When one of the best dressed players in the world makes an apparel change, it tends to be a big deal here at GolfThreads — especially when it involves a player that I recently named to my list of the Top 10 Best Dressed Golfers for 2013.
Internet rumors swirled over the last month or so about Graham DeLaet making an equipment and apparel change for 2014, but as we know, many Internet rumors tend to be partially true or not true at all. In this case, it was the former.
On New Year’s Eve, DeLaet’s now former apparel sponsor, Sligo Wear, confirmed via Twitter that the rising star from Canada would not be part of its 2014 team.
Two days later, Puma Golf announced that it had inked DeLaet to a partnership deal to sport the brand’s apparel, accessories and headwear.
“PUMA Golf is a great fit for me and I couldn’t be more excited to be part of the team. I have always been a fan of the brand and the innovative combination of function and fashion they bring to the game. Their unique style is matched with top-performing gear that will undoubtedly help improve my game, and I look forward to represent PUMA Golf on Tour in 2014 and beyond.” — Graham DeLaet
DeLaet’s aggressive play was a great fit for Sligo’s funky plaids and bold colors. The fact that he is Canadian and rocked the Mississauga-based brand’s threads completed the stylish Sligo/DeLaet feel good story.
This move to Puma should have little impact on DeLaet’s style, though. Sligo and Puma have slightly different takes on vibrant colors and high-octane designs, but both brands offer highly functional and eye-catching apparel, which DeLaet wears well.
Our first look at DeLaet in Puma apparel will take place at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines later this month. Expect to see him tee it up in the brand’s 2014 Spring/Summer Collection, which is loaded with head-turning shades of blue and pink. Puma claims his ‘go-to’ shirt will be the highly technical Golf Tech Polo — a solid colored shirt with a classic 3-button placket and innovative 3D Cool Cell Mesh strips on the back.
Also, look for Puma to create a social media campaign around DeLaet’s Sunday sartorial tributes to Canada’s national colors as the brand will post images of his apparel selections under the hashtag, #CanadianSunday.
DeLaet’s deal with Puma, however, does not put in him in Puma kicks nor does it put Cobra clubs in his bag. DeLaet squashed those Internet rumors about an equipment and footwear change with a tweet on Thursday confirming that he will be playing Titleist clubs and balls, and wearing FootJoy shoes and gloves for the next three years.
What are your thoughts about Graham DeLaet’s move to Puma gear?
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