Vessi Announced as Worlds Course Sponsor
The 2026 PDGA Pro World Championships is proud to announce Vessi as the official course sponsor of the Black Locust course. As one of two primary venues for this year’s championship, Black Locust will play a central role in shaping the competitive landscape—and with Vessi’s support, the course will deliver a refined experience for both players and spectators.
The Black Locust Course
For those less familiar, Black Locust represents the wooded counterpart to Toboggan’s open, elevation-driven challenge. The course is deeply rooted in the region’s disc golf history and will be regarded as one of the premier wooded layouts in the United States.
For the 2026 World Championships, Black Locust will feature an enhanced layout utilizing elements of both the Green course and new additions near Martindale Beach. This expansion introduces a refreshed finishing stretch, highlighted by a new 18th hole that plays along the lake’s edge for more than 800 feet—positioned to become one of the most recognizable finishing holes in championship play.
Vessi’s Continued Investment in Disc Golf
Vessi enters this partnership as an innovative footwear company known for developing the world’s first 100% waterproof woven upper material technology. Since entering the disc golf space in 2024 through their flagship model, the Stormburst, Vessi has continued to refine its product offerings for the demands of the sport.
The brand has also expanded its presence within the professional scene, supporting a growing roster that includes Sullivan Tipton, Ezra Robinson, Isaac Robinson, and Sofia Donnecke. The 2026 Pro Worlds marks Vessi’s second involvement with a PDGA Major this season, following its role as presenting sponsor of the PDGA Champions Cup.
Built for the Conditions at Black Locust
The partnership between Vessi and Black Locust reflects a natural alignment between product performance and course conditions. The terrain at Black Locust features dense wooded fairways with frequent elevation changes, exposed roots, and rocky ground cover that demand consistent traction and stability.
Vessi’s rugged outsole design is built to handle these surfaces, while its waterproof construction provides protection during variable Michigan summer conditions. Combined with breathable materials, the footwear is designed to perform across a wide range of environments—allowing players to navigate the course with confidence regardless of weather or terrain. The 2026 PDGA Pro Worlds team is proud to work with Vessi for this year’s event.
