What is the best way to pick golf shoes? The best way to pick golf shoes is by focusing on fit, understanding the conditions you play in, deciding between spiked or spikeless designs, and matching the shoe’s features to your personal swing needs. This golf shoe buying guide will walk you through every step.
Golf shoes are more than just stylish footwear for the course. They are vital pieces of equipment. Good shoes keep your feet dry, comfortable, and, most importantly, stable during your swing. Choosing the wrong pair can lead to blisters, sore feet, and a loss of power on the course. Let’s explore what makes a great golf shoe.
Deciphering Golf Shoe Types: Spiked vs. Spikeless
The biggest decision you face is choosing between spikeless vs spiked golf shoes. Both have strong advocates. Your choice should depend on the courses you play and your personal comfort needs.
Spiked Golf Shoes: Maximum Grip
Spiked shoes use replaceable cleats, usually made of plastic or metal, screwed into the sole.
- Grip Power: Spikes offer the best traction, especially in wet, soft, or hilly conditions. They dig deep into the turf. This is crucial for powerful swingers who generate a lot of rotational force.
- Stability: They provide superior golf shoe stability features. When you drive hard, the spikes anchor your foot firmly to the ground.
- Maintenance: Spikes wear down. You must replace them regularly to maintain grip and avoid damaging the course greens.
Spikeless Golf Shoes: Versatility and Comfort
Spikeless shoes use molded rubber nubs, lugs, or patterns on the outsole for grip.
- Comfort and Versatility: These are generally lighter and much more comfortable for walking long distances. You can often wear them off the course without needing to change shoes.
- Traction Patterns: The grip relies on advanced golf shoe traction patterns. Modern designs use a mix of shapes and materials for surprising grip.
- Best Use: They work well on dry courses or for casual play. However, they might slip more than spiked shoes in heavy rain or mud.
| Feature | Spiked Golf Shoes | Spikeless Golf Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Traction | Excellent, especially in wet conditions | Good, but can struggle in deep mud |
| Comfort for Walking | Moderate; can feel harder underfoot | High; often feel like sneakers |
| Maintenance | Requires periodic spike replacement | Low maintenance |
| Versatility | Limited to the course | Can wear casually off the course |
Finding Comfort: Shoes for Walking the Course
If you walk 18 holes regularly, foot fatigue is a real issue. You need comfortable golf shoes for walking. Look closely at the midsole and cushioning technology.
Midsole Materials Matter
The midsole is the layer between the insole and the outsole. It absorbs shock.
- EVA Foam: Lighter and softer. Offers great initial cushioning but can compress and lose support over time.
- PU (Polyurethane): Denser and more durable. It holds its shape longer, offering better long-term support, even after many miles walked.
Cushioning Technology
Many best golf shoe brands use proprietary cushioning. Think about athletic sneakers. Golf shoes use similar tech:
- Responsive Foam: This material gives energy back as you step, helping propel you forward slightly.
- Inserts: Removable insoles allow you to swap them for custom orthotics if needed.
Performance Factors: Stability and Fit
Great golf shoes must support your swing mechanics. Stability prevents unwanted foot movement during your powerful turn.
Importance of Golf Shoe Stability Features
Stability is key to consistency. Your feet should not slide inside the shoe during the swing. Look for:
- Heel Counters: A stiff cup around the heel locks the rear foot in place. A weak heel cup lets your foot rock, wasting power.
- Lateral Support: Stiffer materials or internal support structures on the sides of the shoe prevent your foot from rolling outward during the downswing.
- Low Profile: Shoes that keep your foot closer to the ground generally offer better balance and stability than very highly cushioned, thick-soled models.
Waterproofing: Staying Dry is Essential
You cannot play your best if your socks are soaked. A waterproof golf shoes review will always highlight the protective membrane used.
- Gore-Tex: This is a common, high-quality waterproof and breathable lining. Water stays out, but sweat vapor can escape.
- Proprietary Membranes: Many companies have their own tested waterproofing. Look for terms like “seam-sealed” or “weatherproof.”
- Leather vs. Synthetic: Traditional leather is naturally water-resistant if treated well. Modern synthetics are often engineered to be fully waterproof from the start.
If you live in a damp climate, prioritizing waterproof shoes is non-negotiable.
Getting the Right Fit: Golf Shoe Fitting Tips
A great shoe with a bad fit is a terrible shoe. Follow these golf shoe fitting tips carefully.
Timing Your Fitting
Feet swell throughout the day, especially after activity. Shop for golf shoes late in the afternoon or evening. This ensures a snug fit when your feet are at their largest.
The Sizing Check
Do not assume your street shoe size is your golf shoe size. Different brands fit differently. Use a golf shoe sizing chart provided by the specific manufacturer.
- Length: You should have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe when standing.
- Width: Your foot should feel held, but never pinched. If the sides of your foot bulge over the sole, the shoe is too narrow.
- Heel Lock: Walk around the store. Your heel should remain locked down. If your heel lifts more than a tiny amount (around a quarter-inch), you risk blisters.
Testing the Swing Feel
If possible, test the shoes on a practice mat or even during a short putting session. Feel how stable you are when you mimic a full swing. Do your feet slide internally? Does the shoe feel too restrictive in the arch?
Material Choices: Leather, Synthetic, and Eco-Friendly Options
The material affects weight, breathability, durability, and price.
Leather Golf Shoes
- Pros: Excellent durability, premium look, molds to the foot over time for a custom fit, naturally breathes well.
- Cons: Requires regular treatment (conditioning and waterproofing wax), heavier than synthetic options, often more expensive.
Synthetic Golf Shoes
- Pros: Very light, dries quickly if soaked, easy to clean, usually much more affordable, often requires zero break-in time.
- Cons: Can be less breathable than leather, may not conform to the foot as nicely over many years.
Modern and Sustainable Materials
The industry is moving toward sustainable options. Look for recycled plastics or plant-based materials. These often perform just as well as traditional synthetics while lowering your environmental impact.
Traction Details: Analyzing Golf Shoe Traction Patterns
The bottom of the shoe is where the magic happens for grip. Whether spiked or spikeless, the golf shoe traction patterns are engineered for rotational grip.
Key Elements in Traction Design
- Perimeter Traction: The edges of the sole often have deeper lugs or longer spikes. This resists the sliding forces that occur when your body twists hard against the ground.
- Central Grip: The middle area focuses more on maintaining contact and cushioning during walking.
- Directional Lugs (Spikeless): On spikeless models, some lugs are angled to grab the turf when you push off, while others are shaped to shed mud easily.
If you play courses where footing is often compromised (e.g., sandy soil or wet fairways), look for shoes that emphasize perimeter grip and have deeper, more aggressive traction elements.
Maintenance: How to Clean Golf Shoes Properly
Proper care extends the life of your investment. Knowing how to clean golf shoes correctly is simple but important.
Cleaning Spiked Shoes
- Remove Spikes: Take out all the spikes. This allows you to clean debris trapped underneath the sole.
- Clean Soles: Use a stiff brush (like a toothbrush) and soapy water to scrub the treads and spike receptacles. Rinse thoroughly.
- Clean Uppers: Use a soft cloth and mild soap (or dedicated shoe cleaner) for leather or synthetic uppers. Wipe gently. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Dry: Always air dry. Never put golf shoes in a dryer or near a direct heat source, as this can crack leather and damage waterproof membranes. Stuff the shoes with newspaper to absorb internal moisture quickly.
Cleaning Spikeless Shoes
Spikeless shoes are generally easier. The rubber treads can trap grass.
- Use a stiff brush to scrape off dirt and grass from the rubber nubs.
- Wipe the entire shoe with a damp cloth.
- Allow them to air dry completely before storing.
A Quick Look at Leading Golf Shoe Brands
Many reputable companies produce excellent footwear. Researching the best golf shoe brands will narrow your search quickly based on reputation and specific technology.
- FootJoy: Known for classic styles, exceptional leather quality, and industry-leading waterproofing. They cater well to traditionalists seeking high stability.
- Adidas: Often focuses on athletic, lightweight designs, borrowing heavily from running shoe technology. Great for comfort and modern looks.
- Ecco: Famous for supreme comfort and durability, often using direct-injection technology in the sole for lasting support. Highly favored for long walking rounds.
- Nike: Offers cutting-edge style and high-performance traction, especially appealing to the athletic golfer seeking a sneaker-like feel.
Adjusting for Climate and Course Conditions
Your ideal shoe changes with the weather forecast.
Hot and Dry Conditions
Focus on ventilation and lightweight construction. Look for shoes marketed as “tour models” or “summer play.” Breathability is paramount to prevent sweaty feet, which leads to slippage.
Cold and Wet Conditions
Waterproofing is the main goal here. Choose leather or high-grade synthetic models with sealed seams. A slightly thicker sole can also help insulate your feet from cold ground. Consider shoes with removable, warmer insoles if you play in near-freezing temperatures.
Hill Courses
If your course has severe slopes, maximize grip. Opt for spiked shoes or spikeless shoes with aggressive, multi-directional golf shoe traction patterns. Stability is vital to prevent ankle rolling on uneven lies.
Sizing Deep Dive: Using the Golf Shoe Sizing Chart
The golf shoe sizing chart isn’t just about length. It relates foot measurement to the manufacturer’s specific last (the mold the shoe is built around).
| Measurement | Standard Men’s Size (US) | Standard Women’s Size (US) |
|---|---|---|
| Length (Inches) | 9.5 | 7.5 |
| Length (CM) | 27.5 | 24.5 |
| Width Designation | D (Medium) | B (Medium) |
Always measure both feet. Most people have one foot slightly larger than the other. Fit the larger foot properly. If you have wide feet, look specifically for “Wide” or “Extra Wide (EE/EEE)” options offered by the brand, rather than just sizing up the length, which leads to heel slip.
Final Checks Before Purchase
Before you commit to buying, run through this final checklist derived from this golf shoe buying guide:
- Did I test them in the afternoon? (To account for foot swelling)
- Is there wiggle room for my toes? (Thumb-width space)
- Does my heel stay planted when I walk? (Minimal lift)
- Does the arch support feel correct for long walks? (Especially if seeking comfortable golf shoes for walking)
- Do the features match my needs? (Waterproofing if needed, spikes if powerful or wet conditions are common).
By paying close attention to fit, technology, and intended use, you select footwear that actively improves your game instead of hindering it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I wear normal athletic sneakers for golf?
You can, especially for a quick round on dry ground, but it is not recommended for serious play. Athletic shoes lack the necessary golf shoe stability features. Their soft, rounded soles are not designed for the rotational forces of a golf swing, leading to slippage and potential loss of power. They also usually lack the required waterproofing.
How often should I replace my golf shoes?
This depends heavily on usage. If you walk 36 holes a week, expect a good pair to last one to two seasons before the cushioning breaks down or traction wears out. If you only play occasionally, they might last five years, but check the material for dry rot or cracking, especially around flex points. Replace spikes every 6–12 rounds, depending on course conditions.
Are waterproof golf shoes breathable?
The best waterproof shoes use membranes like Gore-Tex, which are both waterproof and breathable. This means they keep external water out while allowing internal sweat vapor to escape. Cheaper models might be “water-resistant” rather than truly waterproof, and these often sacrifice breathability, leading to clammy feet.
What is the difference in arch support between spiked and spikeless shoes?
Historically, spiked shoes offered superior structure and arch support because the hard plastic/metal spike plate required a more rigid base. However, modern spikeless technology, particularly from brands like Ecco, now offers excellent built-in arch support that rivals spiked models, especially in shoes designed for comfortable golf shoes for walking.