing, I sense the ECCO leather will become even more comfy over time – plus it’s treated to be water repellent.
Performance
Shifting from pure comfort to on course performance starts at the laces, and the system employed by ECCO on the STREET RETRO is really good. The textile eyelets work in conjunction with the slightly stretchy laces to hold position as I snugged them up to my desired tightness. Lacing may seem like a simple thing, but to me it exemplifies ECCO’s attention to details.
The lightweight and flexible sole provides a feeling of connectedness to the turf at address and agility throughout the golf swing. What I referred to as nubs earlier are more properly called traction bars, and they form what ECCO calls The ECCO DYNAMIC TRACTION SYSTEM (E-DTS). The unique shape of the bars combine to form over 800 traction angles which I found provided really solid gription on both turf and hard pan.
Conclusion
The ECCO STREET RETRO have quickly become my favorite ECCOs to date. Visually appealing and wonderfully comfortable, the STREET RETRO are golf shoes I could easily wear all day. If you’re looking for a spikeless mobility shoe that’s a proven performer, check out the ECCO STREET RETRO.
Visit ECCO GOLF HERE
Matt Meeker
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I like ECCO SHOES.
I’ve owned these shoes for a year now playing many rounds on them. They’re my favorite walking shoe right now. I’m a huge fan of Ecco and these shoes do not disappoint.