The Best Golf Shoes: A Buying Guide to Choosing the Right Model
Choosing a good pair of golf shoes isn't just about looking good on the course. Your shoes directly influence your comfort, stability during your swing, grip on the ground, and your fatigue level after 18 holes.
In Quebec, many golfers also refer to them as "souliers de golf" (golf footwear). Regardless of the term used, the goal remains the same: finding a pair suited to your terrain, frequency of play, and how you move on the course.
In this guide, you will discover the best types of golf shoes for your profile, the important criteria to compare, and the mistakes to avoid before buying.
Why Golf Shoes Are Important
A round of golf involves several miles of walking, numerous changes in direction, and repeated swings on surfaces that are sometimes wet, sloped, or uneven. A running shoe might seem comfortable, but it's not designed to offer the same level of lateral anchoring and stability during body rotation.
Good golf shoes primarily help improve three aspects:
- Traction: Better grip on grass, slopes, tee boxes, and wet fairways.
- Stability: Better support during the swing, especially with a driver or fairway wood.
- Comfort: Less fatigue in your feet, knees, and back during a long round.
The right model therefore depends less on style and more on your actual usage: do you often walk 18 holes? Do you play early in the morning on dew? Do you use a cart? Do you prefer a light, waterproof, or very stable shoe?
The Best Golf Shoes for Your Profile
1. The Best Golf Shoes for Walking 18 Holes
If you walk most of your rounds, opt for a lightweight, well-cushioned, and breathable shoe. Comfort should be a priority, especially in the heel, arch, and forefoot.
Look for:
- Cushioned insole.
- Flexible but well-structured upper.
- Lightweight.
- Good breathability.
- Stable fit without excessive pressure.
This type of shoe is very suitable for golfers who play with a pushcart, an electric trolley, or who enjoy walking the entire course.
2. The Best Waterproof Golf Shoes
Waterproof golf shoes are particularly useful if you play early in the morning, in spring, autumn, or on courses that are often wet. Even without rain, dew can quickly soak an unprotected shoe.
To choose a good waterproof model, look at the quality of the upper, the sole construction, and the breathability. A very waterproof but not very breathable shoe can become uncomfortable on hot days.
Ideal for: golfers who play in variable conditions, on wet courses, or during a long season.
3. The Best Spikeless Golf Shoes
Spikeless golf shoes have become very popular because they are versatile, lightweight, and easy to wear before, during, and after the round. They use a sole with ridges, patterns, or integrated nubs rather than replaceable spikes.
They are often the best choice for golfers who want a comfortable, modern, and practical shoe. They are very suitable for dry or moderately wet courses.
Ideal for: golfers looking for comfort, versatility, and a more athletic shoe style.
4. The Best Spiked Golf Shoes
Spiked shoes generally offer more traction and stability, especially on wet terrain, slopes, or during powerful swings. The spikes grip the ground more, which can help keep your footing more solid during rotation.
They are particularly interesting for players who generate a lot of speed, who play in wet conditions, or who want a more traditional, grounded feel.
Ideal for: players who prioritize grip, performance, and stability during the swing.
5. The Best Golf Shoes for Beginners
A beginner doesn't necessarily need the most technical model. The best choice is often a comfortable, versatile, and affordable shoe, with enough traction to learn in good conditions.
A spikeless model can be excellent for starting, especially if you play primarily in dry weather. If you often play early in the morning or on wet courses, choose a waterproof model instead.
Ideal for: new golfers who want a reliable first pair without overcomplicating the purchase.
6. The Best Golf Shoes for Stability
Stability becomes very important if you have a powerful swing, if you often slip during your shots, or if you play on hilly courses. A stable shoe must hold the foot laterally well, without blocking natural movement.
Look for: a wider sole, a well-supported heel, reinforced lateral structure, and good grip under the forefoot.
7. The Best Golf Shoes for Versatile Style
Some golfers want a shoe that can be worn equally well on the course, at the clubhouse, at practice, or after the round. In this case, spikeless models with an athletic or casual style are often the most practical.
The compromise: these shoes are very comfortable and versatile, but they sometimes offer less grip than a spiked model in very wet conditions.
Spiked or Spikeless Golf Shoes?
The big question is simple: should you choose spiked or spikeless shoes? Both options are good, but they don't meet exactly the same needs.
|
Criterion |
Spiked |
Spikeless |
|
Grip |
Very strong, especially on wet terrain |
Good on dry or moderately wet terrain |
|
Stability |
Excellent for powerful swings |
Good, but more flexible |
|
Walking Comfort |
Varies by model |
Often very comfortable |
|
Versatility |
Mainly for the course |
Can often be worn off the course |
|
Maintenance |
Spikes to monitor or replace |
Simpler for daily use |
|
Best for |
Performance, rain, slopes, maximum traction |
Comfort, style, walking, and simplicity |
Simple summary: choose spiked shoes if you want maximum grip. Choose spikeless shoes if you want more comfort, lightness, and versatility.
How to Choose the Best Golf Shoes
1. Comfort First
Comfort is the most important criterion. Even the most high-performance shoe becomes a bad purchase if it creates pressure points after nine holes. Try to choose a pair that holds your foot well without excessive tightness.
Mainly check the space at the front of the foot, the heel support, and the feeling under the arch. If you walk often, cushioning becomes even more important.
2. Waterproofing
A waterproof shoe is a very good investment if you play early in the morning, after rain, or in an area where conditions change quickly. The grass can be wet even when the weather seems perfect.
For summer use only, a breathable, not fully waterproof, model can also be comfortable. The important thing is to choose according to your actual playing season.
3. Traction
Traction influences your confidence during the swing. If your feet slip, you risk compensating with your posture or tempo. Players seeking more performance should prioritize a very grippy sole.
4. Lateral Stability
During the swing, the foot doesn't just move forward. It also supports rotational forces. A good golf shoe must therefore hold the foot laterally, especially during transition and impact.
5. Weight
A lightweight shoe is comfortable for walking, but it must remain structured enough to support your movement. Too light, it may lack support. Too stiff, it can become tiring.
6. Breathability
On hot days, a breathable shoe helps keep feet drier and more comfortable. Very waterproof models are sometimes less breathable; therefore, you need to find a balance according to your playing conditions.
7. Size and Width
Width is often underestimated. Some golfers need a wider model, especially in the forefoot. A shoe that is too narrow can cause discomfort, while a shoe that is too large can reduce stability during the swing.
Which Shoe to Choose Based on Your Terrain?
|
Terrain Type or Usage |
Best Choice |
|
Wet course or frequent dew |
Waterproof shoe, ideally with strong traction |
|
Dry and flat course |
Lightweight and comfortable spikeless shoe |
|
Hilly course |
Stable shoe with good grip |
|
Golfer who walks 18 holes |
Lightweight, cushioned, and breathable model |
|
Golfer who mainly uses a cart |
Comfortable, stable, and easy-to-wear model |
|
Powerful player |
Structured shoe with reinforced traction |
Popular Golf Shoe Brands
Several brands are recognized in golf shoes and footwear, including FootJoy, Adidas, Nike, Puma, Skechers, Ecco, Under Armour, and New Balance. However, the right choice does not depend solely on the logo.
Instead, compare the fit, comfort, waterproofing, grip, sole style, and level of support. Two shoes from the same brand can offer very different sensations.
Mistakes to Avoid Before Buying
Buying solely based on style
Style matters, but it shouldn't come before comfort and traction. A beautiful shoe that slips or hurts your feet won't help you on the course.
Choosing a shoe that is too stiff
A stable shoe doesn't necessarily have to be hard. Look for good support, but with enough flexibility to walk comfortably.
Ignoring playing conditions
A model perfect for a dry course may be less effective on wet terrain. Think about your most frequent conditions, not just the ideal day.
Not checking waterproofing
Many golfers regret not choosing a waterproof shoe after a few rounds on wet grass. If you play early in the morning, this criterion becomes important.
Underestimating width
Width greatly influences comfort. If you feel pressure at the front of your foot, look for models offered in a wide version or with a more generous fit.
FAQ: Golf Shoes
What are the best golf shoes?
The best golf shoes are those that offer the right balance between comfort, traction, stability, and waterproofing according to your terrain and frequency of play.
Should I choose spiked golf shoes?
Spiked shoes are recommended if you often play on wet, hilly terrain or if you are looking for maximum grip during your swing.
Are spikeless golf shoes good?
Yes. Modern spikeless models are comfortable, versatile, and grippy enough for many playing conditions, especially on dry or moderately wet terrain.
Are waterproof golf shoes worth it?
Yes, especially if you play early in the morning, after rain, or during a long season. They help keep your feet dry and improve comfort.
Can you play golf in running shoes?
It's possible occasionally, but running shoes don't always offer the traction and lateral stability needed for proper support during the swing.
Which golf shoe to choose for walking?
Choose a lightweight, cushioned, breathable, and well-fitting shoe. Spikeless models are often highly appreciated for walking 18 holes.
What is the difference between "chaussures de golf" and "souliers de golf"?
They refer to the same type of product. In Quebec, the term "souliers de golf" (golf footwear) is often used, while "chaussures de golf" (golf shoes) is more common in general searches.
Conclusion
The best golf shoes are those that match your playing style. For most golfers, a comfortable, stable, well-fitting, and at least partially waterproof model is the best choice.
If you often play in wet conditions or on hilly courses, opt for a spiked shoe or a very grippy sole. If you are mainly looking for comfort and versatility, a spikeless shoe may be ideal.
Before buying, consider your actual conditions: do you walk 18 holes? Do you play early in the morning? Do you need more stability? Do you prefer a lightweight or more structured shoe? These answers will lead you to the right model.
