adidas Golf has announced a unique posthumous partnership with former PGA Tour player Forrest Fezler, celebrating the golfer’s lasting impact on modern golf fashion and the iconic moment that challenged the sport’s traditional dress code.
The announcement coincides with the launch of adidas’ new Ultimate365+ Shorts collection, blending performance-driven sportswear with a tribute to one of golf’s most rebellious and memorable moments.
The Moment That Changed Golf Style History
Back in June 1983 during the U.S. Open, Fezler made headlines when he entered a portable restroom on the 72nd hole wearing trousers and emerged wearing shorts. The spontaneous wardrobe switch marked the first known instance of a player officially competing in a PGA TOUR event while wearing shorts.
At the time, golf’s strict clothing traditions rarely allowed room for individuality, making Fezler’s decision both controversial and groundbreaking. More than four decades later, the moment is still remembered as a turning point in golf fashion culture.
Today, players regularly embrace more modern and versatile apparel both on and off the course, with brands increasingly prioritising comfort, movement and personal style.
adidas Celebrates Fezler’s Influence on the Modern Game
As part of the tribute, adidas has signed Fezler to a posthumous Name, Image and Likeness agreement, ensuring his contribution to golf history continues to be recognised by a new generation of players and fans.
To honour the golf icon, adidas will unveil a commemorative statue of Fezler wearing shorts in Dilworth Park from May 12 to May 17, located outside the historic Philadelphia City Hall.
During tournament week, adidas-sponsored athletes will also wear a special-edition patch dedicated to Fezler’s legacy. Players are additionally expected to wear shorts during practice rounds from Monday to Wednesday, paying homage to the man who helped redefine golf attire.
Fans can follow behind-the-scenes content and tributes via the official adidas Golf Instagram account throughout the week.
The Rise of Performance Golf Apparel
The campaign also highlights adidas’ continued focus on innovation in golf apparel. The new Ultimate365+ Shorts are designed to combine comfort, flexibility and performance for modern athletes, reflecting how the sport’s culture has evolved since Fezler’s historic act.
Golf fashion has changed dramatically in recent years, with sportswear brands increasingly blending technical fabrics with streetwear-inspired aesthetics.
