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This Year’s Best Golf Shoes (Reviews)
If you need some advice on which type of golf shoe to go for (soft spike, spikeless etc), jump to the buying guide at the end, otherwise, let’s dive straight into our picks for this year’s 10 best golf shoes.
1. Under Armour Men’s Spieth 3
Under Armour first entered the golf shoe market in 2015, and slowly but surely have positioned themselves as one of the industry’s leading brands. Endorsements deals with top professionals — most notably Jordan Spieth who lends his name to their flagship Spieth shoe — have certainly helped the brand to grab a large market share.
But while top golf pros wearing your shoes will lend credibility, ultimately whether a golf shoe will succeed or not is going to come down to performance on the course. And on that note, the Spieth 3 does not disappoint.
Spieth himself had a say in the design process of the shoe, and one of his biggest requests was that the Spieth 3 have a more trainer like look and feel than the popular Spieth 2. And Under Armour have certainly succeeded, with the Spieth 3 weighing 2 ounces less than last year’s shoe, and featuring additional padding around the heel and the new triangular design tongue. Cosmetically, the shoe looks a lot less busy than the Spieth 2 (adding to the trainer like feel), which in our opinion is a welcome change.
The cleats have been redesigned to be softer and more flexible. Another welcome enhancement, which definitely provides some extra grip and will allow you to fully leverage the ground for more zip in your swing. The Spieth 2 was already a leader in stability, but the RTS 2.0 cleats really take things up a notch and allow us to say with confidence that the Spieth 3 are the #1 golf shoe for grip and stability this year.
Combined with the extra padding and comfort (those who chose to walk the course will be fans), and the cosmetic enhancements, it’s hard to find a shoe that beats the Spieth 3. Which is why it’s our pick for the best golf shoe in 2019.
Under Armour Men's Spieth 4 Gore-TEX Golf Shoe, White (100)/Black, 10.5 M US
Features
- Breathable, Clarino microfiber upper & a lightweight waterproof membrane keep you cool & dry
- 3D molded quarter panel & tongue lining for added comfort & support
- 2 year waterproof warranty
- Dual durometer EVA footbed provides lateral support & medial softness to harness power
- New, lower profile UA Rotational Resistance (RST 2.0) spikes for lockdown horizontal traction & all day comfort
2. Footjoy Tour-S
The FootJoy Tour S are up there with the most stable golf shoes on the market. In fact, until the Spieth 3 came along and raised the bar they were our pick for the best golf shoes for grip. The wide cleats and rigid outsoles will anchor you to the ground while you swing, allowing you to fully leverage the ground for power.
When you first put on the Tour-S (particularly if you haven’t worn FootJoy shoes before) they will appear a little unorthodox. The launch pods (as FootJoy call them), which house the spikes, stick out from the side of the shoes, which does look a little odd. But you’ll soon get used to them, and FootJoy also made them transparent green to blend in with the grass.
Often when choosing a golf shoe there’s a trade off between balance and comfort. Not here though. While the construction is super solid, the shoes somehow manage to still feel soft and lightweight, resulting in top marks for both stability and comfort.
Once you get used to the launch pods, you’ll be happy with the way the FootJoy Tour-S look. They’re minimal, stylish, and trainer like. Perfect for the modern golfer.
All in all, they’re a strong contender for the best golf shoes this year. It was a toss up between the Tour-S and the Speith 3, but the Under Armours just shaded it for us. If you’re looking for stability though, these are a great choice.
FootJoy Men's Tour-S Previous Season Style Golf Shoes White 10.5 W Blue, US
Features
- POWER - The Tour-S Power Plate outsole provides an incredibly lightweight yet stable platform from which players efficiently transfer power throughout the golf swing.
- PRECISION - The Tour-S Power Plate outsole provides an incredibly lightweight yet stable platform from which players efficiently transfer power throughout the golf swing.
- COMFORT - The Tour-S Power Plate outsole provides an incredibly lightweight yet stable platform from which players efficiently transfer power throughout the golf swing.
3. adidas Pure TRX
Adidas are famous for their trainers, so it’s no surprise they make some truly great golf shoes. The Pure TRX feature waterproof synthetic uppers, with a rubber sole and 6 removable soft spikes. And of course, being adidas, they look awesome!
The adidas Pure TRX are mid priced, so if you are an occasional player, or are looking for your first pair of shoes for golf, they are an excellent choice.
adidas Men's Pure TRX-M, White/Core Black/FTWR White, 9 M US
Features
- Low profile stealth cleat configuration
4. Callaway Balboa TRX
Callaway is one of golf’s best known brands, and they have an excellent range. For soft spikes, we really like the Balboa TRX, which feature a waterproof microfiber leather upper, rubber sole, dura rubber outsole, and 7 removable spikes. Offers great grip on the course (even on wet grass) and a comfortable fit.
Callaway Men's Balboa TRX Golf Shoe, Black/Grey, 11 W US
Features
- Microfiber leather upper with opti-dri waterproof protection
- 7 Spike dura-rubber outsole for maximum stability and control
- Opti-soft EVA midsole for natural ground feel and comfort
- Opti-vent mesh liner for breathability and heat management
- 1 Year limited waterproof warranty
5. adidas Tour 360 Boost
If you have a bit more budget to play with, or are a regular golfer, then the adidas Tour 360 Boost are highly recommended. This time you’ll get a full leather upper, synthetic sole, and 10 removable spikes.
The leather upper will keep your feet dry on even the soggiest of courses, whille the extra spikes will ensure your feet don’t slip half way through your backswing.
As a more expensive golf shoe, the Tour 360 Boost have a number of advanced features, including a 360 wrap which surrounds the foot for improved stability, and enhanced arch support.
adidas Men's Golf Tour360 Boost Spiked Shoe, WHITE, 9 M US
Features
- Removable insole
6. adidas Men’s 360 Traxion
Fact: you won’t find a more comfortable shoe for under $100.
They fit great out the box, and as they are more akin to trainers than traditional golf shoes, they really do make the walking part of your round a pleasure.
What’s the grip like? It’s good. Very good in fact. Not quite the same as soft spikes (you’ll never get that with moulded cleats), but if you are playing in decent conditions you probably won’t notice much of a difference.
Features a leather/synthetic upper, rubber sole, and removable insole.
adidas Men's 360 Traxion Golf Shoe, FOOTWEAR WHITE/FOOTWEAR WHITE/CORE BLACK, 11.5 M US
Features
- Lightweight leather and microfiber leather upper with climastorm protection
- Full-Length bounce midsole provides exceptional cushioning
7. ECCO Men’s Biom Hybrid 2 Hydromax
We’ve been impressed with Ecco’s range over the past couple of years and the Hybrid 2 caught our eye when they launched.
First off, with the leather upper, they look the part. Smart enough for the poshest courses around, but offering extreme comfort under the formal looking exterior.
With most spikeless shoes you’re sacrificing weather proofing for comfort. Not so with the Ecco Hybrid 2. The upper is treated with HYDROMAX™ which offers great protection from the elements, but remains lightweight and breatheable. You’re never going to get quite the same grip as spikes, but nonetheless, the traction on the Ecco’s is excellent. If your driver swing speed is under 110mph, you’re not going to have any problem with stability, and even at higher speeds, the Eccos performed well.
The sole is also wear resistant, so you can walk around off the course without worrying about wearing down your grip.
To top it off, these shoes are extremely comfortable. But with the leather upper, you might want to wear them around the house for a couple of days to break them in before heading to the course.
ECCO Men's Biom Hybrid Hydromax Golf Shoe, Black/Black Solid, 43 M EU (9-9.5 US)
Features
- A sporty lightweight hybrid golf shoe with high performance appeal and snug fit
- Hydromax treated leather is superbly weather and perspiration resistant
- An extremely strong, lightweight, breathable yak leather upper
- BIOM anatomically shaped last for the perfect fit
- Ingeniously engineered outsole provides more than 800 traction angles for excellent grip in all weather conditions
8. Skechers Go Golf Fairway Golf Shoe
Skechers have been making inroads into the golf shoe market over the past few years, and their range has been steadilly improving. We don’t think they are quite there yet with their soft spikes, but their spikeless range is definitely offering solid competition to the more established golf brands.
Our favorite shoe from this year’s range is the Go Golf Fairway. There are cheaper Skechers (like the extremely affordable “Twinkle Toes”), but we think it’s worth spending the extra dollars on a mid range shoe. At under $60, they’re still excellent value for money.
The upper is synthetic, so if you play regularly in the rain (and want to go spikeless), then you’ll probably want to go with the Ecco. But if you want maximum comfort, then the Skechers are a great choice. It really does feel just like wearing a pair of skate shoes on the golf course.
Grip is perfectly acceptable, and will be more than sufficient for most swing speeds.
Skechers mens Max Golf Shoe, Black/White Textile, 13 Wide US
Features
- Spikeless Design
- Water Resistant
- Mesh Upper
9. Nike Golf Fi Bermuda
Surprisingly, the first (and only) Nike shoes on our list. Which is not because Nike don’t make great shoes for golf (they do), but more a reflection of just how good adidas (and Callaway) shoes are at the moment.
But the Nike Golf Fi Bermuda is well worth a mention. And if you’re looking to go spikeless, they are an excellent choice.
These are about as trainer like as golf shoes get — they even have a mesh upper. Which means that once again, they are super comfortable.
Might sound an odd feature to highlight, but I particularly liked the dual pull tabs for putting the shoes on (and taking them off) easily. But that’s just because I am super lazy and tend to not even bother untying my shoe laces after a round, instead just wriggling them off and heading straight for the club house!
A super comfortable, stylish pair of shoes at a great price.
NIKE Men's FI Bermuda, Pure Platinum/White - Anthracite, 7.5 M US
Features
| Part Number | 776121-003 40.5 |
| Model | Fi Bermuda |
| Color | Whte/Anthracite |
10. adidas Men’s Adicross V
Our final picks for 2021 are the adidas Adicross V.
Again, if you’re looking for comfort, then they are a great choice. But you’ll also get a leather upper, so can rely on them to protect your feet from the elements.
adidas know how to make golf shoes, so traction and stability is excellent. But more than anything, as half our team are adidas Samba wearers, we just couldn’t not put the Adicross on our list. We’d happily wear them off the course. And overall, we think they’re the most stylish footwear aound this year. Add in a price point well south of $100, and they’re an excellent buy.
adidas Men's Adicross Classic Golf Shoe, FTWR White/FTWR White/core Black, 10.5 Medium US
Features
- Multiple offerings of climastorm water resistant leather and breathable heathered textile upper
- Multiple offerings of climastorm water resistant leather and breathable heathered textile upper
- Highly-Flexible adiwear spikeless outsole with pure motion features 72 strategically-placed lugs for green-friendliness, optimal grip, and wear anywhere versatility
- Lightweight cloud foam sock liner with extra EVA cushion underneath provides ultra-light cushioning and comfort
Golf Shoe Buying Guide
You want a good pair of golf shoes right? Nope! You want a GREAT pair. Here’s what separates the wheat from the chaff.
Stability and traction for grip, balance and power
Ever wondered how the world’s best golfers generate so much power in their swing? Of course you have. Well, a big part of it is they know how to (properly) use the ground for leverage.
In fact, they use something called “ground reaction force”. I hear you: what’s ground reaction force?
It’s a bit sciency, but in a nutshell:
The force the golfer uses to drive into the ground, results in the same force pushing back up from the ground into the golfer’s body. That’s why you’ll see Tiger and Rory squatting at the start of their downswing.
The result: INSANE power.
Of course, to be able to use the ground for leverage, you’ll need to have a firm grip with your feet. Otherwise, you’ll quickly lose balance. And losing balance is a golf swing killer.
So the #1 most important feature of a good golf shoe is grip and traction.
A good pair of shoes will anchor to you to the ground, allowing you to swing freely, and with power.
Comfort on the course
Now I don’t know about you. But when I’m walking 5+ miles (not including those detours into the woods) I don’t want my feet to be aching in the process. I’ll have enough on my plate worrying about finding my ball and not screwing up my first tee shot.
So naturally, the second most important feature of a good pair of shoes for golf is comfort.
The good news?
Most modern shoes are pretty comfortable. In fact, some of the new spikeless shoes are more akin to traditional running shoes (although you’ll sacrifice some grip there).
Comfort during your swing
You do a lot of walking in golf. But a good pair of walking boots does not make for a good pair of golf shoes.
And that’s because during your swing you will be rolling and rotating your ankles as you transfer your weight.
So shoes for golf need to be soft, yet stable around the inner area and ankle. Otherwise, you’ll quickly end up with blisters and calluses. Which will mean having to take a break from the golf course… and no golfer wants that!
Weather Proofing
I’m from Scotland. So trust me when I say, that it’s worth every penny investing in a pair of shoes that will withstand the elements.
Cheap golf shoes will quickly lose their waterproofing and leave you with soggy feet at the end of your round.
At the very least you’ll want a pair of shoes that are water resistant. But if you play regularly in the rain (like me), then you’ll need a pair that are fully waterproof. Me? I recommend a pair with leather uppers.
How they look
I know, I know. The way a pair of golf shoes looks has nothing to do with how effective they are. But let’s be honest: who wants a pair of ugly shoes on their feet?
When it comes to style, that’s going to be a pretty individual choice. But the good news is that modern shoes come in a range of colours and styles to suit pretty much any golfer.
So whether you want bright orange shoes like Rickie, or more traditional white, you’ll find a style that suits your taste.
Included Technology
The big golf brands are spending millions of pounds each year on R&D to make sure their ranges stay ahead of the competition.
While the ‘tech’ may not be initially obvious, you’d be surprised at just what’s going on under the hood (or should that be heel).
Technology in golf shoes can enhance grip, waterproofing, breathability, and comfort. Naturally, the more expensive the shoe, the more tech is likely to be crammed in.
A GREAT Fit
A good fitting shoe will of course be more comfortable. But beyond that, a good fit can help you to use the ground properly in your swing. You don’t want you feet to be rolling around in your shoe. You want a snug (but not too snug) fit.
If you have wide feet, then fit will be a big consideration. We consider the adidas Tech Response to be the best for wide feet in 2021.
Soft Spike vs Spikeless
One of you biggest considerations when buying a new pair of shoes will be to go spiked, or spikeless. So which is best?
Well, let’s start with definitions, then look at the pros and cons of each.
What are soft spike golf shoes?
Soft spike golf shoes have removable cleats on the soles.
Back in the day the cleats had metal spikes, but these days they are normally made of soft plastic — good news for green keepers!
It’s generally considered that spiked (or cleated) golf shoes will give you a little more grip than spikeless. My first pair of shoes for golf were spikeless, but I now wear soft spikes and definitely feel a little more stable while I’m swinging.
What are spikeless golf shoes?
Spikeless golf shoes are not really spikeless.The spikes are simply moulded into the soles as opposed to being separate and removable.
But with that being said, the moulded spikes tend to be shorter and offer a little less grip and traction than removable cleats.
If you tend to play in dry, firm conditions, then they can be a good choice. But if your usual round of golf involves dodging puddles, then you’ll probably be better with the extra grip afforded by soft spikes.
Which Golf Shoes Do The Pros Wear?
Wondering which brand of golf shoes the pros wear? Wonder no more…
| Golfer | Brand |
|---|---|
| Tiger Woods | Nike |
| Phil Mickelson | G Fore |
| Bubba Watson | G Fore |
| Jordan Spieth | Under Armour |
| Jason Day | Nike |
| Rory McIlroy | Nike |
| Sergio Garcia | adidas |
| Dustin Johnson | adidas |
| Justin Thomas | FootJoy |
| Brooks Koepka | Nike |
Which Golf Shoes Are Best For Walking?
I already mentioned that in an average 18 hole round, you’ll walk around 5 miles. That’s a not inconsiderable distance – particularly if you’re not a regular walker.
The good news? Most modern shoes are designed with comfort in mind. Companies like Nike and adidas know how to make comfortable shoes… they’ve been doing it for a long time!
Generally spikeless golf shoes are likely to be a little more comfortable, but there’s really not a lot in it. And if you’re going for a pair of shoes at the more premium end, you can be sure they will have excellent cushioning and breathability.
Best Golf Shoe Brands In 2021
Here are our picks for the best golf shoe brands this year. Buy you shoes from one of these brands, and you won’t go wrong!
- adidas
- Callaway
- Nike
- Under Armour
- Foot Joy
What’s Next?
That’s it for our run-down of the best golf shoes in 2021. Any questions leave a comment below. And for more gear guides and swing tips, check guide covering how to start playing golf.
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