The Story Behind Golf’s Iconic Lone Palm

Some landmarks around the world are instantly recognizable symbols. By seeing their silhouette—the Eiffel Tower, the Empire State Building, or Diamond Head—you immediately know the place they represent.

 

Then, there are landmarks that may not be as famous worldwide but are just as meaningful. These special places have a unique charm that speaks to those familiar with them. It's like an insider's secret – if you know about them, you're in on something special.

 

Among golfers, a subtly iconic image is that of the Lone Palm. This semi-concealed palm tree stands on a famous golf course in Georgia, renowned for hosting a major season-opening event each year. The Lone Palm, located near the fourth hole, features a history that extends beyond its simple proximity to the course's layout.

 

 

Before this iconic property in Georgia became a golf course, it thrived as a nursery. The Berckmans family, horticulturists and owners of the Fruitland Nurseries, had a vision. Before the course opened its fairways in 1932, they decided to give each hole a unique name inspired by the specific plant decorating it.

 

Interestingly, the par-3 fourth hole was dubbed "Palm," thanks to a line of palm trees planted along its right side. However, time and nature had other plans. A severe winter storm decimated most of these palms, leading to the fourth hole being renamed "Flowering Crab Apple." Despite this, one palm tree managed to survive. Standing slightly bent but undeniably distinct, this Lone Palm can be found near the fourth hole, just past some bamboo stalks, a testament to resilience.

 

This Lone Palm has become such an emblematic figure that it even makes an appearance on the tickets for the prestigious golf event held there. It's a subtle nod to those in the know, a symbol of insider knowledge and appreciation.

 

At OluKai, this story of the Lone Palm resonated deeply with us, bridging a connection to the Hawaiian Islands—where palm trees abound. As avid golf enthusiasts, we felt inspired by this symbol of "Anywhere Aloha" and decided to pay homage to this solitary palm and the notable event it oversees.

 

 

Wai‘alae Slip On

 

Crafted with supple, stain-resistant and waterproof, full-grain leather, the epically comfortable Wai‘alae Slip-On spikeless golf shoe is built with an all-new cushioned midsole that will have you swinging at the top of your game, round after round. Featuring our kalo-inspired spikeless outsole design with Wet Grip Rubber for multi-directional traction, with our signature Drop-In Heel for easy on-off wear, the Wai‘alae Slip-On dons the limited edition colors of the event with legendary lone palm imagery.

 

Manele

 

Lightweight and ultra-breathable, the comfy Manele spikeless golf sneaker is crafted with water- and stain-resistant materials. It features a new cushioned midsole for all-day comfort during those long walks down the fairway to the fourth. Designed for stability and control, the Manele’s kalo-inspired spikeless design features our Wet Grip Rubber for multi-directional traction, plus our signature Drop-In Heel for easy on-off wear. This limited-edition Lone Palm Manele also dons the iconic colors of this season's opening event in Georgia.

 

Wailea

 

Crafted with supple, stain-resistant, waterproof leathers that maintain their shape and form over time, the Wailea women’s spikeless golf sneaker features an all-new cushioned midsole that will have you playing at the top of your game, round after round. Designed with our kalo-inspired spikeless outsole with Wet Grip Rubber for multi-directional traction, the Wailea dons the limited edition colors of the event with legendary Lone Palm imagery. A sneaker that’s just as ready for the tee box as the post-round pau hana (happy hour) at the clubhouse.

 

 

Shop OluKai Limited-Edition Lone Palm Golf Shoes Collection

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