Best Golf Shoes 2023
Best Golf Shoes
Golf shoes are in equal measure a performance piece of equipment and a fashion statement. Your feet are the only point of contact you have with the ground as you swing at the golf ball, so it’s vital your golf shoes support and grip your foot in place during the swing. But as important as performance is, golf shoes, much like your day-to-day sneakers, are still a fashion statement and a great opportunity to stand out on the golf course with a style that suits your personality. With all this in mind, we certainly ask modern golf shoes to do a lot for us. Luckily for you, 2023 has shaped up to be a stellar year for new golf shoes. Here at Golf Monthly, we can happily report the class of 2023 has plenty of options to fulfill the needs of a wide range of golfers and a wide range of styles.
A clear trend we’ve spotted during our testing is the continued popularity of a hybrid golf shoe – a golf shoe that can be worn as easily off the golf course as it can be on it. We’ve seen some great examples of this type of golf shoe from True Linkswear, Ecco, Cole Haan, and Under Armour, in particular, this year. These golf shoes can pretty much be worn on the golf course and everywhere in between thanks to the clever designs. They offer great performance, grip, and support on the golf course while looking great and offering all the comfort of a normal sneaker off the course. While the hybrid shoe is especially prominent this year, it’s not to say that all the best spikeless golf shoes of 2023 are casual, sneaker styles. Brands like Payntr, Puma, and Skechers have also released some great performance spikeless golf shoes that pride themselves on being a golf shoe first with excellent spikeless outsoles.
If you are after a new spiked golf shoe in 2023, we’ve tested some brilliant new releases from FootJoy and adidas in particular, with both brands bringing out a seriously comprehensive offering in the spiked category. Spiked golf shoes are becoming more lightweight and athletic than ever before and if you’re looking for an all-year-round shoe that provides a real locked-in feeling on the golf course, you’ll be spoiled for choice this year.
VIDEO: Watch Dan Parker’s verdict on the 10 of the best golf shoes currently on the market
For 2023, there are lots of factors to consider when it comes to buying a pair of golf shoes. Do you want the best spiked golf shoe, a spikeless version, or maybe both? What kind of styling do you want? How much do you want to spend? If you are the kind of player who values walking comfort over anything else then we recommend checking out our best golf shoes for walking guide, or if you have particularly wide feet, we think you should check out our best golf shoes for wide feet guide.
As far as what actually makes the best golf shoe, we think the best models manage to combine excellent comfort and breathability so that they can be worn all day. Additionally, the best models protect our feet from bad weather, as well as offer outstanding grip and stability in all conditions. Acknowledging all of this, below we’ve looked at some of the best golf shoes all of which have been fully tested and reviewed by the Golf Monthly team. We’ve split this guide up into the best spikeless models, best spiked models, and best women’s golf shoes too and you can check out our individual guides
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Best Golf Shoes
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Spikeless Models
(Image credit: Future)
One of the most technology-packed spikeless golf shoes we’ve tested this year, the Ecco Biom C4 seriously impressed us with its overall comfort, grip, style and breathability. The Biom C4 uses Ecco’s Exhaust Grid technology that scoops fresh air towards the sole of the foot to keep it cool. This, combined with Gore-Tex surround and breathable Ortholite insole makes this the most breathable shoe we’ve tested in 2022 by some stretch. Another excellent touch from Ecco is that the insole is removable to allow for more width in the shoe. This will make the Biom C4 suitable for those with wider feet and there was still the same amount of comfort and cushioning with the first insole removed. It’s certainly a step in the more athletic direction for an Ecco shoe, and we think this aesthetic move will attract golfers of all ages into Ecco shoes – we think these are some of the best looking golf shoes this year.
- Read our full Ecco Biom C4 golf shoe review
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
An Updated Classic
Our expert review:
Specifications
Sizes:
6-12
Waterproof:
100%
BOA Option:
Yes
Colors:
4 (White/Grey, White/Navy/Red, Grey/Charcoal & Black/Charcoal)
View at Amazon
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View at PGA TOUR Superstore
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Reasons to buy
+
Excellent stability for a spikeless shoe
+
Clean, smart aesthetic adds versatility
+
Comfortable straight out of the box
Reasons to avoid
–
Minimal improvements over the previous generation
–
Upper could have more cushioning for added comfort
The fourth generation of the iconic Pro SL carries over into 2023. The new midsole technology in the Pro SL provides comfort whilst also returning energy to your feet as you step. In addition, the upper of the new version has been cleaned up and, as you can see from the pictures of the sample we tested, the colors have been simplified. As for the on-course performance, this continues to deliver. The comfort straight out of the box is superb and the sole design is among the best spikeless golf shoes we have worn on the course. It provides all the traction you need, even in wet, wintery conditions.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro SL 2022 shoe review
(Image credit: Tom Miles)
The brilliant adidas Codechaos had an all-new look when it was launched in mid-2022 and carries over into 2023, offering a great value spikeless model. It’s similarly bold to the 2020 model but now comes with a new wraparound outsole that adds a unique look as well as more grip and stability. It’s a super comfortable golf shoe too. It’s one of those golf shoes that you forget you are wearing, such is the nature of the comfort, support and grip on offer. It features adidas’ Boost technology throughout the entire shoe – a technology we have become familiar with in the similarly excellent adidas Tour 360 22 and adidas Rebelcross golf shoes. As advertised by the brand, the Boost midsole gives instant comfort and the Codechaos 22 shoes took no time at all to break in. One of the best in a wide range of adidas golf shoes for 2023.
- Read our full adidas Codechaos 22 golf shoe review
(Image credit: Future)
Best Hybrid Golf Shoe 2023
Our expert review:
Specifications
Sizes :
7-15
Waterproof:
100%
BOA Option:
No
Colors:
6 (Grey, White, Black, Cognac, Admiral, Azalea)
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Reasons to buy
+
Superb low-profile outsole
+
Sleek looks
+
Breathable
+
Lightweight
Reasons to avoid
–
Not as much support around the heel
–
Below par in muddy conditions
True Linkswear – a relatively fresh brand out of the Pacific Northwest – has truly leaned into the newly adopted casual fashion in golf with its commitment to casual golf shoes that offer comfort, performance, and that all-important wearability off the golf course. The Lux Hybrid is one of the brand’s flagship models and it ticked all the boxes when it came to being one of the best golf shoes you can wear on and off the golf course.
From the moment you step out of your front door to play golf, you can wear these shoes all day long and with pretty much any outfit thanks to the selection of neutral colors and smart-casual silhouette. More than just the looks, it’s as comfortable as any standard sneaker is day-to-day too. The Wanderlux midsole is right up there with the midsole technology on some of the best spikeless golf shoes of the year. It’s soft to the touch but still firm enough underfoot to offer a decent amount of support during the golf swing. Weighing just 11.2oz, it’s also one of the lightest spikeless golf shoes I have tested. The rubber spikeless outsole on the Lux Hyrbid is useful in that it’s incredibly low-profile and you can barely feel the nubs when walking on firmer surfaces off the course. As for grip on the course, it was great in dry conditions and surprisingly grippy in wet conditions. Despite using knit materials, it is also fully waterproof which is a huge plus. If you’re after an even more casual look, the True Linkswear FS-01 is one of the best-looking on/off-course golf shoes of 2023 too.
- Read our full True Linskwear Lux Hybrid golf shoe review
(Image credit: Future)
Using a very similar look – and pretty much the same technology – as the brilliant, spiked Puma Ignite Articulate, the Ignite Elevate is one of the most comfortable and best-looking spikeless golf shoes of the year. The Ignite Foam in the midsole is one of the best of its kind and it gives both a soft and supportive feeling with plenty of energy return through the swing too. The material used on the inside of the upper – the place where your toes might occasionally push up towards – is also made with a very soft material that makes your foot feel snugly in place. The black section on the shoe is called the Exoshell and – as the laces tighten – it provides 360° support throughout the swing as was so impressive in the Articulate.
The textured pattern Puma has used across the upper and the black ‘cage’ area across the shoe gives a nice contrast while the fabric ‘sock’ area near the top of the shoe offers another nice contrast of materials. The chunky white sole is very on trend with modern spikeless golf shoes, and modern street sneakers for that matter.
- Read our full Puma Ignite Elevate golf shoe review
(Image credit: Future)
Cole Haan ZeroGrand Overtake Golf Shoe
Super Lightweight Design
Our expert review:
Specifications
Sizes :
6-15
Waterproof:
Water resistant
BOA Option:
No
Colors:
6 (Black/Grey, White/Grey, White/Blue, Black, Ivory/Silver Birch & Bright Cobalt)
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Reasons to buy
+
Incredibly lightweight
+
Stylish design
+
Easily worn on and off course
+
Soft, supportive midsole
Reasons to avoid
–
Outsole is not ideal in wet conditions
This shoe is unbelievably lightweight. They are featherweight when you take them out of the box and this translates to a very comfortable feeling on foot with extremely little foot fatigue after walking 18 holes. If a lightweight shoe is top of your priority list then look no further than this. To add to the overall comfort is the impressive GrandFoam midsole which is soft and full of cushion, almost like a memory foam mattress.
You’d think such a lightweight shoe would be a little unstable in some areas, but Cole Haan has added a TPU heel cup (seen on this shoe in bright orange by the heel) to give the shoe some real stability when you need it during the swing. This shoe is water resistant rather than fully waterproof. This means light droplets of water will easily wick off the top of the upper but sustained heavy rainfall will ultimately penetrate the shoe. This is fine though as the ZeroGrand Overtake is undoubtedly a summertime shoe anyway. Having this water-resistant upper means any surface water or light rain showers you encounter won’t penetrate the shoe. The upper is easy to clean too, while the outsole is solid, using a variety of different-shaped rubber nubs to give you grip in the areas of the shoe you need it most.
- Read our full Cole Haan ZeroGrand Overtake golf shoe review
(Image credit: Future)
A true golf shoe for on and off the course, the sleek athletic style with a ‘never wet’ knit upper means your feet can breathe while also keeping water out. The Charged midsole that separates the footbed and outsole is something that has been featured in many Under Armour running shoes and provides comfort, as well as the ability to help transfer energy created from pushing against the ground, into your swing. We felt very stable even when swinging hard in the Charged Phantom SL, thanks to a TPU-infused yarn that is wrapped around the toe of the shoe and provided a secure feeling. It’s another excellent Under Armour golf shoe in the ever-increasing range offered by the brand.
- Read our full Under Armour Charged Phantom SL golf shoe review
(Image credit: Howard Boylan)
Payntr may well be a golf shoe brand that has gone under your radar in recent years, but 2023 promises to be a big year for the brand with plenty of new styles coming to market. The X 003 F is very much a performance shoe and Payntr has added what they call a propulsion plate to this shoe that harnesses ground forces to help to generate more energy return through the swing. Coupled with the snug but comfortable fit on the heel and the X 003 F creates a sort of ‘locked-in’ sensation.
The spikeless outsole is very well thought out too and offers a brilliant grip that we now expect from spikeless golf shoes. It is made from TPU nubs with different sizes and shapes dotted across the surface in the areas where you need grip most during the swing. Overall, this is a supportive and comfortable spikeless golf shoe that will allow you to confidently execute your best golf swing in all weather conditions.
- Read our full Payntr X-003 F Spikeless golf shoe review
(Image credit: Future)
G/FORE MG4x2 Shoes
Great looking, modern golf shoe
Our expert review:
Specifications
Sizes:
7-15
Waterproof:
100%
BOA Option:
No
Colors :
5 (Navy, Black, White, Grey, Poppy)
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View at CARLSGOLFLAND.COM
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Check Amazon
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Reasons to buy
+
Striking looks on and off the course
+
No discernible lack of grip compared to spiked models
+
Numerous color options
+
Excellent comfort
Reasons to avoid
–
Can be difficult to match with the right trousers
–
Hard work to keep the heavily textured areas looking clean
G/FORE is a relative newcomer with tons of style and attitude to help you stand out from the crowd. We’ve seen this with models like the Gallivanter and MG4+, and the brand’s flair is evident once again in the new spikeless MG4x2 shoes. This is a cross-trainer shoe, a multi-functional model designed for both on and off the course. A lot of golf shoes struggle to find the balance between on and off course versatility; many end up failing on one or sometimes both tasks with either the style or performance being compromised. Not so with the MG4x2 shoes.
On course, the Sawtooth sole design offers one of the most compelling spikeless outsoles on the market even in wet and soft underfoot conditions. They also feature a moulded heel cup that prevents the heel from slipping, so your feet always feel really secure. Meanwhile, the upper is both breathable and waterproof, meaning your feet will stay dry from rain and not get too hot when temperatures rise
- Read our full G/FORE MG4x2 golf shoes review
(Image credit: Future)
The new Go Golf Drive 5 is a versatile, casual, waterproof, spikeless golf shoe that provides a relaxed fit, with the Arch Fit insole system offering podiatrist-certified arch support. The ample cushioning on offer here, particularly around the heel section, meant that they almost felt like slippers the moment we put them on. We have occasionally in the past had issues with the heel section in Skechers’ golf shoes sitting a little too high, but not so here – the Go Golf Drive 5 is supremely comfortable to walk and play in.
- Read our full Skechers Go Golf Drive 5 Golf Shoe Review
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(Image credit: Future)
Sporty look on a classic silhouette
Our expert review:
Average Amazon review:
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Specifications
Sizes:
6-14
Waterproof:
100%
BOA Option:
No
Colors:
2 (White/Blue/Navy & White/Grey/Orange)
View at Amazon
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View at CARLSGOLFLAND.COM
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View at Walmart
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Reasons to buy
+
Lightweight and breathable new upper
+
Stand-out looks
+
Excellent grip and medial support
Reasons to avoid
–
Minimal differences to the original Pro SL
The latest iteration of the Pro SL franchise sees an all new upper material used for the first time, giving the shoe the sportier, more athletic look the name suggests. The shoes are much more lightweight and breathable than the ‘standard’ Pro SL thanks to the performance material upper, utilising mesh and using an ultra thin TPU hotmelt top layer. For our money, these look fantastic too.
It’s worth noting that the loss of the all-leather upper from the standard version does not correlate a loss in breathability and waterproofness. We tested these on a couple of very warm days on the golf course and found our feet to remain at a comfortable temperature for the entirety of both rounds. We would go as far to say that the Pro SL sport is probably more breathable than the standard version, such is the brilliance of the new upper.
- Read our full FootJoy Pro SL Sport golf shoe review
(Image credit: Future)
Whilst G/FORE is synonymous with outlandish designs and colorways, the MG4+ has a more understated yet modern look and appeal. Lightweight and completely waterproof, the shoe does not compromise in terms of comfort either thanks to ForeFoam cushioning and a triple-density footbed which is “the ultimate massage for your soles.” When we put the shoes through their paces, they were comfortable from start to finish and performed about as well as possible on a debut outing and beyond.
A common thing with spikeless shoes can be less stability and grip than spiked models but there was never a situation in which this came to fruition in these shoes. This is thanks to the non-slip outsole and the stability comes from the heel cup at the back of the shoe that really locks the foot in place without sacrificing any comfort.
- Read our full G/FORE MG4+ Shoe Review
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Spiked Models
(Image credit: Future)
Our choice for the best golf shoe of 2023, the FootJoy HyperFlex Carbon offers stability and comfort in spades, all wrapped up in an eye-catching athletic silhouette. The absolute highlight of this shoe is the Ortholite Impression Footbed. As soon as you slip your foot inside the shoe, you will feel the technology at work. It has a memory foam feel to it and, over a number of rounds, it will mold to the shape of your foot, giving you a feeling akin to putting on an old pair of slippers.
Looks-wise, the HyperFlex Carbon has stuck to the tried and tested silhouette of its older sibling, but with some new pops of color that elevate the overall shelf appeal. The look is topped off by the sock area at the top which really gives the shoe its athletic look and feel as well as offering a contrasting texture to the TPU used primarily on the upper. While looking good, this material is also highly breathable – as is the TPU upper – something not all golf shoes have been able to get right in the past. The spiked outsole provides an amazing amount of grip whilst also being much lower profile than other FootJoy spiked shoes like the Tour Alpha. Exclusively to the HyperFlex Carbon, FootJoy has added a carbon fiber wrap to the outsole of the shoe to make it even more stable. Couple with the spiked outsole, it makes for a solid-feeling shoe that is still one of the most comfortable on the market. Somehow, FootJoy has found the balance between comfort and high performance in the HyperFlex Carbon while packing it all into a sporty, colorful silhouette.
- Read our full FootJoy HyperFlex Carbon golf shoe review
(Image credit: Future)
The adidas ZG21 was one of the most popular spiked golf shoe models of recent memory, but the new ZG23 has done a lot to improve what was already an excellent spiked golf shoe. Its still incredibly lightweight and incredibly stable, but it feels like the comfort has been ramped up to a new level.
The biggest improvement over the ZG21 – and a standout feature in the whole shoe market this year – is adidas’ new Lightstrike and Lightstrike Pro technology used throughout a newly revamped midsole. Those who have worn a pair of adidas running or basketball shoes before will recognize the Lightstrike moniker as the midsole technology the brand has utilized in its running and basketball division to much popularity. We were super impressed with the comfort on offer and the overall softness on offer in this midsole. Paired with the softness of the upper – both on the outside and inside of the shoe – and it is right up there with one of the most comfortable spiked golf shoes available right now.
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
There’s a reason why Rory McIlroy wears these shoes, as they are a fantastic spiked offering from Nike that strikes an excellent balance between being a classy and sporty golf shoe. They were designed with McIlroy’s swing in mind, taking data from the three-time FedEx Cup champion’s swing and implementing that into designing this pair of high-performance shoes. They offer brilliant traction on the turf, helping golfers power through their shots from all kinds of lies and are 100 percent waterproof, meaning they can be worn all year round.
The best part of these shoes, though, is the comfort they offer. Thanks to the Air Zoom insert on their sole, they combine well with a React foam heel to give you a stable and comfortable ride on the course. We were really grateful for this when walking on uneven surfaces during our testing rounds. The shoe also has additional ankle support around the top line, which again proved vital when we lost our ball in the long rough. Overall, these are very stylish, performance-enhancing golf shoe that offers excellent comfort and stability on the golf course.
- Read our full Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 2 Golf Shoe Review
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(Image credit: Future)
Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 Golf Shoe
Highly tehnical design
Our expert review:
Specifications
Sizes:
7-12
Waterproof:
100%
BOA Option:
No
Colors:
2 (Grey, White)
View at Under Armour US
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Check Amazon
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Reasons to buy
+
Excellent traction in all conditions
+
Creates a ‘locked in’ and supportive feeling
+
One of the better looking spiked models in 2022
Reasons to avoid
–
Slightly firm out of the box
The new Hovr Drive 2 addresses the specific needs of golfers, supporting your feet during the very specific movement of the golf swing. As much as we may not think it, the golf swing is a highly athletic movement and we all need the right equipment and grip on our feet to aid those movements.
As such, the Hovr Drive 2 has applied the science of biomechanics in the design of its outsole to develop rotational, horizontal, vertical and internal traction. The most convincing of this traction comes from the new 3D molded heel cup construction, which effectively creates a vacuum around the heel, locking it in for incredible levels of stability. Alongside working on the four-dimensional traction in the Hovr Drive 2, Under Armour has introduced a new upper silhouette that is much sleeker than previous models. The upper has been brought closer to the foot to help increase the locked-in feeling created by the heel cup and outsole while making for a more dynamic-looking silhouette.
- Read our full Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 golf shoe review
(Image credit: Future)
Without a doubt, one of the most impressive spiked golf shoes we’ve tested in recent memory, the Tour Alpha should be on the shortlist of golf shoes for any serious golfer out there. The Tour Alpha becomes FootJoy’s premier performance shoe for golfers seeking the ultimate in grip and stability.
Visually, it looks packed full of technology, especially around the heel area but when you pick up the Tour Alpha it feels surprisingly light for a performance-cleated shoe. Slide your foot in and the comfort is immediate – the padding around the ankle and underfoot is substantial enough to take away the pressure when walking, but not too soft where walking 18 holes would feel like hard work. The fit is also worth mentioning – in the correct size (we often come down half a size in FootJoy golf shoes) the fit is snug and really encapsulates the foot evenly without pinching in any areas. Visually, this shoe is on point. There’s lots going on in the rear but when you’re wearing them, looking down the shoe looks clean and classic. With the cleats being positioned so close to the perimeter of the outsole, the pods that house them do stick out slightly but it’s not enough to distract you or put you off wearing them.
- Read our full FootJoy Tour Alpha golf shoe review
(Image credit: Future)
Skechers Pro 5 Hyper Golf Shoe
Best for arch support
Our expert review:
Specifications
Sizes:
7.5-13
Waterproof:
Yes
BOA Option:
No
Colors:
3 (Black/Red; Grey/Red; Blue/White)
Check Amazon
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Reasons to buy
+
Arch Fit technology offers class-leading cushioning
+
Softspikes are easily replaceable
+
Low profile look with excellent grip
Reasons to avoid
–
Would be nice to have a full-leather upper
Skechers’ flagship model for 2022, the Pro Golf 5 Hyper shoe takes comfort to the next level by incorporating Skechers Arch Fit technology that provides podiatrist certified support to your feet, with cushioning across the midsole. We thought this made the shoe one of the most comfortable golf shoes (opens in new tab) on this list. That Arch Fit technology also helps to reduce aches and pains in your feet as you navigate your way around 18-holes.
The shoe also boasts Skechers Hyper Burst and Resamax cushioning which work in tandem to offer excellent rebound in your step. The shoe is also made of a breathable upper mesh that helps to keep your feet cool and fresh during your round. The shoe also provides excellent grip on the turf through its Softspikes which are easy to replace and prolong the life of the shoe.
- Read our full Skechers Pro 5 Hyper Golf Shoe Review
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(Image credit: Future)
The Ecco Biom G5 aims to bring together the best elements of two previous Biom shoes into one feature-packed model. Notably, the cleated outsole of the Biom G3 and the athletic look of the impressive Biom H4. The first thing you’ll notice with the Biom G5 is the weight, or the lack of it. On our scales in size 10 it came in 18 grams lighter than the Biom H4, no mean feat given the addition of the cleats on the outsole. There are only six cleats versus the eight we saw on the Biom G3 and these are positioned at the very edge of the outsole to provide perimeter stability as well as excellent grip.
the Gore-Tex protection and wipe-clean characteristics of the leather upper make this a robust winter shoe option. The design of the Zarma -Tour spikes is clever with the six, semi-flexible anti-clogging legs and combined with elements of the MTN outsole we’ve seen previously from Ecco meaning the level of traction you experience is through the roof.
- Read our full Ecco Biom G5 golf shoe review
(Image credit: Future)
Articulation geometry is behind the somewhat quirky name of the latest spiked shoe from Puma. The new technology allows the shoe to move with your foot while still providing a strong level of support. In practice, it works brilliantly and the shoes were a pleasure to play golf in. The styling is subtle but smart and Puma’s Ignite Foam provides a good amount of comfort and energy return in the midsole.
There isn’t a traditional shoe tongue either and it is replaced with a single construction that provides plenty of support around the whole foot. There is then a ‘cage’ – pictured in black across the shoe – which wraps around any foot shape for added support. Much like with the FootJoy Tour Alpha, the shoe really creates a ‘locked-in’ feeling once the laces are tightened.
- Read our full Puma Ignite Articulate golf shoe review
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Cuater The Legend Golf Shoes
Classic looks
Our expert review:
Specifications
Sizes:
8-13
Waterproof:
100%
BOA Option:
No
Colors:
3 (Black, White, Navy)
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Check Amazon
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Reasons to buy
+
Classic, understated looks
+
Solid comfort and support
Reasons to avoid
–
Not as low-profile as some spiked shoes
One of the most traditional golf shoes to be launched in 2021, The Legend by Cuater offers golfers a technology-packed, classic golf shoe that can be worn all year round. It’s got to be said that this simple, clean design isn’t seen as often in golf shoes anymore as brands constantly try to find the ‘new’ look to capture a golfer’s eye. Alongside the FootJoy Premiere Series (opens in new tab) line of shoes, we think The Legend is probably the most ‘classic’ looking brogue you can currently buy. Premium materials are used throughout and you can feel the quality of The Legend immediately when you pick them out of the box and again as soon they are on your feet. The Legend features what Cuater calls its Sweet Spot Technology Cushioning System, which is used in the midsole to great effect.
- Read our full Cuater The Legend golf shoe review
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Women’s Golf Shoes
(Image credit: Carly Frost)
Slide the shoes on and you’ll discover the real ‘wow’ factor of the G/Fore – an amazing massaging footbed inner sole, unlike any golf shoe you will have experienced before, that literally leaves you bouncing up the fairway like you’re walking on air. If you’ve ever used one of those bumpy foot massage tools you’ll know that great feeling of rolling it under your foot, relieving stress and tension. Putting ‘nubs’ on the inner sole of the golf shoe gives the same amazing feeling, literally massaging the sole of your feet as you walk for 18 holes.
The performance benefits don’t stop there. This shoe has been designed to give your foot total swing support. I felt really grounded and stable, as though the shoe was gripping the turf, as I made my swing. In the past I’ve found performance-orientated golf shoes a little ‘sturdy’ and firm in feel but the G/Fore MG4+ fitted like a glove from my very first round, there was no need to break them in and no rubbing. See our guide to the best women’s golf shoes for 2022 for more ideas
(Image credit: Tom Miles)
Our first women’s pick in this best golf shoes guide is the Traditions design from FootJoy. This traditionally styled shoe boasts a super-cushioned foam under foot which is extremely light and gives great bounce as you walk. This we’d expect from a more sporty design but it’s good to see it in these.
Available in 4 color choices. All Black, all white, white/blue and the rather snazzy white/tartan. The tartan option are a grey tartan so would be a subtle vintage hint in an outfit. Really smart and great performance.
- Read our full FootJoy Traditions Women’s shoe review
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(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Puma says that this shoe is for women who take their golf seriously. But we think it’s wrong to exclude a host of players who would also enjoy the performance of the Ignite Blaze Pro shoe. For example, in testing we found them to be up there with the most comfortable models we’ve ever worn.
They are also waterproof so will provide full protection should the heavens open and are very grippy thanks to six well-placed spikes on the outsole. One thing we would say is that it isn’t as stable as some of the other models on the list, but if you want comfort, grip and breathability in abundance, this is a great option.
- Read our full Puma Ignite Blaze Pro shoe review
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(Image credit: Carly Frost)
Power is the big buzz word in golf and your feet are the stabilisers of the golf swing that can transfer energy to the ball if you’re wearing the right shoes. Step forward the FootJoy Fuel with its new Power Stabiliser outsoles, literally designed for incredible traction and stability to give you the ultimate support and control.
The Fuel looks and feels a lot like a premium pair of trainers. Your foot feels very supported inside these shoes and they’re instantly comfortable to wear thanks to the soft Stratolite foam cushioning, genuinely putting a bounce in your step. Keeping the uppers synthetic (rather than leather) is very sensible as it gives that total waterproof protection when you’re playing on a rainy day, while also allowing you to easily wipe the shoes clean after a round, so they stay looking like new for longer.
- Read our full FootJoy Fuel Women’s Shoe Review
How we test golf shoes
Our golf shoe testing methodology (opens in new tab) revolves around putting models to the test over a number of rounds and in different conditions. This is so we can gain a better idea of overall performance in terms of factors like grip comfort, grip, stability, waterproofing and how they actually look on the golf course. Each of the shoes listed above has been personally used by a member of the Golf Monthly team. This is the best way of testing a golf shoe as using it in the real world over a number of weeks allows us to see how they perform when variables change like the weather, ground conditions, different stances and lies, and so on.
We think this also gives us information on the little details as well like which brands come up small or large, which models start to rub a bit too much after 36 holes, and which designs can be used off the golf course and for the drive home. We are very comprehensive in our tests to the point where we will regularly attend product launches and meet with the manufacturer’s R&D experts to understand the new technology. That isn’t to say manufacturers can buy a good review, as all our reviews are made by golfers, for golfers.
How to choose the best golf shoe
There are a number of factors to consider when picking out your next pair of golf shoes so to help you narrow down your search and inform your buying decision, below we have put together some key points.
Spiked or spikeless?
The best golf shoes above are split into spiked (or cleated) and spikeless designs and there are pros and cons of each. Spiked golf shoes offer better grip and stability but don’t sit as low to the ground as spikeless models. Spikeless golf shoes offer off-course versatility. They are perfect for driving in the car to the golf course, playing a round, and then driving home again because they are usually light and comfortable, but most won’t offer as much traction as a spiked shoe.
Waterproofing
If you live somewhere that gets a lot of rain then a waterproof shoe is a must. The best designs will keep your feet bone dry however if you play golf in glorious sunshine most of the time, then you may view other factors as more significant.
Many players choose to have one pair for winter and another, lighter pair for summer to keep them fresh and suit different requirements.
Getting the right fit
When picking out golf shoes getting the right fit is important because otherwise, blisters can build up. Or your feet may slide around inside, which limits your stability.
When trying a pair on for the first time, listen for the ‘whoosh’ sound when you slide your feet in – that’s the sound of all the air leaving the shoe to confirm it is the correct size, but do a walking test to be sure. They shouldn’t pinch anywhere, nor should your feet be moving around inside.
When it comes to the right fit it is also worth considering different laces. Normal laces are good for most but for some golfers, BOA-laced shoes provide more convenient fastening and shouldn’t loosen during the course of a round, but are usually a tad more expensive.
Styling
Thankfully modern golf shoe design has seen many brands not just create traditional, classic-looking shoes, but also modern styles that can be used off the golf course too. Therefore it is important to think about what your shoes look like and what style suits you. Whatever you like or dislike, there is something for everyone these days.
FAQs
Why wear golf shoes?
Golf shoes are needed for golf because they have been designed to deal with all the things golfers face on the course. This takes the form of being as comfortable as possible because they have to be worn and walked in, all day. They also have to provide grip and traction as golfers make their swings whereas normal shoes don’t do this as well. Golf shoes tend to be waterproof as well whereas regular trainers often aren’t.
What are the best shoes for playing golf?
All of the shoes in our list will provide with an enjoyable, comfortable and performance enhancing experience on course. Golf shoes are specifically designed to support the movements of golfers and the conditions of a golf course, so make sure to invest in a proper pair of golf shoes.
How do I choose golf shoes?
There are a number of factors to consider. First ask yourself whether you want a spiked shoe for extra grip or a spikeless shoe for a more casual and a low profile look. Then consider whether it needs to be fully waterproof, what color and style you like and also work out your exact shoe size. Once you have answered these questions you’ll have narrowed down your search and you’ll be able to find the perfect shoe for your game.
Do Pro golfers use spikeless shoes?
The majority of golfers on Tour will wear spikleess shoes. This is because they play mostly in dry, warm conditions on highly manicured golf courses. However, you’ll see many Tour players switch to spiked golf shoes if they are playing in inclement weather. Some players, like Collin Morikawa with the adidas ZG21, always opt to wear a spiked shoe
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