Treating yourself to new golf shoes? Perhaps you want to invest in a spare pair in case your only ones get wet or would like to mix and match with your stylish golf attire? Golf shoes are just as important as your golf bag, golf hat, and golf clubs
Whatever it may be, you want to make sure you find a pair that ticks all the right boxes – that means they need to fit and feel comfortable whilst also looking great and allowing you to play at your best. There are various types of golf shoes available on the market today – including spiked (cleated) shoes and spikeless designs. The question is, which should you choose?
Here we look closely at the key factors you need to consider when shopping for men’s golf shoes.
Spiked or spike less?
Knowing whether to opt for a pair of spiked or spikeless golf shoes can be tricky – but it comes down to the terrain conditions and your personal taste. If you often play in wet conditions on hilly courses, spiked golf shoes will provide the most traction and grip, helping you to keep your feet firmly on the ground and offering excellent stability and support.
With spiked shoes, you need to make sure that the spikes (cleats) are plastic. Not many golf clubs allow players to wear metal spikes as they damage the greens.
Spikeless shoes look very similar to a pair of regular trainers, which explains why they are typically the go-to choice for the fashion-conscious golfer. Unlike cleated footwear, these have dimpled soles or rubber studs to provide adequate traction and a lower profile to the ground.
Spikeless golf shoes are lightweight, flexible and comfortable to walk in – but best suited to flatter courses and dry conditions.
Style
From traditional golf shoes, usually made of genuine leather, to modern golf shoes that look just as good off the course as they do on the course, you have a number of different styles to choose from. When you look good, you often feel good and play better – that’s why you want to carefully consider what style of golf shoe fits your needs the best.
Material
Though frequently overlooked, the material of your golf shoes can play a huge part in the level of comfort, durability and performance.
Natural leathers are a popular choice – mostly because of their exceptional comfort, durability, breathability and their ability to mould to your feet as you break them in. Synthetic fabrics are a lighter, thinner and cheaper alternative to real leather, and are typically found on modern golf shoes. However, a pair of breathable shoes can be a boon if you regularly play in warmer weather – keeping your feet cool and comfy.
Weather resistance
Water-resistant and waterproof are two terms that are often used interchangeably – but they do not mean the same thing.
Water-resistant footwear will repel water to a certain degree, but not entirely. Waterproof footwear will prevent any water from penetrating through, ensuring your feet stay completely dry.
Flexibility
When you’re pivoting during swings, a pair of flexible golf shoes will allow you to get right up onto your toes – maximising dynamic movements. Stiff shoes will cause you serious discomfort, especially if you’re wandering around the course for 18-holes. Aside from leading to blisters and aching feet, a stiff pair of shoes could reduce your enjoyment of the sport too.
Versatility
A decent pair of men’s golf shoes can be worn on different types of terrain – i.e. on the fairway, rough, green and bunker. Ideally, you want to be able to wear them when playing in wet and dry conditions, on flat and hilly courses. Of course, you’ll never really know how versatile a pair of shoes are until you try them out.
Value
Golf shoes are available at various price points – ranging from £40 to several hundred pounds.
Numerous factors determine the cost of golf shoes, including comfort, style and materials, and there’s no right or wrong answer as to how much you should spend. Just remember to create a budget and stick to it!
How to find the perfect fit
Your ideal pair of golf shoes will fit nice and snug – your feet shouldn’t be able to slide around.
To determine whether they fit, wear the socks you normally play golf in and try on your usual size. It’s also a good idea to try on similar sizes to establish which fits the best. You can always add an insole or heel grip if necessary. If possible, try shoes on in the evening as feet tend to swell up throughout the day. Walk around in them for a short while to decide whether or not they’re comfy. Bear in mind though, new shoes can be stiff to start with until you’ve broken them in.
Ready to buy golf shoes?
Clarkes’ Golf Centre is a leading stockist of men’s golf shoes. They provide all the well-known brands, including Ecco, FootJoy, Nike and Skechers, to name just a few.
You’ll find a choice of colours and sizes too, at some of the most competitive prices – including free delivery when you spend over £30.
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