With the weather improving and the season underway, investing in the best golf shoes you can find is a wise move for golfers of all abilities. The way your shoes grip the turf when you’re swinging hard is of high importance as if your feet slip even just an inch, it will really affect the result of your shot. It could mean the difference between hitting your ball onto the green or into the drink. It's also important to have the coolest-looking and most comfortable golf shoes, of course, but performance gains are key here.
The best golf shoes are available as spiked or spikeless. Although spiked golf shoes (as they’re still known) no longer have metal spikes – these were banned years ago from the vast majority of golf courses as the metal spikes would leave marks on greens on the course. These days they’ve been replaced by hi-tech non-metal, softer cleats or plastic pods as the norm for ‘spiked’ golf shoes, and they’re a vast improvement over the simple, single spike.
The advances in technology and R&D that goes into these new golf shoe’s outsoles has enabled manufacturers to create incredibly clever cleats or pods to grip the ground – all of which means much better stability, however fast you’re swinging your golf club. The downside is that these cleats wear over time so you’ll eventually need to replace the cleats. Or buy new golf shoes, of course.
If you're in the market for more than just golf shoes, we have a roundup of the best golf watch to track swings and heart rate during your next 18-holer, also a guide on the best golf bags and the best drivers to put in that new golf bag. Don't forget to obtain the best golf balls and, especially at this time of year, the best golf waterproofs.
Best golf shoes: do you need high-tech lacing systems?
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Bored of old-fashioned laces or can’t be bothered to tie your golf shoes? Some golf-shoe brands offer a high-tech system that uses a dial you can twist to tighten thinner laces quicker and for ‘micro-adjustment’ – it’s called the Boa Fit System, and it's used by Adidas and Footjoy for some versions of their golf shoes. You twist the dial to tighten laces, and press the dial in to loosen them.
From our experience, however, we’ve found good old-fashioned laces are still the best way to get your shoes feeling snug, without the need so much to tighten them mid-round with the twist dial, as we found with previous Boa Fit Systems on golf shoes. Sometimes we wonder if golf shoe brands are trying to fix a problem that doesn’t exist with these funky new lace setups.
So we've established that golf shoes are essential, but can be good-looking too. Where do you go from here? As good luck would have it, we’ve rounded up the best golf shoes – both spiked and spikeless – right here in this handy guide…
Spiked vs spikeless golf shoes: what you need to know
Even the best spikeless golf shoes are sometimes viewed as a compromise in performance, but that is far from being the truth. Instead of groups of cleats, spikeless shoes have far larger areas covering the entire base of the shoe for greater traction.
Stable, comfortable, and versatile, the best spikeless golf shoes are certainly not just for casual golfers – many professionals are also going the spikeless route.
Without spikes or cleats to wear down, the tread will last longer. The lower-key style makes them look less like specialist sportswear, and more like a fashionable trainer. Plus unlike with spikes, you don’t have to change when you get to the clubhouse. So you’re first in line at the bar to get that first pint in before anyone else shows up.
Of course, there is one clear downside – spikeless shoes suffer in wetter conditions as their tread isn’t as deep as spiked shoes.
The good news is that many manufacturers now offer their popular golf shoes in both spiked and spikeless, so you can buy your favourite golf shoes in both versions, and choose which to sport, depending on the weather.
Still not sure which you need? Fear not, we've got you covered with our handy guide to the pros and cons of both. Golf shoes: spiked or spikeless?
The best golf shoes, in order of preference
Footjoy are the most worn shoes on the PGA Tour for a good reason. They’ve led the way for decades and continue to do so in 2023 with the outstanding HyperFlex Carbon shoe.
The updated version of the original HyperFlex takes comfort to a new level thanks to the Ortholite Impression Footbed, which over time will mould itself to the shape of your foot to provide unrivalled comfort.
As the name suggests, the Hyperflex Carbon features carbon fibre in the construction. The upper is made from a high performance engineered mesh with TPU yarns that combine with a soft, waterproof knit upper to keep your feet dry in even the wettest conditions.
The OptiFlex Outsole ensures lightweight stability and performance while traction is provided by the Pulsar LP Cleats by Softspikes.
If you want something a little different that will make you stand out from the other golfers at your local club, TRUE Linkswear is just the ticket. Great looking shoes that are as comfortable as anything out there, TRUE golf shoes are one of the best kept secrets in the sport. The brand has a solid foothold (sorry) in the US market but they’re now available throughout Europe too.
TRUE was founded by PGA Tour Player Ryan Moore (you may remember him from the 2016 Ryder Cup) and his brother Jason, who often caddied for him. The pair walked countless miles on golf courses and came to the conclusion that golf shoes were not what they should be, either in comfort or durability. So they started their own company to make shoes to the standard they craved.
TRUE have a wide range of golf footwear but the Lux Hybrid is new for 2023 and it’s a great looking shoe which comes in several different colourways.
Based on the popular LUX knit design the hybrid incorporates a leather saddle for a cleaner, more premium, classic golf aesthetic.
LUX Hybrid includes a new achilles heel pad as well as a TPU heel stabilizer and high retention elastic heel lock system for an elevated fit and feel.
For golfers who like to stand out from the crowd and express themselves with attire that's a little different, these shoes from Duca Del Cosma are a dream come true. A classic shape with a retro design that is guaranteed to draw the attention of your fellow golfers.
They mighty love them or hate them, but either way these shoes are going to be noticed. Personally I think they're the best looking golf shoes on the market, but I love an old school shoe and don't mind wearing something a little risky. For example, I once showed up to a golf day with 30 pals wearing red plus fours. Actually these shoes would look great with plus fours so it might be time to dust the old 'knickerbockers' off and see if they still fit.
The appropriately named 'Dandy' shoes are made from premium quality Italian Nappa leather, with a comfortable, breathable memory foam sole. These shoes are envirmentally friendly too, with a recyclable toe and heel cap and sole made with recycled cork.
Duca Del Cosma say you can wear these shoes on and off the golf course. I'm not sure about that. Wearing them on the course is one thing, but you'd need to have some swag to be able to pull off that look down the pub or at the local supermarket!
Under Armour are big players in the golf shoe market and with good reason. The brand offer premium quality, high performing footwear at affordable prices and the HOVR Fade 2 encapsulates that perfectly.
HOVR technology placement in the heel supports natural movement of the foot during the swing while providing 'zero gravity feel' to maintain energy return which helps eliminate impact step after step.
The upper is made from a microfibre with a waterproof membrane that helps keep you dry on those rainy days, and is backed up with a 1 year waterproof guarantee. The shoe also features Rotational Resistance spikeless outsole for lockdown traction and on-course flexibility.
The HOVR Fade 2 is available in four colour variants, including black, grey and two differing white designs, all of which look great.
It is not an obvious “golf shoe” which means it can double up as every day footwear and removes the need to have a change of shoe any time you play golf or take a trip to the local range.
Playing golf in the winter isn’t much fun, especially when your feet get wet from stomping around in puddles or soaking wet rough. Italian designed Duca Del Cosma golf boots give you complete protection from the elements while adding style to your overall look.
Made from a high quality nubuck leather outer and lined with a soft leather inner, the Stanford boot will keep your feet warm, dry and comfortable throughout the winter.
The spineless sole is made up of 5mm cone shaped nubs which run across the entire bottom of the shoe. This provides good traction in most conditions and combined with the stylish design and leather finish also makes this boot suitable to wear away from the course too.
This shoe is a worthy successor to the hugely popular ZG21 shoes which was our pick for the best spiked golf shoe of 2021. The ZG23 takes everything that was great about its predecessor and enhances the comfort to even greater levels.
This is achieved with new technology used throughout the midsole. Lightstrike technology has been used by Adidas to great effect in running and basketball shoes and now they’ve incorporated it into their golf footwear.
The outer is soft and extremely easy to clean after 18 holes on a muddy UK course which makes the ZG23 one of the more durable, long lasting shoes on time market.
As their name makes plain, these shoes were designed with PGA Tour pro golfer Jordan Spieth’s input. Jordan’s a Major champion so knows a thing or two about the importance of a good golf shoe. Spieth was the brightest star in golf a few years ago before suffering an alarming slump. He’s back now though and his return to form coincided with Under Armour’s release of the Spieth 5.
Featuring a breathable, Clarino micro-fibre upper and a lightweight waterproof membrane designed to keep your toes cool and dry, these shoes deliver in all conditions. Unlike the four previous generations, the Spieth 5 is spikeless but still provides the similar impressive grip and traction of its predecessors. Advancements in shoe technology has closed the gap in performance between spiked and spikeless shoes and the Spieth 5 gives you the best of both worlds; combining the comfort and style of a spikeless shoe with the grip and performance of spikes.
Most golf shoe brands give you a choice of at least three colour ways and earlier varieties of the Spieth franchise included a black option, but the Spieth 5 is only available in white.
This may be off putting to some as white shoes can be difficult to keep looking shiny and new, especially if you play on muddy inland courses in the UK. When it comes to comfort, performance and looks though, the Spieth 5 is the total package and is even available in half sizes and with E Sizing built for those with wider feet.
Use one of our Under Armour discount codes to pick up a saving.
The 2022 incarnation of the popular CODECHAOS shoe is a real beauty. Adidas have improved the look, performance and comfort of a shoe that was already one of the best on the market.
The upper contains a minimum of 50% recycled content, which is increasingly important in these times of increased environmental awareness and drive to end plastic waste. So a well deserved golf clap to adidas for that. This breathable mesh upper is not only helping our planet, it also has a waterproof coating that ensures your feet will stay dry and your shoes will stay looking clean even in wet conditions.
The wraparound outsole is a new addition to CODECHAOS 22. Adidas love a cool name to describe their products and tech and TWISTGRIP is right up there. It’s a clever design innovation that sees the rubber grips on the sole extended up the side of the shoe on side wraps. The idea is to provide extra grip and stability and prevent your foot from moving around in the shoe during the follow through.
Comfort is provided courtesy of a full length BOOST mid sole which adidas say “delivers incredible energy return and instant comfort”. They're not wrong. These shoes are right up there with the most comfortable I have ever worn.
There is also more variety than in previous versions and CODECHAOS 22 is available in five colourways for men, two for women while also offering BOA options.
Want to know more? No problem, T3 have you covered with a full in depth review of adidas CODECHAOS 22.
Check our adidas discount codes to snap up a saving on your purchase.
TaylorMade are known for many things when it comes to golf. They make some of the best drivers you will find, the quality of their irons has never been in question and the Spider is one of the most iconic putters in the history of the game. TaylorMade also produce a range of great balls, but one thing you never associate with the brand are shoes.
That may be about to change. TaylorMade have collaborated with G / Fore to make a range of stylish, comfortable footwear that will make you stand out from the crowd.
The Gallivanter is our favourite. It combines an athletic fit with premium, waterproof leather and boasts an ultra lightweight sole coupled with a bespoke cleat design for optimal on course traction. The Gallivanter features a washable, fully padded interior with anti-microbial mesh lining for ultimate comfort and performance.
If you have wide feet you should go up half a size as these shoes are quite a narrow fit.
Cuater by Travis Mathew is a brand you may not be familiar with but they have been making great strides in the golf shoe market and Spanish superstar Jon Rahm wears their ‘Money Maker’ shoe.
Cuater proclaim that “We’ve got something for everyone” and following on from the spiked ‘Legend’ shoe they launched the Money Maker, an athletically styled, trendy knitted spikeless shoe ideal for summer golf.
The Money Maker shoe offers Tour performance at a reasonable price. The Ortholite insole and ultra-light foam midsole provides extreme comfort in a waterproof contstruction. The shoes are stain resistant too which is especially handy in the lighter coloured offerings.
The Ignite Fasten8 is packed with innovative features and is one of the best spikeless golf shoes on the market. The IGNITE Foam sole provides great support and comfort in the heel area and a secure fitting upper wraps around your foot and gives you added stability when taking your shots.
The lace system in this shoe is quite sophisticated and features advanced nylon webbing straps which are integrated into the lacing system to wrap the foot securely as you lace them up. The clever part is that the eight webbing straps are secured from underneath the foot so when the laces are tightened, each of the straps deliver a secure, personalised fit for all foot shapes and sizes. Essentially the shoe feels like it is hugging your foot.
The sole consists of the same tried and trusted strategically-designed directional traction lugs that Puma have used on previous shoes. The rubber nubs are placed in such a way to provide increased traction throughout the golf swing which allows you to swing your hardest without worrying about any kind of slip or foot movement.
There are three variations of Ignite Fasten8; the standard laced model, the disc version (which has a dial to tighten the laces) and the Pro.
To the untrained eye the Ignite Fasten8 does not necessarily stand out as being a ‘golf shoe’, so if you’re walking around your local supermarket in them then fellow golfers might give you a knowing look, but to anyone else they will just appear to be trainers. This also makes them ideal to take on holiday as you won’t need to change them for any non-golfing activities but they still look the part.
• For a more in depth look at this shoe check out my full Puma Ignite Fasten8 Pro review
I love this golf shoe and it was my choice for "best of 2021". It's still one of the best golf shoes money can buy, especially if you are looking for something with spikes.
The ZG stands for Zero Gravity due to the feeling of weightlessness you have when you put them on. The shoe weighs only 13 ounces which is considerably lighter than most other spiked models and 20% lighter than anything else adidas have produced for golf.
The ZG21 was two years in the making and it is absolutely rammed with technology.
The super comfortable heel is made from a combination of materials and technology used with great success by adidas in other sports such as running, tennis and basketball.
The lightweight four layer waterproof upper is made from 'sprintskin' which is a combination of innovative textiles and polyurethane films.
There is also a TPU insert in the sidewall of the shoe that gives increased stability during the swing, while the ultra-thin outsole is comprised of six strategically placed plastic cleats and crescent moon shaped secondary lugs which are specifically designed not to clog.
The sole utilises Swingplane Traction technology which was inspired by heat-map studies which revealed the areas in which the force of your golf swing will put most pressure on the shoe. The sole is stiffer in certain areas and more flexible in others so as to provide the maximum amount of traction where it’s needed most.
There are three designs available and all of them look terrific, but I especially love the white / acid yellow / blue oxide variation. This shoe will attract envious glances from your fellow golfers when you rock up to the first tee wearing them. It’s just a great looking golf shoe that delivers fantastic performance.
• Want to know more about this great shoe? Then check out my full Adidas ZG21 review!
And don't forget, if you're buying then our adidas discount codes will help you save money on your purchase.
The wider toe box and zero drop heel make this shoe one of the most comfortable around (especially for those of us with wide, Hobbit feet!), while they also have a unique look that makes them stand out from the competition. The scratch resistant and durable leather uppers make them hard wearing while the Antimicrobial Insert provides superior comfort and breathability.
Another unique feature is that the shoes do not come in a traditional box but rather a smart, re-usable bag. In short, it's one of the coolest shoes on the market.
The hottest shoe on Tour just got better as the new Pro SL Carbon – often styled 'Pro|SL Carbon' – are built on the all-new Infinity Outsole. This boasts 30% more points of traction, with PowerHarness to wrap your foot in comfort, and a carbon-fibre inlay for added stability and to increase power into your golf swing. The Dual-Density (D2) midsole gives the perfect balance of stability and comfort.
All this marketing jargon means that, although spikeless, these shoes offer outstanding grip thanks to the 189 points (basically small spikes) of traction and 17% more surface area in the heel to provide the perfect grip and ground contact, in every sort of ground conditions. In addition, the Premium Chromoskin leather is super soft as well as waterproof – with a one-year guarantee.
Designed and worn by American PGA tour golfer Matt Kuchar, the Skechers Go Golf Pro V.4 shoes have a more classic-than-modern design, with replaceable Softspikes and Skechers H2GO Shield waterproof protection when rain doesn’t stop play. We tested the traditional white pair of the Skechers Go Golf Pro V.4 spiked shoes, although they are also available in grey with a blue sole.
They have a smooth ‘full-grain’ leather upper on top, and a dynamic diamond-design traction outsole for maximum grip whatever the surface underfoot, aided by a heel-lock feature for a stable and secure fit.
We found Go Golf Pro V.4 shoes offered all of the comfort we’d expect of the Skechers brand – their trainers are always ever so comfortable. That's thanks in part to the Resamax cushioned insole. After two rounds our feet felt fresh, and we didn’t need to break them in at all, unlike some other firmer golf shoes on test. They also stood up and stayed dry during wet weather testing.
Despite coming from style innovator Nike, the Air Zoom Victory Tour are golf shoes with a premium leather outer and classic look. Don't be fooled however; Nike has packed in plenty of the tech it uses in the best running shoes and street sneakers.
The lightweight Flyknit construction on the upper quarter has a thin, stretchy skin that helps keep out water, while Nike React technology creates a lightweight, durable foam for added comfort when you’re on the course. There’s also a cunning Zoom Air unit in the forefoot for extra spring and responsiveness.
What makes the Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour really stand out is that they have a hybrid outsole, with a mixture of spiked and spikeless grip. The design combines integrated traction under the ball of your foot, with removable spikes on the lateral sides and heel for ultimate gripping power.
If they’re good enough for the big-hitting, fast-swinging top golf pro Rory McIlroy, then you can be confident that they’ll be comfortable with great traction however hard you’re smashing your driver off the tee.
If you don’t like the Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour's classic/boring style, there's also Nike Air Zoom Infinity Tour, with some decidedly less classic colour schemes, as well as golf shoes influenced by Nike Air Max and Air Jordan trainers
• Like Nike? Shop all Nike golf shoes
In a choice of smart-looking colourways, the older version of the FootJoy Pro/SL is a stylish shoe indeed, but its real star factor lies in its stability. It uses two types of special foam to give you all the support of a much higher-end shoe on all sorts of lies and slopes, but with superior comfort both underfoot and around the ankle.
This is not necessarily a golf shoe for beginners. However, for support, grip, and softness underfoot, it’s a real winner, for a reasonable investment especially now the Pro SL Carbon has come along, and this shoe can often be found at a reduced price as a result.
