This is the year you will conquer your goals. New irons that are custom-fit to your swing, new wedges that stop the ball on a dime, and, of course, that $350 putter that your spouse is unaware of.
There will be nothing to stop you. You can practically envision yourself on the tee for your first round of the year, giddy with excitement.
When you look down at your feet, you realize that your shoelaces don’t match and that the grime on that pair of golf shoes from 2008 is really showing.
Yes, you’re the guy with the flashy new equipment and golf shoes.
Table of Contents
What Is the Purpose of Golf Shoes?
What good is having the most up-to-date technology if you can’t keep your feet on the ground? Golf shoes are the foundation of your entire game.
Whatever your skill level, wearing the appropriate footwear gives stability and lets you swing at full capacity without fear of slipping and falling out of the shot.
How Do I Choose Golf Shoes? Choosing the Best Shoes for Your Game
There is a golf shoe out there for everyone, whether you want the best in performance and stability or the best in comfort and fashion. With so many alternatives, doing some preliminary research is certainly worth it.
The internet is a terrific place to start, but once you’ve limited your options, it’s critical that you try on a shoe before heading back online to discover the greatest offer.
To improve stability, golf shoes should be tighter in the midfoot. With the exception of a little wiggle room for your toes, your feet should not be able to move while wearing golf shoes.
Your heel should also be firmly gripped. There should be adequate lateral and arch support as well.
Budget: How much should I spend on golf shoes?
Golf shoes can cost anywhere from $35 to $300 or more. In golf shoes, as in most other things, you get what you pay for. They range from synthetic leather at the low end to the finest calfskin leather at the high end, with a plethora of features in between.
Knowing how much you’re willing to spend can help you focus your search on a shoe that you can not only afford but also meets all of your needs.
Golf Shoe Types
Every foot, swing type, and playing condition is catered to by a golf shoe. Knowing what sort of golf shoe will give you the most comfort while also maximizing performance can make your decision easier.
Shoes with spikes or cleated soles
Golf shoes with spikes or cleats provide the most forceful traction. Plastic or metal spikes on the bottom of the shoe give players a sturdy base and prevent slippage during the swing.
Metal spikes are still used in some shoes, but they are becoming increasingly rare. The majority of current shoes contain soft spikes composed of plastic or rubber. One significant advantage of soft spikes is that they are easily replaceable.
If your spikes need to be replaced, they are inexpensive, and the process is quick. If you have a quick swing, spiked or cleated shoes are a wonderful alternative because they provide optimum stability.
Spikeless golf shoes are becoming increasingly popular among players who like to walk or find spiked or cleated shoes uncomfortable. These shoes often have a casual appearance but an aggressive tread that provides stability.
Spikeless shoes have the advantage of being low-profile, attractive, and possibly the most comfortable form of shoe. However, because most versions are not waterproof, they may not be the greatest solution for players who play in damp weather.
Golf boots
Golf boot styles are similar to hiking boots in that they are high-topped and often come with spikes, making them ideal for golfers who play in harsh conditions. Golf boots include the benefits of waterproofing, support, and stability.
Golf boots are an excellent choice if you are playing in damp circumstances or on uneven terrain.
Sandals for Golf
Golf sandals are the polar opposite of golf boots. Golf sandals can be cleated or spikeless to provide maximum in comfort. Golf sandals, while lacking the support of typical golf shoes, are lightweight and enable your feet to breathe.
Some gamers even opt to play sockless. Golf sandals may be the ideal option if you play in warm, dry conditions and don’t frequently slip during your swing.
Materials for Golf Shoes
Golf shoes come in a range of materials. Many current designs use a variety of materials to combine performance, style, and comfort.
Knowing the qualities of each material can help you make an informed decision about which shoe to buy.
Leather
It’s no surprise that leather is the most widely utilized material in golf shoe design. Leather is used on the outside of golf shoes because of its waterproof and elastic properties.
When properly cared for and handled, the leather retains its slick appearance and can endure for years. Although leather shoes are typically more expensive than shoes made of other materials, they frequently come with a one or two-year warranty.
Lining: Waterproof
Waterproof linings are commonly found in golf boots and winter golf shoes. Though Goretex is the most popular waterproof material, each manufacturer has its own version that will keep your feet comfortable and dry even on the wettest of days.
Waterproof material can be costly, but it is well worth the price if you frequently play in rainy or cold circumstances.
Synthetic
Synthetic is a less expensive variant of leather that protects the shoe’s outside. The material is nonporous, and while it is thinner and lighter than leather, it is not as breathable. A synthetic shoe is a way to go if you want value and material that works well.
Golf Spikes Come in a Variety of Styles
The majority of modern performance golf shoes are equipped with either soft or metal spikes. Choosing between soft or metal spikes can make a difference depending on the conditions you play in and how much stability you require.
Plastic or soft?
The most common spikes on the market are soft or plastic spikes. Soft spikes distribute a player’s weight across a larger area and are less likely to rip up greens and fairways. Soft spikes are also more comfortable for most players since the material flexes as you walk and swing.
Metal
Metal spikes are still preferred by many Tour pros, despite their decreasing popularity. Metal spikes, which are longer and sharper than soft spikes, allow players with the fastest swing speeds to remain linked to the ground.
Metal spikes lack the forgiveness and flexibility of soft spikes. Thus, players with sensitive backs or feet may favor soft spikes. If you intend to play with metal spikes, check to see if they are permitted, as many courses have policies barring them.
Types of Lacings
Lacings have changed alongside the golf shoe over the years.
Laces for Shoes
In golf shoes, traditional shoelaces are still preferred. It’s difficult to beat the flexibility and ability to precisely fit your shoe. Many shoes come with several sets of laces in various colors, allowing you to choose the sharpest look.
Mechanical
Golfers are becoming more interested in mechanical lacing methods. Mechanical lacings, which have features similar to ski boots, allow a golfer to modify tightness with the easy turn of a nob or adjustment of a Velcro strap.
Mechanical lacing methods provide continuous stability throughout each round and eliminate the need to re-tie your laces.
FAQ
When it comes to selecting the appropriate golf shoe, there are numerous alternatives. While one pair may appear to be appropriate, you may find them to be uncomfortable or unreasonably pricey.
Here are some questions to ask yourself when looking for the best golf shoe for your game.
How do you insert golf spikes into your golf shoes?
While new spikes are most usually included with the purchase of new spikes, some gamers may want to install new spikes themselves. This straightforward procedure necessitates the use of a spike wrench.
Before you go out and buy the first spike wrench you come across, make sure it fits the spikes you’re attempting to repair, as different spikes and manufacturers require different wrenches.
If you wait too long to replace your spikes, they may become difficult to remove because debris can develop obstructions, making spikes practically impossible to remove.
What is the best way to clean golf shoes?
It is critical to clean your golf shoes on a regular basis if you want them to last a long period. All you need is a pail of hot water, soap, a bristle brush, and a clean towel.
To begin, dampen the cloth and thoroughly wipe the outside of your shoes. If there is still dirt in the creases, wet your brush and gently scrape them clean.
If you want to preserve your leather shoes in excellent condition, a simple investment in suitably colored shoe polish will go a long way.
Apply a generous amount of polish to the surface of your shoes and gently massage them in with a clean brush to shine them. Using a shoe horn on the inside of the shoe to ensure the shape and fit of the shoe is a great idea.
What is the best way to waterproof golf shoes?
Waterproofing your golf shoes is essential if you play in damp circumstances on a frequent basis. First, make certain that your shoes are clean and dry.
Next, choose a leather-friendly waterproof spray and apply a healthy coating to the whole exterior of the shoe. Wipe away any extra liquid and leave your shoes to dry overnight in a warm location.
After they’ve dried, run water over the outside of the shoes to ensure they’re waterproofed to your liking.
Are spikeless golf shoes worth it?
Shoemakers do an excellent job of employing durable materials in their spikeless outsoles, yet they still wear out. And, as they wear down and lose traction, they are less useful on the golf course.
Do golf shoes need to be waterproof?
Choose a waterproof golf shoe for your ideal golf shoe because it will keep your feet dry even during rainfall or when playing in the morning when the grass is wet with dew.
How often should you change golf shoes?
Depending on who you ask, shoe and spike manufacturers will instruct you to replace them every 12-20 rounds. If you play a lot of golf each year, you might play two or three times every season.
Conclusion
It is critical to ensure that your golf equipment is up to date and appropriate for your game. You can’t afford to leave any stone unturned if you want to play your best golf.
While it’s easy to get caught up in clubs, range finders, and other needs, you must remember that nothing matters if you don’t have a solid foundation from which to swing.
Take the time to perform the necessary research for the correct pair of golf shoes, and your game will reward you.
