Continental, a German tech company known in the automotive industry, branched out into golf with the creation of BAL.ON, a product designed to show golfers real-time swing analytics. BAL.ON Smart Kit has three components: a smartphone app, a pair of pressure soles that fit inside your shoes and smart pods.
The insoles have pressure sensors to gather data, while the smart pod relays the collected data to your smartphone. Simply insert the pressure soles into your golf shoes and clip the pods on the shoes’ topline near the ankles.
The kit gathers data from 18 sensors in the pressure sole and video data from your smartphone and sends it into the app via the smart pods. The app rates your swing based on backswing, impact and setup, showing you areas to improve.
Fairway to Green’s Maina Francis interviewed Founder & Head of BAL.ON, Felix Lindner, about the Smart Kit, its benefits and the company’s plans for the future.
Maina Francis: What was the inspiration behind BAL.ON?
Felix Lindner: BAL.ON originated from Continental’s internal innovation challenge, “Let’s Cook!” in 2018, designed to explore applications of its technology beyond the automotive industry.
Golf was selected due to its global appeal, intricate mechanics and the increasing demand for tech-enhanced performance tools.
Continental’s expertise in engineering and passion for sports merged to create BAL.ON, making it the company’s first consumer product launched in a new market.
MF: Why is focusing on feet so important for golfers with their swing?
FL: The feet serve as the foundation of a golf swing, playing a crucial role in balance, weight distribution and ground reaction forces. These elements directly impact the speed, power and consistency of a golfer’s swing.
Proper weight distribution ensures a stable setup, minimizing sway and promoting controlled swings, while the accurate balance between heel-to-toe and left-to-right foot pressure improves stability and control. BAL.ON provides real-time feedback on these metrics, enabling golfers to refine their mechanics and enhance performance.
MF: As a company that uses AI, how do you think Tech/AI has impacted the golf industry, or will impact it going forward?
FL: Technology and AI are transforming golf by enhancing data-driven training, offering real-time analysis of swing mechanics and ball flight, and enabling personalized coaching tailored to individual players.
These advancements make golf more accessible through virtual learning platforms and AI-powered simulations, breaking down barriers for new participants.
Continual innovation, such as wearable devices and smart equipment, ensures the game evolves while preserving its traditions. By reshaping how golf is played, taught and enjoyed, AI is driving a future where the sport is more engaging and inclusive than ever before.
MF: Where do you see BAL.ON going next?
FL: The future of BAL.ON is filled with opportunities to innovate and expand its impact. The introduction of advanced features and remote coaching will enhance the user experience, combining cutting-edge technology with expert guidance for more effective training.
The focus is to continue expanding our presence within the U.S., cementing the momentum gained since BAL.ON entered the market in late 2024.
Global expansion is also on the agenda in the future– allowing BAL.ON to reach new markets and connect with a wider audience, fostering a global community of tech-enabled athletes.
With a continued focus on improved personalization, BAL.ON will provide tailored insights and feedback to meet the unique needs of every user. By advancing in these areas, BAL.ON is poised to redefine smart training and solidify its position as a leader in sports technology.
