In episode #418 of the Worldwide Golf Insider podcast, Tom Brassell sits down with Charlie Hudak, the Design Director for Sun Day Red, a footwear brand gaining significant attention in the golf industry. Charlie, a seasoned expert in the footwear industry, brings decades of experience designing shoes for professional athletes across various sports, and now, he’s bringing that expertise to the golf course. With a strong background in performance footwear design, Charlie shares his journey and insights into how Sun Day Red has redefined golf footwear.

Charlie Hudak’s Journey: From Athletic Footwear to Golf Performance

Charlie Hudak’s career in footwear design began long before he joined Sun Day Red. He has worked with renowned athletes and high-performance footwear brands, designing shoes that balance style, comfort, and performance. His extensive experience and passion for creating shoes that enhance athletic performance seamlessly transitioned into the world of golf.

Now, as the Design Director for Sun Day Red, Charlie is taking his expertise to new heights by designing footwear specifically for golfers. One of the standout aspects of his work with Sun Day Red is his collaboration with Tiger Woods, a name synonymous with excellence in the game of golf. Charlie shares how Tiger’s involvement in the design process was a turning point for the brand. Tiger’s feedback and his high standards for performance footwear were crucial in shaping Sun Day Red’s designs.

The Tiger Woods Influence: Creating Footwear with Purpose

Tiger Woods isn’t just an iconic golfer; he’s a perfectionist when it comes to every element of his game—right down to the shoes he wears. In collaboration with Charlie, Tiger provided key insights into what a golf shoe must offer to meet the high demands of the professional game. These insights were critical in establishing the non-negotiables that Sun Day Red’s footwear had to meet, from performance features to overall look and feel.

Charlie reveals how Tiger’s input shaped the shoe’s design, ensuring that it would not only perform under the intense conditions of professional golf but also reflect the golfer's personality and style. Key design elements such as height, fit, and performance were meticulously refined, while the minimalist aesthetic of the shoes was kept intact to ensure that functionality never compromised style.

The Three Models: Pioneer Cypress, Pioneer Magnolia, and Osprey Spikeless

Sun Day Red offers three distinct models, each designed with specific golfer needs in mind. Let’s break down what makes each model unique and how Charlie and the team at Sun Day Red incorporated feedback to create shoes that stand out in the competitive world of golf footwear.

Pioneer Cypress

The Pioneer Cypress is designed for golfers who value both comfort and style. With an emphasis on cushioning and support, this model provides an excellent balance of performance for all levels of golfers. The design is sleek and modern, with an attention to durability that’s essential for those long rounds on the course.

Pioneer Magnolia

The Pioneer Magnolia model offers a more refined look, designed for golfers who want a shoe that can easily transition from the course to a casual setting. Featuring premium materials and an innovative sole construction, the Pioneer Magnolia is perfect for golfers looking for style without sacrificing comfort and traction.

Osprey Spikeless

For those who prefer a spikeless option, the Osprey Spikeless is an excellent choice. This model focuses on versatility, providing comfort and stability without the need for traditional spikes. Perfect for golfers who enjoy a more natural feel on the course, the Osprey Spikeless is ideal for walking rounds and for golfers who value both performance and ease of movement.

Design Philosophy: Focused on Fit, Performance, and Look

Charlie emphasizes that Sun Day Red’s design philosophy is centered on four critical elem...