Best Golf Shoes 2024

Need to upgrade your golf footwear? Take a look at the best golf shoes of 2023 as judged by Golf Monthly

Best Golf Shoes 2023
(Image credit: Future)

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 11 of the best golf shoes from 2023

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. 

The Quick List

Best Golf Shoes

Why you can trust Golf Monthly Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Spikeless Models

The shoe and outsole of the Ecco Biom C4 golf shoe5 Stars

(Image credit: Future)
Breathable, Lightweight, Comfortable

Specifications

Sizes: 6-12
Waterproof: 100%
BOA option: No
Colors: 4 (White, Navy, White/Black, Grey/Blue)

Reasons to buy

+
Supreme comfort
+
Incredibly soft leather upper
+
All-over breathability
+
Suitable for all feet widths

Reasons to avoid

-
Toe area prone to staining 

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. 

FootJoy Pro SL 2022 Shoes

FootJoy Pro SL 2022 shoes lying on grass, white golf shoes

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
An updated version of the one of our favorites

Specifications

Sizes: 6-12
Waterproof: 100%
BOA Option: Yes
Colors: 4 (White/Grey, White/Navy/Red, Grey/Charcoal & Black/Charcoal)

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.

adidas Codechaos 22 Golf Shoes

Adidas Codechaos 22 golf shoe review on grass

(Image credit: Tom Miles)
Eye-catching performance from a Tour-proven model

Specifications

Sizes: 6-14
Waterproof: 100%
BOA Option?: Yes
Colors: 7 (Brown/Purple, White/Yellow, Black/Green, Black/Grey, Grey/Green, White, Black)

Reasons to buy

+
Striking looks
+
Exemplary support and grip
+
Good breathability for a synthetic shoe

Reasons to avoid

-
No major performance difference over previous model

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. 

The stunning Puma Ignite Elevate Golf Shoe resting on the golf course showing off its thick sole

(Image credit: Future)
Arguably the best looking golf shoe on the market

Specifications

Sizes: 7-12
Waterproof: 100%
Colours: 3 (Grey, Black, White)

Reasons to buy

+
Soft midsole and upper
+
One of the best-looking spikeless shoes of the year
+
Excellent on/off course wearability
+
Good value for money

Reasons to avoid

-
Outsole not as comprehensive as rivals

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.

Under Armour Charged Phantom SL Golf Shoe Review

(Image credit: Future)
Sneaker-style performance

Specifications

Sizes : 7-14
Waterproof : Water resistant
BOA Option: No
Colors: 4 (Black/Grey, White/Navy, Blue/Black, Blue/Navy)

Reasons to buy

+
Machine washable
+
Extremely comfortable
+
Multi-purpose shoe

Reasons to avoid

-
Style may not be to everyone's taste

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. 

True Linkswear Lux Hybrid Review

(Image credit: Future)
One of our favorite hybrid shoes

Specifications

Sizes : 7-15
Waterproof: 100%
BOA Option: No
Colors: 6 (Grey, White, Black, Cognac, Admiral, Azalea)

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. 

Cole Haan ZeroGrand Overtake Golf Shoe review

(Image credit: Future)
A super lightweight design

Specifications

Sizes : 6-15
Waterproof: Water resistant
BOA Option: No
Colors: 6 (Black/Grey, White/Grey, White/Blue, Black, Ivory/Silver Birch & Bright Cobalt)

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.

Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip 'In being put on on the golf course

(Image credit: Future)
Unique, hands-free technology

Specifications

Sizes: 6.5-12
Waterproof: 100%
BOA Option: BOA only
Colors: 3 ( Black/White, Grey/Lime, White)

Reasons to buy

+
Extremely comfortable
+
Hands-free-slip-in design
+
Nice and light

Reasons to avoid

-
Maybe lacks a premium look

What Skechers has earned a reputation for – and this applies right across the best Skechers golf shoes – is supreme levels of comfort. This rule applies to the Elite 5 Slip 'In and this pair is definitely one of most comfortable golf shoes that we've worn. We’ve never put on a pair of golf shoes before without carefully avoiding applying too much pressure on the back, obviously for fear of causing lasting damage. With the Skechers Go Golf Elite 5 Slip 'In shoes, and courtesy of an extra stiff back, this is not a problem – they slip on just like a pair of comfy slippers – and they feel just as good. So, no shoe horn required. 

Meanwhile, the Twist-Fit dial system located on the side makes them easy to fasten. Again, we can see the appeal for those who suffer with a stiff back in the morning, as there’s no need to struggle with lacing up, plus you haven't got to worry about the laces gradually loosening over time and needing to be retied at the most inconvenient of moments. You can’t talk about Skechers without mentioning the removable Arch Fit insole, which provides podiatrist-certified arch support. Combined with the Heel Pillow, you’re guaranteed a comfortable and ‘locked in’ feel, which is something we also experienced when testing the Pro 5 Hyper shoe worn by Matt Fitzpatrick.

Spiked Models

FootJoy Hyperflex Carbon Golf Shoe Review5 Stars

(Image credit: Future)
An outstanding spiked model

Specifications

Sizes: 6-13
Waterproof: 100%
BOA Option: Yes
Colors: 2 (White/Multi & Black/White/Grey)

Reasons to buy

+
Superbly comfortable, molded midsole
+
Stable, locked-in sensation
+
Athletic look

Reasons to avoid

-
The sock area is tricky to clean if dirty

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. 

Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3 Golf Shoes

Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour 3 Golf Shoes Review

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Rory McIlroy's golf shoe

Specifications

Size: 6-14
Waterproof: Yes
BOA option: No
Colors: 4 (Black, Red, Blue, Photon Dust, plus several special editions)

Reasons to buy

+
Outstanding comfort and feel
+
Total performance
+
Look absolutely fantastic

Reasons to avoid

-
Laces feel a touch cheap

Replacing the Victory Tour 2 shoes below, (which I absolutely loved), the newer 3 model takes total performance even further, getting 5 stars in our review. Why? Well looks wise Nike improved the aesthetics in several subtle ways - the new Full-grain leather upper has a supple feel and sophisticated look. The swoosh and midsole sections look slightly different and better in my opinion, and overall I think the shoe looks more refined. I also absolutely loved the color I got sent and there are also several other colors to choose from, as well as special edition designs too for events like The Masters. 

Comfort wise these are right up there with the best on the market thanks to the extra padding around the ankle, and the internal strap on the inside of the shoe which actually contours to your feet. Nike also stitched a Zoom Air unit directly to the upper which delivered exceptional feel, and the foam towards the heel felt very cushiony, almost bouncy when walking on the course

Grip and stability was also good, and the shoes are 100% waterproof as well. In short, I love this shoe and it covers all the bases to a very high standard. It may come with a pretty punchy price tag, but I really do think it is worth it. (you can also find these shoes with money off sometimes as well so we do recommend keeping a look out for sales on them). 

Adidas ZG23 Golf Shoe

Adidas ZG23 Golf Shoe Review

(Image credit: Future)
Lightweight, stable and Tour-level performance

Specifications

Sizes : 6.5-14.5
Waterproof : 100%
BOA Option: Yes
Colors: 5 (White/Blue, Black, White/Silver, White/Orange, White/Navy)

Reasons to buy

+
Super soft midsole and upper
+
Lightweight yet incredibly stable
+
Upper wipes clean easily

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the most premium-looking shoe

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. 

Puma Ignite Articulate Golf Shoe review

(Image credit: Future)
For that 'locked in' feel on course

Specifications

Sizes: 6-13
Waterproof: 100%
BOA Option: No
Colors: 2 (White/Silver & Grey/Gold/Black)

Reasons to buy

+
Comprehensive grip from the new outsole
+
360° support
+
Sharp, understated looks with plenty of color options

Reasons to avoid

-
Very little difference to previous Puma spiked shoe

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.

ecco biom g5 shoe review

(Image credit: Future)
Excellent waterproofing capabilities

Specifications

Sizes: 7-12
Waterproof: 100%
BOA Option: Yes
Colors: 3 (Grey, White & Black)

Reasons to buy

+
Smart, modern styling
+
Excellent traction 
+
BOA laces offer enhanced fit

Reasons to avoid

-
Limited value for money

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.

Payntr X 004 RS Golf Shoe resting on the golf courseGolf Monthly Editor's Choice


(Image credit: Future)
One of the most impressive outsoles in the game

Specifications

Sizes : 7-12
Waterproof: 100%
BOA Option: No
Colors: 2 (Black/White, Navy/White)

Reasons to buy

+
Technology-packed outsole provides market-leading grip
+
Soft, premium materials used throughout
+
Heel cup hugs the foot with no rubbing
+
Excellent cushioning and energy return underfoot

Reasons to avoid

-
Laces are quite long

Payntr are one of the emerging brands in the golf game and recently debuted with the X 003 spikeless golf shoe, a stunning shoe that delivered excellent traction and comfort around the golf course. They're now back to issue their first entry to the best spiked golf shoe market, with the X 004 RS boasting one of the best soles on a golf shoe we've tested in a long while.  It is the first golf shoe to use the all-new SoftSpikes Tour Flex Pro spikes in the outsole. Each of these spikes has 10 different points of contact with the ground and, with seven spikes per shoe, the 140 points of contact with the ground certainly keep you well gripped to the turf. 

The outsole also features a carbon fibre propulsion plate which has been put in place to help golfers take advantage of ground reaction forces to more effectively deliver more speed to the golf ball. And the sole seriously impressed. The grip was strong and the sole delivered a premium level of comfort and support on the sole of the shoe. The shoe also uses a Clarino Trivela microfibre upper that is a leather material that is soft but offers plenty of waterproofing too. 

The heel cup is built from a slightly different material, but it is very soft and helps to stop any rubbing on your ankle, a great help to stop blisters from forming on your achilles. In fact, the brand are so confident in this technology that they offer a 'blister-free' guarantee!' Ultimately, with those features combined, these shoes are a strong addition to this list that also look very good on the golf course. 

Duca Del Cosma Bernardo Shoe

(Image credit: Future)
Classy design and premium materials

Specifications

Sizes: 6-13
Waterproof: 100%
BOA Option: No
Colors: 1 (White)

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight
+
Stable and supportive
+
Excellent grip
+
Premium, versatile looks

Reasons to avoid

-
Some may want a softer feel underfoot

This luxurious, handcrafted golf shoe is incredibly striking. It may look relatively plain on first inspection, but look closer and the attention to detail is exceptional - whether it's the brogue-style pattern on the upper, the logos and graphics scattered around or the opulent scent of the materials. 

Despite its throwback design the Bernardo doesn’t have that heavy feel you might expect from such a traditional-looking shoe. It's still relatively firm underfoot but is also surprisingly lightweight and the snug fit ensures you get instant comfort when you take your first few steps. The other thing golfers will appreciate visually is the all-white upper, which means you can match the Bernardo to pretty much any outfit while the vibrant red on the outsole provides the shelf appeal.

Skechers Pro 5 Hyper Golf Shoe review

(Image credit: Future)
Best for arch support

Specifications

Sizes: 7.5-13
Waterproof: Yes
BOA Option: No
Colors: 3 (Black/Red; Grey/Red; Blue/White)

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 from 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 on this list. 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. 

Women's Golf Shoes

Fresh looking shoe on the fairways

(Image credit: Howard Boylan)
Performance spikeless golf shoes

Specifications

Sizes : 4-9
Waterproof: 100%
Colors: 1 (White/Silver)

Reasons to buy

+
Wide range of sizes
+
Added stability aids performance
+
Great value for money
+
Sporty, versatile styling

Reasons to avoid

-
Relatively bulky look

These shoes have some clever technical advantages: they actually resist instability. Thanks to the 3-dimensional traction the sole provides they almost screw themselves into the ground as I swung the club. The traction technology that’s gone into the shoes mean you are actually more stable through the ball. The graphite Pebax propulsion plate 'Allows golfers to more effectively harness ground forces.' So no wonder we felt like my A game was in sight. It’s like a golf lesson given via footwear.

Comfort levels are high with this pair too. Thanks to a Single Density PMX Foam Midsole they absorb shock as you walk. Rather like a new pair of running shoes, providing maximum under foot support. We felt that energy was almost being pumped through the soles

G/FORE Women's MG4+ Golf Shoes

G/Fore MG4+ Womens Golf Shoe Review

(Image credit: Carly Frost)
Best women's model to stand out

Specifications

Sizes: 5-11
Waterproof: 100%
BOA Option: No
Colors: 2 (Day Glo Pink & Stone)

Reasons to buy

+
You want a really comfortable pair of golf shoes
+
The fantastic blend of style and performance

Reasons to avoid

-
You prefer the softer feel of leather rather than synthetic

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

Puma Women's Ignite Blaze Pro Shoes

PUMA Ignite Blaze Pro Golf Shoes, woman wearing puma golf shoes

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Best value women's model

Specifications

Sizes: 4-8
Waterproof: 100%
BOA Option: No
Colors: 2 (White, Black)

Reasons to buy

+
Extremely comfortable
+
Loads of grip

Reasons to avoid

-
Lacking stability

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.

How we test golf shoes

Our golf shoe testing methodology 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 

GOLF PROMO CODES AND COUPONS

GOLF PROMO CODES AND COUPONS

From clubs, balls and tees, to essential sportswear and fitness products, keep it affordable with a little help from our promo and coupon codes.

Rock Bottom Golf coupons

Rock Bottom Golf coupons

These Rock Bottom Golf coupons will help you save on golf clubs, bags, balls & apparel.


TGW promo codes

TGW promo codes

These The Golf Warehouse coupon codes will help you save on golf clubs, golf shoes, golf balls and apparel.


Dan Parker
Staff Writer

Dan is a Staff Writer and has been with the Golf Monthly team since 2021. Dan graduated with a Masters degree in International Journalism from the University of Sussex and primarily looks after equipment reviews and buyer's guides, specializing in golf shoe and golf cart reviews. Dan has now tested and reviewed over 30 pairs of golf shoes since he joined Golf Monthly and is an expert in the field. A left-handed golfer, his handicap index is currently 7.8 and he plays at Fulford Heath Golf Club in the West Midlands. 


Dan is currently playing: 


Driver: TaylorMade Stealth 2 

Fairway: TaylorMade Stealth 2 15°, Ping G425 Max 21°

Hybrid: Ping G425 

Irons: Cobra King Tec Utility, Ping i59 (5-PW) 

Wedges: Ping Glide Forged Pro

Putter: Wilson Staff Infinite Buckingham

Ball: TaylorMade TP5x Pix

With contributions from