Golf Shoes

What's the first question most would-be golfers ask? Are special golf shoes really necessary? Won’t any old shoes do for a game which, after all, doesn’t require any more physical activity than a gentle walk round the park?

As any seasoned golfer will tell you, the average game of golf requires a lot more walking than you’d think. It’s important to make sure that your feet are supported. Just as important is to make sure you don’t slip as you perfect your swing. For that reason, golf shoes have special spikes and extra grips to keep you safe.

Another point to bear in mind is the safety of the pitch itself. Your golf club will have spent many hours making sure that the green is as smooth and perfect as possible: tearing it up with the wrong kind of shoes certainly won’t win you many friends back at the club house!

Features to Look For

The most important feature of golf shoes is the spikes. They prevent you from slipping as you play. Most shoes have four spikes in the heel, with further spikes on the sole.

Check out this guide to golf spikes, and read more about the effect they have on the ground.

There are three different types of spike to choose from:

Metal Spikes

As the name suggests, metal spikes are the hardest type of spike available and will give the best grip on the green. Because they dig so deeply into the ground when you play, however, not all clubs will welcome them. Check your club’s policy before purchasing metal spiked shoes

Rubber Spikes

These are just like the metal spikes, but made of rubber or plastic. These are the types of shoes you’ll see most often. They’ll still provide a good amount of grip, but won’t tear up the ground you’re walking on.

Plastic Spikes

Sometimes referred to as “nubs,” these are the gentlest type of spike available for your golf shoes.

Golf Style

Gone are the days when all golf shoes looked the same, with tassled fronts and heavily gripped soles. These days, golf shoes have become much more fashionable, and you’ll find styles which are almost indistinguishable from regular walking or athletic shoes. You can even find golf sandals and boots, although these are less common.

Golf shoes were traditionally made of thick leather, which could make them uncomfortable. They'd be especially uncomfortable if they became wet. Today’s waterproof and breathable styles make a more comfortable alternative, and the new sneaker-style golf shoe is very popular, particularly amongst younger golfers.

The type of shoe you choose is, of course, very much up to you. Thanks to the wider range of styles available, it’s now quite possible to find a style of shoe that fits with your own personality.

Shopping

When shopping for golf shoes, you’ll follow the same principles you would when buying walking shoes. They should be a snug fit, although not too snug. Remember, you’ll be wearing them for longs periods of time. Any areas which rub or pinch will feel much worse after a long game of golf.

When buying your shoes, practice walking around in them first. If you happen to be buying from a golf store, ask to borrow a club to practice your swing. Make sure the shoes allow you to move easily, with no feelings of discomfort. If you’ll be playing in a wet climate, you may also want to make sure you choose a waterproof style to keep your feet protected!

Browse a range of different golf shoes at Golf Shoes Plus