How to choose golf shoes? Rather “sport” or “classic”? Which brand? These are questions that you may ask yourself when it comes time to equip yourself.
Golf shoes are easily recognizable with a more refined look than the majority of sports shoes, designed primarily for performance. When you play golf, you look for shoes that are comfortable to wear, with a good grip, and if possible waterproof.
I’ve prepared an article with the advice I can give you to prepare yourself well before buying, as well as 3 models that I recommend to all those who are a little lost before buying.
The different types of golf shoes
There are several types of golf shoes. I classify them here according to the quality of the studs and the material of manufacture.
First of all, let’s have a look at multi-purpose shoes! They are suitable for everyday use, even off the course, thanks to the stability provided by their small rubber studs. On the other hand, they are inexpensive and totally suitable for casual players.
Then there are the spiked shoes, which are designed exclusively for golf. Thanks to their studs in the shape of cogwheels, they offer the necessary stability for optimal practice. If you can, I advise you to opt for soft studs. These are certainly the most suitable for the widest range of surfaces. I would also advise against shoes with studded studs, as they are often forbidden on the terrain and tend to damage the course. Also be interested in removable studs that can be replaced, so that you don’t have to change your pairs too frequently.
Concerning the material, leather shoes require a lot of maintenance, but are waterproof and breathable. Synthetic shoes are more durable but less easy to care for.
How do you choose your golf shoes?
I suggest you focus on waterproofness, comfort and grip, which are key criteria for choosing the right shoe. A pair that combines these 3 criteria will allow you to maximize your endurance and performance, knowing that you can walk up to 10 km on courses where you sometimes have to brave tall grass, sand and bushes.
Waterproofing
Rain or dew in the morning sometimes dampens the courses. It is therefore important to avoid canvas shoes or shoes that are too airy. To keep your feet dry, I recommend a waterproof shoe.
Comfort
This second criterion is crucial for maximizing your endurance and performance, as the slightest discomfort could hamper your swings or get you out of the game too early. It’s not a question of putting your arch to the test.
The grip
It is in this part that I discuss the stability that is essential for a smooth and efficient swing. With a good grip you don’t risk slipping, however it can vary depending on the type of course. On a dry course for example, pivot shoes (or multi-purpose shoes) will offer you more stability than others. On a wet course, you will tend to prefer spiked shoes.
Comparison of the best golf shoes
I have listed below 3 shoe models that I would recommend to a beginner or intermediate golfer. They perfectly combine the criteria I just mentioned above, and are excellent value for money:
Table could not be displayed.The best brands
Maybe you don’t know them yet, yet it is impossible to miss these brands when looking for shoes:
- Footjoy
- Adidas
- Callaway
- Nike
- Ecco
- Mizuno
In addition to the 3 models in my painting, here are a few others:
We start with waterproof and durable shoes: the Adidas Z-Traxion WD guarantee stability and comfort thanks to a beautiful outsole and a soft leather upper. Likewise, the Adidas Powerband Leather Adidas provide stability, waterproofing and comfort, and their studs are reputed to be very strong.
We continue with the Callaway RAZR, which are less expensive and just as waterproof. They offer good stability and comfort. Likewise, the Callaway Xtreme, although they only have eight studs, provide good foot stability and comfort.
Then there are the Ecco BIOM Hydromax: they are expensive, but they are of very good quality, stable, comfortable and waterproof in every way. A golfer’s must!
We continue with the Footjoy Dry Joys, which are also stable, solid and comfortable and are renowned for their excellent shock absorption. Another positive point: the studs are extremely easy to replace.
The Nike Lunar Control is also in the light, stable and comfortable shoe category. They are one of the best-selling models and are effective for braving the 18 holes. Also at Nike, the 13 TWs keep the foot on unsuitable terrain such as slopes. With their flexible soles you won’t have sore feet when you play on the extension.
Finally, they are also very light, but also robust, airy and shock-absorbing: these are the Puma Spark Sport . The brand also offers stability and comfort, especially with the Puma Club 917 model.
Interview
A good tip for maintenance (and hygiene) that I suggest is to always remove and let dry the soles after use, especially if they are leather. With this tip, your insoles will live longer. It will also be necessary to think of nourishing the leather, that of the sole and that of the shoe, so that it does not dry out. Be careful not to expose it to excessive temperatures. Last piece of advice: golf clubs often offer maintenance products free of charge for members or visiting players, so don’t hesitate to use them.
Service life
The number of your golf shoes should in principle correspond to your rhythm of use of the course. For someone who practices every day, it is preferable to have at least two pairs. You should, in fact, favour alternating pairs because shoes tend to get damaged if they are used too frequently.
As previously mentioned, you should allow the leather to rest and dry after each use: I recommend at least one day.
Finally, if we are talking about frequency, I advise you to change shoes after 30 to 40 runs (60 being the maximum). Of course, the lifespan of your shoes depends as much on the maintenance as on the use you make of them.
Where to buy cheap golf shoes?
Why leave home to find the perfect golf shoe? I advise you to take a look online, that’s where you’ll have the best opportunities!
There are many sites for sale, whether they are generalist or specialist. In both cases you will find the main brands that we mentioned earlier: Footjoy, Ecco, Callaway, etc..
Tip: for slightly cheaper models prefer generalist sites like Amazon. You’ll easily find what you’re looking for, whereas specialty stores tend to inflate their prices.
Last update on 2024-12-21 at 11:43 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
